COVID-19 information
Due to the current COVID-19 pandemic, the degree programme Game Studies and Engineering will offer a variety of online and on-campus courses in the upcoming summer semester 2022.
You are special. So are we.
This is what makes the degree programme so special
- The degree programme has a strong interdisciplinary design and high practical relevance
- Close cooperation between the Faculty of Technical Sciences and the Faculty of Humanities
- A strong network of international partner universities and organisations will assist students in terms of their career and the content of the degree
- Relevant experience through project work
- The campus in Klagenfurt offers excellent supervision arrangements, small seminar groups and manageable working groups. It is quick and easy to find friends and establish connections here!
Contact
Student Guidance Service
E-mail: studieninfo [at] aau [dot] at
Office of the Programme Director
E-mail: gse [at] aau [dot] at
Facebook
Contact us on Facebook
Studying at a university of international excellence
The University of Klagenfurt consistently achieves top positions in internationally renowned rankings. According to the THE Young University Rankings 2022, it ranks among the best young universities in the world and is currently ranked 77th in the world. The University of Klagenfurt also scored outstanding results in the THE Subject Rankings 2022: Social Sciences (ranking group 151-175), Computer Science (ranking group 201-250), Engineering (ranking group 201-250), Physical Sciences (ranking group 251-300), Business & Economics (ranking group 251-300).
Your skills are our mission. This is what we can teach you
Students will learn about narrative and aesthetic aspects of games and their history, the technical process of game production, engineering and tools used, the game development and design process as a complex system involving different roles and competences, as well as ethical considerations and responsibilities of game developers.
Programme structure
In Klagenfurt you can study at your own pace. To help you follow your path with confidence, we keep it clear of (bureaucratic) stumbling blocks and barriers. If you wish to reach your goal quickly and efficiently, we will always be there to support you. Our recommended course of study will guide you through the semesters. You work your way through the curriculum – making the most of opportunities to broaden your horizons and without wasting time. If you would like to know which courses await you before you start, take a look at the wide range of seminars and lectures.
Main areas
Programme structure: a tabular overview
| SUBJECT | DESIGNATION | ECTS |
|---|---|---|
| Required subjects | Supplementary subjects:
| 8 |
| Game Engineering | 18 | |
| Game Studies | 22 | |
| Practical training | Game Production | 12 |
| Elective subjects |
| 24 |
| Options | 8 | |
| Master thesis incl. research seminar | 28 | |
| Total | 120 |
Recommended course of study – Technical background
Important note regarding lecture courses scheduled on a cyclical basis: Although certain lecture courses are only offered once a year, the corresponding examinations can be taken year-round on specific dates.
1. Semester (Starting in the winter semester)
| SUBJECT | ECTS | Course number + title | Course type |
| Supplementary Subjects 1.2 (for students of technical disciplines) |
8 | VO Media and Communication Theories | VO |
| Literary Terminology and the Practice of Interpretation | VO | ||
| Compulsory Subjects | 16 | Game Engineering | VO |
| Practical Game Engineering | KU | ||
| Game Studies | VO | ||
| Practical Game Criticism | KU | ||
| Issues in Game Studies | VC | ||
| Restricted Electives | 4 |
See Curriculum §9 | |
| Free Electives | 2 |
See Curriculum §10 | |
| Total | 30 |
| SUBJECT | ECTS | Course number + title | Course type |
| Compulsory Subjects | 20 | Selected Topics in Game Engineering | VC |
| Introduction to Computer Graphics | VC | ||
| Selected Topics in Game Studies | VC | ||
| Representation and Configuration in Games | VC | ||
| Restricted Electives | 8 | See Curriculum §9 | SE |
| Free Electives | 2 | See Curriculum §10 | |
| Total | 30 |
Recommended course of study – Cultural background
Important note regarding lecture courses scheduled on a cyclical basis: Although certain lecture courses are only offered once a year, the corresponding examinations can be taken year-round on specific dates.
