Game Design Course Singapore | 12-Month Diploma | MAGES Institute

GAME DESIGN & TECHNOLOGY DIPLOMA IN SINGAPORE

12 Month Full-Time
Batch Start 15-February-2027

Singapore’s top-ranked game design course – learn to build, publish games in just 12 months. 

Ranked Top 6 Worldwide for Production Excellence in Mobile Game Development (Rookies 2024)

Game Design & Development Diploma

The Diploma in Game Design and Technology is a 12-month full-time game design course in Singapore where you design, code and ship complete, playable games in Unity and C#.

You’ll learn from mentors with credits on Assassin’s Creed Origins, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Skull & Bones and Paradox Interactive’s Stellaris – people who have shipped the kind of games you want to work on.

MAGES student games have ranked Top 6 worldwide for Production Excellence in Mobile Games (The Rookies 2024), and our school sits in the global Top 50 (The Rookies 2025). You can play our students’ work on itch.io right now.

Whether you’re a complete beginner or switching careers, you graduate with a portfolio of finished games – not coursework.

Program Glance

Qualification Diploma in Game Design & Technology
Awarded by MAGES Institute of Excellence Pte. Ltd., Singapore
Duration 12 months full-time
Next intake 15 February 2027
Delivery mode Classroom or eLearning. Mode cannot be changed after commencement.
Class size 18 students per lecturer
Campus *SCAPE, 2 Orchard Link #05-11, Singapore 237978 — 2 min from Somerset MRT
Total fees (Singapore Citizens & PRs) S$19,061.92, inclusive of 9% GST
Total fees (International students) S$22,113.92, inclusive of 9% GST
Application fee S$545.00 local · S$817.50 international, non-refundable
Minimum age 16
Entry requirements 2 credit passes at GCE O-Level (excluding English), or equivalent, or portfolio + interview
English requirement IELTS 5.5 or a pass in GCE O-Level English, or equivalent
Software taught Unity3D · C# · Visual Studio · Git · ClickUp
Assessment Project-based across all modules
Accreditation EduTrust EDU-2-2054 · CPE Reg. No. 200912099N
Progression BSc Computer Game Applications Development, Abertay University (12 months)

Who This Diploma Is For

The Diploma in Game Design & Technology suits you if you want to work as a game designer, gameplay programmer or technical designer, and you can commit to full-time study in Singapore. No prior coding or art experience is required – Term 1 starts with game design principles and programming logic from zero.

It is not the right fit if you want to specialise in game art rather than gameplay and code. For character modelling, environments and 3D assets, the 3D Modelling & Game Art Diploma is the better route.

Do I Need to Know How to Code Before I Start?

No. The Diploma in Game Design & Technology begins with programming logic and scripting basics in Term 1. Students with no coding background complete the programme every intake.

What You’ll Learn

The Diploma in Game Design & Technology teaches game development in Unity using C#. Across 12 months you’ll cover:

  • Game design principles, player engagement and mechanics balancing
  • C# programming for gameplay, from scripting basics to systems architecture
  • Game systems design, callbacks and event handling
  • Mobile game development, touch UI and platform optimisation
  • Local multiplayer systems
  • AI for games: pathfinding, enemy behaviour and decision systems
  • Player progression, game economy and balancing
  • Debugging, optimisation and gameplay testing
  • Version control with Git and studio production workflows in ClickUp

Every module ends in a playable build. You graduate with up to seven complete games, not coursework.

Why Study Game Design at MAGES Singapore

  • Mentors with shipped AAA creditsAssassin’s Creed Origins, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Skull & Bones, and Paradox Interactive’s Stellaris
  • Ten international awards since 2018, including Top 6 worldwide for Production Excellence in Mobile Games (The Rookies 2024) and Top 50 globally (The Rookies 2025)
  • 18 students per lecturer
  • A published portfolio – student games are live on itch.io for PC and Android, and you can play them before you apply
  • 12 months, not three years — the four Singapore polytechnic game diplomas all run for three
  • EduTrust-certified (EDU-2-2054) with full fee protection under the FPS

That last-but-one bullet is your strongest argument and it currently appears nowhere.

PROGRAMME OVERVIEW

The journey of making a game is a creative and technical adventure – one that blends design, programming, systems thinking, and problem-solving into every level.

 

This diploma equips aspiring developers with the essential tools to succeed in the game industry, guiding them from their very first playable prototype to polished, team-built projects. Students will learn game design principles, develop strong programming fundamentals, and apply real-time systems such as animation, physics, AI, and UI to bring their ideas to life.

