George Brown Polytechnic is located on the traditional territory of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and other Indigenous peoples who have lived here over time. We are grateful to share this land as treaty people who learn, work and live in the community with each other.
Game - Programming
(T194)
Program Details
- Program Code: T194
- Credential: Ontario College Advanced Diploma
- Duration: 6 semesters
- Method of Study: Full-time
- Starting Months: January, September
- Domestic Tuition: $4,120.00 *
- International Tuition: $19,200.00 **
Program Availability
| Semester | Domestic | International |
|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | Open | Open |
| Winter 2027 | Open | Open |
| Spring 2027 | Not Available | Not Available |
- PGWP Eligible: Yes
- CIP Code: 11.0204
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 (T196) for more details.
Full Description
The video game industry continues to evolve rapidly, and today’s game programmers are expected to do far more than write code. In our three-year Game Programming advanced diploma program, you’ll build the technical and creative skills needed to develop modern games across multiple platforms and engines while working in production-style development environments.
From gameplay systems and multiplayer networking to graphics programming, simulation, and engine development, the program emphasizes hands-on learning through projects that reflect real-world industry workflows. Throughout the program, you’ll work extensively with technologies such as Unreal Engine, Unity, DirectX, C++, and C# while building portfolio-ready games and systems.
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).
Program Specific Computer Requirements
Technology Requirements
Recommended system specifications are as follows:
- Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel Core i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 or better (multi-core processor recommended)
- Memory: 16 GB RAM minimum (32 GB recommended for Unreal Engine workflows)
- Storage: 512 GB SSD minimum (1 TB SSD recommended)
- Available Disk Space: Approximately 150 GB or more for required software, engine installations, and project files
- Graphics Card: Dedicated GPU supporting DirectX 12 with at least 8 GB VRAM recommended
(Examples: NVIDIA GeForce RTX series or AMD Radeon RX series) - Display: 1920×1080 resolution recommended
- Webcam and Microphone: Required for online collaboration, presentations, and remote learning activities
- Reliable High-Speed Internet Connection
Primary software used throughout the program includes:
- · Visual Studio (latest version)
- · Unity Engine (latest version)
- Unreal Engine 5 (latest version)
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
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| COMP1151 | IT Essentials: Computer Hardware Fundamentals |
| COMP1234 | Introduction to Web Development |
| COMP1236 | Fundamentals of Computing Logic |
| COMP1238 | Introduction to Data Management |
| MATH1180 | Math for Game Development |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME1001 | Introduction to Programming |
| GAME1004 | Game Project Web |
| GAME1006 | Game Assets 2D |
| GAME1009 | Game Design Patterns |
| GAME1018 | Web Game Development |
| MATH1107 | Linear Algebra and Geometry |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME1011 | Game Programming C++ |
| GAME2004 | Game Project Unity |
| GAME2006 | Game Simulation 2D |
| GAME2007 | Unreal Engine Foundations |
| GAME2012 | Graphics Programming |
| GSSC1027 | Personal Finance |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP2080 | Data Structures & Algorithms |
| COMP2148 | Professional Workplace Competencies |
| GAME2008 | Unreal Engine Systems |
| GAME2009 | Game Project Unreal Engine |
| GAME2010 | Game Assets 3D |
| GAME2017 | Game Simulation 3D |
Semester 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME2014 | Mobile Game Development 2D |
| GAME3005 | Capstone Project Preproduction |
| GAME3023 | Unreal Engine Development |
| GAME3110 | Multiplayer Systems |
| GAME3121 | Game Engine Development Unity |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME3004 | Mobile Game Development 3D |
| GAME3006 | Capstone Project Production |
| GAME3011 | Game Portfolio Development |
| GAME3015 | Game Engine Dev Directx |
| GAME3033 | Unreal Engine Advanced Development |
| GNED | General Elective |
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
$4,120.00 *
International Tuition
$19,200.00 **
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 2025 Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 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 2026. 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.
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 Polytechnic 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.– 4 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.
