Game Programming

Game programming is a growing industry that requires trained programmers who can produce optimized and efficient code for computers, game consoles, web pages, mobile devices and other platforms.

The program introduces fundamental game concepts including programming in C++, C#, scripting languages, web development and database storage techniques. Students develop mathematical skills required for advanced programming techniques involving graphics, artificial intelligence and networked multiplayer games.

Students also develop and implement 3-dimensional games using industry-standard libraries and game engines. Portability, modularity and efficiency of code are emphasized throughout the program, along with documentation and team communication.

Graduates develop a background in software design methodology and programming.

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[No formal co-op identified on the SLC program page. Needs Fleming verification.]

Graduates find employment with game studios in Canada and internationally. Potential positions include:

• Generalist Programmer
• Audio Programmer
• Build / Pipeline Engineer
• Database Programmer
• Online / Network Programmer
• Front End Developer
• Graphics Programmer
• Tools Programmer

SLC identifies graduates who have continued to AAA studios such as Ubisoft and Eidos (Square-Enix).

Graduates develop skills in:

• Programming using C++ and C#.
• Object-oriented programming and design patterns.
• Game logic, algorithms, data structures and debugging.
• Game engine development and scripting.
• 2D and 3D game development.
• Web development using HTML5, JavaScript and CSS.
• Artificial intelligence techniques used in games.
• Network programming and multiplayer game development.
• Graphics programming, shaders and rendering pipelines.
• Database development and scripting using Python.
• Game physics, mathematics and 3D transformations.
• Source control, project management and collaborative software development.
• Professional communication, portfolio development and career readiness.
• Planning, developing, testing and releasing game projects in a team environment.

Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) with the majority of Grade 11 and 12 courses at the C, U or M level, including:

• Grade 12 English at the C or U level
• Grade 12 Math at the C, U or M level

For OSSD equivalency options, see Admission Requirements (https://www.stlawrencecollege.ca/apply/admission-requirements).

If prerequisite courses are missing, students may enroll in the Career/College Prep program (https://www.stlawrencecollege.ca/learn/career-college-prep).

Students with transcripts from outside Canada are directed to Applying to SLC - With Your Transcripts (https://www.stlawrencecollege.ca/apply/apply-with-your-transcript).

Health Requirements

[None identified on the SLC program page.]

Other Requirements

Students require access to a Windows 11-capable PC with the following minimum specifications:

• Six-core processor at 3.4 GHz or above
• 16 GB RAM or higher
• 500 GB SSD or larger
• NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER or above
• Functioning webcam
• Functioning microphone

[Needs Fleming verification as to whether hardware requirements should be included on the Fleming program page.]

Programs at St. Lawrence College may be delivered using classroom, lab, online or hybrid instruction. Classes may be scheduled weekdays from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Full-time students receive a St. Lawrence College email account for communication about program and course events.

[Needs Fleming verification whether this general SLC information should be retained.]