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Im not a professional game programmer yet, but it is my goal as well. And Ive done ton's of reading on the industry.
1. Is a Bachelors degree in Computer Science all I should bother getting to pursue a position of game programmer?
Yeas, This is what most programmers in the Industry hold.
2. As stated previously it seems many game companies only hire programmers that have previous experience in the industry programming games. Is it very difficult to find entry-level game programming positions?
Arevos said it all.
3. Do game companies typically offer internships? If so, could you offer some examples?
Many game companies do offer internships but you need to have some sort of experience in game development even then. Basically you need something to show your skillset as well as interest in the industry. Look at EA's site, they have a link to their 'jobs' site and it has a list of internship options and qualifications to get them.
4. I've heard California is the best state for game programmers to look for a job, is this true?
The 3 main concentrations of game development companies seem to be in California, Toronto, and Japan. But there are many other companies scattered around the country.
5. Do most game companies require their programmers to have knowledge in multiple languages? Or are strong C++/Java skills sufficient?
C/C++ is for the most part industry standard, It might also be good to learn some scripting languages as well because most engines these days have their own embedded scripting languages. Learning and Understanding the inner workings of DirectX and Opengl is a large factor as well. Just learning how to just use them is always good, but understanding how they work and understanding the theory behind what they do will make everything easier for you. If your school offers a Graphics Theory course I highly suggest you take it.
6. Do you think it's unwise to set my goals exclusively on becoming a game programmer? Should I leave myself open to becoming a software programmer for a non-game company/the government and if so what additions should I make to my preparation?
I guess my opinion on this would be more from my bias then experience because thats what I am doing. But as Arevos said, you will always be able to find a job in the software development industry if it doesn't work out.
7. Can any professional game programmers give me any advice on how to maximize my success of becoming employed as a game programmer post-graduation?
As Arevos said, demo's of your skill set are the largest factor. Thats why Ive been working on as many different side projects I can. From a Level editor for the ogre engine to a 3d game engine of my own. During the late 90's, creating Mod's was a good way to gain a job in the industry as well. But that seems to be falling off as many companies are releasing relative easy to use Mod SDK's for their games which doesn't really show off your skills but the skills of the SDK developers.
9. With resumes, do you provide a demo disc with games/game related things you've created? Would you recommend I begin working seriously on some smaller games to show on a demo disc?
It doesn't always have to be just a game, but some aspect of Gaming and Simulation research as well.
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