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Speedrun to success: level up your skills and race ahead 

Are you ready to accelerate your success in the gaming industry? Advance your way to the top by quickly mastering the skills you need. Think of it as your best speedrun as you gain essential XP, or experience, to create visually stunning and interactive 3D graphics for your intended audience. Whether you're a game developer or a digital media specialist, our program will help you quickly level up and stay ahead of the competition.

Start your quest with us today and set a new high score with your professional goals.

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Program description

This program will provide you with the in-demand skills needed to thrive in the digital media and gaming industry in BC. Build on your existing understanding of computer science and gain the fundamental skill set required to develop and manipulate advanced, interactive 3D images. Specifically, the program will augment your understanding of the field with specific skills used across the creative technology sector, such as video game design and development, the mathematics behind graphics and animation, and collaborative development tools.

The program will cover four key competencies:

  • familiarity with the principles and core concepts of computer graphics, such as vectors and transformations, parametric and implicit representations (line and circles), and rasterization
  • fundamental skill set in 3D computer graphics including graphics primitives, data structures, coordinate systems, viewing of graphical objects and modelling
  • ability to use relevant software tools, such as Unity, to generate and render interactive computer graphics
  • design and implementation of interactive game mechanics in 3D virtual worlds

The UVic Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science, in partnership with DigiBC—the creative technology industry association of British Columbia—is pleased to offer this Micro-certificate in 3D Graphics and Rendering Essentials for Video Games.

Program highlight


Credibility
The University of Victoria is one of Canada's leading universities, recognized for preparing students for careers in a wide range of disciplines. Upon successful completion of this program you will receive a Micro-certificate.

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Subsidized Costs
BC residents are eligible to receive a 90 percent tuition reduction from the government of British Columbia.

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Experiential Learning
This program allows you to integrate theory with practice by engaging with your instructors and fellow classmates. You will be given the opportunity to complete either a hands-on practicum or individual final project.

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Teaching Talent
Our instructors are industry professionals with years of experience. They’re dedicated to helping you develop the knowledge and skills to realize your full potential.

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Networking Opportunities
Collaborate with, learn from and find support in a network of professional colleagues who are as passionate about adult education and lifelong learning as you are.

Program outcomes

After completing the Micro-certificate in 3D Graphics and Rendering Essentials for Video Games, you will be able to:

  • speak about 3D game development and its many aspects competently
  • use the Unity 3D interface including functionalities which extend Unity beyond the scope of the course
  • understand the core concepts of the game development process
  • confidently make a Unity game and speak about its design and the several dimensions related to game development including:
    • environment design
    • mechanics design
    • lighting and rendering
    • animation and character design
    • special effects
    • sound and sound design

Who is this program for?

This program will appeal to professionals who are interested in acquiring in-demand skills in game development and interactive 3D graphics outside of video gaming, including immersive visualization, computational simulation, design and extended realities (e.g., virtual reality, augmented reality and mixed reality).

If you see yourself reflected in any of the following, this program could be a good match:

  • you desire to advance your career in the digital media and gaming industry
  • you are passionate about creating interactive and visually appealing 3D graphics
  • you want to stay relevant with new skills to enhance your programming, computer science and engineering base skills
  • you aspire to work on innovative projects and be part of a creative community
  • you value innovation, collaboration and teamwork in a dynamic environment
  • you enjoy lifelong learning, continuous improvement and gaining practical, hands-on experience with advanced software tools
  • you want to achieve proficiency with industry-standard software, 3D computer graphics and processing skills
  • you aim to build a strong portfolio to showcase your skills to potential employers or secure a position leading a game development company or digital media firm
  • you regularly engage with online gaming and digital media communities
  • you want to balance professional development with current job or school responsibilities

Career options

Some of our learners pursue careers in the following roles:
  1. Game Developer
  2. Game Designer
  3. UI/UX Designer
  4. Technical Artist
  5. Game Artist
  6. VR/AR Developer
  7. Digital Media Specialist

Instructors

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Application and fees

The program consists of an instructional part (week 1) and a practice/project part (week 2/3). To earn the certificate, you must fully participate in both weeks, which culminates in the deliverable of a game project presentation.

A limited number of BC students will receive a 90 percent tuition subsidy.

How to apply

There is no application necessary for this program. Simply register for the one course below, and upon successful completion, you will receive a micro-certificate.

Registration details

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Having trouble registering online? Register by phone: 250-472-4747

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Info you should know:

Continuing Studies statement on use of educational technology

This course will require the use of Zoom and may use other education technology such as internet-based applications, cloud services, or social media. In order to complete this course you will be required to either consent to the disclosure of your personal information outside of Canada to enable use of these technologies, or work with the Division of Continuing Studies to explore other privacy protective options (such as using an alias or nickname).