Application Systems Programming

Course Overview

Application Systems Programming is the second course in the Unity Certified Programmer Specialization from Unity Technologies. This course is designed to help students prepare for the Unity Certified Programmer exam, the professional certification for entry to mid-level Unity programmers. Through this course, students will expand upon the development of a 2D action video game, AsteraX, by adding particles effects, implementing user customizations, managing user and application data, and optimizing for different platforms.

This course is intended for those who are ready for their first paying roles as Unity programmers, or enthusiasts who would like to verify their skills against a professional standard. To succeed, students should have at least 1-2 years of experience programming interactive applications in Unity, be proficient at programming in the C# language, and be familiar with Unity's scripting APIs. Additionally, students should understand multi-platform development, including deploying applications to XR (AR and VR) platforms.

[Applications]
Upon completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to apply their Application Systems Programming skills to real-world projects. They will be able to create and deploy interactive applications in Unity, using the C# language and Unity's scripting APIs. They will be able to manage user and application data, optimize for different platforms, and add particle effects. Additionally, they will be able to demonstrate their skills by taking the Unity Certified Programmer exam.

[Career Paths]
1. Unity Programmer: Unity Programmers are responsible for developing and maintaining applications using the Unity game engine. They create and optimize game objects, scripts, and user interfaces, and ensure that the game runs smoothly on multiple platforms. They also collaborate with other developers to ensure that the game meets the desired specifications. As the demand for Unity-based applications continues to grow, Unity Programmers are in high demand.

2. Game Designer: Game Designers are responsible for creating the overall vision for a game, including the game mechanics, storyline, and user experience. They work closely with the development team to ensure that the game meets the desired specifications. As the gaming industry continues to grow, Game Designers are in high demand.

3. Technical Artist: Technical Artists are responsible for creating the visual elements of a game, such as textures, lighting, and effects. They work closely with the development team to ensure that the game looks and feels the way it was intended. As the gaming industry continues to grow, Technical Artists are in high demand.

4. Quality Assurance Tester: Quality Assurance Testers are responsible for testing games to ensure that they meet the desired specifications. They work closely with the development team to identify and fix any bugs or issues that may arise. As the gaming industry continues to grow, Quality Assurance Testers are in high demand.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: This degree program provides students with a comprehensive understanding of computer science fundamentals, including programming, software engineering, and computer architecture. Students will learn how to design, develop, and maintain software applications, as well as how to use the latest technologies to create innovative solutions. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in game development, software engineering, or computer programming.

2. Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development: This degree program focuses on the design and development of video games, from concept to completion. Students will learn how to create engaging game experiences, develop game mechanics, and use the latest technologies to create immersive virtual worlds. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in game design, game programming, or game production.

3. Master of Science in Computer Science: This degree program provides students with an advanced understanding of computer science fundamentals, including programming, software engineering, and computer architecture. Students will learn how to design, develop, and maintain complex software applications, as well as how to use the latest technologies to create innovative solutions. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in game development, software engineering, or computer programming.

4. Master of Science in Game Design and Development: This degree program focuses on the design and development of video games, from concept to completion. Students will learn how to create engaging game experiences, develop game mechanics, and use the latest technologies to create immersive virtual worlds. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in game design, game programming, or game production.