Your perfect choice!

Master Game Studies and Engineering

Are you fascinated and excited by (computer) games? Apart from enjoying games yourself, are you interested in how games are developed and constructed from a technical point of view? Do you also want to know what purposes they serve, what ethical and narrative principles they correspond to? Then the Master's degree programme in Game Studies and Engineering is your perfect choice!

Fact Box

Duration:

semesters
ECTS credits:

120

Level of qualification: Master's degree programme
Degree:

Master of Science (MSc) or Master of Arts (MA)

Prerequisites:

Yes

Special admission procedure:

Yes

Language of instruction:

English

Curriculum (PDF)
(German version, legally binding)
Curriculum (PDF, English version)
Range of courses

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

(Computer) games constitute an interface between technology, economy, culture and society. Not only do they continuously evolve in terms of technology, but they are embedded in historical and societal processes and contexts: At times, those games that are complex and action-packed are highly successful; at other times, games that promise light entertainment and a sense of well-being break the records as so-called “cozy games”. It is difficult to categorise games into genres, which makes it all the more exciting to take a look at the genre from a humanities perspective. Our courses focus on how computer games are steered and look at creative storytelling methods; as well as engineering, our students also learn to apply criticism.

The Master’s degree programme in Game Studies and Engineering is interdisciplinary and geared towards computer scientists and/or students of the humanities who would like to develop, analyse and critically reflect on games. The degree programme offers a practice-oriented environment; in addition, you will lead your own game project in an integrated practical setting in industry or research (worth 10 ECTS credits). The games industry is international, and so is your degree programme: With English as the language of instruction and our strong relationships with relevant partners in research, culture and the games industry, you'll be a player in the global games industry!

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 Arts, Humanities & Education
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!

Curious what the Master's degree programme in Game Studies and Engineering is all about?

Term dates & deadlines

To start the Master’s degree programme in Game Studies and Engineering in Klagenfurt, you need to go through a special admission procedure.

Registration period for the special admission procedure

13.01.2025 to 30.04.2025

(Non-EU- or Non-EEA-citizens: 13.01.2025 to 28.02.2025)

Luftbildaufnahme der Universität Klagenfurt

How we are seen

We excel in rankings!
The University of Klagenfurt is one of the top 2 % universities worldwide.
(Times Higher Education World University Rankings)
We are distinguished by our students!
The University of Klagenfurt is the only university in the world to win a Global Student Satisfaction Award twice in a row
(Studyportals – the Global Study Choice Platform)

Our study programmes come highly recommended!
The University of Klagenfurt is recommended by 97 % of its students.
(studycheck.de)
Top quality is our standard!
The University of Klagenfurt places high value on comprehensive quality standards. Our quality management is EVALAG-certified,
we maintain the highest environmental standards (EMAS certification) and are a family-friendly university.
(State quality label “hochschuleundfamilie”)

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.

Have we got what you need?

We will guide you through the first steps of your degree! Via phone or e-mail, or face-to-face over a coffee.

Let’s talk: get in touch now!

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	Introduction to Game Studies and Engineering	14
	Game Engineering	18
	Game Studies	18
Elective Subjects	Game Engineering Game Studies	24
Open Electives		8
Internship	Game Production	12
Master's thesis incl. research seminar		23
Final Examination		3
Total		120

Recommended course of study – Technical background

1. Semester | 2. Semester

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)

Recommended course of study: a tabular overview
SUBJECT	ECTS	Course number + title	Course type
Supplementary Subjects 1.2 (for students of technical disciplines)	8	VO Media and Communication Theories	VO
	8	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

2. Semester

Recommended course of study: a tabular overview
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

1. Semester | 2. Semester

1. Semester (Starting in the winter semester)

Recommended course of study: a tabular overview
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

2. Semester

Recommended course of study: a tabular overview
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.

Curriculum

Curriculum in English (PDF)

The legally binding version of this curriculum is the german version!

Range of courses

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.

Specialist courses & optional subjects

Extension programmes

Would you like some guidance to help you plan your studies?

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

13 January 2025 to 30 April 2025 (23:59 hours CET).
(Non-EU- or Non-EEA-citizens: 13.01.2025 to 28.02.2025)

Further information on the special admission procedure

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.

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.

Ready to get started and keen to find out more about enrolling for a degree programme?

Get in touch with us now!

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.

Stories & news about the degree programme

You’ll soon discover this: There are many interesting facts, stories and news updates regarding this degree programme.

70 heroines and heroes at the 6th Klagenfurt Winter Jam!

