Program Details

Computer Science Technology

Diploma of College Studies (DCS)
Man with Headphones at Computer Desk

About the Program

Unsure about Java or C++? Learn to code game engines with LaSalle College Montréal's DCS in Computer Science Technology (Profile in Video Game Programming), developed with top gaming studios. Acquire industry-relevant knowledge to contribute to AAA games, join indie teams, create apps, or develop your own game.

Montréal, a hub for gaming, offers immersion in this industry.

Learning Outcomes

  • Develop proficiency in programming languages to create interactive gameplay experiences.
  • Acquire knowledge of mechanics to design and implement video game worlds.
  • Enhance problem-solving to address technical challenges and ensure smooth gameplay functionality.
  • Gain experience in game testing and quality assurance processes to identify and fix bugs.

Profile

Successful Video Game Programmers have a unique combination of skills, including:

  • Strong Programming Knowledge

    Possess a solid foundation in programming languages and algorithms to develop efficient video game systems.
  • Creativity

    Design innovative gameplay features, characters, and game mechanics.
  • Problem Solving

    Identify and resolve technical challenges, optimizing gameplay performance and functionality.
  • Collaboration

    Work effectively in teams and communicate ideas to create cohesive and immersive video game experiences.

Career Prospects

Montréal is a thriving video game industry hub with a pressing need for game programmers. Job Bank data shows high demand surpassing supply.

In fact, a very high demand in this field prompted Québec's "Opération main-d’œuvre" in 2021.

Career Fields

  • Video Game Developer (Game Designer, Application Quality Assurance, Engine Programmer (Unity and Unreal), C/C++/C#, Gameplay, Animation, Game Tester and 3D Designer);
  • Object-oriented Developer (Object-oriented Application Development (.Net, Java, C++) and Application Quality Assurance);
  • IT Professional (IT Advisor, User Interface Designer, Application Tester and IT Trainer).

Diploma & Accreditation

This Diploma of College Studies (DCS) is approved by the ministère de l'Enseignement supérieur of Québec and is internationally recognized.

Holders of a Diploma of College Studies (DCS) can pursue university studies or enter the workforce directly.

Required Materials

A laptop computer is mandatory for study in this program. This laptop must be equipped with the Windows operating system to work with all software.

Mentors may request other standard or student-licensed software mandatory for their courses to be installed.

Learn more about the benefits 

Minimum Requirements :

PC

  • Intel Core i7 processor or equivalent
  • 16 GB of RAM or more
  • 512 GB or larger SSD (Solid State Drive)
  • NVIDIA RTX GPU or an equivalent graphics card
  • Windows 11 (Home, Education, or Pro versions)

Mac

  • MacBook Air
  • M2
  • 8 GB Ram
  • 512 GB or larger SSD (Solid State Drive)

Recommended Requirements

PC

  • Intel Core i7 processor or equivalent
  • 32 GB of RAM or more
  • 1 TB or larger SSD (Solid State Drive)
  • NVIDIA  RTX 2050 (or superior) or AMD equivalent
  • Windows 11 (Home, Education, or Pro versions)

Mac

  • MacBook Pro
  • M2
  • 16 GB Ram
  • 1 TB or larger SSD (Solid State Drive)

You will need a USB-RJ45 adaptor if your laptop doesn't have a network jack.

Required software: Microsoft 365.

Gamers Engaged in a Video Game Session

Opportunities

Our unique approach incorporates real-world experience with classroom learning for a hands-on, practical education.

  • Collaborate with active industry professionals;
  • Sharpen skills in a practical setting;
  • Create a portfolio tailored to your career objectives;
  • Join our computer club to maintain connections with companies and to attend several events and workshops.

Accelerate your career!

Cutting-edge facilities & equipment

Experiment with industry-standard equipment, software, and technology in our advanced facilities, including:

Actively participate and collaborate with teachers using these specialized facilities, boosting your motivation and confidence.

Work Experience

Get sought-after practical experience with our Career Service and our Work-Study Program (WSP), which incorporates two paid internships into your program.

Our Computer Science Technology - Video Game Programming program also includes a 525-hour internship as part of the curriculum.

Admissions Criteria

Exceptions to these admission criteria may be applied.

Every application is reviewed by the College.

To be eligible for acceptance into this program, applicants are generally required to meet one of the following criteria:

  • Secondary School Diploma (DES) with completion of:

    • Mathematics TS, SN Secondary IV or CST 5 (Math 436).
  • Diploma of Vocational Studies (DVS) with completion of:

    • Language of Instruction from Secondary V,

    • Second Language from Secondary V,

    • Mathematics TS, SN Secondary IV or CST 5 (Math 436).

  • Equivalent education or an instruction deemed sufficient.

Academic Dates

LaSalle College has three annual start dates: fall, winter, and summer.

We accept applications at any time. Registration is open year-round.

Processing time:

  • Canadian applicants: up to two weeks,
  • International applicants: up to six months.

Submit your application as soon as possible to ensure a spot in your desired semester.

Note that applications are not processed until all required, validated documents and admission fees are received.

List of Courses

Diploma of College Studies (DCS) programs consist of:

  • General education courses common to all programs,
  • General education courses specific to the program,
  • Complementary general education courses.

Concentration Courses

  • Applied Mathematics (60 h)
  • Elements of Data processing for Video Game (75 h)
  • Structured Programming (90 h)
  • Profession and Industry (60 h)
  • Applied Mathematics for Video Game (60 h)
  • Object Oriented Programming and Concepts I (75 h)
  • Information System and Project Methodologie I (90 h)
  • Object Oriented Programming and Concepts II (75 h)
  • Game Engine I (75 h)
  • Databases (90 h)
  • Operating Systems (75 h)
  • Game Engine II (90 h)
  • Advanced Data Structure (75 h)
  • Applied Statistics for Video Game (60 h)
  • Game Engine III (90 h)
  • Internet Programming I (90 h)
  • Database Development (75 h)
  • Information System and Project Methodology II (75 h)
  • Graphical Environment (75 h)
  • Networks Elements (75 h)
  • Internship (525 h)

* The College reserves the right to substitute certain courses.


General Education Courses

College-level institutions emphasize general education that focuses on core cultural knowledge, skill development, responsible citizenship, and shared cultural heritage.

Alumni have a well-rounded skill set and general knowledge that is valued in the workplace.

  • 3 Physical Education courses (90 h)
  • 3 Humanities courses (150 h)
  • 4 Literature courses (240 h)
  • 2 Second Language courses (90 h)
  • 2 complementary courses (90 h)

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Open House | Salle Jean-Paul-Morin (2nd floor), LaSalle College

Open House

Discover why, every year, thousands of students choose LaSalle College to achieve their dreams.
  • November 2, 2024
  • 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM