Is a Career in Game Development Your Ultimate Dream? Imagine turning your passion for video games into a thriving career. But let's be honest, the game industry is fiercely competitive, and breaking in requires more than just enthusiasm. You need the right skills, the right connections, and a portfolio that screams 'hire me!' The Toronto Film School's Game Design & Development Program offers a pathway to achieving this dream.
New Game Development Diploma Program
The Toronto Film School offers a Game Development Diploma where you’ll be taught the entire game development process for console, PC, and mobile by working video game creators.
New
Program Updates Coming October 2026
Next Start Date: October, 2026
Duration: 18 months
Delivery Mode: Remote
Navigation:
- Description
- Faculty
- Courses
- Admissions
- Tuition
- FAQ
Description
Program Description
Learn Video Game Development From Real Game Creators
Imagine yourself mastering the game creation process, from initial concept to the final, polished product. This program puts you right in the heart of a simulated studio environment where you'll design and program your own video games. You'll collaborate with driven peers and learn directly from accomplished game creators who've been in the trenches. But here's where it gets controversial... some argue that a simulated environment can't truly replicate the pressures of a real studio. What do you think? Does hands-on experience outweigh the benefits of a structured learning environment? Let us know your opinion in the comments below!
More than just learning the technical skills, you'll build invaluable connections with industry professionals, both inside and outside the classroom. This networking will open doors to opportunities you might not find otherwise. By the time you graduate, you'll have a complete portfolio of work that showcases your expertise to prospective employers. This portfolio is your ticket to landing roles with leading AAA game studios, or even launching your own indie game studio.
Career Outcomes for Game Development Graduates
This program sets you up for a variety of exciting roles, including:
- Junior Programmer
- Gameplay Programmer
- Specialized Programmer
- Technical Designer
- Junior Game Designer
- QA Tester
- Entrepreneur (perfect for starting your own studio!)
- Software Developer
- Virtual Production Programmer
- Web Developer
- VR Developer
Faculty
Program Director & Instructor Bios
Jean-Paul Amore
Program Director
Jean-Paul Amore brings a wealth of experience in interactive media to the program. His contributions to the game-development community are evident through collaborations and special-thanks credits on acclaimed titles like Guacamelee! 2, Runbow, and Severed. This ongoing engagement with industry studios and creative teams ensures that the curriculum stays relevant and cutting-edge. Mr. Amore's approach combines technical expertise with a strong commitment to empowering new talent. As the Program Director, he leads curriculum design, mentors emerging developers, and guides students through the entire game-creation pipeline, from initial concept to final production.
Naveen Prasad
Instructor
Naveen is a Technical Designer at Ubisoft Toronto, bringing years of hands-on experience in the gaming industry to the classroom. After working as a game developer in George Brown College’s Research and Innovation department, Naveen joined Ubisoft Toronto, where he is now a Senior Technical Designer. At Ubisoft, he has contributed to major titles like Watch Dogs: Legion and Far Cry 6, with more exciting projects on the horizon. In his spare time, Naveen also pursues his passion for game development and short film creation, showcasing his dedication to the craft.
Vincent Leli
Instructor
Vincent is a seasoned artist with extensive experience in both the animation and video game industries. Over the years, he's honed his skills across multiple disciplines, including 2D and 3D animation, storyboarding, character design, and concept art. Vincent’s career spans animated TV shows, feature films, independent games, and numerous AAA productions. He has contributed to both independent game development and high-profile projects, serving as a lead senior concept artist at Ubisoft Toronto for the past six years.
Beyond his industry work, Vincent is deeply passionate about teaching. As an instructor, he's dedicated to guiding and inspiring the next generation of artists, helping them develop their skills and reach their full creative potential. His goal is to bridge the gap between industry expectations and student growth, fostering an environment where aspiring artists can thrive. And this is the part most people miss... Vincent's experience in both animation and gaming gives him a unique perspective on visual storytelling, a crucial skill for creating immersive game experiences.
Student Success
- Anthony Armstrong, Video Game Design & Development ’18: Since graduation, Anthony has worked as a game developer, UX/UI designer and sound designer. Today, he is a technical designer at Ubisoft Toronto, telling us that “the role has been life changing” for him.
- Richard Cuartero, Video Game Design & Development ’24: Richard chose Toronto Film School for his video game development education because, as he states: “I needed to go where all the professionals are.” Today he is the owner of Sun Seal Studios and a game developer for GlitchKey Studios.
