Game – Programming Program (T163)
Program Description
Program Overview
The three-year Game – Programming advanced diploma program will give you the technical skills you need to succeed in the growing gaming industry. You’ll learn the “language” of gaming (C and C++), artificial intelligence, 3D graphics and more.
PLEASE NOTE: We also offer this program in a fully online format. Please see Game – Programming (Online) program (T193) for more details.
Full Description
Whether online or console, cellphone or PC-based, the game industry in Canada is booming. Game developers and publishers in the Greater Toronto Area range from small, specialized units to mid-sized companies, including Microsoft, Nintendo and other industry leaders.
Computers and game programmers are not just essential; they are in high demand in the thriving game industry in Canada. Our industry advisors confirm that technical skills are a hot commodity. As a graduate of our three-year Game – Programming (Online) advanced diploma program, you’ll be equipped to meet this demand and provide employers in this sector with the skills they’re actively seeking.
The added advantage of this program is that our School of Design faculty will guide you throughout the program as you work closely with design students to create games, explore all aspects of the game industry, and learn to work in teams – just as you would in the industry.
Classes occur at our Waterfront Campus, and evening courses may be required.
Note: Students who start the program in January (winter term) must attend classes during the summer months (May to August).
Technology Requirements
You'll need to have access to a personal computer with the following specifications:
- 8 GB RAM minimum (16 GB recommended)
- 256 GB SSD Hard Drive (500+ GB is optimal)
- approx. 100 GBs of hard disk space for required software
- quad-core i7 2.5GHz or better
- video card (4GB RAM recommended, supports OpenGL 3.2+ and DirectX 11/12)
- webcam
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Industry
“Canada's video game industry is recognized as a global powerhouse for game development and has played a significant role in shifting what was once a ‘niche industry’ into a blockbuster industry and driver of innovation. In 2015, the industry contributed more than $3 billion to the Canadian economy and provided 20,400 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs across the country, representing an increase of 31 percent and 24 percent respectively since 2013.
“Industry growth both globally and in Canada has been explosive and is expected to continue into the future. Canada’s video game industry crosses the country with 472 active studios that develop, publish and distribute video games. The sector is mainly concentrated in the provinces of Quebec (29.4 per cent), British Columbia (27.1 per cent) and Ontario (22.9 per cent).” – Entertainment Software Association of Canada
Educational Pathways
Graduates of Game – Programming have the opportunity to apply to the BSc (Honours) Computer Games Design program at the University of Gloucestershire, beginning in level 6. For more information about this program, visit their Computer Games Design page.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
Semester 1
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts* |
| GAME 1001 | Introduction to Programming |
| GAME 1005 | Game Production I |
| GAME 1007 | Game Fundamentals I |
| GSSC 1027 | Personal Finance |
| MATH 1180 | Math for Game Development |
Semester 2
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 1011 | Advanced Programming |
| GAME 1017 | Game Fundamentals II |
| GAME 3001 | Artificial Intelligence |
| GAME 1014 | Game Production II |
| MATH 1107 | Linear Algebra and Geometry |
| GNED | General Education Elective (Select One) |
Semester 3
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 2001 | Data Structures & Algorithms |
| GAME 2005 | Game Physics |
| GAME 2012 | 3D Graphics Programming |
| GAME 2013 | Game Engines I |
| GAME 2020 | Game Production III |
| GNED | General Education Elective (select one) |
Semester 4
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| COMP 2148 | Professional Workplace Competencies |
| GAME 2023 | Game Engines II |
| GAME 2030 | Game Production IV |
| GAME 2031 | Advanced Topics in Programming Languages |
| GAME 3002 | Physics Engines |
| GAME 3111 | Advanced Graphics Programming |
Semester 5
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 2014 | Mobile Game Development I |
| GAME 3003 | Console Game Development I |
| GAME 3020 | Game Production V |
| GAME 3023 | Game Engines III |
| GAME 3110 | Multiplayer Systems |
| GAME 3121 | Game Engine Development I |
Semester 6
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 3004 | Mobile Game Development II |
| GAME 3011 | Game Portfolio Development |
| GAME 3015 | Game Engine Development II |
| GAME 3030 | Game Production VI |
| GAME 3033 | Game Engines IV |
| GAME 3112 | Console Game Development II |
*Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 Introduction to College Communication before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
ALTERNATIVE STUDY OPTIONS
Students looking to focus more on the art/asset development aspect of game development may be more interested in our Game – Art Advanced Diploma program (G119), which is centred in the George Brown School of Design. Even though several courses are co-delivered in both programs, we encourage you to consider which program most closely suits your goals prior to making a final decision.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Analyze the differences in game genres to develop games that meet the needs of specific markets.