 

Along the way, they’ll build a diverse portfolio of PC and mobile games – including titles designed for local multiplayer play and prepared for publishing on platforms. Hands-on projects and team-based production simulate real studio environments to develop both individual skills and collaboration confidence.

 

Graduates of this program will be ready for roles such as gameplay programmer, technical designer, or junior game developer. They’ll leave with not just code and assets, but with complete, playable experiences – proof of their creativity, logic, and ability to ship games under real-world conditions.

DURATION: 12 Months (Full-Time)

STUDENT-TO-LECTURER RATIO: 18 Students : 1 Lecturer

MODE OF DELIVERY: Classroom or eLearning. Learners are not allowed to switch Modes after programme commencement. Please click here to learn more

NOTE: A Pass in all Modules within the maximum study period is required for Graduation.

SOFTWARES TAUGHT: Unity3D | C# (C Sharp) | Visual Studio | Git | Clickup

HARDWARE REQUIREMENTS: Windows Laptop with a Minimum of i7 (16th Gen) Processor or Ryzen 7, 16 GB RAM (32 GB recommended), RTX 5060 or above, 500GB SSD (1TB recommended)

MEDIUM OF INSTRUCTION: English

ASSESSMENT: Project-based Assessment for all modules.

PROGRAMME OUTLINE

DEVELOP FUNDAMENTALS

This term builds essential skills in game design and programming through hands-on, project-based learning. Students start with board game mechanics, progress to text-based interactive stories, and conclude with a platformer prototype.

 

Skills & Topics Explored

  • Game Design Principles + Mechanics of Play
  • Programming Logic + Scripting Basics
  • Narrative Flow + Interactive Systems
  • Prototyping: Board Games, Text Games, Platformers

GAME SYSTEM & PLATFORM

In Term 2, students deepen their programming capabilities by developing essential systems for both PC and mobile games. Each module results in a playable project – from responsive touch-based mechanics to a complete local multiplayer mobile game – using modular code, platform-specific logic, and best practices in system architecture.

 

Skills & Topics Explored

  • Game Systems Design + Callback/Event Handling
    Mobile Game Development + Touch UI + Platform Optimization

GAME PRODUCTION

In Term 3, students explore advanced gameplay systems – from player progression and game balancing to artificial intelligence. The term concludes with a full production module, where students conceptualize, develop, and polish a complete game using studio-style workflows – preparing them for real-world game development.

 

Skills & Topics Explored

  • Game Data & Progression Systems +Artificial Intelligence for Games + Pathfinding + Enemy Behaviors
  • Game Production + Iterative Design + Debugging & Polish

16 YEARS OF INSPIRATION & AWARDS

Our school proudly marks 16 years of cultivating creative talents and receiving prestigious awards.

Top 50
Global School Ranking 2025

Ranked 50 Globally - Global School Ranking

2025 school rankings
Top 10 | 2025

Top 10 Globally - Concept Art

Rookies 2024
TOP 10 | 2024

Production Excellence- Mobile (World Ranking) - STARLIGHT/ENDLESS RUNNER

Rookies 2023
TOP 10 | 2023

Production Excellence- Mobile (World Ranking) - STARLIGHT/ENDLESS RUNNER

Rookies 2021
FINALIST | 2021

Game Of The Year-Finalists for DARKEST DELIVERANCE

Rookies 2020
TOP 50 IN THE WORLD | 2020

Top 50 Creative Media & Entertainment Schools and Colleges in the world

Rookies 2021
FINALIST | 2020

Game Of The Year-Finalists for KAISAKE'S REVENGE

Top 10 2019
TOP 10 | 2019

Production Excellence- Mobile (World Ranking)

Rookies 2019
FINALIST | 2019

Game Of The Year- Finalists for KELINCI KANVAS

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WINNER | 2018

Game Of The Year-Winner for HORDE

INSTRUCTORS

Rajesh Chakravarthy has worked in digital art and design for the past 18 years (stationed as an educator within various creative media and tech schools for 9 of those years) and is a veteran AR/VR developer and an Unreal Engine Authorised Instructor.  His leadership has led many students to successful careers within prominent companies around the globe. Rajesh’s research and hard work has made great strides in Augmented and Virtual Reality, as he intersects design, technology, and business through his many ventures in prototyping and education.