- Diogo H., Video Game and Game Development ’22: Diogo received a full-time position four months before graduation. He now works as a technical artist at Sago Mini, a company that develops apps and toys for preschoolers and toddlers.
Companies that Hire Our Grads
While a comprehensive list isn't provided, the success stories above highlight that graduates are finding opportunities at major studios like Ubisoft Toronto, as well as smaller, independent companies and their own ventures.
Courses
Game Development Courses
Our Game Development Courses by Term
The program is structured across six terms, each building upon the previous one to provide a comprehensive understanding of game development. Here's a breakdown of the courses offered in each term:
Term 1:
- Programming for Games 1 (VGD100): A foundational course in programming, focusing on C and C++, essential languages in the game development industry. It introduces programming basics with a strong emphasis on applying these concepts to game creation.
- Programming Logic and Methodologies (VGD110): Introduces programming logic, focusing on information flow, computer architecture, UML (Unified Modeling Language), and basic programming structures crucial for effective game programming.
- Mathematics for Game Programmers 1 (VGD111): Prepares students for mathematical calculations used to manipulate 2D and 3D graphics, analyzing linear algebra formulas and their application in 3D graphics.
- Game Design 1 (VGD112): Introduces the principles of game design and mechanics, examining game genres, common mechanics, and gameplay elements.
- Introduction to the Game Industry (VGD113): Provides an overview of the game industry, analyzing local and international markets, identifying roles and responsibilities within game development teams, and exploring corporate structures and studio organization.
- History of Video Games (VGD114): Presents a historical survey of video games, exploring their evolution, technological advancements, and social and cultural impacts, including discussions on violence and gender in games.
- Art for Game Programmers (VGD115): Provides game programming students with a basic understanding of 2D and 3D art creation in the context of game development, focusing on key aspects relevant to programmers.
- Game Production Project 1 (VGAD107): The first in a series of capstone game production courses, focusing on the pre-production stage of game development. Students collaboratively conceptualize a game design and create prototypes to visualize their designs, emphasizing teamwork, planning, and evaluation.
- Student Success Workshop (SS101): Assists new students in adapting to an accelerated post-secondary learning environment, focusing on skills and strategies for academic and professional success, including time management, budgeting, and communication.
Term 2:
- Programming for Games 2 (VGD200): An intermediate course focusing on data structures and design patterns for game development, exploring arrays, linked lists, and trees, and applying design patterns to enhance game project architecture and code quality. Prerequisite: VGD100
- Game Engines 1 (VGD211): An introductory course focused on game development using a game engine and associated programming language, providing hands-on experience with the game engine editor and its capabilities in game creation and asset management. Prerequisites: VGD100, VGD110
- Mathematics for Game Programmers 2 (VGD212): Focuses on applying calculus concepts in game development, exploring derivatives and integrals and their practical use in motion modeling, collision detection, and physics-based animations. Prerequisites: VGD111
- Game Design 2 (VGD213): Focuses on developing game design skills through storytelling and story writing, exploring storytelling structures, character development, and both linear and non-linear narratives tailored for games. Prerequisites: VGD112
- Physics for Game Programmers 1 (VGD214): An introductory course focused on applying Newtonian physics in game development, emphasizing mechanics and the key laws of motion, and incorporating realistic physics simulations into games. Prerequisite: VGD111
- Game Production Project 2 (VGAD205): Builds on the foundation laid in Game Production Project 1, preparing project planning for full-scale production. This course revisits and refines previously designed game concepts, guiding students through the creation of comprehensive production plans, which include project management strategies, development schedules, defined roles, and pipeline establishment. Prerequisite: VGAD107
Term 3:
- Programming for Games 3 (VGD300): An advanced course where students learn basic techniques to develop a game engine, focusing on building 2D and 3D game engines, covering game engine architecture, graphics rendering, user input handling, and audio processing. Prerequisite: VGD200
- Game Engines 2 (VGD301): Focuses on enhancing skills in 3D game development using Unity, exploring 3D aspects of Unity’s game engine, including 3D modeling, animation, lighting, texturing, and complex scripting for physics and gameplay. Prerequisite: VGD211
- Physics for Game Programmers 2 (VGD302): Focuses on kinematics, building upon the physics fundamentals by exploring topics like velocity, acceleration, and projectile motion, with an emphasis on their application in game programming. Prerequisite: VGD214
- Game Design 3 (VGD303): Focuses on level design with an in-depth exploration of game design concepts applied to creating engaging and challenging levels, utilizing a game engine and level editor, and learning practical skills in layout planning, pacing, player guidance, and integrating narrative elements. Prerequisite: VGD213
- Project Management and Quality Assurance (VGD304): Focuses on the essential skills needed to manage game development projects and implement effective quality assurance practices, covering foundational principles of project management tailored for the game industry and popular quality assurance methodologies. Prerequisite: VGD213
- Game Production Project 3 (VGAD305): The continuation of Game Production Project 2, where students progress into the production phase of their game development capstone project. This course emphasizes the practical application of agile development methodologies, focusing on producing game components through backlog and milestone development. Prerequisite: VGAD205
