Interactive Media - Game Design Option

Program Goals:

The Interactive Media - Game Design Option is a multi-faceted computer-based program designated for students seeking a game design career in the global marketplace. Game Design Option majors map out and develop the gameplay that defines a player’s unique game experience. It is a complex science that combines artistic talent with high mathematics and computer programming ability. Students develop an extensive game design portfolio of individual and collaborative work using state-of-the-art technology resources.

Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Demonstrate the skills necessary to compete for entry-level positions in the game industry: game-play tester, conceptual artist, texture artist, 3D modeler, and graphical user interface designer.
• Demonstrate the skills necessary upon graduation to transfer into a bachelor’s degree program in game design.
• Understand and apply theories of graphical environment design, character design, animation, and interface design to the development of interactive media and game design.
• Design and create 2D and 3D graphical environments for game design and create prototypes of computer games for a variety of environments.
• Develop skills in operating computer game development tools and assessing their advantages and disadvantages while understanding the ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities of a game design professional.
• Use theoretical concepts and perspectives to explain and evaluate the development of games in various settings and apply principles of game design and group work to project work.
• Learn to use professional-level application software for game design.
• Critically evaluate various approaches to game design and identify the elements that are likely to make for effective games and author game design documents.

Admissions Process:

Admissions inquiries should be directed to admissions@qcc.mass.edu. Prospective students may apply to the program of their choice by following the enrollment steps at www.QCC.edu/enrollment-steps.

• The Interactive Media - Game Design Option is a first-come, first-served program that restricts enrollment in required course offerings to 20 full-time students per academic year, beginning each Fall semester. Required courses in this program will only be offered Monday through Thursday afternoons from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., so plan accordingly.

Program Admissions Requirements:

Students should note that some first semester courses carry minimum prerequisites. Refer to the program grid.

• High School Diploma or GED/HiSET.
• English: Placement into college level English.
• Mathematics: MAT 100 with a grade of “C” or higher or appropriate placement score.

CORI, SORI, Finger Printing & Drug Testing:

Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI) and Sex Offender Registry Information (SORI) checks are not required. Fingerprinting and drug testing are not required.

Additional Cost:

See the Program Fees page.

• Students are encouraged to purchase a computer (preferably Mac) with related software.

Technical Performance Standards:

See the Technical Performance Standards page. (Note: Not all programs have technical performance standards).

Credit for Prior Learning:

Credit for Prior Learning (CPL) allows students to use skills they already have towards a college degree or certificate. Work, life, volunteer and military experience may be translated into credit, allowing students to take fewer classes and earn their degree faster. CPL eliminates redundancies for students who have already earned credentials or mastered skills required for their program of study. Email experience@qcc.mass.edu for more information and eligibility.

Career Outlook:

Please consult the Massachusetts Career Information System at https://masscis.intocareers.org/ or the Occupational Outlook Handbook at www.bls.gov/ooh/ for specific occupational information. The CIP code for this program is 50.0411.

Transfer Articulations & Opportunities:

Prospective students may learn more about transfer articulation agreements at www.QCC.edu/agreements. More information regarding transfer opportunities is available at www.QCC.edu/transfer.

Additional Information:

• Accepted students must register simultaneously for all required courses in each semester. Early application is recommended.
• Required IMD and IMG courses in this option will only be available late afternoons, evenings, and weekends.