With more than 18-year background in digital art, Rajesh Chakravarthy, an AR/VR expert and authorized Unreal Engine Instructor, spent 9+ years as an educator. His leadership resulted in students securing roles in global companies.
Rajesh’s pioneering work in AR/VR, blending design, tech, and business, is evident in his prototyping and educational endeavours.

Rajesh Chakravarthy

Academic Director | Unreal Engine Authorised Instructor

Nanda has a remarkable experience in the IT industry and the education industry specially in the field of 3D Graphic Animation, Game Programming and Game Development & Design. Nanda is a Unity Certified Developer and also an Unreal Engine Authorised Instructor, in addition to having certification from Microsoft and Oracle. Nanda has working experience in United States, India and Singapore. With his excellent communication and interpersonal skills, he proves to be a truly commendable and valuable lecturer for MAGES.

Nanda has a remarkable experience in the IT industry and the education industry specially in the field of 3D Graphic Animation, Game Programming and Game Development & Design. Nanda is a Unity Certified Developer and also an Unreal Engine Authorised Instructor, in addition to having certification from Microsoft and Oracle. Nanda has working experience in United States, India and Singapore. With his excellent communication and interpersonal skills, he proves to be a truly commendable and valuable lecturer for MAGES.

Nanda Ye Aung

Lecturer | Unreal Engine Authorised Trainer

Self-styled Game Development 'Swiss Army Knife,' Xuanming has an extensive passion-driven experience across art and programming for games with over 16 years of experience (over 9 years in teaching). He has worked most recently for Paradox Interactive on Stellaris,  contributing to the Galactic Paragons expansion for the franchise as a Lead Game Designer. With nearly a decade of teaching experience, Xuanming has led teams of students to bring their game ideas to life.

Dubbed a ‘Swiss Army Knife’ in Game Development, Xuanming boasts 16+ years of genuine expertise in game art and programming and 9+ years in teaching. He served as Lead Game Designer on Stellaris’ Galactic Paragons expansion at Paradox Interactive. Guiding student teams for almost a decade, Xuanming transforms their game visions into reality.

Xuanming Zhou

Mentor | Game Designer

With over 25 years of working experience, in companies such as ICONIX International and Delcan Corporation in Toronto, Canada. Thomas has played a key role in developing the Automatic Fare Collection System for the Taiwan High Speed Rail in Taipei. His significant experience in the IT industry enriches both his industrial training and his academic teaching. He has teaching experience in subjects like Games Programming at various Singaporean institutions.

With over 25 years of working experience, in companies such as ICONIX International and Delcan Corporation in Toronto, Canada. Thomas has played a key role in developing the Automatic Fare Collection System for the Taiwan High Speed Rail in Taipei. His significant experience in the IT industry enriches both his industrial training and his academic teaching. He has teaching experience in subjects like Games Programming at various Singaporean institutions.

Thomas O’Dell

Adjunct Lecturer

Jeffrey is an Indie developer/generalist since 2007, mostly focused on gameplay, AI,UI/UX, Networking, Script Systems, and mobile programming. He has co-founded game studio Touch Dimensions Interactive and shipped notable games including Wizards and Wagons, Autumn Dynasty warlords, Huff and Puff and Totem Star.

Jeffrey is an Indie developer/generalist since 2007, mostly focused on gameplay, AI,UI/UX, Networking, Script Systems, and mobile programming. He has co-founded game studio Touch Dimensions Interactive and shipped notable games including Wizards and Wagons, Autumn Dynasty warlords, Huff and Puff and Totem Star.

Jiang Anxiong, Jeffrey

Lecturer

Herman Ahmad, holding a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Game Design, is a seasoned Game Design Leader with over 9 years of experience in the global games industry. He has contributed to major AAA titles such as Assassin’s Creed Origins, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Skull & Bones, and an unreleased PS5 flagship project at PlayStation London Studio.

A passionate educator and mentor, Herman has spoken at the Dubai GameExpo Summit 2025 and guided aspiring designers through industry mentorships. Combining real-world production expertise with learner-focused teaching, he equips students with practical, industry-ready skills to craft immersive gaming experiences.

Herman Ahmad, holding a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Game Design, is a seasoned Game Design Leader with over 9 years of experience in the global games industry. He has contributed to major AAA titles such as Assassin’s Creed Origins, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Skull & Bones, and an unreleased PS5 flagship project at PlayStation London Studio.

