Computer game play has emerged as the most popular form of entertainment in our culture and exhibits great promise as a tool for education, science, and industry. Leveraging the strengths of the Interactive Arts and Media Department, the interdisciplinary nature of the faculty, and partnerships with other departments, the Game Design major is designed to educate students for careers in the exciting and fast-growing field of game design and production.

The Game Design major in Interactive Arts and Media provides contextual understanding and competence in this distinctive discipline. Our students develop an understanding of the aesthetics, theory, and culture of games that informs their work and encourages originality in content. Game Design majors learn how to develop games in a strong and collaborative production environment in which teams work together effectively to create games.

Students in the Game Design major complete the Interactive Arts and Media core before enrolling in Game Design courses that accentuate the cultural aspects of game design, game design theory, and concept development. Students then select one of four concentrations in Animation, Game Development, Programming, or Sound, providing the depth of specialization that the game industry demands.

A distinctive component of the Game Design curriculum is the senior capstone course. As students study in their chosen specializations, they are expected not only to accumulate knowledge and skills but also to accumulate original content in order to complete their final capstone experience. The capstone course brings together teams of student specialists in the framework of an advanced production class, where they learn effective team-building strategies and the creation of shared visions, culminating in the production of a working game.

As the field continues to grow and expand, Game Design graduates will find increasing opportunities in entertainment, education, and creative industries.

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