Summer Program in Game Design
Zagreb, Croatia
Summer Course
DURATION
4 weeks
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
23 Jul 2027
EARLIEST START DATE
28 Jun 2027
TUITION FEES
EUR 1,990 / per course
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
Key Summary
About: The Summer programme in Game Design at Algebra Bernays University introduces core concepts across media and guides you through game elements, dramaturgical and functional components, dynamics, mechanics, rules, and interactivity. You’ll learn conceptualization, prototyping, documentation, testing, and balancing with hands-on practice. The course covers theory and practical workflows so you can craft engaging, accessible gameplay, develop unique concepts, and communicate effectively with game designers and development teams.
Career Outcomes: Graduates can pursue roles such as game designer, level designer, game developer, QA tester, narrative designer, production assistant, or indie creator; they can also enter interactive media or gamification industries.
Step into the captivating world of game design and unlock your potential to create thrilling gaming experiences. This program is designed to equip students with the fundamental concepts of game design, regardless of the medium they choose to explore. Dive deep into the role of a game designer and unravel the essence of what makes a game truly engaging.
About the program
Throughout this dynamic program, you will delve into the basic elements that constitute a game and distinguish between functional and dramaturgical components. Learn about the intriguing system of dynamics in games, where interactivity is interwoven with diverse mechanics and rules, shaping the essence of gameplay. With a focus on hands-on learning, you will undergo the stages of conceptualization, prototyping, documentation, testing, and balancing the game. Discover the secrets of crafting a game that captivates players and ensures a fun and accessible experience. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the structure, rules, and mechanics of each game, essential for aspiring computer game developers. Gain profound insights into the theoretical aspects of game design, enabling you to implement concepts with precision and collaborate seamlessly with game designers. Unleash your creativity and explore the limitless possibilities of game design. By acquiring this fundamental knowledge, you will be well-prepared to shape your own unique game concepts and establish a common language with game designers, effortlessly navigating the game design domain.
Embark on this exciting journey and become a master of game design. Get ready to make your mark in the thrilling realm of gaming!
Algebra Bernays provides you with different types of scholarships you can apply for:
1) Full Scholarships for excellence
- 1 full scholarship per program, covering 100% of the study costs for all four weeks of the Summer School in Zagreb and Šibenik.
- Algebra is ready to offer a full scholarship to the most outstanding students covering the total amount of tuition fees!
- Travel and accommodation costs are not included in the scholarship program.
2) Partial Scholarships
- 2 partial scholarships per program, covering 30% to 50% of tuition fees.
- The scholarship amount will be determined by Algebra Bernays University based on the quality of the applications received – better candidates will receive higher scholarships.
- Travel and accommodation costs are not included in the scholarship program.
Scholarship applications are open from 1 November 2026 to 31 January 2027.
Throughout this dynamic program, you will delve into the basic elements that constitute a game and distinguish between functional and dramaturgical components. Learn about the intriguing system of dynamics in games, where interactivity is interwoven with diverse mechanics and rules, shaping the essence of gameplay. With a focus on hands-on learning, you will undergo the stages of conceptualization, prototyping, documentation, testing, and balancing the game. Discover the secrets of crafting a game that captivates players and ensures a fun and accessible experience. The program provides a comprehensive understanding of the structure, rules, and mechanics of each game, essential for aspiring computer game developers. Gain profound insights into the theoretical aspects of game design, enabling you to implement concepts with precision and collaborate seamlessly with game designers. Unleash your creativity and explore the limitless possibilities of game design. By acquiring this fundamental knowledge, you will be well-prepared to shape your own unique game concepts and establish a common language with game designers, effortlessly navigating the game design domain.
Embark on this exciting journey and become a master of game design. Get ready to make your mark in the thrilling realm of gaming!
Students will earn a minimum of 6 ECTS credits for their chosen program, while exploring the capital city of Zagreb and the town of Šibenik, a jewel on the Adriatic coast at its liveliest season.
International students can earn additional 4 ECTS credits with our free Croatian Language and Cultureprogram, where they will discover interesting facts about Croatian culture and even learn a bit of Croatian to make them feel right at home!
Students will receive a final certificate upon successful completion of the program that they can add to their CV and further propel their career in digital technologes.


