Game Development and Programming

Major: Game Development and Programming

Overview: The Game Development and Programming major trains students to design and develop video games and interactive media. This program covers game design, programming, graphics, and animation, preparing graduates for careers in game studios, tech companies, and interactive media industries.

Key Learning Objectives:

• Understand game design principles and mechanics.
• Develop skills in programming languages (C++, C#, Python).
• Learn 2D/3D graphics, animation, and game physics.
• Explore AI for games, multiplayer networking, and game testing.
• Develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for game development.

Core Courses:

1. Introduction to Game Development
2. Game Design Principles
3. Programming for Games (C++, C#, Python)
4. 2D and 3D Game Graphics
5. Game Physics and Mathematics
6. Game Animation and Visual Effects
7. Artificial Intelligence for Games
8. Multiplayer and Networking
9. Game Testing and Quality Assurance
10. Game Audio and Sound Design
11. Internship/Practicum
12. Capstone Project in Game Development

Assessment Methods:

• Game design documents and prototypes
• Programming assignments and game projects
• 2D/3D graphics and animation projects
• Game physics and AI implementation tasks
• Internship evaluations and reports
• Capstone projects showcasing a fully developed game

Recommended Resources:

• "The Art of Game Design" by Jesse Schell
• "Unity Game Development Cookbook" by Paris Buttfield-Addison
• "Unreal Engine 4 Game Development Quick Start Guide" by Rachel Cordone
• Online courses from Udemy, Coursera, and GameDev.tv
• Documentation from Unity and Unreal Engine

Prerequisites:

• Basic computer skills and interest in programming and game design
• No prior coding experience required

Duration:

• 2 years for an associate degree
• 4 years for a bachelor’s degree

Certifications:

• Unity Certified Programmer
• Unreal Engine Certification
• Certified Game Developer

Career Paths:

1. Game Programmer
2. Game Designer
3. 3D Modeler/Animator
4. Game Artist
5. Game Tester/QA Analyst
6. Technical Artist
7. Game Producer/Project Manager
8. Indie Game Developer
9. AR/VR Developer

Why This Major?

• Combine creativity with technical skills.
• Join a rapidly expanding global gaming market.
• Work with cutting-edge technologies like VR, AR, and AI.
• Diverse career opportunities in game studios, tech companies, and freelance work.