1. Semester (Starting in the winter semester)
| SUBJECT | ECTS | Course number + title | Course type |
| Supplementary Subjects 1.2 (for students of cultural disciplines) |
8 | VO Media and Communication Theories | VO |
| Introduction to Media Technology | VO | ||
| Introduction to Media Technology | KU | ||
| Compulsory Subjects | 16 | Game Engineering | VO |
| Practical Game Engineering | KU | ||
| Game Studies | VO | ||
| Practical Game Criticism | KU | ||
| Issues in Game Studies | VC | ||
| Restricted Electives | 4 |
See Curriculum §9 | |
| Free Electives | 2 |
See Curriculum §10 | |
| Total | 30 |
| SUBJECT | ECTS | Course number + title | Course type |
| Compulsory Subjects | 20 | Selected Topics in Game Engineering | VC |
| Introduction to Computer Graphics | VC | ||
| Selected Topics in Game Studies | VC | ||
| Representation and Configuration in Games | VC | ||
| Restricted Electives | 8 | See Curriculum §9 | SE |
| Free Electives | 2 | See Curriculum §10 | |
| Total | 30 |
Practical training
In order to strengthen practical and research skills, students must complete a placement, selecting one of the following two options:
- A supervised research placement (worth 10 ECTS credits) to be completed as part of a predefined project at the university or at an independent research institution (domestic or foreign).
- A supervised industry placement (worth 10 ECTS credits) in a domestic or foreign business, a body of public administration, a non-profit organization or an independent research organization to be completed as part of a predefined project with a minimum duration of two months.
Relevant professional activities conducted prior to or during the Master’s degree programme may be accredited as practical experience worth a total of 10 ECTS credits in certain justified cases.
The legally binding version of this curriculum is the german version!
Limits are old news. What else can we offer you?
There are no limits to your personal development. Enjoy the freedom that only a university degree can offer you and expand your horizons beyond your academic studies. You can pick and choose which competences will set you apart in the future. We have lots to offer, for instance:
- Are you looking to set up your own business and launch an entrepreneurial venture? By acquiring the “Build! Entrepreneurship Certificate” you will gain precisely the skills you need to turn your brilliant idea into a successful business! The nearby Lakeside Science & Technology Park also offers you the necessary facilities so you don’t need to sit in a garage while you are working on the app that will change the world and expand your wallet.
- Do you want to learn a new language and prepare for an international career? You can learn Russian, Spanish or Chinese (and many other languages besides) at the University of Klagenfurt.
- Are you interested in collaborating in groups, teams and organisations to achieve the best possible results? In the extension programme “Social Competence and Organizational Learning SCOL“ we will show you how project and conflict management, mediation processes and moderation techniques can succeed.
Special admission procedure
To apply for the Master’s programme, applicants have to register online first. After they have created their personal account for registration, applicants have to upload a letter of motivation in English as well as further documents needed for the administrative procedure, such as a CV, a transcript of records, a Bachelor’s certificate as well as a copy of their passport. Incomplete applications cannot be considered.
Registration period for the special admission procedure
17 January to 30 June 2022
Prerequisites
Applicants have to go through a special admission procedure to start the Master‘s degree in Game Studies and Engineering in Klagenfurt.
Applicants must also meet the following conditions:
- A Bachelor's degree in Computer sciences or Humanities, Social Sciences or Cultural Studies
Or: A comparable academic degree comprising at least 180 ECTS credits, e.g. a teacher training degree in English, in History, … etc
Information on Bachelor’s degree programmes that are relevant for admission (PDF) - English language proficiency in writing and speaking - level C1
- A strong interest in video and computer games, analogue games and multimedia applications
Prospective students who apply for admission to a Master’s degree programme taught in English must provide evidence of English language proficiency at the required level at the time of application.
DEADLINES FOR ENROLMENT
All applicants who have successfully concluded the special admission procedure can enrol up to the 31 October (for the winter semester) and up to the 31 March (for the summer semester). Enrolment (admission) takes place in person at the Admissions and Examinations Office.
Winter semester 2022/23
General admission period for Bachelor’s programmes:
12 July to 5 September 2022
General admission period for other programmes:
12 July to 31 October 2022
Summer semester 2022
General admission period:
10 January 2022 – 05 February 2022
Extended admission period:
06 February 2022 – 30 April 2022
The first steps are always … accompanied!
We won’t abandon you, especially at the start of your studies!