A passionate educator and mentor, Herman has spoken at the Dubai GameExpo Summit 2025 and guided aspiring designers through industry mentorships. Combining real-world production expertise with learner-focused teaching, he equips students with practical, industry-ready skills to craft immersive gaming experiences.

Herman Ahmad

Game Design Leader

Rahul Nath is an accomplished Creative Director, Immersive Media Specialist, Game Designer, and Educator with more than 19 years of industry and academic experience in game development, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), extended reality (XR), immersive media, digital twins, and real-time 3D technologies. Throughout his career, Mr. Nath has led the development of numerous commercial games and immersive technology projects, collaborating with internationally recognized organizations such as Ubisoft, Meta, CD Projekt Red, and LAI Games. His expertise spans game design and production, virtual and extended reality technologies, virtual production, motion capture systems, Unreal Engine development, digital twins, immersive environments, and experiential design. He possesses substantial industry and educational experience that directly supports the delivery of programmes related to Game Design, Virtual Production, Immersive Media, XR Technologies, Interactive Media Development, and Digital Content Creation. His extensive industry engagement and curriculum development experience ensure that learners receive current, industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills aligned with workforce requirements.

Rahul Nath is an accomplished Creative Director, Immersive Media Specialist, Game Designer, and Educator with more than 19 years of industry and academic experience in game development, virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), extended reality (XR), immersive media, digital twins, and real-time 3D technologies.

Throughout his career, Mr. Nath has led the development of numerous commercial games and immersive technology projects, collaborating with internationally recognized organizations such as Ubisoft, Meta, CD Projekt Red, and LAI Games.

His expertise spans game design and production, virtual and extended reality technologies, virtual production, motion capture systems, Unreal Engine development, digital twins, immersive environments, and experiential design.

He possesses substantial industry and educational experience that directly supports the delivery of programmes related to Game Design, Virtual Production, Immersive Media, XR Technologies, Interactive Media Development, and Digital Content Creation.

His extensive industry engagement and curriculum development experience ensure that learners receive current, industry-relevant knowledge and practical skills aligned with workforce requirements.

Rahul Nath

Immersive Media Specialist | Lecturer & Mentor

Tan Kang Soon possesses a breadth of experience across industry and academic settings, contributing to projects in game development, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and simulation systems. His professional experience spans technical leadership, game entrepreneurship, research, and curriculum development. He has been involved in the design and deployment of real-world educational and industrial solutions, bringing together practical industry expertise and academic knowledge. His diverse background enables him to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and applied learning. These competencies support his capability to deliver advanced-level training in Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Game Development.

Tan Kang Soon possesses a breadth of experience across industry and academic settings, contributing to projects in game development, artificial intelligence, computer vision, and simulation systems. His professional experience spans technical leadership, game entrepreneurship, research, and curriculum development.

He has been involved in the design and deployment of real-world educational and industrial solutions, bringing together practical industry expertise and academic knowledge. His diverse background enables him to bridge the gap between emerging technologies and applied learning.

These competencies support his capability to deliver advanced-level training in Computer Science, Software Engineering, and Game Development.

Tan Kang Soon

Lecturer & Mentor

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MAGES Institute is proud to present our Student Project Games which showcase their first try at realising industry-standard ideas incorporating their creativity and personality. Available now on Itch.io for both Windows PC and Android Phones.

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

UPCOMING INTAKES

15-February-2027

(Full-Time)

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

Academic :

2 credit passes at GCE ‘O’ Level in any subjects excluding English or equivalent, or Foundation Certificate in Art and Technology or Certificate in Art or Animation related course in MAGES Institute or other institutions.

English :

IELTS 5.5 or Pass in English GCE ‘O’ Levels or equivalent

Age:

16 Years Old or above (Mature Candidates above 30 years old require 8 years of working experience)

Please click on ‘Read More’ for more information

FEE DETAILS

(Incl. of 9% GST)

International Students

SGD 22,113.92

Singapore Citizens & PRs

SGD 19,061.92

 

Grants and Scholarships available.

Message us at enquiry@mages.edu.sg

FAQs

What career paths or jobs can I pursue after completing the Game Design and Technology diploma?

As a Game Design & Technology graduate, you’ll be ready for a variety of roles such as:

  • Game Designer – Create core gameplay mechanics and shape the player experience.
  • Level Designer – Build fun, immersive game levels and worlds that engage players.
  • Gameplay Programmer – Develop the game logic and systems that make games work.
  • Technical Designer – Act as a bridge between design and development teams.
  • Game Producer – Manage projects, timelines, and team workflows.
  • UX/UI Designer – Design intuitive and user-friendly game interfaces.

