Bachelor of Information Technology majoring in Games Development

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Adelaide

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Information Technology majoring in Games Development at the University of Adelaide is designed for students who want to combine software development with the creativity of game design. You'll learn how to develop interactive games while building strong programming, problem-solving and technical skills for careers in the games and broader technology industries.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You'll establish a solid foundation in computing through units such as Programming Fundamentals, Computer Systems, and Mathematics for Computer Science. These subjects introduce programming, algorithms and core IT concepts that underpin game development.

Year 2
As your skills grow, you'll study Object-Oriented Programming, Data Structures and Algorithms, and Game Development. You'll learn to design and build interactive games while strengthening your software engineering and problem-solving abilities through practical projects.

Year 3
In your final year, you'll complete advanced studies in Game Programming, Software Engineering Project, and Artificial Intelligence. Working on larger team-based projects, you'll develop professional software solutions and graduate with a portfolio showcasing your technical and creative expertise.

Focus areas (in a string):
Game development, programming, software engineering, game design, artificial intelligence, algorithms, computer graphics, interactive systems, mathematics, software development.

Learning outcomes (in a string):
Programming proficiency, game development, software design, analytical thinking, problem-solving, teamwork, project management, technical communication, software engineering, professional practice.

Professional alignment (accreditation):
AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree, providing a recognised qualification for careers in information technology, software engineering and game development, as well as pathways to postgraduate study.

Reputation (employability):
The University of Adelaide is a member of Australia's prestigious Group of Eight (Go8) universities and is internationally recognised for excellence in computer science, engineering and research, producing graduates who are highly regarded by employers.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

The Bachelor of Information Technology majoring in Games Development provides extensive hands-on experience in designing, programming and developing interactive games using industry-relevant technologies. You'll work in modern computing laboratories, collaborate on software development projects and build a professional portfolio through practical coursework that reflects real-world game production. Throughout the degree, you'll apply your skills in collaborative environments while using the same tools and development practices found across the games and software industries:

Develop games through practical programming projects, applying software engineering principles to create interactive applications.
Work on team-based software development projects, gaining experience with collaborative coding, project planning and version control workflows.
Use industry-standard programming languages and development tools including C++, Java, Python, Git, and integrated development environments (IDEs) as part of your coursework.
Gain experience in game programming, artificial intelligence, computer graphics and interactive software development through practical laboratory sessions.
Access purpose-built computer laboratories equipped with high-performance computing facilities and specialised software for programming and game development.
Learn in the University's School of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, benefiting from research-informed teaching and industry-focused learning.
Access the Barr Smith Library, offering extensive computing, software engineering and information technology resources, digital databases and collaborative study spaces.
Participate in industry-inspired projects and capstone experiences that strengthen your technical portfolio and prepare you for employment or further study.

Facilities: Computer laboratories, high-performance computing facilities, School of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, Barr Smith Library and technology-enabled learning environments.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of the Bachelor of Information Technology majoring in Games Development are well prepared for careers in the games, software and technology industries, with expertise in programming, software engineering and interactive application development. Whether you aspire to become a Game Developer, Gameplay Programmer, Software Engineer or XR Developer, you'll graduate with the technical knowledge and practical project experience sought by employers. To help you launch your career, the University of Adelaide provides a range of professional development opportunities:

Access the University's Career and Employability service for personalised career coaching, resume and interview support, networking events, employer engagement and job search assistance.
Build industry-ready experience through practical software engineering projects, collaborative development work and capstone experiences that strengthen your professional portfolio.
Benefit from the University's strong connections with industry through the School of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, supporting industry-informed teaching and engagement with the technology sector.
Graduate with an AQF Level 7 Bachelor Degree, a recognised qualification that provides pathways into software development, game development and postgraduate study.
While the University does not publish course-specific employment or salary figures for this major, graduates develop highly transferable programming, software engineering and problem-solving skills that are in demand across the games, technology and digital industries.

Further Academic Progression:

After graduation, you can continue your studies with an Honours year or pursue postgraduate qualifications such as a Master of Computer Science, Master of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, Master of Data Science, or other specialised master's and research degrees in information technology and software engineering. These pathways can lead to advanced technical, leadership, research and academic careers.