- Analyze the history of video games to compare various approaches to game development.
- Support the development of games by identifying and relating concepts from a range of industry roles – programming, design and art.
- Contribute as an individual and a member of a game development team to the effective completion of a game development project.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance in the games industry.
- Perform all work in compliance with relevant statutes, regulations, legislation, industry standards and codes of ethics.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024 Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2025 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2025. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid web pages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
- attending a program information session is highly recommended
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
Location: 3 Lower Jarvis St., Room 260
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4287 or 3129
Email: computertechnology@georgebrown.ca or game@georgebrown.ca
The office hours are:
3 Lower Jarvis campus: Monday–Wednesday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., and Thursday, Friday 8 a.m.–3 p.m.
Casa Loma Campus: Monday–Friday: 9 a.m.– 6 p.m.
Program Co-ordinator: Alexander Richard
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4232
Email: arichard6@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Classes in the Game – Programming program take place at our Casa Loma and St. James Campuses. Sign up for an information session or campus tour to learn more about George Brown College and the program. You can also explore our virtual tour.
Game – Programming Program (T163)
Program Description
Program Overview
The three-year Game – Programming advanced diploma program will give you the technical skills you need to succeed in the growing gaming industry. You'll learn the "language" of gaming (C and C++), plus artificial intelligence, 3D graphics, and much more.
PLEASE NOTE: We also offer this program in a fully online format. Please see Game – Programming (Online) program (T193) for more details.
Full Description
Whether it’s online or console, cellphone or PC-based, the game industry in Canada is booming. Game developers and publishers in the Greater Toronto Area range from small, specialized units, to mid-sized companies, to Microsoft, Nintendo, and other industry leaders.
Computer and game programmers are a fundamental resource for these companies––in fact, industry advisors tell us it's the technical skills that are most in demand. And as a graduate of the three-year Game – Programming advanced diploma program, you'll be ready to give employers in this sector exactly what they're searching for.
The added advantage of this program is that our School of Design faculty will guide you throughout the program, as you work closely with design students to create games, explore all aspects of the game industry, and learn to work in teams––just as you would in the industry.
Classes take place at our Waterfront Campus, and evening courses may be required.
Note: Students who start the program in January (winter term) will be required to attend classes during the summer months (May to August).
Technology Requirements
You'll need to have access to a personal computer with the following specifications:
- 8 GB RAM minimum (16 GB recommended)
- 256 GB SSD Hard Drive (500+ GB is optimal)
- Approx. 100 GBs of hard disk space for required software
- Quad-core i7 2.5GHz or better
- Video card (4GB RAM recommended, supports OpenGL 3.2+ and DirectX 11/12)
- Webcam
Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities
Industry
"Canada's video game industry is recognized as a global powerhouse for game development and has played a significant role in shifting what was once a 'niche industry' into a blockbuster industry and driver of innovation. In 2015, the industry contributed more than $3 billion to the Canadian economy and provided 20,400 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs across the country, representing an increase of 31 percent and 24 percent respectively since 2013.
"Industry growth both globally and in Canada has been explosive and is expected to continue into the future. Canada’s video game industry crosses the country with 472 active studios that develop, publish, and distribute video games. The sector is mainly concentrated in the provinces of Quebec (29.4 per cent), British Columbia (27.1 per cent), and Ontario (22.9 per cent)." – Entertainment Software Association of Canada
Educational Pathways
Graduates of Game – Programming have the opportunity to apply to the BSc (Honours) Computer Games Design program at the University of Gloucestershire, beginning in level 6. For more information about this program, visit their Computer Games Design page.
Alumni Impact
We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.
From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.
Courses
Required Courses
PRINTABLE CURRICULUM PLANNER 2024-2025
SEMESTER 1
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 1001 | Introduction to Programming |
| GAME 1007 | Game Fundamentals I |
| GAME 1005 | Game Production I |
| GSSC 1027 | Personal Finance |
| MATH 1180 | Math for Game Development |
| COMM 2000 | Communicating Across Contexts** |
SEMESTER 2
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 1011 | Advanced Programming |
| GAME 1017 | Game Fundamentals II |
| GAME 3001 | Artificial Intelligence |
| GAME 1014 | Game Production II |
| MATH 1107 | Linear Algebra and Geometry |
| GNED | General Education Elective (Select One) |
SEMESTER 3
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 2020 | Game Production III |
| GAME 2001 | Data Structures & Algorithms |
| GAME 2005 | Game Physics |
| GAME 2012 | 3D Graphics Programming |
| GAME 2013 | Game Engines I |
| GNED | General Education Elective (select one) |
SEMESTER 4
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 2030 | Game Production IV |
| GAME 2031 | Advanced Topics in Programming Languages |
| GAME 3111 | Advanced Graphics Programming |
| GAME 3002 | Physics Engines |
| GAME 2023 | Game Engines II |
| COMP 2148 | Professional Workplace Competencies |
SEMESTER 5
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 3020 | Game Production V |
| GAME 2014 | Mobile Game Development I |
| GAME 3003 | Console Game Development I |
| GAME 3110 | Multiplayer Systems |
| GAME 3023 | Game Engines III |
| GAME 3121 | Game Engine Development I |
SEMESTER 6
| Code | Course name |
|---|---|
| GAME 3030 | Game Production VI |
| GAME 3004 | Mobile Game Development II |
| GAME 3011 | Game Portfolio Development |
| GAME 3015 | Game Engine Development II |
| GAME 3033 | Game Engines IV |
| GAME 3112 | Console Game Development II |
**Based on the results of your placement test, you may be required to take COMM 1000 (Introduction to College Communication) before progressing to COMM 2000. COMM 1000 does not count as a course required for graduation, and you will be charged for this extra course. Please visit Assessment Centre for more information.
