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Game Programming

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Program Code: 11661
Credential: Advanced Diploma
Start Dates: January, September
Program Length: 6 semesters
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Humber is proud to have the highest graduate employment and employer satisfaction rate of the GTA colleges based on Colleges Ontario’s key performance indicators for college graduates in 2022-2023.

Program Overview

Humber's Game Programming advanced diploma program focuses on programming, as you will learn to master coding to build games, from indie to AAA. The program is designed for students who are passionate about game development, programming, and math. You will develop a robust skillset in C++ programming, graphics (SDL, OpenGL and Vulkan), mathematics, physics, artificial intelligence, Unreal/Unity game engine, and networking. Through individual and team projects, you will gain hands-on experience using programming tools to create games while focusing on critical concepts such as game engine architecture, memory management, and agile development methodologies.
 
You will work with peers in the Animation-3D advanced diploma and the Bachelor of Music degree program during game jams, external projects, and/or semester long in-class projects as you build the vital collaboration skills needed by the games industry.
 
You will graduate with a significant mid-program project and capstone project to demonstrate your ability to create your own C++ game engine as well as coding talents using game engines (such as Unity or Unreal).
 
The final semester includes a work placement to give you the opportunity to gain practical, hands-on industry experience. During the placement, you will take part in structured reflections and will be guided and mentored by both an industry supervisor and a specialist industry liaison from the college. This type of learning experience will support you to transition into employment and address employers' needs for new graduates who are prepared to enter the work force.

Work-Integrated Learning  

Students will participate in a mandatory which takes place in the last semester of study. After completing a field experience preparation course, students will be supported in marketing themselves to prospective employers in order to find a field experience that aligns with their personal career goals.

The Humber Advantage

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The Virtual Reality (VR) Room is a development space where computer programming and collaboration across various disciplines unite to deliver an interactive experience. Experiences can range from immersive activity-based therapy applications to competitive video games. It's a one-stop-spot for virtual reality development complete with prototyping and testing capabilities.

Aditya Dutta

"Video games have always been a part of my life, but I never thought of making a career out of it. Thanks to Humber’s networking opportunities, I landed my first job while I was still in my first semester." - Aditya Dutta, Game Programming Advanced Diploma student

Expert Faculty

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Vishaal Bedi

As a professor teaching in the user experience and game programs, Vishaal joins Humber College after an extensive and varied career as a user experience (UX) practitioner. Vishaal has worked in the healthcare, consulting, banking, e-commerce and software industry in both UX designer and researcher roles. He holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Industrial Engineering) from Ryerson University, a Masters of Engineering (Human Factors/UX Specialization) from the University of Toronto. Vishaal uses storytelling as part of this teaching to engage and immerse students in the classroom with a strong focus on active learning and industry case studies.

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Gail E. Harris

Gail is passionate about applying software engineering excellence regardless of domain. In her 30-plus year career, Gail has held positions in operations research at Canada’s Department of National Defence, in consulting firms small and large, has been co-owner of her own independent consulting company, and was director of web development at TVOntario.

Gail is proud of her 15-plus years involvement with the ACM OOPSLA computer languages conference, which culminated with Gail being the conference chair in 2008.

Gail went to Western University where she earned her master of science in computer science, with a thesis on artificial intelligence. She also is certified as a project management professional.

In 2018, Gail started teaching part time at Humber and says she has "been loving every minute of it.” She is proud now to be a full-time faculty member, and a part of this amazing organization. Gail is devoted to helping Humber students achieve their dreams.

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Umer Noor

With a PhD in Particle Physics and over a decade of teaching experience at the post-secondary level, I strive for excellence amongst my students. My goal is to foster the optimal learning environment by harnessing effective technology, connecting students with industry, and bringing enthusiasm to every classroom interaction.

I have a keen interest in the applied mathematics and physics used in the media industry. I recognize the struggles students go through to learn highly technical topics and I am continually updating my teaching practice to keep in sync with current learners.

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Dina Sabie

With over ten years of research and teaching experience at various higher education institutions, Dina brings much knowledge about teaching practices and edge-cutting technologies. She received her HBSc from the University of Toronto (UofT), double majoring in Architectural Studies (Design) and Computer Science (CS). She completed her professional Master of Architecture at UofT, where she focused on identifying better practices for designing refugee camps. Her thesis won the best thesis award and was nominated for national awards, too. She also has a PhD in CS at UofT, where she focused on the emotional dimension of migration and designing interactive augmented technologies that could better foster inter-group communication. Her work has been published at top CS venues and won awards, too. Moreover, she has been a recurring reviewer and organizer of several conferences and workshops.

Beyond academia, Dina is a refugee and immigration adviser, interpreter, and integration mentor. When not working, she enjoys cooking, baking, knitting, gardening, and reading.

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Steve Saylor

Steve is a Humber alumni from the 2010 Radio Broadcasting class. He has been a digital content creator since 2005. He's a podcaster, YouTuber, streamer, graphic designer, social media expert, and an influencer in the video game industry. He currently is an accessibility advocate and consultant for video games.

