Video Game Design & Development Diploma
Toronto Film School Campus, Canada
Video Game Design & Development Diploma
Toronto Film School
Video Game Design & Development
Video Game Design & Development Diploma Overview
The Video Game Design & Development Diploma at Toronto Film School is a comprehensive 18-month program that covers the entire game creation process for console, PC, mobile, and web platforms. Modelled after professional studio environments, students gain hands-on experience in programming, game design, interface development, audio and sound, production, and business strategy.
Guided by faculty members who are active industry creators with credits on titles such as Red Dead Redemption 2, GTA 4, and Max Payne 3, you will learn in small classes with personalized mentorship. The program emphasizes real-world challenges and collaborative projects that replicate the dynamics of a working game studio.
By the time you graduate, you will have built a diverse portfolio of video games that showcase your creativity, technical expertise, and industry-ready abilities. Toronto is home to major studios like Rockstar, Ubisoft, and Microsoft, as well as Canada's highest concentration of small and mid-sized gaming studios, giving you unparalleled access to networking and career opportunities.
Program Highlights
- Industry-replicating capstone project where students operate as a game studio and develop a complete game as a team
- Instruction from active industry professionals with credits on major AAA game titles
- Small class sizes ensuring personalized mentorship and hands-on learning throughout the program
- Pathway to Yorkville University's Bachelor of Creative Arts degree, completable in as few as 15 months after graduation
Curriculum & Course Modules
The Video Game Design & Development Diploma curriculum is structured to take you from foundational concepts through to advanced game production. Courses cover programming, game design theory, mathematics, physics simulation, cross-platform development, and business strategy, all building toward a collaborative capstone project.
Introduces principles of game design, mechanics, and genres, then advances to level design theory including golden paths, navigation, and world building using level editors.
Covers the building blocks of programming including variables, iteration, game loops, conditional structures, and procedural scripting languages essential for game development.
Introduces 2D and 3D cross-platform technologies used to create multi-platform games, including developing for multiple hardware devices using industry-standard game engines.
Prepares students for mathematical calculations used in 2D and 3D graphics manipulation, covering linear algebra, matrix and vector operations, calculus, and Newtonian physics simulation.
Applies knowledge of 3D engines and development to produce games in a team setting, using project management techniques and development pipelines including agile and SCRUM methodologies.
Additional Specialized Courses
Admission Requirements
Admission to the Video Game Design & Development Diploma requires a secondary school diploma and completion of specific prerequisite courses. International students must also demonstrate English language proficiency. Contact Uni4Edu for personalized guidance through the entire application process.
Academic Requirements
- Secondary EducationOntario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent from your home country
- Mathematics PrerequisiteCompleted Grade 11 math course or Toronto Film School Math Camp
- Recommended CoursesGrade 11 Physics and Computers/Digital Media (recommended but not required)
- Personal Essay300-500 word essay on your career goals in the video game industry
- Mature StudentsApplicants over 18 not enrolling directly from secondary school may be asked to take a mature student test
English Language Requirements
- IELTSMinimum overall score of 5.5 (students with 5.5 take an EAP course in their first term)
- TOEFL iBTMinimum score of 65
- Duolingo English TestMinimum score of 95 for direct entry
Required Documents
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships & Funding
Toronto Film School offers several funding opportunities to help students manage the cost of their education. International students may be eligible for specific bursaries and awards. Contact Uni4Edu for the latest information on available scholarships and application procedures.
Creative Success Award
CAD 2,500 quarterly bursaryA quarterly bursary awarded to outstanding students who demonstrate exceptional hard work and dedication in their creative programs at Toronto Film School.
LDC International Bursary
CAD 10,000A bursary available to international students from Least Developed Countries to support their studies at Toronto Film School.
USMCA Bursary
Domestic tuition rate appliedInternational students with US or Mexican citizenship pay the domestic tuition rate instead of international fees under the United States Mexico Canada Agreement bursary.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of the Video Game Design & Development Diploma are prepared for a range of creative and technical roles in the gaming industry. Toronto's thriving gaming ecosystem, home to major studios and a high concentration of indie developers, provides excellent employment opportunities right at your doorstep.
Potential Career Roles
Notable Industry Employers in Toronto
Rankings & Recognition
Toronto Film School has earned recognition from multiple prestigious publications and ranking bodies for its creative programs and industry-focused approach to education. The school is consistently highlighted for its experienced faculty, hands-on curriculum, and strong industry connections.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Film & Creative Arts | MovieMaker Magazine | Top 30 (6 consecutive years) |
| Film Schools | CEOWORLD Magazine | #8 Globally |
| Film Schools in Canada | World Scholarship Forum | #4 in Canada |
| Creative Arts Programs | QS World University Rankings | Recognized as top film school |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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