Bachelor of Game Design(Honours)

at Sheridan College - Trafalgar Road Campus, Oakville Canada

Long recognized for excellence in animation, digital media and technology, Sheridan now brings an innovative, multidisciplinary approach to the study of video game development. Our graduate certificate in Game Development – Advanced Programming presents a one-of-a-kind learning opportunity.

An integrated approach
Offered alongside the Game Level Design program at Sheridan's renowned Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design, our game development courses simulate a realistic work environment that integrates game programming, tool development, digital art, storytelling and project management. This unique integrated approach prepares students for success in a collaborative, highly creative work environment.

Gain industry-specific skills
Developed in response to industry need, Sheridan Game Development courses encompass both 2D and 3D game development. You'll learn advanced game programming techniques, utilize industry-standard technologies, and apply your programming skills to animation, artificial intelligence and multiplayer systems.

Additional information
Game programmers play a vital role in the industry, and are commonly involved in a project from initial conception through to production. Combined with your degree or diploma in computer science or computer programming, the Sheridan Game Development – Advanced Programming certificate will prepare you to step directly into an exciting game development career.

The benefits of our program include:

• Outstanding job prospects in a growing industry.
• Hands-on curriculum emphasizing job-specific skills.
• Collaboration with Sheridan renowned Faculty of Animation, Arts and Design.

The program’s integrated multidisciplinary approach and emphasis on applied problem-solving are unique in the field, offering the preparation employers are looking for, and advanced programming skills that stand out on a résumé.

In our program, you'll gain important industry-specific skills such as:

• Gameplay programming
• Graphics programming
• Mobile game development
• Project management
• Game documentation
• Playtesting
• Tool development

In your final semester, you'll collaborate with students from the Game Level Design program to develop and produce an original video game capstone project.

Computer systems engineers are always in demand with the increasing role of technology in business.

Learn the latest computing technologies

• In this program, you’ll build your skills and knowledge in multiple computing platforms and environments. You’ll learn to apply the latest technologies to solve real-world problems with:
  • iOS and Android application development
  • Java, and Java Frameworks, C#, .NET and .net server development
  • Web technologies and web application development
  • Oracle and SQL server
  • Version control

Learning Outcomes

• The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:
  • Identify, analyze, design, develop, implement, verify and document the requirements for a computing environment.
  • Diagnose, troubleshoot, document and monitor technical problems using appropriate methodologies and tools.
  • Analyze, design, implement and maintain secure computing environments.
  • Analyze, develop and maintain robust computing system solutions through validation testing and industry best practices.
  • Communicate and collaborate with team members and stakeholders to ensure effective working relationships.
  • Select and apply strategies for personal and professional development to enhance work performance.
  • Apply project management principles and tools when responding to requirements and monitoring projects within a computing environment.
  • Adhere to ethical, social media, legal, regulatory and economic requirements and/or principles in the development and management of the computing solutions and systems.
  • Investigate emerging trends to respond to technical challenges.
  • Analyze, plan, design, implement and administer computer systems and cloud solutions.
  • Research, design, deploy, configure, troubleshoot, maintain, upgrade, and decommission computing system infrastructures.
  • Select and apply scripting tools and programming languages to automate routine tasks.
  • Install, monitor, optimize and administer a database management system in response to specified requirements.
  • Design, implement, and administer technical support processes for computing system infrastructures that align with industry best practices.
  • Construct an end-to-end information system consistent with client requirements and industry best practice.

Get hands-on experience

• The third year of our systems engineering program features Capstone-Based Learning (CBL), a uniquely Sheridan approach to curriculum delivery. In the Capstone course, you

Turn your diploma into a degree

• After earning your Computer Systems Technology advanced diploma, you can apply to bridge into Year 3 of one of these Sheridan degree programs: Honours Bachelor of Applied Computer Science (Mobile Computing), or Honours Bachelor of Applied Information Sciences (Information Systems Security). 

