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Game Programming, Bootcamp – Online

Program Overview

Prepare for a career in gaming with a 48-week, beginner-friendly program that takes you from coding novice to professional game programmer. Learn C++ and Unreal Engine in small, expert-led online classes and graduate with a portfolio-ready game.

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Game Programming Bootcamp at a Glance

delivery
Online
Duration
48 Weeks
Start Date
First Monday of each month
Curriculum
Boot Camp Program Pathway
Game Programming Essentials

Essentials: C++ Programming Foundations – 12 weeks

Learn to write real C++ code, apply key programming concepts, and build your first basic game.

Topics:

  • Variables
  • Conditionals
  • Loops
  • Functions
  • Classes
  • Pointers
  • Inheritance
  • Templates
  • Game Loop
Game Programming Foundations I

Foundations I: Core Programming in Unreal Engine – 12 Weeks

Work with Unreal Engine and C++ to build levels, use Blueprints, and integrate game logic.

Topics:

  • Unreal Editor
  • Game Mechanics
  • Blueprints
  • UI/UX
  • Audio
  • Animation
  • Level Design
Game Programming Foundations II

Foundations II: Advanced Unreal Development – 12 Weeks

Implement animation systems, serialization, AI, and networking to build a polished, playable game.

Topics:

  • Sequencer
  • AI Behavior Trees
  • Memory Mgmt
  • Networking
  • Debugging
  • Optimization
Capstone

Capstone: Game Programming Portfolio & Career Prep – 12 Weeks

Polish your final project, upgrade your resume, and prepare for real-world opportunities.

Topics:

  • Branding
  • Portfolio
  • Interviews
  • Contracts
  • Freelancing
  • Personal Roadblocks
Career Services and Outcomes

Game programmers convert creative ideas into functional code. You’ll learn to design, build, and troubleshoot games for desktop, mobile, and VR platforms. All bootcamp and capstone programs include full career support including:

Possible Careers

Game Engineer: Collaborate on large-scale game projects and development pipelines (Average salary: $141,941).

Game Programmer: Write game systems code, troubleshoot logic, and implement gameplay mechanics (Average salary: $92,636).

Tuition

Upfront: $14,900 – One-time payment

Financed Tuition: $16,500 – As low as $358/month (based on credit)

Why Join The UNC Charlotte Bootcamp in Game Programming?

The UNC Charlotte Bootcamp Difference 

Benefits of UNC Charlotte Bootcamps

Enjoy small class sizes with a maximum of five students, weekly calls with your mentor, and detailed video critiques to guide your progress. You’ll be part of a supportive and active community of peers, alumni, and mentors. With flexible schedules and 100% online learning, you can study from anywhere, at your own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Course Information & Outlook

What is Game Programming?

Game programming is the technical backbone of video game development. It involves writing the code that brings a game’s mechanics, systems, and visuals to life. Programming expertise is critical for turning creative ideas into playable, engaging, and successful games.

What is the difference between Game Design and Game Programming?

The key difference between game designers and programmers is their focus: designers handle the creative aspects, while programmers tackle the technical side by writing code. Both are vital to game development, with distinct roles that occasionally overlap but remain fundamentally different disciplines.

Game Design Bootcamp
What Game Programming skills will I learn?

You’ll learn to deconstruct games, become fluent in Unreal Engine, and create fully playable games to help prepare you for the video game industry.

What types of jobs can the UNC Charlotte Game Programming program prepare me for?

This bootcamp will give you an excellent understanding of game programming fundamentals. Depending on your level of commitment, skills, and portfolio pieces, you may be ready to start applying for entry-level programming positions. As you grow in the field, you can prepare for jobs such as game programmer, AI programmer, and gameplay engineer.

Is this program fully online?

Yes! Enjoy flexibility with live virtual classes, interactive projects, and expert-led sessions.

Do I earn a certificate with the UNC Charlotte Game Programming Bootcamp?

Yes! Receive a completion certificate and a Credly digital badge from UNC Charlotte School of Professional Studies.

Can I skip the Essentials course and go directly to the Foundations course?

Only with proof of prior knowledge. We recommend starting at the beginning unless you’re confident in core game programming concepts. Contact our enrollment team for more information.

FAQ

Requirements

Do I need a college degree to enroll?

All you need is a high school diploma or GED. Our programs are built for learners from all backgrounds and no college degree is required.

Do I need experience to join the UNC Charlotte Game Programming Bootcamp and start with the Essentials course?

No prior experience is needed for the Essentials course. Designed for complete beginners.

FAQ

Payment & Financial Support

Can I use military benefits?

Our programs don’t currently accept military benefits like the GI Bill directly from students. However, in rare cases, benefits arranged to pay the school directly may be an option. Contact us to explore what’s possible.

Can I use FAFSA or financial aid?

Our programs don’t accept FAFSA or traditional financial aid, but don’t worry—we offer flexible payment options, including:

  • Loans for full-time students
  • Interest-free installment plans
  • Upfront payment options

Want to learn more? Just reach out—we’re here to help you find the best fit for your budget.

This program is powered by Flatiron School, a leader in the bootcamp industry, providing market-driven education to help people change their lives.