Game Development - Game Programming

Diploma

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Transform your game ideas into reality in our two-year Game Development diploma program. Learn the process of writing code that makes games work, from character movements to beautiful graphics and exciting sound effects. As a game programmer, you’ll use cutting-edge software and various programming languages to build your own digital world.

Our Game Programming specialization dives deep into the logical design and technical aspects of game creation. You'll gain hands-on experience with industry-standard programming software, mastering the skills needed to build functional and engaging games.

Our Game Development program also offers a specialization in Animation and Game Design. Explore both options to discover the path that best fits your interests and career goals.

Upcoming Intakes

Select your preferred intake to see relevant program information. Program details, including tuition and course information, may vary by intake.

Selection Start Date Delivery Mode Time Campus Length Domestic Status International Status
Sep. 02, 2025 (Fall) Hybrid Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Open Open
  Jan. 08, 2026 (Winter) Hybrid Weekdays - Daytime Main 2 Years (Full-time) Upcoming Open
 
             
 

Swipe table to view more information for each intake.

Delivery Mode

  • In-person - All your class activity will be delivered in person, on campus.
  • Online - All your class activity will be delivered online.
  • Hybrid - Your classes will be a mixture of in person and online learning. You must be able to come to campus and participate remotely online.
  • Your choice - Your program offers a variety of class delivery options (in person, online, or a mixture of both) and you can select which type of classes to take. If you wish, you can complete your entire program either in-person or online.
  • HyFlex - All your classes are delivered for simultaneous participation in person and online. You can choose daily to attend your classes in person or join remotely online.

Time

  • Your choice - You can select class times and days that fit your schedule. There are a variety of class options for you to choose from including daytime, evening, weekdays or weekends.
  • No set time - No set class days or times, content is access on-demand. You can complete your studies on your own schedule within the scheduled class dates; may have set due dates and deadlines.
  • Evenings & Weekends - Classes are scheduled after 5 p.m. on weekdays or anytime on weekends.
  • Weekdays - Daytime - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start before 6 p.m.
  • Weekdays - Evening - Classes are scheduled on weekdays, typically start after 6 p.m.
  • Weekends - Classes are scheduled on Saturdays and Sundays.

Campus

Any in-person components of your courses will be delivered at this campus location.

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Length

  • Full-Time - This is the standard length to complete the program, with a full course load per term.
  • Part-Time - Students follow a structured schedule of classes so they can progress in their studies part-time while balancing everyday life.

Domestic Status

The program availability status for domestic applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

International Status

The program availability status for international applications is updated as applications are reviewed and assessed. Program availability is subject to change without notice.

  • Open - Program intake is accepting applications. If you apply and are qualified, you may be offered admission or be waitlisted. Open does not guarantee a seat.
  • Limited - For international applicants, the program intake is now only available if you already have a valid study permit.
  • Waitlisting - Program intake is accepting applications, but qualified applicants will be placed on a waitlist.
  • Closed - Program intake is not accepting applications.
  • Upcoming - Applications will open soon for this intake. View the upcoming terms for open dates.
  • N/A - Not available for this intake.

Credit programs that accept international applicants also meet the eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit program, including programs with a Hybrid delivery mode. Each student is responsible for maintaining their eligibility throughout their studies.

Level up your future with Game Programming

Bring your games to life with our Game Development program with a specialization in Game Programming. This program equips you with the skills and knowledge to excel in creating dynamic and engaging gaming experiences, including:  

Professional Conduct and Standards: Learn to uphold workplace expectations, ethical practices and industry standards, ensuring your work meets the highest professional standards.  

Design Principles Application: Apply design principles effectively to achieve animation or game product objectives, ensuring your creations are both visually appealing and functional. 

Product Development Processes: Gain expertise in using industry-standard product development processes to create high-quality animation and game deliverables, from concept to final product.  

Modular Code Development: Create and modify modular code assets to enhance game functionality and maintainability, optimizing your programming workflow. 

Behavioral Systems Development: Develop systems that control specific behaviors within games, enhancing interactivity and player engagement. 

Game Programming Workflow: Learn to develop and optimize a game programming workflow, ensuring smooth development processes and efficient project management. 

Career Outcomes

Build your resume before you even graduate

Explore work experience opportunities that help grads get hired even sooner.

View Work Integrated Learning

Work Experience Placements

Scholarships & Awards

NAIT awards over $6 million in scholarships and bursaries to more than 4,000 students each year, with the support of donors and the government. A variety of awards are available, including ones for academics, community involvement, equity/diversity grants, bursaries for financial need, program-specific awards and more!

Learn how to apply for awards

International Applicants

This program accepts international students.

PGWP Eligibility

Graduates of this program are eligible to apply for a Post-Grad Work Permit (PGWP), following Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) field of study requirement effective November 1, 2024. Students must still meet all other PGWP eligibility requirements, including full-time and in-person study requirements.

Co-Op Work Permit

Optional Co-op: Students in this program can choose to move into a co-op pathway, which includes a mandatory co-op work practicum. International students who plan to participate in this option must apply for a co-op work permit and get approval before starting the work placement.

Learn more about PGWP and explore eligible NAIT programs.

Want to learn more about this program?

Thank you for your interest! We want to get you in contact with the right person to answer your questions. If you are a current or recently admitted student you can find program and course information as well as contact details for your program on the My Program page on the MyNAIT Portal.








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