Top 11 Game Programmer Certifications

Certifications for game programmers are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise in the field. They also show employers that the individual has taken the time and effort to learn and understand a particular programming language or technology, which can be beneficial when looking for jobs. Certifications can also give potential employers confidence that the applicant is up-to-date on industry standards and best practices, as well as being able to work with different hardware platforms. Finally, certifications can help provide an edge over other applicants when competing for positions.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the most beneficial certifications for game programmers, and how they can help advance a game programmer's career.

What are Game Programmer Certifications?

Game programmer certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in the area of game programming. This certification can be obtained from specialized organizations or through self-study. It is a great way for game programmers to demonstrate their skills and show potential employers that they are qualified for the job.

Having a game programmer certification can help individuals land jobs in the game programming field, as it provides employers with evidence of an individual’s technical knowledge and experience. It also helps individuals stand out from other applicants, as employers may view them as more qualified and experienced than those without such credentials. Additionally, having this certification can open up new career paths for individuals looking to advance their career in the gaming industry.

Game programmer certifications are also beneficial for those who are already working in the field, as they provide opportunities to stay abreast of current developments and best practices within the industry. This allows individuals to stay ahead of competition, increase their earning potential, and gain access to more job opportunities within the gaming industry.

If you are looking to become a certified game programmer, it is important to understand the fundamentals of programming and game design before taking the certification exam. Having a strong understanding of basic concepts such as algorithms, data structures, object-oriented programming, scripting languages, and graphics will help you better prepare for the exam. Additionally, it is beneficial to have experience in developing video games or other interactive media prior to taking the certification exam.

Related: What does a Game Programmer do?

Top 11 Game Programmer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Game Programmers today.

1. Unity Certified Programmer

Unity Certified Programmer is a certification program offered by Unity Technologies, the creators of the popular game engine Unity. The program provides an industry-recognized credential that validates a programmer’s ability to create interactive content with the Unity platform. It tests a candidate’s knowledge and skills in areas such as C# scripting, game design principles, and performance optimization.

The certification process takes approximately three hours to complete and consists of two parts: an online assessment and a hands-on project. The online assessment consists of multiple-choice questions about game development concepts and best practices. The hands-on project involves creating a 3D game using the Unity engine.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam through the Unity Certification website. Once registered, you will be able to access study materials and practice tests to prepare for the exam. After passing both parts of the exam, you will receive your official certification from Unity Technologies.

The cost of becoming a Unity Certified Programmer depends on where you take the exam; it can range from $100-$200 USD per attempt.

2. Unreal Engine Certification

Unreal Engine Certification is a program created by Epic Games that allows users to demonstrate their proficiency in the Unreal Engine. It is designed to help developers build a portfolio of skills and knowledge in the engine, while also providing employers with a way to identify qualified candidates for Unreal Engine-related positions.

The certification consists of two exams: the Unreal Fundamentals exam and the Unreal Certified Developer exam. The Fundamentals exam covers basic concepts such as game design, 3D modeling, animation, lighting, materials, and more. The Certified Developer exam covers more advanced topics such as scripting, networking, physics, AI, and optimization. Both exams are taken online using Epic's proprietary testing platform.

The length of time required to complete the certification process depends on how quickly you can study and prepare for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months depending on your level of experience and dedication.

To get started with Unreal Engine Certification you will need to create an account at https://www.unrealengine.com/certification/. Once your account is created you will have access to all of the course materials needed to prepare for both exams. You will also be able to register for each exam once you are ready.

The cost of the certification depends on which version of the engine you are using (free or paid). For those using the free version of the engine there is no cost associated with taking either exam; however if you are using a paid version then there is an additional fee associated with taking each exam ($99 USD per exam).

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) for Games

Microsoft Certified Solutions Developer (MCSD) for Games is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of game developers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s ability to design, develop, and deploy games using Microsoft technologies. The MCSD for Games certification requires passing two exams: Exam 70-487: Developing Windows Azure and Web Services and Exam 70-480: Programming in HTML5 with JavaScript and CSS3.

The MCSD for Games certification typically takes about three months to complete, depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must first register for the Microsoft Certification Program by creating an account on the Microsoft Learning website. Candidates must then purchase vouchers to take both exams, which cost $150 each. Once they have passed both exams, they will receive their official MCSD for Games certification.

The total cost of obtaining the MCSD for Games certification is approximately $300 USD.

4. Amazon Lumberyard Game Developer Certification

Amazon Lumberyard Game Developer Certification is a certification program designed to help game developers gain the skills and knowledge they need to create high-quality games using Amazon Lumberyard. It covers topics such as game development, game design, scripting, and optimization. The certification is available in two levels - Professional and Expert.

To get the Professional level certification, you must complete the online coursework, take a final exam, and submit a portfolio of your work for review. The coursework can be completed in about 2-3 months if you are able to devote enough time to it. The cost of the Professional level certification is $99 USD.

To get the Expert level certification, you must have already achieved the Professional level certification, take an additional advanced coursework module, pass an interview with an Amazon Lumberyard expert, and submit a portfolio of your work for review. This process can take up to 6 months depending on how much time you are able to devote to it. The cost of the Expert level certification is $499 USD.

5. Autodesk Maya Certified Professional

Autodesk Maya Certified Professional (MCP) is an industry certification for professionals who have mastered the skills required to use Autodesk Maya for 3D animation and visual effects. The certification demonstrates proficiency in the software and provides a competitive edge in the job market.

It takes approximately 6-9 months to become an MCP, depending on your prior experience with the software. To get certified, you must first pass two exams: Autodesk Maya Fundamentals and Autodesk Maya Advanced. These exams are available online through Autodesk’s website.

The cost of becoming an MCP depends on which exam package you choose. The basic package costs $150 USD, while the premium package costs $400 USD. The premium package includes both exams plus additional resources such as practice tests and study guides.

Once you’ve passed both exams, you will receive your official MCP certificate from Autodesk, verifying your expertise in using Autodesk Maya for 3D animation and visual effects.

6. International Game Developers Association (IGDA) Certification Program

The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) Certification Program is a professional certification program that recognizes the skills and knowledge of game developers. The program is designed to help game developers demonstrate their expertise in the industry, as well as provide employers with an objective measure of a developer’s skills and abilities.

The IGDA Certification Program consists of two levels: Certified Professional Game Developer (CPGD) and Certified Expert Game Developer (CEGD). To become certified, applicants must pass an online test based on the IGDA’s core competencies for game development. The test covers topics such as game design, programming, art, audio, production, marketing and business.

It typically takes about 2-4 hours to complete the test. After passing the test, applicants must submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in the field. Once approved by the IGDA board of directors, applicants will receive their certification.

The cost for the program varies depending on whether you are an individual or part of an organization. For individuals it costs $99 USD per level while organizations pay $499 USD per level.

7. Apple iOS Developer Certification

Apple iOS Developer Certification is a certification program developed by Apple Inc. to help developers create, test, and deploy applications for the iOS platform. The program consists of a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as programming in Objective-C, developing user interfaces with Cocoa Touch, and deploying applications using Xcode.

The program takes an estimated 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual’s experience level. To get started, developers must first enroll in the Apple Developer Program which costs $99 per year. This will give them access to the resources needed to begin learning about iOS development and taking the certification exams.

Once enrolled in the program, developers can take advantage of Apple's online resources such as tutorials, sample code, and technical documentation. They can also join developer forums to ask questions and receive feedback from other experienced iOS developers.

After completing all of the necessary courses and exams, developers will be able to demonstrate their knowledge of iOS development through the Apple Developer Certification exam. This exam costs $150 USD and covers topics such as debugging code with Xcode, creating user interfaces with UIKit, developing data models with Core Data, and more. Passing this exam will earn developers an official Apple Developer Certificate which is recognized worldwide as a mark of excellence in mobile application development.

8. Google Android Developer Certification

Google Android Developer Certification is a program designed to help developers gain the skills and knowledge needed to develop high-quality apps for the Android platform. It is an optional certification that can be obtained through Google's online learning platform, Udacity.

The certification consists of two courses: Developing Android Apps and Advanced Android App Development. The first course focuses on building basic apps while the second course covers more advanced topics such as material design, testing, and performance optimization. Each course takes approximately 10 weeks to complete, with students expected to spend around 8 hours per week on their studies.

In order to get certified, students must pass a series of quizzes and projects throughout each course. Once all requirements are met, students will receive their official Google Android Developer Certification badge from Udacity.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on which payment plan you choose. The most popular plan is the “pay-as-you-go” option which costs $199 per month for both courses combined. There are also other options available such as a one-time payment of $999 or a 6-month subscription for $999 (which includes access to both courses).

