Technische Hochschule Köln (TH Köln) — Cologne Game Lab (CGL)

The Technische Hochschule Köln (TH Köln) is a large public Hochschule für angewandte Wissenschaften, with the Cologne Game Lab (CGL) as a specialized center for video game and animation studies. The CGL, integrated into TH Köln, offers a Bachelor in Digital Games (Digital Games B.A.) and several research and practice-oriented master's programs (Game Development & Research M.A., 3D Animation for Film & Games M.A. in cooperation); these programs cover game design, game arts, game programming, 3D animation, and production pipelines for games and film. Studying video games and animation at TH Köln / CGL provides a highly professional environment (projects, portfolio, interdisciplinary cooperation) and attracts international students wishing to work in the European game or animation industry. Admission procedures and application phases are detailed on the CGL pages and the TH Köln website.

The admission procedure for the programs at the Cologne Game Lab (CGL) at TH Köln varies depending on the level and origin of the degree. General requirements: corresponding secondary school diploma (for Bachelor: Abitur/Fachhochschulreife or equivalent international; for Master: relevant undergraduate degree). Candidates holding a degree obtained outside Germany generally need to apply via uni-assist (verification of foreign degrees); candidates already holding a German or European degree use the internal CaMS portal. The 'How to apply' pages specify for each program the requirement to first register for the aptitude test (Cologne Game Lab online application form) and then, upon passing, to submit the application to TH Köln (CaMS) or via uni-assist for international students. Languages: the three programs offered are taught in English; TH Köln requires proof of English proficiency (e.g., IELTS ≧6.0, TOEFL iBT ≧79, Cambridge FCE acceptable) for programs in English; if there are modules/requirements in German, DSH-2 or equivalent TestDaF may be required. Typical application documents: certified digital copies of the diploma and transcripts, CV, motivation letter, portfolio or work (for the aptitude tests of CGL programs), proof of professional experience if required (e.g., Game Development & Research requires ≥12 months of experience), language certificates, passport. TH Köln indicates that applications via uni-assist must be submitted in digital copies. Fees: TH Köln generally does not charge tuition fees for most public programs; a semester contribution (semester fee) is mentioned (~€350); uni-assist processing fees apply (e.g., approx. €75 for the first choice according to uni-assist). The program pages refer to the Cologne Game Lab website for detailed information on specific fees (some master's programs of the type Weiterbildungs-Master may have fees). Tests/interviews: CGL programs include an aptitude test (portfolio/tasks); structured selection interviews may be organized. Visa: TH Köln reminds that most international candidates require a student visa and refers to the information from the International Office.

Admissions are closed.

Application deadline: April 19, 2026.

Why choose TH Köln / Cologne Game Lab?

• Cologne Game Lab: specialized center and video game laboratory
• Programs in English available and international cooperations
• Specializations: Game Arts, Game Design, Game Programming, 3D Animation
• Admission procedure with selection by portfolio/tests