Study Abroad

We offer many global opportunities for you to explore during your time at Humber! We live in a very interconnected world and by participating in a global opportunity, not only will you gain new skills, but you may also be eligible for academic credits and/or co-curricular record (CCR). Some of the global opportunities at Humber includes Summer Abroad, Semester Exchange, faculty-led trips, Humber Global Summer School, and many others! To learn more, please visit Humber Global Opportunities.

Your Career

Game development is a $4.3 billion-a-year industry in Canada, and according to the 2021 Economic Impact Report from the Entertainment Software Association of Canada, with over 900 active studios. In 2021, women made up roughly 23 per cent of the direct workforce in the industry, and 81 per cent of companies that employ more than 100 people have adopted one or several equity, diversity and inclusion programs to attract, retain and train a gender-balanced and diverse workforce. Overall, the average salary for a full-time employee was approximately $78,600 in 2021.
 
Career opportunities for new graduates include game programmer, Unreal/Unity developer, quality assurance tester, and virtual/augmented reality developer.

Program Availability

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Course-Based North Open
Jan 2025 Course-Based North Open
Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Course-Based North Open
Jan 2025 Course-Based North Opening Soon

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students in Canada who apply for May 2024 start could be eligible for a $1,000 Scholarship*. Apply now

Start dates between Sept 2024 - Aug 2025
START DELIVERY LOCATION STATUS
Sep 2024 Course-Based North Open
Jan 2025 Course-Based North Opening Soon

Humber is a publicly-funded institution and does not have a public-private partnership. International students graduating from Humber or Humber’s International Graduate School (IGS) are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.

International Students Out of Canada can Apply through Humber International

Recruitment Events

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News Feed

Senior Dean Update: Media & Creative Arts Anti-Racism Action Plan

Senior Dean Update: Media & Creative Arts Anti-Racism Action Plan

Fri, October 15, 2021

In June 2020, I committed the FMCA to seven action items to address the attitudes, behaviours and structures that act as barriers for students from Indigenous and equity-deserving communities.

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Update: Humber Music Solidarity One Year On

Update: Humber Music Solidarity One Year On

Fri, October 15, 2021

In June 2020, Humber Music faculty pledged to address systemic racism and gender discrimination in the music programs by working with students, alumni, administrators, and industry experts

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A Message from the Senior Dean: Music Degree Update

A Message from the Senior Dean: Music Degree Update

Tue, April 27, 2021

Over the past few months, the Faculty of Media & Creative Arts began a review of our Bachelor of Music program delivery.

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Meet the Faculty: Trever Johansen

Meet the Faculty: Trever Johansen

Wed, January 27, 2021

Trevor is an instructor in the 3D Modelling and Visual Effects Production program and is an alumnus of the 3D Animation program.

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Every attempt is made to ensure that information contained on this website is current and accurate. Humber reserves the right to correct any error or omission, modify or cancel any course, program, fee, timetable or campus location at any time without prior notice or liability to users or any other Person.

Contact Us

Admissions Questions

General Enquiries

Call 416-675-3111 or email enquiry@humber.ca. If you have already applied, be sure to check your application status on myhumber.ca.

Domestic Applicants Enquiries

Domestic applicants can book a one-on-one advising appointment with an admissions representative.

International Applicants Enquiries

Contact the International Centre for information about full-time programs (including the International Graduate School), how to apply and to follow up on your submitted application.

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Dina Sabie, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 75514
game@humber.ca

Campus Information

Book a campus tour to take a closer look at what it's like to be a student at Humber.

Want More Info?

Find out more about the student experience and everything that Humber has to offer Future Students.

for more info on Humber, including programs, special events and more!

How To Become An Apprentice

Becoming an Apprentice

Find an employer willing to sponsor you as an apprentice.

Contact the Ministry of Labour, Immigration, Training and Skills Development to register as an apprentice.

Work with your employer approximately one year before attending Humber.

View Instructions 

Ontario Youth Apprenticeship Program (OYAP)

If you’re in high school – grade 11 or 12 – you can earn co-op education credits through work placements in some skilled trades.

Visit OYAP 

How to Apply

Domestic Students

Applications to Humber are made through ontariocolleges.ca. Be sure to submit your application by the equal consideration deadline of February 1. You may apply after February 1, however, post-February 1 applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis depending on the availability of the space in the program.

To check program availability refer to the Campus/Availability listing on Humber’s program pages, search by availability, or ontariocolleges.ca.

To see where you are in the admissions process, visit the Admissions Road Map.

International Students

If you’re an international student, you can apply directly to Humber via our International Centre.

Need Advice?

Program Advising Appointments

Get help narrowing down your program options or book a one-on-one pre-enrolment advising appointment with one of our Recruitment Officers.

Transfer & Pathway Advising

Book a virtual appointment with a Student Mobility Advisor learn more about getting Transfer Credit(s) for previous post-secondary experience, Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR), and Pathways options.

