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 applications and game development, equipping students to become professionals in these fields.

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

Professional Qualification

The programme is recognized by The Hong Kong Computer Society. Full-time mode students are qualified to be HKCS Student Member, and upon graduation, they may consider applying for Associate Member. 

Contents

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

  • Staying Ahead of Industry Trends: The programme offers comprehensive training in full-stack web and mobile app development, as well as cross-platform mobile game development, 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 and iOS platforms, mastering various app development approaches.
  • 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 specialized 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.
  • Professional Association Membership: Students can seek membership in the Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Association and access an online job-matching platform offered by the Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Industry Fresh Graduate Support Scheme.

Star Teacher

Vincent Lam

  • Experienced Game Designer
  • Lecturer
  • Winner of Hong Kong Digital Entertainment Excellence Awards
Graduation Pathway
  • Graduates can articulate to bachelor degree programmes related to computer studies or digital entertainment (The bachelor degree programmes can be completed within a year.)
  • Graduates can seek employment towards a career in the following roles at a junior level: Mobile Application Developer, Web Developer, E-Commerce Developer, Multimedia Developer, Game Designer and project management personnel

Articulation Agreement with: 

Leeds Beckett University

Abertay University

In recent years, our students have received conditional acceptance from / articulated to the following UGC-funded programmes: 

  • BEng in Computer Engineering (HKUST)
  • B.Sc. in Computer Science (CUHK)
  • B.Eng. in Computer Engineering (CUHK)
  • Bachelor of Science in Creative Media (CityU)
  • 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)
  • Bachelor of Education (Honours) (Primary) - Mathematics (EdUHK)
Internship

Students have opportunities to join Hong Kong/China/Overseas placement and exchange. 

Programme Details
Mode of Study

Full Time

Teaching Mode

Face to face

Commencement of Study

September 2024

Duration

2 Years

Location
Entry Requirements
  1. 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
  2. Pass in 1 A-Level or 2 AS-Level subjects in HKALE; and 5 passes in HKCEE including Chinese Language and English Language; or 
  3. Holder of Diploma Yi Jin/ Diploma of Applied Education; or
  4. Holder of Diploma for Tertiary Studies; or 
  5. Holder of Pre-Associate Degree; or 
  6. 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 
  7. Aged 21 or above with 1 year working experience; or 
  8. Equivalent qualifications; 
    AND 
  9. Pass the admission interview. 

#If one of the five HKDSE subjects considered is “Citizenship and Social Development”, the general admission requirement shall be “Attained” instead of “Level 2”. 
^Applied Learning Chinese (for non-Chinese speaking students) is in general accepted as Chinese Language qualification, but it is not considered as an elective subject. 

Student Words

Choi Chun Kit
"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

"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

Year 1: $56,808 Year 2: $62,454

The tuition fee above is under 2024/25 Cohort.
This programme is subsidised under Study Subsidy Scheme for Designated Professions/Sectors (SSSDP). In the 2024/25 academic year, a subsidy of up to $22,910 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 $33,898. HKCT is the only institute to offer the higher diploma programme with the SSSDP subsidy in the discipline of “Computer Science”.

QF Level
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 2024/2025 academic year, a subsidy of up to $22,910 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 $33,898. Only local students are eligible for the subsidy under SSSDP.