Term 4:
- AI Game Programming (VGD400): A comprehensive course designed to explore the application of artificial intelligence algorithms in game development, covering a range of topics from the fundamentals of game AI, pathfinding and navigation to more complex aspects like behavioral AI. Prerequisite: VGD300, VGD301
- Game Engines 3 (VGD401): Provides comprehensive understanding of the Unreal Engine 5 game engine. Students will explore the interface, Blueprint visual scripting system, and programming with the UE5 API using C++. Students will learn to create, navigate, and manipulate game environments, implement game logic, and optimize performance in UE5. Prerequisite: VGD301
- Mobile Game Development (VGD402): Provides specialized training in programming games for mobile platforms. Leveraging a game engine, students will learn key aspects of mobile game development, including efficient programming practices, optimization for mobile devices, and integration of mobile-specific features like touch input and accelerometer use. Prerequisite: VGD301
- Physics for Game Programmers 3 (VGD403): Explores inverse kinematics and how it’s used to create realistic movement and animation in game development. Students will learn about the mathematical foundations of inverse kinematics and how to implement these techniques in a game engine. Prerequisite: VGD302
- Game Design 4 (VGD404): Focuses on game mechanics generation and user experience in games. Students will explore designing effective and engaging game mechanics, emphasizing the creation of intuitive and player-friendly game interfaces. Prerequisite: VGD303
- Game Audio (VGD405): Will introduce students to technology and tools needed for game audio development. Students will learn how to design and generate sound effects that can be integrated into games, and how to program audio in various game engines. Prerequisite: VGD303
- Game Production Project 4 (VGAD406): A continuation of the capstone project series where students further develop their game projects. Building on skills taught in previous courses, this course focuses on finalizing game design elements, and developing gameplay mechanics. Prerequisite: VGAD305
Term 5:
- Game Networking (VGD500): Examines the fundamentals of networking within the context of game development. Students will explore various networking models, learning how to effectively communicate and manage these models. The course also covers practical applications by exploring networking APIs in game engines to implement multiplayer features and networked game functionality. Prerequisite: VGD401
- Game Engines 4 (VGD501): Focuses on development using advanced features of the Unreal Engine 5 API using C++. Students will examine the UE5 rendering pipeline, AI programming, performance optimization, and VR/AR development. Prerequisite: VGD401
- Game Design 5 (VGD502): Focuses on exploring the post-production phase in game development. Students will explore the processes involved after a game’s initial development phase. Students will learn strategies for successful game launches, post-launch support, updates, and community engagement. The course also explores marketing techniques and the importance of data analysis in post-release phases. Prerequisite: VGD404
- Game Business (VGD503): Introduces students to the operational aspects of running a game studio. Students will analyze business models and how they apply to the game industry. The curriculum covers essential topics such as the different types of business models, effective game marketing strategies, and the principles of game budgeting, equipping students with the knowledge to navigate the business side of game development successfully. Prerequisite: VGD304
- Career and Portfolio Development 1 (VGD504): Is designed to prepare students for their future careers in the industry by focusing on the creation and refinement of essential career documents and a personal portfolio. Students will learn to analyze job listings and tailor their resumes and cover letters accordingly, ensuring they effectively highlight their skills and experiences. Additionally, the course guides students through the process of developing a professional portfolio that showcases their talents and projects, emphasizing presentation and organization skills critical for making a strong impression on potential employers. Prerequisite: VGD304
- Game Production Project 5 (VGAD505): Focuses on integrating complex mechanics into students’ capstone project. This course emphasizes the practical application of game design and programming, focusing on enhancing gameplay, interaction, and user experience. Through supervised lab sessions, students will apply advanced development techniques and refine their projects based on feedback. Prerequisite: VGAD406
Term 6:
- Capstone Production Project (VGD600): A culminating course designed for students to finalize their capstone projects. In this course, students work collaboratively to finalize development of a game, applying the skills and knowledge acquired throughout their studies. The course emphasizes teamwork, project management, and practical game development techniques. Prerequisite: VGD500, VGD501, VGD502, VGD503, VGD504, VGAD505
- Career and Portfolio Development 2 (VGD601): Is tailored for students nearing the culmination of their studies. Building on the foundational skills acquired, this course emphasizes the creation of a portfolio and demo reel, which are critical components in showcasing expertise and creativity in game design. Through guided instruction and hands-on practice, students will learn to select their best work, craft compelling narratives around their projects, and utilize technical editing techniques to produce a professional demo reel. This course aims to refine students’ abilities to communicate their vision and skills effectively, preparing them for successful careers in the competitive game industry. Prerequisite: VGAD504
Admissions
Admissions
How to Apply
Here's a simplified breakdown of the application process:
- Contact an Admissions Advisor.