Electives
ALTERNATIVE STUDY OPTIONS
Students looking to focus more on the art/asset development aspect of game development may be more interested in our Game – Art advanced diploma program (G119), which is centred in the George Brown School of Design. Even though several courses are co-delivered in both programs, we encourage you to consider which program most closely suits your goals prior to making a final decision.
Program Learning Outcomes
The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
- Analyze the differences in game genres in order to develop games that meet the needs of specific markets.
- Analyze the history of video games to compare various approaches to game development.
- Support the development of games by identifying and relating concepts from a range of industry roles – programming, design and art.
- Contribute as an individual and a member of a game development team to the effective completion of a game development project.
- Develop strategies for ongoing personal and professional development to enhance work performance in the games industry.
- Perform all work in compliance with relevant statutes, regulations, legislation, industry standards and codes of ethics.
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
International Tuition
Additional Costs
* Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2023 Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2024 and at later dates. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
** Amounts listed are the estimated total of tuition, materials, student service and ancillary fees for the first two semesters of programs starting in Fall 2024. Tuition fees are subject to board approval. Material, student service and ancillary fees are estimated based on prior years. All fees are subject to change without notice. This fee does not include books, which are to be purchased by the student separately.
International Students
Visit the International Fees and Related Costs page for more information.
Financial Assistance
This program is approved for OSAP funding, provided the applicant meets OSAP eligibility criteria.
Each year we award over $2 million dollars in scholarships, awards and bursaries to first-year students. Check out our financial aid webpages for ways to pay for college and the full list of available scholarships, awards and bursaries.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this website is subject to change without notice. It should not be viewed as a representation, offer or warranty. Students are responsible for verifying George Brown College fee requirements.
Admission Requirements
Applicants are selected on the basis of their academic achievement, including the required courses, and any other selection criteria outlined below.
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent**
- grade 12 English (C or U)
- grade 11 Math (M or U) or grade 12 (C or U)
- Attending a program information session is highly recommended
** Mature student status (19 years of age or older and no OSSD)
Mature students may take the Admissions Assessment for English and Math, OR may consider upgrading to achieve the credit(s) needed in English and Math.
Please note that George Brown is committed to ensuring that applicants will succeed in their program of choice and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to the program. Applicants may be required to have grades higher than the minimum requirements stated.
Course exemptions
College or university credits may qualify you for course exemptions. Please visit Transfer Guide for more information.
International Students
Visit the International Admissions page for more information regarding country specific admission requirements.
How to Apply
Domestic students should apply through Ontario Colleges.
International Students
Visit the How to Apply page for more information on how and when to apply.
International students should apply through the George Brown College Online Application System.
Contact Us
School of Computer Technology
Location: 3 Lower Jarvis St., Room 260
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4287 or 3129
Email: computertechnology@georgebrown.ca or game@georgebrown.ca
Office Hours
3 Lower Jarvis campus: Monday to Wednesday 10am to 5pm, and Thursday, Friday 8am to 3pm
Casa Loma Campus: Monday - Friday: 9 – 6 p.m.
Program Co-ordinator: Alexander Richard
Phone: 416-415-5000, ext. 4232
Email: arichard6@georgebrown.ca
For more information about George Brown College, you may also call the Contact Centre at 416-415-2000 or long distance 1-800-265-2002.
Contact one of our international recruitment representatives specializing by country of origin by either booking a virtual meeting or submitting an inquiry. For more information visit the International Contact Us page
Visit Our Campus
Classes in the Game – Programming program take place at our Casa Loma and St. James Campuses. Sign up for an information session or campus tour to learn more about George Brown College and the program. You can also explore our virtual tour.
