Game Development at Algonquin College - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-07-31

Program overview

Program Overview

The Game Development program is an Ontario College Advanced Diploma that spans three years. It equips students with the necessary skills to thrive in the competitive field of game development. The program emphasizes hands-on learning and fosters a collaborative environment that mirrors the dynamics of large game studios. Students will develop critical thinking and design skills essential for success in the game development industry. By the end of the program, graduates will be prepared to embark on their careers, having gained practical experience in creating games of strategy and skill.

Program Structure

The Game Development program is structured to provide a comprehensive education over a duration of three years. The program includes:

Hands-on learning experiences that simulate real-world game studio environments.
A team-oriented approach, particularly in the final year where students collaborate on a complete 3-D game project.
Courses that cover essential topics such as game design, programming, animation, and digital imaging.
Opportunities for students to participate in internationally recognized game development competitions.

Throughout the program, students will engage in various projects that enhance their skills and prepare them for the demands of the industry. The curriculum is designed to adapt to the evolving landscape of game development, ensuring that students are well-equipped for future challenges.

Featured Experiences

Collaborative projects that culminate in the development of a complete 3-D game title.
Participation in internationally recognized game development competitions.
Hands-on learning that emphasizes practical application of programming and design skills.
Exposure to a variety of game development software tools and techniques.
Opportunities to work in teams, simulating the collaborative nature of the industry.

Career Options

Graduates of the Game Development program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Game Developer: Responsible for designing and creating video games, including gameplay mechanics and user experience.
Game Programmer: Focuses on writing the code that makes games function, ensuring smooth gameplay and performance.
Software Developer: Works on developing software applications, including those used in game development.
Game Designer: Involved in the conceptualization and design of game elements, including storylines, characters, and environments.
Game Artist: Creates visual elements for games, including characters, environments, and animations.
Indie Game Producer: Manages the development of independent games, overseeing all aspects from concept to release.

Most job opportunities in this field are found outside of the Ottawa area, reflecting the broader demand for skilled professionals in the game development industry.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit Algonquin College official website

Last updated on 2025-07-31

Program overview

Academic Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility:

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee will be charged.

Program Eligibility:

English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, Grade 12 (MAP4C or equivalent).
Mathematics, Grade 12 (MCT4C is highly recommended).
A senior credit in physics is recommended.
Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants are selected on the basis of their proficiency in English and mathematics.

Applicants should have basic computer skills such as keyboard proficiency, Internet browsing and searching, and proficiency with an office software suite (word processing, spreadsheets, etc.) prior to the start of the program. While programming experience is not a requirement to enter the program, aptitude for programming is necessary and would include strong language, problem solving and logic skills. This is often demonstrated by skill and enjoyment in solving word problems in math.

Applicants who have been out of school for a period of time are encouraged to take a refresher course in mathematics, prior to the start of classes. Refresher/upgrading courses are available through Academic Upgrading courses, AC Online and through local school boards.

For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

For the Game Development program, the following English language proficiency tests are accepted:

IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band
TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT)-overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20;
Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Applicants may be exempt from taking a test or the English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program if they meet certain conditions. Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!

Last updated on 2025-12-06

Program overview