- Pay the application fee of $150.
- Provide original academic transcripts (or notarized translations) showing completion of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent.
- Provide proof of completion of one or more Grade 12 courses in:
- Advanced Functions (MHF4U)
- Math for College Technology (MCT4C)
- Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U)
Equivalent courses accepted.
Applicants that do not possess the requirements listed above can complete a Math Assessment Test. The Assessment Test will include topics in trigonometry, geometry and algebra.
Exemptions may apply, please contact an Admissions Advisor (https://www.yorkvilleu.ca/request-info) to learn more.
- International students only: Provide proof of English-language proficiency.
- International students only: Provide a copy of your passport.
Please note: The admission requirements above apply to students planning to enrol in October 2026 or later.
If you intend to start before October 2026, please visit this page. (https://www.torontofilmschool.ca/programs/game-design-development/)
For a full breakdown of each step, see the Requirements page.
Tuition
TUITION RATES
| TUITION TYPE | COST PER TERM | TUITION MAXIMUM (6 TERMS) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Domestic | $6,116 - $6,483 | $37,430.00 |
| International | $9,791.72 - $10,586.74 | $61,123.19 |
SOFTWARE FEE
(effective as of October 2026)
| COST TYPE | COST PER TERM | SOFTWARE FEE MAXIMUM (6 TERMS) |
| --- | --- | --- |
| FEE | $0 - $115 | $690 |
Please note: Tuition fees are subject to change.
Fees do not include books, expendable supplies, or additional resources. Any changes will be announced at least three months before the term they apply to.
This page outlines the updated curriculum and tuition details for students starting in October 2026 and onward.
If you plan to enrol before October 2026, please visit this page. (https://www.torontofilmschool.ca/programs/game-design-development/)
For questions about tuition and payment methods, contact the Bursar’s Office at 1-866-467-0661.
For financial aid information, connect with an Admissions Advisor. (https://www.torontofilmschool.ca/request-info/)
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
- What are the prerequisites for enrolling in the Game Development diploma program?
To be eligible for this program, applicants must have completed one or more Grade 12 courses in:
– Advanced Functions (MHF4U)
– Math for College Technology (MCT4C)
– Calculus and Vectors (MCV4U)
Equivalent courses are accepted.
Academic Requirements
As part of the admission process, applicants that do not possess the requirements listed above can complete a Math Assessment Test. The Assessment Test will include topics in trigonometry, geometry and algebra, and applicants must achieve a minimum grade of 70%.
Exemption Policy: Applicants who have successfully completed a recognized Bachelor’s degree program that includes a comparable mathematics component (e.g., Computer Science, Mathematics, Engineering, or other related fields with equivalent math coursework) may be exempted from the Math Assessment Test at the discretion of the Admissions Committee. Official transcripts will be required to verify eligibility for exemption.
- Why should I choose this program?
Choosing the Game Development program at Toronto Film School means you’re opting for an education that is tailored to the demands of today’s gaming industry.
Our curriculum blends essential game development principles with detailed technical learning to produce graduates who are truly industry ready.
Here’s what sets our Game Development program apart:
- Our Professors are Practitioners:
Learn from industry-active developers who bring real-world insights straight to the classroom.
- Our Campus is a Networking Hub:
We understand that building professional relationships is crucial to your success in the creative world.
That’s why this program is jam-packed with networking events and collaborative opportunities.
- We Take a Future-Forward Approach:
Benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum that marries classic video game design principles with the latest digital tools.
- You’ll Participate in an Industry-Replicating Capstone Project:
Our program concludes with a capstone project that mimics the dynamics of a real-life game studio. Similar to an internship, this hands-on experience preps you for tackling real-world game development assignments post-graduation.
- What career opportunities are available for graduates of the Game Development program?
