OVERVIEW

Program Overview

Video games have become one of the leading forms of artistic expression in the twenty-first century. The Digital Design – Game Design one-year graduate certificate is a rigorous program of study that focuses on the principles and techniques of video game design and production required to break into the industry.

FULL DESCRIPTION

The Digital Design – Game Design program develops the production and design abilities of students in management scenarios through courses in design documentation, milestone and pipeline scheduling, game design theory and psychology. Taught by faculty with industry experience and mentored by local game industry leaders, students will learn how to design and develop games, not only for the entertainment market but also for serious gaming applications in health, education, construction, marketing and other sectors.

You will have the unique opportunity to develop commercial quality games in a simulated video game studio environment, at times working with industry partners, game artists and programmers.

It is anticipated that as a graduate of this program, you will find employment in the game industry. Prior to graduation, you will have assembled a portfolio/demo of your creative work demonstrating your ability in game design and highlighting your chosen area of specialization.

Watch our video for sample work from our Game Design students.

 

Your Field Education Options

Students with approved portfolios are eligible for non-mandatory external field placements in semester 3.

Program Learning Outcomes

The graduate demonstrates the ability to:

1. Design environment and characters using the principles of game design.
2. Read, analyze and create game design documents for effective game creation and management.
3. Create environments, objects and characters for integration within a video game.
4. Import game assets and levels into game engines to create appropriate high-end 3D game applications or engines.
5. Produce a 3D game using appropriate tools and game management techniques.
6. Create and produce digital components, games and documentation using a variety of computer platforms.
7. Prepare a variety of industry standard documents and prototypes in a skilled manner and demonstrate professional presentation and organizational skills.
8. Develop and present a working game design document for a marketable game.
9. Use an existing game engine to create a prototype game.
10. Evaluate different types of games and platforms and select the appropriate ones for a particular game strategy.
11. Present the game design prototype and document using innovative techniques as well as digital, verbal and written skills.
12. Manage the design and production process of a game prototype.