A game design course has proved ideal in enabling Holmesglen student Mitchell Newman to combine his twin loves of art and computers.

Mitchell plans to use his course to explore an industry where job opportunities include game designer, 3D modeller and VR developer.

“I felt Holmesglen could help me succeed,” he says of his decision to study a a diploma of game design at our Moorabbin campus.

“I’ve have made a lot of friends and the teachers really care about me.”

Mitchell is now bringing his budding game design skills to a national audience at WorldSkills – Australia's largest skills competition.

“It’s a great achievement,” he says. “I get to work with so many talented people and have learned a lot from my teammate. He gives me the passion to want to do as well as possible.”

To prepare, Mitchell has practised in simulated competitions in the classroom, producing mini video games to test his skills and ingenuity.

He says exploring his creativity has been the most fulfilling aspect of the course.

"Being able to bring your ideas to life, from mind to paper, then to a moving character on your screen, is rewarding.”

Game design students learn technical and interactive skills most relevant for jobs in game development and virtual reality.

Many start with a certificate IV course, progressing onto a diploma.

Students undertaking the ICT40120 Certificate IV in Information Technology (Gaming Development) learn key skills including 3D modelling and sculpting, asset and level design, animation, and UI development.

The dual program ICT50220 Diploma of Information Technology (Game Art and Design) with Diploma of Information Technology (Game Programming) ICT50220 builds on these skills and develops students’ knowledge of C# programming and 3D artwork techniques.

Mitchell says the diploma of game design has given him a well-rounded view of the gaming industry, working from prototypes and gaming products, to learning how to make your game designs stand out.

“I have learned a lot about the game development industry – not only how to make games but also how sales work and how to market yourself and make a brand.”

Mitchell’s advice for prospective game design students

“Don’t head into your course thinking you will produce the next Triple A (high selling) game.

“Be humble and ready to learn from not only your teachers but also your classmates.

“If there is one thing more important than anything in this industry, it’s friends, connections and community.”

Find out more about our game design courses and how to apply.

Besides courses for game programming, we offer industry-relevant web development courses and cyber security courses.