There is a world of opportunities for graduates of the Game Development program. Picture yourself as a Game Developer, Systems Designer, Level Designer, Game Tester, or even a Project Manager.
You could find opportunities in game development studios, software publishing houses, computer systems design firms, or even as a freelance consultant. Through this program, you will acquire the necessary skills to capitalize on career opportunities within the gaming industry.
- What is the duration of this diploma program?
The program is divided into six terms and takes 18 months to complete.
- Is financial aid available for the Game Development program?
We recognize that financing your creative education can be challenging. For help, check out Toronto Film School’s bursaries and government financial aid options:
Canada Student Loans and Grants
Apply for loans or grants via your home province or territory. Loans generally have no interest during study and require payments only post-graduation. Grants, which are not repaid, are usually offered to students from low to middle-income families, those with disabilities or dependents, or part-time students.
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
If you are an Ontario resident, you can apply to OSAP for a student loan or grant. This financial assistance can also help you to cover basic living expenses, supplies, tuition, and books. Here’s a link (https://www.ontario.ca/page/osap-ontario-student-assistance-program) to apply!
Student Assistance Programs for All Other Provinces
You can find a list of all student aid offices through the Government of Canada website. (https://www.canada.ca/en/services/benefits/education/student-aid/grants-loans/province-apply.html)
Bursaries
Toronto Film School offers several bursary options. For a complete list, check out this link (https://www.torontofilmschool.ca/admissions/tuition/) .
- Are there any internship opportunities for Game Development program students?
The program director, J.P. Amore, and Game Design and Animation (https://www.torontofilmschool.ca/programs/video-game-animation/) program director Rob Elsworthy, have been able to provide internships through external partnerships they have formed with the school.
Many of our students also land internships on their own, leveraging the skills and knowledge gained from our programs to stand out to employers.
Our Career Services team (https://www.torontofilmschool.ca/experience/career-services/) equip students with the top strategies for finding work in their areas of expertise by providing resume and cover letter review, interview skills coaching, networking strategies, online profile optimization techniques, and much more.
In addition, in the final term of our program students engage in a “Capstone Production Project” course that replicates real-world industry experience. It’s not a traditional internship, but it’s certainly a career-building endeavour.
The Toronto Film School Blog
Explore the latest industry news, student profiles, alumni success stories, event reports and content specific to your career interests.
Toronto Film School’s graduating class of Video Game students recently celebrated the launch of their capstone game Project Soul – an ambitious action platformer that showcases the culmination of more than a year’s worth of collaborative development. In Project Soul, TFS’s Video Game Design & Animation and Video Game Design & Development students have created …
What began as an ambitious five-level concept evolved into a polished, playable – and hard-to-put-down – capstone video game project for this term’s graduating class of Video Game Design & Animation and Video Game Design & Development students. Kynetic Flux drops players into a crumbling futuristic alien city, challenging them to navigate streets once alive …
Toronto Film School Video Game students made a strong showing at the recent LEVEL UP Showcase – walking away from Ontario’s premier event for emerging game development talent with three award wins! The 3rd annual showcase, which was held at the Westin Harbour Castle in downtown Toronto, welcomed over 4,000 attendees on April 12, providing …
Toronto Film School’s graduating class of Video Game students recently unveiled their breathtaking new game DystO2pia during a virtual capstone showcase event. Described as a “thrilling” first-person horror survival game, DystO2piais set on a ravaged planet Earth in 2045, where AI has taken over and humans are struggling to survive. Players need to navigate a …
Roguelike video games share similar characteristics. Among other features, they involve exploration of dungeons or labyrinths and permadeath.
Rob Heary has been announced as the latest winner of Toronto Film School’s Creative Success Award. Dedicated to the memory of 2019Video Game Design & Developmentprogram gradKurt Huhn, the quarterly $2,500 bursary is awarded not on academic merit, but rather to first-term gaming students who demonstrate those attributes most admired in Kurt – namely, his …
From teenage gamer to Nobel Prize winner – the career trajectory of Google DeepMind co-founder and CEO Sir Demis Hassabis exemplifies how a foundation in video game design can serve as a launching pad to monumental success. At just 17 years old, Hassabis – who was recently awarded the 2024 Nobel Prize in Chemistry for …
READY TO START YOUR CREATIVE CAREER?
Curious about building a career in gaming? Our admission advisors can answer your questions about TFS, the Game Development Diploma Program, and life in Toronto.
So, what's your take? Does this program sound like the perfect launching pad for your game development career, or do you have other questions or concerns? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
