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Programs

Serious Games – Design and Development

SGGCSchool of Creative Industries

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Two students in lab coats use virtual reality equipment in a laboratory; one wears a VR headset and holds controllers, while the other looks at a laptop displaying serious games software for research and development.

Key Details

Program Start Dates

September 2026

Please visit Ontario College Application Service to learn more about start dates.

Program Delivery

Virtual / Campus / Full-time

PGWP Eligible

Yes

(CIP code: 11.0804)

Learn more about Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility.

Credential

Ontario College Graduate Certificate

Program Duration

2 Semesters / 1 Year

Campus

Barry Downe

Program Contacts

Dr. Aaron Langille
Dr. Aaron Langille

Program Coordinator / Professor

Send email
705-566-8101 ext.6318
International Admissions
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Program Overview

A student wearing a virtual reality headset smiles while using a steering wheel controller in a gaming setup with colorful lighting, showcasing the design and development of serious games.

Design games that teach, train, and transform

Serious games are designed for purposes beyond entertainment. They use game engines to build engaging experiences, motivate learners through gamification, and use extended reality technologies to create innovative solutions for workforce training across all industries.

In this one-year program, which is the first of its kind in Ontario, you’ll discover how video game design techniques and technologies are transforming the ways in which we learn, do business, and drive industry. As a grad you’ll be prepared to work as part of a team in many industries including mining, construction, health, education, research, and more as a serious game or game design specialist.

Already a programmer or game designer/developer? This program will allow you to specialize in the growing games sector, expand your skillsets beyond entertainment-focused applications, and increase your career options.

Program Highlights

Program highlights

  • First program of its kind at a college in Ontario
  • Flex delivery lets you participate in scheduled, instructor-led classes at specific dates and times in person or online
  • Hands-on applied learning will make you career-ready​
  • You’ll work on an applied project for the length of the program, graduating with a portfolio-ready piece that shows your skills and creativity
  • Opportunities to work with real clients and members of Cambrian’s Research and Development teams on industry applications and corporate training needs

Admissions

Admission requirements

Applicants must be graduates of an Ontario College (or equivalent) diploma, advanced diploma, or degree in one of the following areas: computing, IT, game design or development, or computer science. ​

OR

Applicant must possess five years of work experience in a related field (or combination of education and work experience) as judged by the College to be equivalent. Applicants must submit a resume detailing their related experience and a cover letter outlining their competencies and preparedness for the program.

International Student Admissions

Are you an international student? Learn more about additional requirements.

Learn more
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Academic Upgrading

Are you missing admission requirements? Strengthen your academic skills for free at your own pace through Academic Upgrading!

Program delivery

Program delivery

2026-2027

Fall term start

  • Semester 1: Fall 2026
  • Semester 2: Winter 2027

Program of Study

Program of study for the 2026-27 Academic Year

Plan of Study Grid
Semester 1Credits
GME 2001Serious Game Design Theory3
GME 2002Advanced Game Engine Dev4
GME 2003Game Programming Patterns3
GME 2004XR Tech for Serious Games4
GME 2005Asset Integration3
GME 2006Serious Games Capstone I3
 Credits20
Semester 2
GME 2007Game Design Project Management3
GME 2008Serious Game Testing3
GME 2009Learning with Games3
GME 2010Ethical Issues in Game Design3
GME 2011Applied Simulation Design3
GME 2012Serious Games Capstone II6
 Credits21
 Total Credits41

Fees

Tuition Cost

Canadian Students

$10,999.97Estimated first year costView fee breakdown

International Students

$19,228.09Estimated first year costView fee breakdown

Important Notice

Fees presented are estimates based on projections for future academic year(s) of study. Actual fees charged may differ from what is published here. A full detailed listing of all fees is available in myCambrian and updated annually no later than May 1 for the following academic year. Students in Academic Upgrading are responsible for any fees listed on their invoice each term.

Tuition and ancillary fees

Please see our fees page for the breakdown of tuition and mandatory ancillary fees by program and semester for both domestic and international students.

Books and supplies

Books and supplies may be required at the course level over and above what is estimated above. Please consult your professor/instructor and course outlines for further information.

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College may be more affordable than you think!

Have you said, “school can wait another year”? Don’t sacrifice your future any longer – you can do it!

Whether it’s fear, financial reasons, or something else that is impacting your decision to start school, we’re here to listen to you and help in any way we can!

Work-integrated learning (WIL)

Take your education beyond the classroom!

Cambrian programs blend academic learning, hands-on training, and community involvement opportunities to help you achieve your ultimate goal – your dream career. You’ll have the opportunity to apply your knowledge to real-world scenarios within and outside of the classroom through work-integrated learning. Whether it be a capstone project, co-op, practicum, preceptorship component, or placement, you’ll benefit from a practical, job-related experience before you graduate.

Field of Study

School of Creative Industries

Looking to further your craft and pursue a career where your creativity can lead to a fulfilling career? At Cambrian, a program in Creative Industries allows you to tap into your talents and develop skills that can allow you to pursue that ideal job. You’ll learn from industry professionals who have been able to create and succeed in the modern workplace.

Learn more

Specific program pathways

College/university degree opportunities

Graduates from this program may continue their studies at college/university and may receive credit for their prior College education.

Refer to College/University Agreements for further information.

Career Outcomes

Employment opportunities

Graduates will be prepared for a variety of roles in the serious games field, including but not limited to:

  • Software developer/programmer
  • Game designer 
  • Serious game designer
  • AR/VR developer
  • Engagement specialist
  • Simulation developer
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Need a career coach?

Explore how this program can lead to a great career! Cambrian’s Career Coach platform is a user-friendly, online tool that provides up-to-date and comprehensive labour market data to help you explore career options, salary expectations for the Greater Sudbury region, and more!

See where you'll be learning!

Minimum technology requirements

Success in this program requires that you come equipped with some program-specific technology requirements.

Bring your own device (BYOD)

Cambrian College has implemented a BYOD principle to both enrich the student learning experience in and out of the classroom and to ensure flexibility!

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Ready to take the first step?

Start gaining the highest level of skills at Cambrian now – and you’ll be ready to take advantage of the many career opportunities waiting for you just around the corner. The future is yours!

Have Questions?
We are here to help.

If you have any questions about programs, funding, OSAP, deadlines, student services, or anything else, reach out to our support team and we are happy to help!

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