The new program of ARC Academy Computer Science – training through video games

The new program of ARC Academy Computer Science was presented to students from over 25 specialized high schools in Bulgaria during a webinar.

The director of the program – Filip Yankov, a professional with over 15 years of experience in the field of technology, who worked for companies in Silicon Valley, the Netherlands, and Bulgaria, shared interesting facts about the game and IT industry in our country. He pointed out the extremely rapid development of technology, which demands programmers to adapt quickly and learn constantly.

The IT industry in Bulgaria employs over 46,000 people, and more than 1,300 of them work in the game industry. These professionals create world-class products and services, and their knowledge and skills must be competitive. This is the role of education. It should be aimed at acquiring basic knowledge of mathematics, algorithms, programming languages, operating networks, etc., on which to build.

Philip explained that computer science education is much more effective when it comes to video games. This method is set in the Computer Science program, which started at ARC Academy this autumn.

“Video games, as entertainment software, are the reason for a number of hardware innovations such as new consoles, more powerful video cards, etc. Using them to acquire basic knowledge in computer science is much more valuable than focusing only on theory.”

The program consists of two profiles – Game Development and Cloud Computing. It is unique for two reasons. The first is that the training is two years, unlike other universities, where it lasts 3 or 4 years. The second is that at the end of the program (fourth semester) the programmers, together with 2D and 3D artists and game designers, participate in the Game Lab and develop a video game.

The students showed serious interest in the program and asked a number of questions, including:

How to apply for the program?

The application consists of three stages – CV, solving a short practical task, and participation in three lectures. The lectures will be held twice – in June and September. They will give you the opportunity to get acquainted with the teaching process, and we can choose the candidates who have the necessary basic knowledge and motivation.

What skills do I need to enroll?

First of all, you should be interested – to have studied programming in school or to have tried to write programs, to deal with different software. A good understanding of mathematics and mathematical concepts that are learned in school are also needed.

Is there an age limit for applying?

No, the program is suitable for people of all ages. We also accept students from (grades 11-12), as long as they manage to cope with their commitments at school and at the ARC Academy.

Do you offer an opportunity for professional realization after the completion of the program?

The program is supported by many of the major IT companies in our country. The lecturers are practitioners from these companies. In the process of training, you will have the opportunity to get acquainted with their activities (we organize student visits), impress your lecturers and mentors and accordingly receive a job offer.

Learn more about the Computer Science program here