International Students
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.
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 (T196) for more details.
Full Description
The video game industry continues to evolve rapidly, and today’s game programmers are expected to do far more than write code. In our three-year Game Programming advanced diploma program, you’ll build the technical and creative skills needed to develop modern games across multiple platforms and engines while working in production-style development environments.
From gameplay systems and multiplayer networking to graphics programming, simulation, and engine development, the program emphasizes hands-on learning through projects that reflect real-world industry workflows. Throughout the program, you’ll work extensively with technologies such as Unreal Engine, Unity, DirectX, C++, and C# while building portfolio-ready games and systems.
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).
Program Specific Computer Requirements
Technology Requirements
Recommended system specifications are as follows:
- Operating System: Windows 10 or Windows 11 (64-bit)
- Processor: Intel Core i7 / AMD Ryzen 7 or better (multi-core processor recommended)
- Memory: 16 GB RAM minimum (32 GB recommended for Unreal Engine workflows)
- Storage: 512 GB SSD minimum (1 TB SSD recommended)
- Available Disk Space: Approximately 150 GB or more for required software, engine installations, and project files
- Graphics Card: Dedicated GPU supporting DirectX 12 with at least 8 GB VRAM recommended
(Examples: NVIDIA GeForce RTX series or AMD Radeon RX series) - Display: 1920×1080 resolution recommended
- Webcam and Microphone: Required for online collaboration, presentations, and remote learning activities
- Reliable High-Speed Internet Connection
Primary software used throughout the program includes:
- · Visual Studio (latest version)
- · Unity Engine (latest version)
- Unreal Engine 5 (latest version)
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
Semester 1
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMM2000 | Communicating Across Contexts |
| COMP1151 | IT Essentials: Computer Hardware Fundamentals |
| COMP1234 | Introduction to Web Development |
| COMP1236 | Fundamentals of Computing Logic |
| COMP1238 | Introduction to Data Management |
| MATH1180 | Math for Game Development |
Semester 2
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME1001 | Introduction to Programming |
| GAME1004 | Game Project Web |
| GAME1006 | Game Assets 2D |
| GAME1009 | Game Design Patterns |
| GAME1018 | Web Game Development |
| MATH1107 | Linear Algebra and Geometry |
Semester 3
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME1011 | Game Programming C++ |
| GAME2004 | Game Project Unity |
| GAME2006 | Game Simulation 2D |
| GAME2007 | Unreal Engine Foundations |
| GAME2012 | Graphics Programming |
| GSSC1027 | Personal Finance |
Semester 4
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| COMP2080 | Data Structures & Algorithms |
| COMP2148 | Professional Workplace Competencies |
| GAME2008 | Unreal Engine Systems |
| GAME2009 | Game Project Unreal Engine |
| GAME2010 | Game Assets 3D |
| GAME2017 | Game Simulation 3D |
Semester 5
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME2014 | Mobile Game Development 2D |
| GAME3005 | Capstone Project Preproduction |
| GAME3023 | Unreal Engine Development |
| GAME3110 | Multiplayer Systems |
| GAME3121 | Game Engine Development Unity |
| GNED | General Elective |
Semester 6
| Code | Course Name |
|---|---|
| GAME3004 | Mobile Game Development 3D |
| GAME3006 | Capstone Project Production |
| GAME3011 | Game Portfolio Development |
| GAME3015 | Game Engine Dev Directx |
| GAME3033 | Unreal Engine Advanced Development |
| GNED | General Elective |
Tuition & Fees
Domestic Tuition
$4,120.00 *
International Tuition
$19,200.00 **
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 2025 Fees are subject to change for programs starting in Fall 2026 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 2026. 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.
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 Polytechnic Online Application System.
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.
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.– 4 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.
International Students
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.
Visit Casa Loma
Book campus tourVisit Casa Loma
Our Virtual Tour showcases the following areas:
- Campus Facilities
- Student Services
- Applied Learning Environments
- Labs & Classrooms