Outcomes
Upon completion of the MSGD program, students are expected to achieve the following outcomes:
Graduates of the program will have the ability to:
- Develop gameplay logic and dynamic user interface implementations.
- Build game software using common programming languages.
- Build game software using architectural principles and coding design patterns.
- Build a culture of teamwork and accountability when working with others.
- Analyze game designs through a theoretical framework grounded in practical techniques.
- Select debugging methods and testing techniques to meet software reliability goals.
- Select software development systems, tools, procedures, and planning methods.
- Use algorithms and data structures to meet software development goals.
- Use automation and telemetry to validate both gameplay code and design.
Objectives
The Master of Science in Game Development (MSGD) online program aims to produce graduates with exceptional skills in designing and developing game software. Their work is notable for its technical and design excellence, coupled with innovative solutions to real-world problems in fields related to game development. Our graduates are capable of leading teams towards the design, implementation, testing, deployment, and maintenance of game software in a team-based environment.
Graduates of this program are well-prepared to contribute to the game industry as entry-level to mid-level software engineers and designers. Possible positions include software engineer, software developer, software development engineer, software development engineer in test, quality assurance engineer, software analyst, application analyst, computer programmer, user interface programmer, tools programmer, game designer, system designer, level designer, user experience designer, technical designer, and game developer.
In addition to technical training, the program provides secondary skill development that supports roles such as producer, program manager, technical program manager, and technical writer.
With sufficient industry experience, graduates may advance into senior positions such as lead engineer, lead program manager, lead designer, development manager, software architect, technical director, or game director.
Number of Credits and GPA
The MS in Game Development program requires completion of at least 30 credits with a grade “C” (or 2.0 quality points) or above in each course and a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better. The MSGD program typically spans five semesters of fifteen weeks each for a total of 24 months.
Core Courses Requirement
The following courses are required:
Capstone Project Requirement
The following courses are required:
Game Development Courses Requirement
The following courses are required:
Recommended Module Flowchart for Master's of Science in Game Development
| Module | Course | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | CS 5000 | Data Structures and Algorithms | 3 |
| CS 5001 | Object Oriented Design & Programming (C++) | 3 | |
| Module Total | 6 | ||
| Beginner level | CS 5100 | Game Design Principles | 3 |
| CS 5101 | Technical Design Methods | 3 | |
| Module Total | 6 | ||
| Intermediate level | CS 5110 | System Design Methods | 3 |
| CS 5111 | Level Design Methods | 3 | |
| Module Total | 6 | ||
| Advanced level | CS 5120 | UX Design Methods | 3 |
| CS 5121 | Game Industry Trends | 3 | |
| Module Total | 6 | ||
| Capstone Project | CS 5010 | Capstone Project | 6 |
| Capstone Project Total | 6 | ||
| Degree Total - minimum credits | 30 | ||