New games and gaming console have been recently released. Apps and gaming software are continuously updated. The digital age is rapidly evolving and the mechanics behind the gaming industry is always hard at work, looking at the latest trends in various areas to incorporate in the games. If this sounds exhilarating to you, then register to a game design program and dive into the action.

Why should you enter the video game industry?
  • because the video game industry is having a massive growth, with an expansion of job roles and creation of new positions
  • because it offers stability, with many jobs offered at full-time hours
  • because the it offers a huge salary, with an average person earning over $50,000 annually, according to Service Canada reports
  • because it offers multitude of opportunities, with positions like Multimedia Developer, Programming Analyst, Web Programmer, Software Developer, and Software Testers
  • because it is a fun and rewarding career, especially for those who enjoy playing video games and enjoy creating and analyzing information

Workers must first earn their credentials at a postsecondary institution, where the learning process and early career experiences happen. A fitting program for this profession is offered at Centennial College. The Software Engineering Technology - Interactive Gaming (Co-op) (3119) program is an advanced diploma program, offering the opportunity for an on-the-job training for three placements, equivalent to 12 months of experience.

Additionally, its courses teach relevant information and theories that are applied in lab sessions, where students gain hands-on experience on campus. The combination of academic and practical training leads students to a successful career path in the gaming industry.

Students have a heavy course load on various program languages and the programming process. They will learn skills in the following areas:

  • web interface design, including practice in HTML, CSS and XML
  • system administration for UNIX/Linux operating systems, using skills in C/C++ and Java
  • games development for 2D and 3D purposes, using C# and XNA
  • software testing, troubleshooting, and quality assurance
  • design and development of electronic games, focusing on game delivery systems and the commercial development cycle

Apart from the technicalities, students learn about videogames as a whole. The Practical Game Design course walks learners through game concepts, such as the target audience and the design process. Students will learn about storytelling, character development, and creative play, where they will use the knowledge learned to build games that have a purpose for the players. This game design course is a crucial foundation of any software builder who wants to have successful games that will interest their buyers.

The game design program in Toronto provides a well-rounded set of courses with lab simulations to help comprehend the extensive classroom lectures and demonstrations. With the co-op option, students can work alongside industry professionals on real projects, which can determine a student's success in the field upon graduation. Many students find their passion for gaming became stronger after working in the field, and have found success in various industries with a software and gaming sector.