College Diploma - Game Development - Game Programming (Optional Co-op) at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-05-14

Program overview

Program Overview

Transform your game ideas into reality with the Game Development - Game Programming diploma program. This program focuses on the essential skills needed to produce video games, emphasizing the logical design and technical aspects of creating dynamic, interactive games. Students will learn to write code that powers game mechanics, from character movements to stunning graphics and immersive sound effects. The program also offers a specialization in Animation and Game Design, allowing students to explore various paths that align with their interests and career aspirations.

Program Structure

The Game Development - Game Programming program is designed to be completed in 2 years (full-time). The program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining both in-person and online learning experiences. Key features of the program structure include:

Hands-on experience with industry-standard programming software.
Opportunities to specialize in Animation and Game Design.
Flexible class schedules, including weekdays during the daytime.
Optional co-op pathway, allowing students to gain practical work experience.

This program is open to both domestic and international applicants, providing a comprehensive education that prepares students for a successful career in game development.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on learning with cutting-edge software and programming languages.
Optional co-op work practicum for real-world experience.
Collaboration with industry professionals to enhance learning.
Access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
Engagement in projects that simulate real-world game development scenarios.

Career Options

Graduates of the Game Development - Game Programming program can pursue a variety of exciting career opportunities in Canada, including:

Game Programmer: Develops the code that makes games function, ensuring smooth gameplay and user experience.
Software Developer: Designs and creates software applications, including games, using various programming languages.
Game Designer: Focuses on the creative aspects of game development, including story, characters, and gameplay mechanics.
Quality Assurance Tester: Tests games for bugs and issues, ensuring a polished final product before release.
Technical Artist: Bridges the gap between art and programming, ensuring that visual elements are effectively integrated into the game.

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

Visit Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) official website

Last updated on 2025-05-14

Program overview

Academic Requirements

The Academic Requirements for the College Diploma - Game Development - Game Programming (Optional Co-op) program are as follows:

Minimum GPA: Not specified
Grade 11 Language Arts (English 20-2)
Grade 11 Mathematics (Math 20-2 or Applied Math 20)

For international students, the following details are important:

International Applications Open: Aug 01, 2024
International Applications Deadline: Once the program is full

It is important to note that transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Seats are limited - Apply early! Applications will remain open for at least one month from the open date. If the program/waitlist fills after that date, applications will close.

If you have any questions or need further clarification, please contact LOA Portal's advisors for support.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at NAIT. To satisfy the English Language Proficiency (ELP) requirement when applying to a NAIT program, you can meet the requirement in one of the following ways:

1. Complete consecutive, full-time studies in English: You will meet this requirement if you have completed at least:

3 years of high school (or a combination of high school and post-secondary) in Canada or in a country on NAIT’s ELP exempt country list, including completion of Grade 12 English; or
2 years of post-secondary in Canada or an ELP exempt country.

Your studies must have been in English, full-time, and consecutive.

2. Complete specific English language courses: Achieve acceptable marks in one of the following English language courses:

Canadian high schools: English 30-1 (65% or higher) or English 30-2 (70% or higher).
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT): All three ESL Level 6 courses with a passing grade of 60% or higher in each course.
Bayswater: University Pathway Program - Level 8 with 80% or higher.
Global Village: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) - Level 7 with 80% or higher.
ILSC Canada: English for Academic Purposes – Advanced 1 program (or higher) with a passing grade of B or higher.
International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC): Pathway 3.2, 3.3, or 3.4 with 75% or higher.
St. George International College (SGIC): University & College Preparation Program with 70% or higher.
Oxford House College: English for Academic Purposes (EAP) with 70% or higher.
University of Alberta: EAP137 (or equivalent) with completion (pass).

3. Take an ELP test: NAIT accepts the following ELP assessment tests and the minimum test scores:

IELTS Academic: 6.0 in each section.
NAIT’s ELP Exam: 73% or “B” in each section.
Canadian Language Benchmarks Assessment (CLB): 8.0 in each section.
CAEL: 60 overall score.
Cambridge English Language Assessment: B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: 169 in each section.
TOEFL iBT: 20 in each section (Effective Fall 2025: 70 overall score, with a minimum score of 17 in each section).
Duolingo: 115 overall score, with a minimum score of 100 in each integrated subscore.
Michigan English Test (MET): 59 overall score.
PTE Academic: 58 overall score.
LanguageCert B2 Communicator Test: 38 in each section.

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!