Global Game Jam Vancouver, the world’s largest video game hackathon, returns to Douglas College’s New Westminster Campus from January 30 to February 1, 2026, for its second year. This 48-hour event expects ~200 participants from over 100 countries, including programmers, artists, and designers, to prototype playable games using tools like Unreal Engine—sponsored by Epic Games and aligned with globalgamejam.org.

Douglas College’s Computing Science Diploma (Game Development Stream): Bridging Classroom to Industry with PGWP Eligibility

The event spotlights Douglas College’s Computing Science Diploma (Game Development stream), a two-year program (60 credits) that prepares students for careers in game creation. Students build skills in programming (Python, C++), game engines, computer graphics, VR development, and team-based projects through courses like CMPT 1267 (Computer Game Development I) and CMPT 2167 (Computer Game Development II). This hands-on training directly supports participation in high-pressure events like GGJ, fostering technical expertise, collaboration, and portfolio-building.

As a PGWP-eligible program (CIP code in computing fields, per Douglas College’s eligibility reference and IRCC guidelines), graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit—typically up to 3 years for 2-year diplomas—allowing international students to gain Canadian work experience in game development or tech sectors post-graduation.

Dean Dr. Brian Chapell notes it highlights the program’s strength, while instructor Dr. Shahriar Khosravi emphasizes real-world team skills gained.