Game Design and Development

Overview

In the Game Design and Development program of Rochester Institute of Technology students explore the entertainment technology landscape as well as other related areas. The program simultaneously covers the breadth of the game design and development landscape through study in topics such as computer graphics, game engines, interactive narrative, and game world design. The program is characterized by a clear focus on development, but also educates developers in the design process. The degree is intended specifically for students who aspire to hold careers within the professional games industry or a related field such as simulation, edutainment or visualization.

The program's curriculum consists of required courses, a choice of five advanced electives, and a capstone experience. This is a two-year, on-campus, cohort-based program in which students are admitted through a portfolio review process. During the second year, students form development teams that construct a working game engine and software title as the program capstone experience. This requirement includes both individual and group expectations. The capstone culminates in a defense before program faculty, as well as a public exhibition. Combined, these requirements provide a unique and comprehensive educational experience for individuals who aspire to a career in the game development industry.

Typical Job Titles

• Game Developer

• Mechanic Designer

• Programmer

• Audio Programmer

• Quality Assurance Tester

• User Interface Programmer

• Network Programmer

• Artificial Intelligence Programmer

• Developer

• Mobile Engineer

• Game Designer

• Level Designer

• Modeler

• Producer

• Technical Artist

• Tools Programmer

• Graphics Programmer

• Lead Programmer

• Software Engineer

• Interactive Developer