Admission Requirements

Admission selection is based on the academic criteria indicated. Meeting minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee admission.

Admission selection is based on the following three requirements:

  • Academic

    To be eligible for admission, you must possess the following:

    • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent including these required courses:
      • Grade 12 English (ENG4C or ENG4U or equivalent)
      • Grade 12 Mathematics (MAP4C, MCT4C, MDM4U, MCB4U, MGA4U, MCV4U or MHF4U or equivalent)
      • Two Grade 11 or Grade 12 C, M or U courses in addition to those listed above

    Physics and/or computer science is recommended preparation for this program.

    or

    or

    Mature Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or other postsecondary school, and will be 19 or older as of the first day of classes. Humber will invite you for testing to demonstrate that you meet all listed course requirements.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a mature applicant if they have not completed secondary school or attended postsecondary studies, and will be 21 or older as of the first day of classes. Mature applicants for degree programs will be required to meet course requirements at the U/M level or equivalent.

    College Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a college transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a college-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or college courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants must have an overall minimum grade point average (GPA) of 65 per cent in the program. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

    University Transfer Applicants

    Diplomas and Certificates

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility.

    Degrees

    An applicant is considered a university transfer applicant if they have completed some or all of a university-level credential. Humber may use a combination of secondary school and/or university courses and grades to determine program eligibility. Applicants are required to disclose and provide academic transcripts for all course work completed at the postsecondary level.

  • English Language Proficiency

    All applicants whose first language is not English must meet Humber’s English Language Proficiency Policy.

  • International Credit Evaluation

    Canadian citizens or permanent residents with international education are required to provide a credential evaluation. Note, for international High school education course by course evaluations, ICAS must be used. For international post-secondary education, a WES evaluation must be provided. In situations where you expect to apply for transfer credit, it is recommended that a course by course WES evaluation is completed.

International Academic Equivalency

Admission equivalencies for Humber depend on your country of study. Please enter your location or choose detect my location to see the requirements for your country below.

Post-Admission Requirements

Once you have been accepted, and have confirmed your offer, you may need to complete a further set of requirements related to your program (Post-Admission Requirements).

Internet-enabled Personal Computer

Laptop Requirements 

Upon admission, students are required to own or have guaranteed access to a laptop. The Game Programming courses are designed such that the professor can jump from theoretical to practical aspects of game development at any time during class. Therefore, students are expected to bring a laptop to every class. Students are advised to choose a laptop that can handle the newest versions of Visual Studio, Unity, Unreal, 3DS Max, OpenGL, and Android Studio. Professors will generally be using the Microsoft Windows operating system in class. 

Equipment & Device Requirements

All Semesters

Details and Specifications Required Programs/Software Links
Processor Check minimum and recommended specs listed on websites for the software detailed in the next column https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/visualstudio/releases/2019/system-requirements
OS Microsoft Windows recommended as professors will generally be using that operating system. Mac or Linux is also an option, but will involve more work by the student to translate learning material to their preferred OS. https://docs.unity3d.com/Manual/system-requirements.html
Memory Check minimum and recommended specs listed on websites for the software detailed in the next column https://docs.unrealengine.com/en-US/GettingStarted/RecommendedSpecifications/index.html
Storage Check minimum and recommended specs listed on websites for the software detailed in the next columns https://knowledge.autodesk.com/support/3ds-max/troubleshooting/caas/sfdcarticles/sfdcarticles/System-requirements-for-Autodesk-3ds-Max-products.html
Monitor Vulkan https://vulkan-tutorial.com/Introduction

Program-Specific Questions

Speak to the Program Co-ordinator about the course curriculum, projects and career options.

Dina Sabie, program co-ordinator
416.675.6622 ext. 75514
game@humber.ca

Fees & Financial Aid

The 2024/2025 fee for two semesters is:

  • domestic: $4,192.24
  • international: $17,581.76

Fees are subject to change.

Fees by Semester

Domestic Fees International Fees

Additional Costs

$2,500 - powerful laptop that suits game and graphics building.

Financial Aid, Scholarships and Bursaries

Understand the costs associated with coming to Humber and explore resources available from first year to your final year on Student Fees and Financial Resources.

Scholarships

Humber Scholarships

Find out more about scholarships and bursaries that you may be eligible for, visit Student Scholarships. International students can visit International Student Scholarships.

Humber Bursaries

Bursaries are available for Certificate, Diploma and Degree programs primarily based on financial need, visit Humber Bursaries.

External Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Find out more information about external scholarships and bursaries, visit External Awards.

Indigenous Student Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships

Humber offers a variety of bursaries and scholarships for Indigenous students, visit Indigenous Student Awards.

Explore Opportunities through Humber Pathways

Humber Pathways include:

  • Opportunities to build on your college education and complete your diploma or degree at Humber.
  • Degree and graduate study opportunities at other institutions in Ontario, Canada and abroad.
View Transfer Out Opportunities From This Program  
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