9. Adobe Flash Professional Certification

Adobe Flash Professional Certification is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a professional’s expertise in creating interactive content with Adobe Flash Professional. It is designed to validate a candidate’s knowledge and skills in developing rich, engaging experiences for the web, mobile devices, and other digital platforms.

The certification exam covers topics such as creating motion graphics, working with symbols and components, using ActionScript 3.0 to create interactivity, and publishing projects for delivery on the web or mobile devices. The exam also measures a candidate’s ability to use Adobe Flash Professional tools efficiently.

The certification exam takes about two hours to complete and can be taken at any authorized testing center around the world. The cost of the exam varies by region but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

To become certified, candidates must pass the Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) Exam for Adobe Flash Professional CS6 or higher. This requires studying for the exam by reviewing course materials available online or through self-study guides provided by Adobe. Candidates can also take an instructor-led training class at an authorized training center to prepare for the exam.

10. Crytek 3D Programming Certificate

The Crytek 3D Programming Certificate is a certification program offered by Crytek, a leading game engine developer. It is designed to give aspiring game developers the skills and knowledge necessary for creating 3D games using the CryEngine software. The certificate program consists of two courses: Introduction to 3D Programming and Advanced 3D Programming. The courses are self-paced and can be completed in as little as three months.

To get the certificate, students must complete both courses with a passing grade of 70% or higher. The cost of the program is $499 USD, which includes access to both courses and all course materials. Upon successful completion of both courses, students will receive an official certificate from Crytek that can be used to demonstrate their expertise in 3D programming using the CryEngine software.

11. Sony PlayStation Mobile Developer Certification

Sony PlayStation Mobile Developer Certification is a program designed to help developers create and publish content for the Sony PlayStation Vita, PlayStation TV, and other Sony mobile devices. It requires developers to pass an online certification exam and submit their content for review. The certification process takes approximately two weeks to complete.

To get certified, developers must first register with Sony's PlayStation Mobile Developer Program. This registration process includes providing personal information, such as name and address, as well as payment information for the certification fee. Once registered, developers can access the online certification exam which consists of multiple-choice questions about the development tools and processes used in creating content for Sony's mobile platforms. After passing the exam, developers must submit their content for review by Sony's internal team of experts.

The cost of the Sony PlayStation Mobile Developer Certification is currently $99 USD per developer per year.

Do You Really Need a Game Programmer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a game programmer certificate in order to become a game programmer. While having a certificate can be beneficial, and may even give you an edge over other applicants when applying for a job, it is ultimately not necessary.

Game programming is a skill that can be learned on the job or with self-study, and there are many successful game programmers who have never taken any formal courses or obtained certificates. However, if you are just starting out in the industry and don’t have much experience, then having a certificate may help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your knowledge of the subject matter.

In addition to providing evidence of your skillset, obtaining a certificate can also be beneficial because it will provide you with direct access to experienced professionals in the field who can offer advice and mentorship. This type of support can often make all the difference in helping someone get started in their career. Furthermore, certain courses or training programs may also provide additional resources such as project templates or practice code which can be incredibly useful for newcomers to game programming.

At the end of the day, whether or not you choose to pursue a game programmer certificate is entirely up to you. If it’s something that interests you, then go for it! But if it doesn’t seem like something that would benefit your career at this time, then don’t feel obligated to pursue one.

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FAQs About Game Programmer Certifications

FAQ 1: What is a game programmer certification?

Answer: A game programmer certification is a qualification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and proficiency in programming for gaming applications. It is awarded after the successful completion of a specialized course or program, usually through an accredited institution.

FAQ 2: How long does it take to get certified as a game programmer?

Answer: The time it takes to get certified as a game programmer depends on the type of certification you are pursuing, as well as the amount of time you have available to dedicate to studying and completing the required coursework. Generally speaking, most certifications can be obtained within 6-12 months.

FAQ 3: What skills do I need to become a certified game programmer?

Answer: In order to become a certified game programmer, you must possess strong programming skills in languages such as C++, Java, and Python. Additionally, knowledge of computer graphics and experience with gaming engines like Unity and Unreal Engine are also beneficial.

FAQ 4: Are there any prerequisites for getting certified?

Answer: Most programs do not have any prerequisites for getting certified in game programming; however some may require prior knowledge or experience in coding or computer science. It is best to check with the specific program you are interested in to find out what their requirements are.

FAQ 5: Is there an exam required for certification?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require candidates to pass an exam in order to obtain their credential. The format of these exams will vary depending on the program and can include both written and practical components.