Co-op Option

• Students in this program may apply to the co-op program during their second academic semester. Enrolment in the Co-op program is limited through an additional co-op application process that takes place at the end of the first year. Students in the co-op program are eligible to complete three co-op work terms prior to graduation. The program-specific academic standard required for participation in co-op can be found here: Academic Standards for Co-op and Internship.
• Co-operative Education is a form of work-integrated learning that links classroom learning with paid or unpaid work experience within a professional environment. Co-op work terms are related specifically to the academic studies of each student. The work terms provide an opportunity to learn by doing. You’ll apply theory to practice, develop a meaningful view of the working world, and cultivate an awareness of yourself as a professional.
• Students receive in-class and 1-on-1 career education support to help prepare for the work term. The co-op component is delivered by Sheridan’s Co-operative Education Office, which facilitates over 1,800 Co-op/Internship work terms per year Sheridan-wide. Learn more about Co-operative Education and Internships at Sheridan.

In our two-year Visual and Creative Arts diploma, you’ll get rigorous in-studio training in every semester of the program. You’ll study 2D and 3D design, observational drawing, colour theory and painting. In second year, you’ll choose from electives to specialize in areas of interest and build a broader set of marketable skills to help you find work after graduation.

During your second year, you'll learn how to apply your studio skills to many art and design related careers, learning the basics of:

• Time management and deadlines
• Project budgeting
• Writing proposals
• Contemporary practices

Sheridan has a reputation as one of the best art schools in Canada, and we’re globally recognized for our illustration and animation programs. You’ll learn art in world-class studios and immerse yourself in our one-of-a-kind creative campus atmosphere. You’ll also learn from experienced faculty who are connected to galleries, studios, agencies and others in the Greater Toronto Area's arts scene.

Stand out from the crowd by specializing in cloud computing, data analytics, game engineering or network engineering. You’ll be introduced to each of these growing fields of computer science in your first year of studies, then take eight courses in the area of your choice. Each field requires specific skills not taught in traditional diploma and degree programs.

Build a strong foundation in computer science
Not a computer expert? No problem! You'll begin with the basics in your first year, learning about computer programming, networks, mathematics, scripting and database modelling. More than 80% of our Computer Science degree curriculum consists of core courses designed to develop fundamental skills that will prepare you to work in all areas of computer science, both now and in the future.

Internship, co-op and applied research opportunities
At Sheridan, we believe the best way to learn is through hands-on experience. Between your third and fourth year of studies, you can work for our industry partners through a four-month internship or a paid co-op placement that can last up to 16 months. You can also sharpen your research skills by providing computer science support to any of Sheridan's various applied research projects.

Sheridan's Computer Science degree provides a strong foundation of fundamental knowledge, specialized courses and hands-on experience.

Specialize in game engineering, data analytics or cloud computing
Stand out from the crowd by specializing in one of three growing fields of computer science: game engineering, data analytics or cloud computing. You'll be introduced to each of these areas in your first year of studies. Beginning in your second, you'll take eight courses in the area of your choice. Each field requires specific skills not taught in traditional diploma and degree programs.

Build a strong foundation in computer science
Not a computer expert? No problem! You'll begin with the basics in your first year, learning about computer programming, networks, mathematics, scripting and database modelling. More than 80% of our Computer Science degree curriculum consists of core courses designed to develop fundamental skills that will prepare you to work in all areas of computer science, both now and in the future.

Internship, co-op and applied research opportunities
At Sheridan, we believe the best way to learn is through hands-on experience. Between your third and fourth year of studies, you can work for our industry partners through a four-month internship or a paid co-op placement that can last up to 16 months. You can also sharpen your research skills by providing computer science support to any of Sheridan's various applied research projects.

Enjoy flexible pathways
It's always good to keep your options open. Our Computer Science degree shares many common core courses with our Mobile Computing degree, making it easy to transfer from one to the other. If you want to change specializations after two years, you'll only need to make up two courses.

ATVF integrates the practical, technical and creative aspects of television and film studies while providing direct, industry-relevant experience. You'll develop your creativity while gaining the specialized skills you need to bring your ideas and vision to life on the screen. You'll also acquire an understanding of new technologies and production methods, enabling you to stay current.

Get immersed in the industry

• Learn sophisticated production techniques and explore a variety of digital image capture systems and technologies.
• Gain skills in areas such as directing, screenwriting, cinematography, editing, sound, production design and post-production.
• Build career connections during a four-week job placement.
• Produce dramatic or documentary films.

