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Higher Diploma in Computer Studies (Mobile Applications and Game Development)

Introduction

HKCT Higher Diploma in Computer Studies (Mobile Applications and Game Development)

In recent years, the rapid development of the sharing economy, O2O business models, Internet of Things (IoT), cloud services, big data, and artificial intelligence, coupled with the opportunities brought by financial technology, art technology, social media, metaverse, XR, and Web 3.0 concepts, has created a high demand for programmers. Nowadays, everyone is constantly connected to their devices, leading to a significant need for programming in web applications and digital entertainment, which provides multi-skilled developers with growth opportunities.

This programme focuses on mobile programming as its core, with mobile application and game development as key training areas, equipping students to become professionals in related fields.

This programme has been included in the Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP) for seven consecutive years. HKCT is the only institute offering higher diploma programmes with the SSSDP subsidy in the discipline of 'Computer Science'.

Professional Qualification

Students can apply to be 'The Hong Kong Computer Society' (HKCS) Student Member, and upon graduation, they may consider applying for Associate Member.
Students can also apply for Student Membership or Affiliate Membership in the Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Association.

Contents

Programme Objectives

Considering that Gen Z and Alpha are digital natives, video games are no longer just entertainment but also a form of social media. In the current Web3.0 landscape, GameFi (Gamified Finance) and Play-to-Earn (P2E) have considerable development potential, promising to create a large programming and mobile game development industry, which will be in high demand for talent. Furthermore, the unprecedented success of ‘Black Myth: Wukong’ has demonstrated the strength of Chinese game developers to the world, inspiring the younger generation in Hong Kong who aspire to join this industry. In light of these backgrounds and industry trends, this programme aims to start students on their game development and programming journey, equipping them with the necessary foundational knowledge to contribute to the industry's growth.

In addition to mobile game development, this programme also provides training in full-stack web development, mobile application development, and mobile programming, allowing students to develop in the broader field of mobile application development and start a career as a programmer.

Programme Contents

The Higher Diploma in Computer Studies (Mobile Applications and Game Development) puts a dual focus on mobile applications development and mobile game development. It will equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills for developing the full-stack responsive web, native and cross-platform mobile applications and small-scale 2D/3D mobile games using contemporary technologies and development approaches. The programme aims to address the increasing demand for multi-skilled developers to support various kinds of development projects in software firms. It also prepares students for pursuing further studies in related fields.

Programme Features

Meeting Keen Demand for Talents: This programme has been included in the Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP) for seven consecutive years. HKCT is the first and the only institute offering SSSDP sub-degree programmes in the 'Computer Science' discipline.
Staying Ahead of Industry Trends: The programme offers comprehensive training in full-stack web and mobile app development, cross-platform mobile game development, and emerging AI and XR technologies (AR, VR, MR), equipping students to meet the dynamic and growing demands of the applications and entertainment sectors.
Diverse Development Techniques: Students acquire the skills to create both hybrid and native applications for Android, iOS, and cross-platform mobile application software development. This programme enables students to master the latest development methods in the industry.
Professional Game Development Training: The curriculum incorporates modern game engines and modelling software for the creation of 2D and 3D mobile games and assets.
Solid Foundations: The programme provides a solid grounding in core computing and specialised areas, setting the stage for further advanced studies and professional advancement.
Career Preparation: Through hands-on assignments and projects that mirror real-world scenarios, students can apply their knowledge in practical settings.
Diverse Academic Progression: Graduates can enroll in undergraduate programmes related to information technology and digital entertainment, or other programmes across different disciplines.
Professional Membership: Students can seek membership in the Hong Kong Computer Society and the Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Association, enjoying access to the Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Industry Fresh Graduate Support Scheme job matching platform.

Featured Modules

Open Mobile Software Design
Proprietary Mobile Software Design
Game Asset Development
2D Mobile Game Development
3D Mobile Game Development
Immersive Applications and Game Development
Cross Platform Mobile Application Development
Server-Side Web Development

Full Programme Module

Star Teacher

Vincent Lam

Experienced Game Designer
Lecturer
Winner of Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Excellence Awards

Student Works

Student Work - Greedy Puppy

Student Work - IXTAL

Student Work - Dragon Death

Student Work - Ghost Island

Graduation Pathway

Articulation:

Graduates can enroll in various undergraduate programmes in related disciplines or across different disciplines. These include UGC-funded programmes, SSSDP/NMTSS programmes, self-financed programmes, and overseas degree programmes (Some programmes offer the possibility of completion within one year)
HKCT 2+2 Articulation Scheme

Students who have completed the 2-year HKCT ‘Higher Diploma in Computer Studies (Mobile Applications and Game Development)’ will be eligible to receive admission offer^ of the 2-year CTIHE 'Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science and AI Engineering’ / ‘Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Computer Science and Cybersecurity' of senior-year entry (i.e. direct entry to the third year of the Programme). It only takes 4 years for students to achieve both Higher Diploma and Bachelor Degree qualifications.

^Students should acquire designated academic result and pass an interview, and subject to the availability of the quota.

