Associate in Science Degree
The Video Game Development and Design Technology has two tracks: Game Development and Simulation Programming and Video Game Design.
Game Development and Simulation Programming
The associate degree program in Game Development and Simulation Programming Technology will prepare students for entry-level careers in game programming, simulation programming, and software engineering as well as for entry-level positions in a variety of digital, desktop production environments.
Through a combination of theoretical and hands-on state-of-the-art laboratory experiences, small class sizes led by experienced instructors, the program emphasizes application of knowledge to the design and development of games and simulations in order to prepare students for the exciting field of game development as well as for the simulation industry.
Students will learn how to design games, will be introduced to the game development process, will hone people skills and communications skills through team-based projects and presentations, will master coding languages such as C++, and will learn the use of industry-standard software packages. An important component of the curriculum is building a portfolio that will include the 2D games developed by students. Graduates from this program will be eligible for entry-level positions such as junior game designer, quality assurance engineer, and junior programmer. This program also prepares students to further their education at the bachelor’s level.
Video Game Design
The associate degree program in Video Game Design Technology will prepare students for entry-level careers in game design, animation and visualization as well as for entry-level positions in a variety of digital media production environments.
Through a combination of theoretical and hands-on state-of-the-art laboratory experiences, small class sizes led by experienced instructors, the program emphasizes application of knowledge to the design and development of games and simulations in order to prepare students for the exciting fields of the electronic entertainment and simulation industries.
Students will learn how to design games, will be introduced to the game development process, will hone people skills and communications skills through team-based projects and presentations, will master 2D and 3D animation concepts, and will learn the use of industry-standard software packages. An important component of the curriculum is building a portfolio that will include game assets developed by students. Graduates from this program will be eligible for entry-level positions such as junior game designer, technical artist, level designer, and visual effects animator. This program also prepares students to further their education at the bachelor’s level.
Program Mission, Goals and Outcomes
Program Mission:
The mission of the Video Game Design Technology Associate’s Degree (GDSP AS) Program is to provide introductory preparation for students to become professional game designers working in the game industry and to prepare students for further education at the bachelor’s level.
Through a combination of theoretical and hands-on state-of-the-art laboratory experiences, and small class sizes led by experienced instructors, the program emphasizes the application of knowledge to the design and development of games.
Program Goals
1. Provide the opportunities for students to learn the programming languages used for web, procedural, and basic object-oriented programming.
2. Provide the opportunities for students to learn design and project planning through storyboarding and documentation.
3. Provide the opportunities for students to learn the creation of 2D and 3D multimedia graphics animations and simulations.
4. Provide the opportunities for students to learn game design and publication including interactive gameplay, game balance, team development, and project management for several game genres.
5. Provide the opportunities for students to learn and understand the main components of a game engine and utilize popular commercial game engines.
6. Provide the opportunities for students to learn how to create and execute narrative, interpretive, interactive compositions and animations.
7. Provide the opportunities for students to instill in the student a sense of commitment to the computer generated imagery (CGI) profession’s core values and ethics.
8. Provide the opportunity for the student to understand the elements of a career as an independent contractor and freelancer.
Program Outcomes
Students will:
1.Demonstrate web, procedural, and basic object-oriented programming skills using several programming languages.
2.Plan, schedule, manage, and execute projects through visual tools such as storyboards, charts and documents.
3.Develop 2D and 3D graphics and simulations using classical and digital media.
4.Form a team and will design and publish an interactive game that implements game balance and project management within several game genres.
5.Analyze and utilize industry standard game engine components.
6.Create and execute narrative, interpretive, interactive compositions and animations.
7.Demonstrate professional oral and written communication skills, the ability to function as a member of a team, the ability to act ethically and responsibly, and respect for all people and cultures.
8.Develop a DBA (doing business as) enterprise with basic bookkeeping and marketing infrastructures.
Courses Offered
• GDS 111 XHTML/Javascript
• MWD 112 Digital Graphics
• GDS 114 Introduction to Game Development
• GDS 110 Introduction to Game Programming
• GDS 125 Flash I
• GDS 240 Game Design
• VGD 133 3D Modeling I
• GDS 135 Flash II
• GDS 121 Intermediate Game Programming
• VGD 244 Unity I
• GDS 131 Advanced Game Programming
• GDS 243 MOD
• GDS 241 API Programming
• GDS 252 Algorithms and Data Structures
• VGD 255 Unity II
• GDS 267 Portfolio Development
• GDS 134 Game Persistence
• GDS 261 Game Architecture
• GDS 266 Game Studio for Game Developers