- Here in Klagenfurt, you will get to know your fellow students during the Welcome Days – and you will make new friends in the very first week; friends you will share memorable experiences with in the years to come.
- Our student guidance service is here for you if you need some support as you start your studies. You can reach us via WhatsApp, e-mail, phone or our social media channels.
- At the ÖH student union Info Days at the start of each semester experienced students provide advice about your chosen degree programme and share useful insiders’ tips.
Best prospects. Your professional opportunities
Graduates will receive a Master of Science (MSc) or a Master of Arts (MA), depending on their chosen specialization during the programme. A degree in Game Studies and Engineering will allow students to work in the games industry as valuable team members with a wide range of skills. The interdisciplinary nature of the programme, combining technical, analytical, and critical competences, will give students an advantage over one-sided schooling. In addition, graduates will also be able to work in the advertising and media industry.
Join our community
You’ll soon discover this: Graduates and students from the University of Klagenfurt have many interesting careers.
Paulina Angelova
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In general, students are encouraged to spend a period of time studying abroad.
Erasmus+ and Joint Study programs and the good relations of your professors allow students to study at numerous partner universities in Europe and across the globe.
FAQ. Frequently asked questions
When does the semester start?
The winter semester starts on the 1st of October and ends on the 31st of January. The summer semester starts on the 1st of March and ends on the 30th of June.
Further information is available in Term dates & deadlines.
How can I apply for the Master’s degree programme?
To apply for the Master’s programme, applicants have to register online first. After they have created their personal account for registration, applicants have to upload a motivation video in English as well as further documents needed for the administrative procedure, such as a CV, a transcript of records, a Bachelor’s certificate as well as a copy of their passports. Incomplete applications cannot be considered.
Further information on master’s degree programmes with special admission procedures
How can I prove English language proficiency?
For further information, choose the language level required by your degree programme:
Proof of English language proficiency at level B2 (CEFR) | Proof of English language proficiency at level C1 (CEFR)
Proof of English language proficiency at level B2 (CEFR)
The English language skills at level B2 (CEFR) must be supported by one of the items of proof listed below. The certificates mentioned under Item 2 must not be older than two years at the time of the application for admission.
- Qualifications:
- Successful completion of the subject English as part of the Austrian school leaving examination (provided in the form of an Austrian certificate of the final school year)
- School leaving certificate from a school at which English is the language of instruction and examination
- Successful completion of the subject English as part of a school leaving examination (to be evidenced by providing an Austrian school leaving certificate or a school leaving certificate issued in an EU member state demonstrating level B2 (CEFR))
- Austrian certificate testifying the right to study, including a pass in English at level B2
- Completion of a study programme conducted in English and lasting at least two years at a recognised post-secondary educational institution
- Certificates:
- TOEFL iBT (minimum score: 85)
- IELTS (minimum overall band score: 6)
- Cambridge English: First Certificate in English (FCE) or B2 First (minimum scale score: 160) or higher
Proof of English language proficiency at level C1 (CEFR)
The English language skills at level C1 (CEFR) must be supported by one of the items of proof listed below. The certificates mentioned under Item 2 must not be older than two years at the time of the application for admission.
- Qualifications:
- School leaving certificate from a school at which English is the language of instruction and examination
- Completion of a study programme conducted in English and lasting at least two years at a recognised post-secondary educational institution
- Certificates:
- TOEFL iBT (minimum score: 100)
- IELTS (minimum overall band score: 7)
- Cambridge English: Advanced English (CAE) or C1 Advanced (minimum scale score: 180, minimum admissible grade: C) or higher
Where can I find additional information? Who can I contact with questions?
Please refer to the Curriculum (PDF) and our website for further information on all aspects of studying. If you have additional questions, you can also contact the Student Representatives of the Austrian National Union of Students or the Programme Director directly.
Continuing your studies
Once you have completed the Master’s degree programme in Game Studies and Engineering you can continue straight on to the following degree programme:
These Masters’s degree programmes may also be of interest
1
2
3
1
Universität Klagenfurt
2
Lakeside Park
3
Wörthersee
This is why the University of Klagenfurt is one of the best young universities in the world …