Graduates are eligible to enroll in other bachelor’s degree programmes which include, but are not limited to, the following:

Information Technology and Computer Engineering

BEng in Computer Engineering (HKUST)
B.Sc. in Computer Science (CUHK)
B.Eng. in Computer Engineering (CUHK)
Bachelor of Science in Information Management (HKU)
Bachelor of Arts and Sciences in Social Data Science (HKU)
Bachelor of Engineering – Electronic and Electrical Engineering (CityU)
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Security (PolyU)
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology (EdUHK)
BSc (Hons) Computer Engineering (HKMU)
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (HKMU)
BSc (Hons) Cyber and Computer Security (HKMU)
BSc (Hons) Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (HKMU)
BSc (Hons) Computer Science (HKCHC)

Interactive Media Design and Digital Entertainment

Bachelor of Science in Creative Media (CityU)
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design (Interaction Design) (PolyU)
Bachelor of Arts (Honours) in Design (Media Design) (PolyU)
Bachelor of Arts with Honours in New Music and Interactive Entertainment (HKMU)

Education

Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Secondary) - Information and Communication Technology (EdUHK)
Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Primary) - Mathematics (EdUHK)

Overseas Articulation

BSc (Hons) Computing (Abertay University)

Employment:

Graduates are equipped to launch successful careers in a range of dynamic roles, including:
Development: With the programming skills, graduates can pursue various programmer positions, including Mobile Application Developer, Web Developer, Front-end/Full Stack Developer, E-Commerce Developer, Multimedia Developer, Game Developer, XR Developer
Design: With knowledge of programming development and interface design, graduates can work as a UX Designer for websites, mobile applications, games, etc.
Management and Support: After understanding the programming and development process, graduates can also be competent as Project Management Personnel responsible for coordinating the development team or as System Support Personnel.

After accumulating experience, one can also be promoted to a System Analyst, and even to positions such as Programming Project Manager or System Manager.

Internship

Students have opportunities to join Hong Kong/China/Overseas placement and exchange during the summer, broadening their horizons and putting into practice the knowledge of game development and programming learned in the programme, gaining practical experience.

Student Activities and Competition

The computer game 'Music Universe', designed by students, was awarded 1st runner-up at the 'New Music and Interactive Entertainment Competition'

青春「遊」你—遊戲建模師培養實習計劃

Students showcased their created computer games at the ‘Hong Kong Computer and Communications Festival 2024’

Students showcased their created computer games at the ‘Inno4life - Creative Culture and Technological Innovation Exhibition’

First-year students participated in the ‘Personal Financial Ambassador Programme’, creating electronic games to promote financial education and earned a silver award

Students won the Excellent Financial Education Project Sliver Award in 'Personal Finance Ambassador Programme'

Students won the Excellent Financial Education Project Bronze Award in 'Personal Finance Ambassador Programme'

Student Leung Hon Fung, inspired by Monopoly, designed an application in the ‘Personal Finance Ambassador Programme’ and won the Excellent Financial Education Project Award.

Programme Details

Mode of Study

Full Time

Teaching Mode

Face to face

Commencement of Study

September 2025

Duration

2 Years

Location

HKCT Jockey Club Undergraduate Campus

Entry Requirements

Attained Level 2 in 5 HKDSE subjects*, including Chinese^ and English [each applicant is allowed to use not more than two Applied Learning subjects at ‘Attained’ level as equivalent to Level 2 in the application] ; or
Pass in 1 A-Level or 2 AS-Level subjects in HKALE; and 5 passes in HKCEE including Chinese Language and English Language; or
Holder of Diploma Yi Jin/ Diploma of Applied Education; or
Holder of Diploma for Tertiary Studies; or
Holder of Pre-Associate Degree; or
Holder of Diploma and
- the qualification should be awarded by one of the local or overseas recognised tertiary institutions / post-secondary colleges; and
- the length of study is at least 450 teaching hours; or
Aged 21 or above with 1 year working experience; or
Equivalent qualifications;
AND
Pass the admission interview.

* ‘Attained’ in ‘Citizenship and Social Development’, or the attainment of ‘Level 2’ in Mathematics Extended Part (Module 1 or Module 2) is also recognised as one of the five HKDSE subjects.
^ ‘Attained’ level of Applied Learning Chinese (for non-Chinese speaking students) is accepted as Chinese Language qualification for the admission, but it is not considered as an elective subject.

Teaching Facilities

Mobile App and Game Development Computer Lab

Mobile Applications and Game Development Computer Labs
The computer labs are equipped with a range of professional software, providing students with a comprehensive game development and programming learning experience. Students can use the game development engine Unity to design 2D and 3D games; utilise Autodesk 3ds Max for modeling. In addition, software for developing Android and iOS mobile applications such as Android Studio and Xcode are also available.