Walter Elsner

Promoting empathy and empowerment through video games about refugee experiences

Eine Studierendengruppe geht durch den Verbindungsgang vom Südtrakt in Richtung Zentralgebäude der Universität Klagenfurt.

aau/Daniel Waschnig

Get started! Useful tips for your start at university

Looking for guidance and advice?

Are you interested in the Master's degree programme in Game Studies and Engineering?
Are you in need of some personal advice with no strings attached?
Our student guidance service will be happy to advise you!

Go to Student guidance

The world is your own!

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.

Partner universities

Study abroad

FAQ. Frequently asked questions

When does the semester start?

The winter semester starts on the 1^st of October and ends on the 31^st of January. The summer semester starts on the 1^st of March and ends on the 30^th 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?

A list of the accepted language qualifications is available in the Regulation issued by the Rectorate concerning proof of required language proficiency for admission to study programmes.

Where can I find additional information? Who can I contact with questions?

Please refer to the Curriculum (PDF) (non-binding English version: 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:

Doctorate in Technical Sciences

Doctoral Degree Programme

Degree programme

Looking for guidance and advice?

Go to Student guidance

This is why the University of Klagenfurt is one of the best young universities in the world …

Top Master’s degree programmes – and what’s more, they’re virtually free!

For most students, a degree programme at an Austrian state university is free. We invest in your education. And you invest your inspiration, your ambition, and your determination to make the world a better place with the help of new knowledge.

You know your professor – and your professor knows you!

One of the features that distinguishes the University of Klagenfurt is the excellent ratio between students and supervising staff. The Master’s degree programmes have been designed to ensure that you are never merely a number; instead you have every opportunity to learn in close exchange with top teachers from the fields of research and practice.

Pursue an international degree with fellow students from all over the world: 11 Master’s degree programmes in English

The following outstanding Master’s degree programmes are taught entirely in English: Artificial Intelligence & Cybersecurity, Cross-Border Studies, English & American Studies, Games Studies & Engineering, Information & Communications Engineering, Informatics, Information Management, International Management, Mathematics, Media & Convergence Management and Management, Economics, and Data Science.

From studying to entrepreneurial success

As a student at the University of Klagenfurt, you don’t need a garage to set up an internationally successful start-up. Instead, we will provide you with all the infrastructure you need. With Build! Entrepreneurship Center Carinthia, inspire! Labs and FabLab, we can offer you three innovation labs right on campus.

Europe’s largest drone hall

With a floor area measuring up to 150 square metres and a height of ten metres, researchers investigating drones have access to cutting-edge research infrastructure at the University of Klagenfurt. This places the Drone-Hub Klagenfurt firmly among the world leaders in this field. The drone technology refined in Klagenfurt will also be on board NASA‘s Mars mission in 2021 and will be used to explore the Red Planet.

Research laboratory for video streaming

This young, dynamic campus is the starting point for global success stories. The company Bitmovin, which specialises in video streaming services, was founded by graduates of the University of Klagenfurt and has established a strong position on the global market in recent years with investments exceeding 50 million dollars. Today, the company conducts research on campus in the ATHENA laboratory, working in close collaboration with teams from the university.

A springboard to research

Our Master’s graduates are highly sought, not only in industry and business, but also in the academic world. The leap to a PhD position is in easy reach – and with close to 400 cooperation partners across all continents, there is a clear path ahead to further academic success.

As close to the game-changers as you can get

Our graduates make the world a better place, they drive innovation, open up new markets and shape the way we will live together in the future. In this, they are guided by luminaries from all over the world, whose research has had a decisive influence on their respective fields – from psychology to information technology, from cultural studies to economics.

Study in a top location!

Klagenfurt lies in the very southern part of Austria, near the Italian and Slovenian border – the Mediterranean, with its incomparable cultural treasures, is not far at all. The campus is within walking distance of the Wörthersee, one of the most beautiful lakes in existence, crystal clear and with drinking water quality. The charming Renaissance city of Klagenfurt offers an incomparable ambience with many cafés, bars and restaurants.

Study at Austria’s most stunning campus university!

The campus of the University of Klagenfurt was founded in 1970 and is located in the immediate vicinity of the Wörthersee. The distances on campus are short, everything is handily nearby and close together. The University of Klagenfurt is equipped with the most modern infrastructure and also has an excellent library, with a comprehensive range of electronic media. The library is open 24 hours a day, affordable dormitories are located in close proximity to the campus.

Studying at a university of international excellence!

The University of Klagenfurt is one of the top 2 % universities worldwide. (Times Higher Education World University Rankings)