Game Programming

September 2022 / Online / Applications Closed

  • This is an intensive, free to access full-time two-week online learning programme designed to equip you with the basic knowledge you need to program games in C++, the programming language used in the Unreal game engine. You’ll learn from top university lecturers, collaborate with others in your cohort and be introduced to major UK game studios.

  • The course is open to anyone who is 18 years or older and is living in the UK. This programme is designed for those interested in making game programming their future career.

    You should enjoy solving logic problems and not be deterred by some advanced maths. If you have experimented with other coding languages, that is a bonus, but not a requirement.

    We will prioritise those who may have faced barriers to entering the games industry, particularly those from underrepresented gender or ethnic groups, neurodivergent or disabled individuals, and those from working-class backgrounds.

    You should not have completed a substantial university-level games programming course or module. in C++ for Unreal.

  • 29th August-9th September (Monday-Friday, 8-6 with a 1 hour break)

    FastTrackers will equip you with the basics to start a learning journey in C++ based game programming. The training will cover:

    • Hands on sessions in C++

    • Working in Virtual Environments

    • Building a 2D game from scratch

    • Exploring Unreal as a tool

    • Networking with industry

    • Direct introductions to UK Game Programmers

    • Access to Game Programmer apprenticeship interviews

    You will learn:

    • What being a Programmer for games takes

    • How to develop a Games CV & Portfolio

    • How to identify your strengths and values

    • How to work individually and in a team

    • Understanding of the different fields in game development

    If you are eligible for a game programmer apprenticeship, we will try to matchmake you with potential employers who can interview you for a real-world apprenticeship position, subject to availability.

Practical

FastTrackers programmes are hands-on, interactive, and will have you working and collaborating quickly. Just like the games industry, FastTrackers is all about working together on interesting, practical projects.

Industry-led

FastTrackers has been designed by industry professionals, for the UK games industry. Our programmes teach you all you need to know to work in a UK studio and will have you learning alongside experts in their fields.

Inspiring

FastTrackers candidates receive training to solidify their skills in a new field. This way, they can explore if this is the right career path for them.

 

FAQs

  • FastTrackers is a completely free programme for all participants.

  • The Game Programmer FastTrackers sessions will take place from 29th of August to 9th of September, Monday-Friday.

    All sessions are conducted online.

    The daily schedule is:

    8-9: Coffee Mornings (Discord)

    9-1: Morning Sessions (Learning Platform)

    1-2: Lunch Break

    2-5: Afternoon Sessions (Learning Platform)

    5-6: Panels & Discussions (Discord)

  • To qualify for this programme you must be 18 years or older and live in the UK.

    You should feel comfortable working with advanced maths. A good indicator is having advanced GCSE grades (A-C/9-6) in maths. If you’re not from the UK school system, linear equations & algebra should be familiar to you.

    There are no other qualification requirements for FastTrackers.

    You are eligible to apply if you are a university graduate, but FastTrackers “must present significant new learning” than your degree. If you have a games programming degree or have completed a games programming module for example, you are not eligible for FastTrackers.

  • No. But all FastTrackers participants will receive access to industry contacts and support in their next steps into work.

    Those who display particular talent will be supported with interviews for game programmer apprenticeship positions.

  • A laptop or computer what meets the minimum requirements for Visual Studio, as well as a stable internet connection.

  • Companies taking part in FastTrackers will be updated over time on the FastTrackers website, but previous partners have included Playstation, EA, Codemasters and Creative Assembly.

  • Please read this page carefully, but if you have any further questions, please reach out to us via the contact page and we will happily clarify anything for you.

  • We are hoping we can run similar courses again. If you can’t attend this time, but would like to be alerted about future cohorts, you can register your interest.

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