Student Sharings

Scholarship
Scholarship for Excellent Academic Achievement, Outstanding Academic Performance Award, Outstanding Performance Scholarship of Self-financing Post-secondary Scholarship Scheme from Education Bureau, Sir Robert Black Trust Fund Committee Scholarship

Internship
HKSTP NxTEC (Next Technologist Entrepreneurial Champion) Career Launcher programme 

Conditional acceptance from the following UGC-funded programmes
- BEng in Computer Engineering (HKUST)
- BEng Electronic and Electrical Engineering (CityU)
- BSc (Hon) in Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology (EdUHK)

”This programme covers a wide range of content and keeps up with the latest technological developments, allowing us to grasp the latest industry techniques. HKCT has excellent instructors and also provides professional guidance during their free time. They are happy to communicate with us and encourage us to innovate constantly. This inspires me to create mobile games and mobile applications and share my creative achievements with everyone.”

Scholarship
Outstanding Performance Scholarship of Self-financing Post-secondary Scholarship Scheme from Education Bureau

Internship
HKSTP NxTEC (Next Technologist Entrepreneurial Champion) Career Launcher programme 

Conditional acceptance from the following UGC-funded programmes
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Security (PolyU)
- BSc (Hon) in Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology (EdUHK)

"In addition to acquiring a wealth of knowledge during my time at school, these two years of learning have also yielded valuable experiences and strengthened my analytical and problem-solving skills, laying a solid foundation for my further studies."

Articulation
BSc (Hon) in Artificial Intelligence and Educational Technology (EdUHK)

"This program gave me a good understanding of both the technical and creative aspects of computing. I was able to design and build various projects, from app development to game development, which enabled me to grow even better and more proficient in this field. The hands-on experience of bringing my ideas to life was invaluable, as it allowed me to apply theoretical concepts and develop practical skills. As a result, I have decided to continue my studies to take my abilities to the next level."

Scholarship
Scholarship for Excellent Academic Achievement, Outstanding Academic Performance Award, Sir Robert Black Trust Fund Committee Scholarship

Internship
China Unicom (Hong Kong) Operations Ltd, Assistant R&D Engineer (Intern), Department of Digitalization (Smart Network & Innovation Center)

Articulation
Bachelor of Science in Creative Media (CityU)

"The tutors teach us with dedication. They are enthusiastic in helping students and are willing to answer all our questions. They have greatly reduced obstacles on my learning journey and have increased my enthusiasm for learning. I am also grateful to HKCT for recommending me for the internship and to China Unicom for providing this valuable and practical experience."

Choi Chun Kit
Graduate of Higher Diploma in Computer Studies (Mobile Applications and Game Development)

"Learning in HKCT was a pleasant experience for me. I have learnt different development approaches for different kinds of apps and games in this programme. I developed a web with my classmates to promote smart spending in The Chin Family Personal Finance Ambassador Programme and won the Excellent Financial Education Project Bronze Award. I enjoyed the internship opportunity to work as a mobile app developer in the science park. I had the honour to receive the EBD SPSS Outstanding Performance Scholarship. After graduation, I chose to further study and major in computing and interactive entertainment at university to pursue my dream of being a game developer. "

Lo Ho Dan
Graduate of Higher Diploma in Computer Studies (Mobile Applications and Game Development)

"HKCT offered nice teaching environment and facilities which improved my academic knowledge and working ability. HKCT also supplied us with different career-related information through company visits and seminars which enhanced my understanding about the industry and market needs. Social workers in HKCT were also willing to give valuable advice and guidance about my career development. "

Tuition Fees and Assistance

Tuition Fees

Year 1: $58,000 Year 2: $63,765

The tuition fee above is under 2025/26 Cohort.
This programme is subsidised under Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP). In the 2025/26 academic year, a subsidy of up to $23,390 per academic year will be provided to each eligible local student admitted to this non-laboratory-based programme. The first-year tuition fee after subsidy is $34,610. HKCT is the only institute to offer the higher diploma programme with the SSSDP subsidy in the discipline of “Computer Science”. Please note that only local students* are eligible for the relevant subsidy.
*Including the applicants holding the "dependent visa" or other special visas. For more information, please visit the web page.

Assistance

Financial Assistance Scheme for Post-secondary Students (FASP) (Including Student Travel Subsidy(STS))
The Non-means-tested Loan Scheme for Post-secondary Students (NLSPS)
Student Travel Subsidy
Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors

Scholarships and Grants

CT Entrance Scholarship for Excellent Academic Achievement
Scholarship for Best Talents
Community Services Scholarship
Overseas Activities, Conference & Travel Grants Scholarship

QF Level

The qualification of this programme is recognised under the Qualifications Framework in Hong Kong.

QF level：4

QR Registration No.：18/000256/L4

Registration Validity Period：1/9/2018 to 31/8/2025

Other Information

Applicants who do not meet the entry requirement may apply for a 1-year Diploma of Applied Education (listed below) and articulate to this higher diploma programme.

Disclaimer

Tuition fees and subsidies are to be reviewed and adjusted annually on various factors.
This programme is subsidised under Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP). In the 2025/2026 academic year, a subsidy of up to $23,390 per academic year will be provided to each eligible local student admitted to this non-laboratory-based programme. The first-year tuition fee after subsidy is $34,610. Only local students are eligible for the subsidy under SSSDP.

Related programme

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