You’ll be prepared for careers in game studios, indie developers, simulation companies, and more!

What do I need to do if I want to make games or become a game developer?

Start with the basics-explore games critically, learn what makes them fun, and understand core gameplay mechanics. Begin building small games using tools like Unity or Unreal Engine. Take a structured course like ours to build your knowledge and skills step by step. Most importantly, stay curious and keep experimenting-you’ll grow with every game you create.

Does just getting a certificate matter, or is there more to becoming a good Game Designer or Developer?

A certificate shows commitment-but studios care even more about your practical skills and portfolio. Focus on learning core design principles, understanding player psychology, and mastering tools like Unity, Unreal Engine, and scripting with C#. Combine this with real-world experience and strong teamwork skills to truly stand out in the industry.

How can I get feedback to improve my portfolio?

We encourage students to share their prototypes and game ideas on platforms like itch.io or at local game meetups. You’ll also receive detailed feedback from mentors throughout the course. By showcasing your work, joining Game Jams, and asking for critique from industry professionals, you’ll continuously improve your portfolio.

How can I get real experience making games?

Real growth happens when you apply your skills to actual projects.

We recommend:

  • Participating in Game Jams to test your ideas and work under deadlines.
  • Taking on internships with studios or gaming startups.
  • Joining student-led game projects to simulate studio workflows.
  • Freelancing through sites like itch.io, Itchfund, or Fiverr.

These experiences build confidence and prepare you for real studio environments.

What is the admission process?

  • Connect with a Course Advisor – We’ll help you choose the right program and explain the requirements.
  • Submit Your Application – Fill out the form and share your documents (ID, photo, transcripts).
  • Receive Offer Letter – If eligible, you’ll get an official offer.
  • Confirm Your Spot – Accept the offer and proceed with enrollment.

Few more steps for International Students:

  • Student Pass Application – We’ll help you apply for your Student Pass.
  • Complete Enrollment – Once your pass is approved, confirm your spot to begin your learning journey.

What are the available payment options?

You can pay your fees using a credit or debit card, bank transfer, cheque, or PayPal-whichever is easiest for you. If you need any help, our team is here to assist you.

Will you help with job placements after the course?

At MAGES, you get all the support to kickstart your creative career – expert mentors, career advice, and help building a professional portfolio. By the time you graduate, you’ll have the skills and portfolio that make you ready for jobs at game studios or freelance work.

What skills and experience do I need to become a game designer or developer?

Just a passion for games and a real eagerness to learn! It’s great if you:

  • Enjoy game design, storytelling, or programming
  • Have some basic understanding of how games work
  • Are creative and excited to explore new ideas


We’ll help you grow your skills step by step, from the basics all the way to advanced concepts!

 

Who should apply for this program and how?

If you’re passionate about video games, storytelling, interactive design, or coding-this program is for you!
Simply fill out the application form on our website, and one of our Course Advisors will reach out to guide you through the rest. It’s a quick and friendly process!

What will I learn in the Game Design & Technology Diploma at MAGES?

You’ll learn the full process of making a game-from ideation and level design to gameplay mechanics and scripting. You’ll get hands-on training with Unity, Unreal, game balancing, UI/UX, and team-based production workflows. The course ends with a final project you can proudly showcase in your portfolio.

Can I continue to a degree after this diploma?

Yes. Graduates can progress to the BSc Computer Game Applications Development (Top-Up), awarded by Abertay University and delivered at MAGES Singapore. It takes 12 months full-time, and covers graphics programming with shaders, gameplay mechanics, AI and a professional project.

Do I need a portfolio or prior art experience to apply?

Not at all! You don’t need a portfolio or prior art/design experience to join. We welcome beginners who are eager to learn and grow. The course starts from the fundamentals and helps you build your skills from the ground up.

 

Will I be building a portfolio during the program?

Absolutely! Throughout the course, you’ll work on multiple game projects that form the foundation of your portfolio. You’ll create playable demos, design documents, and prototypes that showcase your design and technical abilities.

Does the program provide industry exposure or mentorship opportunities?

Yes, it does! You’ll have access to sessions led by industry professionals, real-world project briefs, and collaborative workspaces that mimic studio environments. Mentorship, guest lectures, and game studio visits are part of the experience-helping you stay industry-ready.

SPEAK TO AN ADVISOR

Need guidance or course recommendations? Let us help!

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