here are some game engines I am hoping we can install and run in our new postgrad design lab

1. The latest version of Autodesk Maya (mac os x), for the Mac Prosfree trial at http://www.autodesk.com/products/autodesk-maya/free-trial
student version http://students.autodesk.com/?nd=download_center
Other 3D and often cheaper if less powerful software solutions could be Silo 3D or Blender 3D. 3D Studio max is also an autodesk product but probably around the same price as maya. Rhino 3D is used by many industrial and transport designers and architects.

2. The latest version of unity (4.2), the indie version is free
http://unity3d.com/unity/download/
If we have money now or later for copies of unity pro (education version) that would be great!
https://store.unity3d.com
In Australia the supplier for Unity Pro education seems to be
http://www.stormfx.com.au/games/unity-pro.html

3. I would also like Blender downloaded (free), runs on all major OS
http://www.blender.org

4. Sketchup downloaded (free).
http://www.sketchup.com

5. For those who can run bootcamp or similar on the macs or have a PC there are free versions of game editors (PC os only)
for Crydev engine http://www.crydev.net/dm_eds/download_detail.php?id=4

6. There is also UDK (Unreal) http://www.unrealengine.com/udk/
You might also be interested in skyrim’s creation kit, the wiki is here http://www.creationkit.com but you may have to install Steam (hope it has improved over previous versions!)

7. A longterm goal would be zbrush http://pixologic.com

I am sure I am missing some important software and related modelling tools! And what about animation software alternatives to Maya?