Game Programmer

Gain the skills, knowledge, and hands-on experience you need to pursue a career as a Game Programmer.

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    About Game Programmer

    Do you dream of creating the next great game? As a Game Programmer, you’ll bring ideas to life by writing the code that powers unforgettable gaming experiences.

    At The Game Assembly, our Game Programming course immerses you in C++—the backbone of professional game development. Designed in collaboration with industry experts, this course takes you from mastering the fundamentals of C++ and programming theory to tackling advanced techniques used in modern games. But this isn’t just about learning code—it’s about creating. You’ll build your own game engine from scratch and collaborate with talented peers from other disciplines to develop eight complete games. From concept to final product, you’ll gain real-world experience and leave with a portfolio that sets you apart in the industry.

    Start Date Autumn 2025

    Delivery Full Time, On Campus

    Duration 2 years

    Qualifications Level 4/5

    Location Liverpool

    Applications Open January 2025

    Tuition Fee £8,900 per year

    What does a Game Programmer do?

    As a game programmer, your task will be to write the code that brings the game to life. You will build frameworks and functions that turn the game from an idea into a playable product. To succeed, you need knowledge of the most common data structures and algorithms used in game development.

    • Upon completing the course, you will be qualified to work as a:

      • Game Programmer
      • Gameplay Programmer
      • Tools Programmer
      • Network Programmer

      You also have the opportunity to work as a general programmer in non-gaming companies.

    Course Overview

    The Game Programming course provides you with knowledge of the most common data structures and algorithms in game development. The applied mathematics you learn in the first year will be used and developed throughout the course. You will learn C++ programming, AI, scripting, software development, and networking. You will also develop your own game engine, which will be used in the games created with other disciplines at The Game Assembly.

    A unique studio-simulated learning experience

    What sets our course apart is its unique pedagogy, designed to closely simulate a real game studio environment. You’ll work in an agile setting, preparing you for the rapid pace and changes of the industry. Mornings are dedicated to hands-on instruction in Game Programming, while afternoons are spent collaborating with Game Art and Level Design students in a studio-like atmosphere. Daily stand-ups with your team provide the structure to create games in a realistic, professional environment.

    Creating games together

    In game development, teamwork and adaptability are essential, as the process integrates various disciplines—such as art, programming, and design—enabling experts to work seamlessly together. As a Game Programmer at TGA, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the importance of working across disciplines and learn to navigate the opportunities and challenges of collaboration. Effective communication, including giving and receiving feedback, is a key focus, helping you develop the soft skills essential for success.

    This course empowers you to take ownership of your skill development, providing a strong foundation for a dynamic and evolving career.

    Collaborate with other disciplines to create games that follow current industry practices.

    • Course Modules

      Please be aware that the course modules may be subject to change.


      ▸ Data Structures and Algorithms
      ▸ Design Patterns for Game Development
      ▸ In-depth Programming in C++
      ▸ Introduction to Programming in C++
      ▸ Linear algebra with a focus on 3D mathematics
      ▸ Software Architecture and Design Patterns
      ▸ Specialization and portfolio
      ▸ Game Scripting, Implementation and Design
      ▸ Applied Artificial Intelligence
      ▸ Applied Graphics Programming
      ▸ Applied Software Development
      ▸ Applied Network Programming
      ▸ Tools development
      ▸ Game project 1
      ▸ Game project 2
      ▸ Game project 3
      ▸ Game project 4
      ▸ Game project 5
      ▸ Game Project 6
      ▸ Game project 7
      ▸ Game project 8

    • Bootcamp C++


      This crash course will serve as an introduction to the C++ language and Visual Studio IDE.
      Taking part will give you a good foundation to build on once you get to your first module of the Game Programmer course.

      It is primarily aimed at people who have little or no prior experience with programming but recommended to all students.
      Best of all, it’s completely free to join!

    Software