Professional faculty and facilities
Our instructors and production facilities rank second to none among film schools in Canada. You'll work in professional surroundings, learn from practicing filmmakers with years of industry experience, and be immersed in the culture of the television and film industry — and, in just one academic year, you can become part of it.

In the technical areas, camera students will work in professional-style camera teams coached by industry gaffers, 1st ACs and cinematographers. Students shoot on both documentary and cinema cameras. Audio students are trained in software such as Pro Tools. Sheridan has two industry-style mixing theatres for audio mix playback. Students can screen their final films on a cinema-size screen with an industry-quality projector and a Dolby surround-sound environment.

Award-winning film students and graduates
Sheridan's Advanced Television and Film (ATVF) program provides a benchmark of excellence for film schools in Canada. Our student work consistently wins awards at film festivals in North America, and our camera students have won Canadian Society of Cinematographer "Best Student Cinematography" nominations in two of the last three years. Our graduates continue to achieve professional and artistic success with nominations for Oscars, Emmys, Canadian Screen Awards and ACE (Editing) awards.

Outstanding career preparation
We're unique because we train students to understand emerging technology and industrial workflows so our graduates are well placed to work anywhere notwithstanding technological change. New interactive courses keep students current.

Sheridan now offers a four-year bachelor's degree in game design.
A program incorporating material from multiple disciplines
To complement core game design courses, you'll study:

• Game design and mechanics
• Level design
• Programming and technology
• Game narrative and audio
• 2D and 3D art and animation
• Professional development and project management

Professors with industry experience:-
As a world-renowned leader in digital media and animation, Sheridan is uniquely positioned to educate the next generation of game designers. Our professors' expertise, technology savvy, and industry experience offer students an unmatched foundation for careers in the game design industry.

Sheridan’s Bachelor of Animation program is designed to prepare you for a wide variety of employment opportunities within the dynamic and ever-growing field of animation. In our Animation degree program, you’ll learn from industry professionals, using the same techniques and tools that you'll eventually need in the workplace. Using state-of-the-art software and hardware, you’ll create your own stories, designs, characters and layouts, and produce your own films.

Sheridan’s animation program emphasizes classical principles of animation in a variety of forms, including 2D digital, 3D and stop motion. You’ll learn the art of storyboarding and hone your life drawing, layout and digital painting skills. Working collaboratively or individually on productions, you’ll have the opportunity to explore all aspects of animation filmmaking.

After Year 3, you’ll gain professional experience during a three-month work placement. And at our annual Industry Day, employers will fly in from across North America to meet you, see your work and conduct interviews.

Enter an in-demand career field with digital product design

A Digital Product Design certificate from Sheridan can launch you into a growing and lucrative field in eight months. The average entry-level salary for a User Experience Designer in Ontario is $64,000 and statistics show demand for UX designers has increased 107%.* Job seekers with the broad range of skills taught in this post-graduate can be highly employable in a wide variety of industries.

Become well-rounded in all aspects of product design

The product design industry needs designers who know more than web design or UI design. Our unique program teaches required essentials for a career in multimedia design and development. You’ll learn business strategy, research methods, visual design, prototyping and more. With skills in many experience design elements, you can position yourself as a well-rounded designer and work in many roles.

Work with industry experts, software and processes

Courses are taught by experts who bring their unique industry experience into the classroom. You'll use the same software as design professionals, such as Sketch and Adobe Creative Cloud applications. Our course structure is even designed to mimic the workflow of the modern workplace. Content from one class carries over into others, ensuring you'll learn to fully develop and iterate on your ideas.

In response to high employer demand, Sheridan has developed Ontario’s first four-year interaction design bachelor’s degree.
A unique, multidisciplinary program
In response to high employer demand, Sheridan has developed Ontario's first four-year interaction design honours bachelor's degree. Our unique, multidisciplinary interaction design program cultivates a big-picture perspective and diverse set of skills, laying a foundation for interaction design careers and fostering entrepreneurship.

What you'll learn:-

• Design theory and process.
• Visual communication and visual culture.
• 2D and 3D design.
• Digital media design and production.
• Physical computing and sensors.
• Programming a variety of devices.
• Business practices and entrepreneurship.