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Find answers to common questions about the Game Programming (T194/T196) programs at George Brown Polytechnic. This FAQ covers topics such as admissions requirements, program structure, software and technology requirements, hands-on learning experiences, and career opportunities in the gaming industry.
Browse the questions below to learn more about the program and get the information you need to determine whether Game Programming is the right fit for your educational and career goals.
General program information
Your curriculum doesn’t specifically list any courses about artificial intelligence. Is AI covered in the program?
Yes. Artificial intelligence is an important part of modern game development and is covered throughout the Game – Programming curriculum. Students work with techniques related to the movement, behaviour, and decision-making of autonomous game agents, such as bots and non-player characters.
AI concepts are explored in several courses, with particularly strong emphasis in Game Simulation: 2D and Game Simulation: 3D, where students work with both artificial intelligence and game physics.
Do your courses include the use of generative AI tools?
Yes. Generative AI tools are introduced selectively within the program, with greater emphasis in later semesters as students develop stronger programming and problem-solving skills.
Students may use generative AI to support tasks such as debugging, development workflows, rapid prototyping, and, in some courses, asset or content generation. The emphasis is generally on using AI as a development tool rather than as a substitute for understanding the underlying programming concepts.
We also continue to review our use of generative AI with industry partners as tools, workflows, and expectations in the game industry evolve. In some courses, students may have opportunities to use AI more extensively within a project so they can explore how these tools affect development workflows and portfolio creation.
Do I need previous programming experience before I start?
No. The program is designed to build programming skills from the fundamentals. Previous coding experience can be helpful, but it is not required to begin the program.
Will I learn skills that apply not only to the video game industry, but others as well?
Yes. Although projects are centred on games, the program develops broader programming, software-development, problem-solving and teamwork skills. These skills can also support work in other areas of software and interactive technology.
Will I work with students from other game programs?
Yes. The program includes opportunities to collaborate with students in complementary game disciplines, particularly on larger production and capstone projects. This gives students experience working in multidisciplinary teams similar to those used in the game industry.
What is the difference between T194 and the online program (T196)?
A switch may be possible for eligible domestic students because the two deliveries follow closely aligned curricula, but it depends on program availability, academic progression and scheduling. Students should discuss a proposed switch with the program coordinator before making plans. International students should note that T196 is not available to international applicants.
Can I switch between the in-person T194 program and the online T196 program between semesters?
Domestic applicants can contact Admissions at Admissions@georgebrown.ca
International applicants can contact intladmissions@georgebrown.ca.
Domestic registration questions can be directed to registration@georgebrown.ca.
International students with questions about registration, visas, or related matters can also contact the International Centre.
How much time should I expect to spend practising or doing work outside class?
Programming improves through regular practice. Students should expect to spend substantial time outside scheduled classes completing assignments, building projects, reviewing course material and practising coding. The time commitment varies by course and by the student’s prior experience, but consistent practice is essential for success.
Do I need my own computer?
Reliable access to a capable Windows PC or laptop is strongly recommended so that you can practise and complete project work outside scheduled class time. The current T194 program page lists the recommended computer specifications; students should use that page as the source of truth because hardware requirements can change over time.
Do I need to purchase specialized software or textbooks?
Most of the core development tools used in the program are available free to students or are provided through George Brown Polytechnic. Textbooks and other learning resources may be recommended for individual courses. Students should review course outlines and the program page for any current additional costs.
Does the program include co-op, internships or work-integrated learning?
The program does not include a traditional formal co-op stream. Students do, however, gain applied experience through major projects, capstone work, collaboration with students in other game disciplines, and occasional research or industry-connected activities such as playtesting. These opportunities can vary from year to year.
What can I do during the program to prepare for a career in game development?
Build and finish projects, practise beyond the minimum course requirements, and develop a portfolio that clearly shows what you can do. Game jams, community events, team projects and prototypes are useful ways to gain experience. Students should also use the program’s portfolio and capstone opportunities to demonstrate technical depth, teamwork and reliable project completion.
General – School of Computer Technology
Can previous college or university education count toward this program?
Possibly. Relevant previous post-secondary study may qualify for transfer credit, course exemptions or advanced standing. Students should provide transcripts and, where requested, detailed course outlines so their prior learning can be assessed.
Can advanced standing or transfer credits allow me to finish a program sooner?
In some cases, advanced standing into a later semester may shorten the overall time needed to complete the program. Individual transfer credits may reduce the number of courses a student needs to take but do not always shorten the semester sequence. The program coordinator can review how approved credits affect an individual academic plan.
Can an in-person student take an online section of a course?
In some circumstances, this may be possible. For example, an online section may be considered when scheduling conflicts arise for students taking courses from more than one semester or following a reduced course load. Availability is not guaranteed and should be discussed with the program coordinator.
What does a typical class schedule look like?
Schedules vary by semester and course. Some courses combine a lecture and lab session, while others may be scheduled in different formats.
If I start a program in January, will I study during the summer?
Yes. Students who begin in the winter term are required to attend classes during the May-to-August summer term to continue through the program sequence.
What academic help is available if I am struggling with a course?
Faculty are available to support students in their courses, and additional tutoring or peer-support options may be available. George Brown Polytechnic also provides college-wide learning, counselling, accessibility and career services. Students who require academic accommodations should connect with Accessible Learning Services.