Overview

The Computer Game Development programme at Carleton University provides students with a rigorous foundation in the technical and creative aspects of the modern gaming industry. This bachelor degree integrates advanced computer science principles with practical application to prepare graduates for complex software challenges. Students explore the intersection of software engineering and digital art within a supportive academic environment.

Why Computer Game Development at Carleton University?

Studying at this institution allows students to benefit from its strategic location in Ottawa, a major hub for Canada’s high-tech sector. The university maintains strong links with multinational firms and innovative start-ups, offering unique opportunities for professional growth. Students can also opt for a co-operative education stream, which provides tangible workplace experience and enhances employability before graduation.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 56274 per year
National fee: CAD 12634 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers essential topics in programming, engine design, and real-time simulation. Modules may include:

Computer Science
Advanced Facilities for Real-Time Games
Computer Graphics
Software Engineering
Algorithm Design
Computational Thinking
Game AI
3D Scene Rendering
Physics Simulation

Careers with Computer Game Development

Graduates are well-equipped to enter the thriving technology and entertainment sectors in various technical roles. The programme prepares students for careers in game engine development, software design, and systems analysis. Many alumni find success within Ottawa’s vibrant tech ecosystem, working for private gaming studios, federal government departments, or cutting-edge multimedia organisations.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Computer Game Design

Computer Game Design and Development

Game Programming and Computer Graphics

Advanced Facilities for Real-Time Games

Real-Time 3D Game Engines

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-04 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-15 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , National
Starting 2027-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-04-01 00:00:00 , International
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , National

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

120

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TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

20 alternative credits

General Degree: 15 Credits.

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Ottawa, Canada

Disciplines

Game Design Computer Sciences Software Engineering View 47 other Bachelors in Game Design in Canada

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

120

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

You will need a secondary school or high school graduation certificate. Education should normally consist of a minimum of 12 years of study.

You will need to present transcripts from your senior high school along with your graduation diploma or certificate, and any graduation exam results.

Required Courses

One of:
SL Analysis and Approaches
HL Analysis and Approaches
HL Applications and Interpretation

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

Get your student insurance now

Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at Carleton University and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

56274 CAD / year

≈ 56274 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

12634 CAD / year

≈ 12634 CAD / year

Additional Details

Ontario Tuition Fee: 10,500 CAD per year

Living costs

Ottawa

Canada

1168 - 1925 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Computer Game Development.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Additional Details

Living costs

Ottawa

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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