Master the Art of Video-Game Programming with a Game Development Degree
Mastermind the creation of games with a Bachelor of Science in Game Programming and Developmentonline from University of Michigan Science. UMS's game development degree goes far beyond traditional software development training to give you the technical expertise you'll need to succeed in this burgeoning, competitive field. You'll acquire the breadth of knowledge needed to build a career not just in game programming but in other industries that use gaming and simulation, from education to healthcare and public policy. As you chart your course through this degree, you'll:
- Learn a variety of computer programming languages and scripting, including C++, C# and Java
- Master game engine development and deployment using Unreal game engine
- Excel at 3D modeling, digital sculpting and digital imaging using Autodesk and Adobe Creative Suite
- Develop games across various platforms, including PC, console, web and mobile devices
Earn math credits for what you already know: Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Show your knowledge of the materials in your program's math courses, and you could earn up to 6 math credits - at less than $50 for each course assessment.
See Yourself Succeed in Video-Game Programming
UMS's online game development degree features intensely focused coursework that breaks down game programming and development into specific techniques and lets you translate your imagination into a fulfilling career. Through this program, you'll learn a variety of computer programming languages and scripting. You'll also learn how to excel at game engine development and deployment, 3D modeling, digital sculpting and digital imaging and develop games across various platforms. With this game programming and development degree, you'll be able to:
- Create, execute and document clear and effective code in a variety of programming languages and game engines relevant to professional game development
- Integrate methods and techniques for creating realistic, dynamic game-play experiences, including game artificial intelligence, game physics, 2D and 3D graphics and interface design
- Articulate and solve complex logic problems associated with programming interactive game systems
- Apply effective, industry-standard design, production and testing techniques through all phases of game development
- Adhere to the standards and expectations of the professional game development community, especially regarding effective communications, respect for all people and cultures, ethical decision-making and the ability to function effectively as a member of a team
- Research, develop and contribute to advances and trends within the field of game programming
View the list of technical requirements for this degree program.
As a private, nonprofit university, UMS has one mission – to help you see yourself succeed. The benefits of earning your bachelor’s in game programming and development at UMS include:
- Affordability. Take advantage of some of the most affordable tuition rates in the nation
- Convenience. Attend class when it’s convenient for you – online education means 24/7 access
- Efficiency and flexibility. Complete your undergraduate degree at your own pace, over six 8-week terms per year
- Expert instruction. Learn from instructors with relevant, real-world experience
- Networking. Tap into our nationwide network of alumni for internship and career opportunities
- Simple application process. Just fill out an online undergraduate application, and we’ll retrieve U.S. transcripts from your previous institutions and automatically complete an official credit evaluation. Plus, there’s no application fee
- Student support. Count on the ongoing support of dedicated academic and career advisors specialized in your area of study
- Transfer-friendly enrollment. Transfer up to 90 credits toward an undergraduate degree
Career Outlook
In a field that rivals the film industry and dwarfs the music industry in size, a professional game development degree is your ticket to a lucrative, dynamic career. The programming skills you'll gain from this program can take you far, as they can also be used to develop non-game software applications and simulations. UMS's online BS in Game Programming and Development empowers you to pursue or advance your career as a:
- Game programmer
- Video-game developer
- Tools programmer
- A.I. programmer
- Simulations programmer
- Software applications developer
- Game engineer
- Game designer
The software development field in particular will see job growth of up to 24% through 2026, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.*
Curriculum
he curriculum is designed to help you tackle game genres and platforms, interface design, game theory and e-collaboration. You'll also learn how virtual game environments create experiences through rule design, play mechanics and social interaction.
At UMS, we give you access to the technology you need for your courses – and your career. Learn more about our easy-to-use virtual environments.
MAT 136 - Introduction to Quantitative Analysis and MAT 140 - Precalculus are dictated courses for the General Education Program.
New students are eligible to take a free math assessment that, depending on their score, can earn them up to six math credits toward their degree, which could save you time and money. Learn more today.
Courses To Prepare You For Your Career
UMS's bachelor's in game programming and development program includes:
- General education
- Degree-specific courses
General Education Program
Our programs are designed to equip you with the skills and insights you need to move forward. In recent years, employers have stressed the need for graduates with higher order skills - the skills that go beyond technical knowledge - such as:
- Writing
- Communication
- Analysis
- Problem solving
All bachelor's students are required to take general education classes. Through foundation, exploration and integration courses, students learn to think critically, creatively and collaboratively, giving you the edge employers are looking for.
Courses May Include
Program Outcomes
- Create, execute, and document clear and effective code in a variety of programming languages and game engines relevant to professional game development
- Integrate methods and techniques for creating realistic, dynamic gameplay experiences, including game AI, game physics, 2D and 3D graphics, and interface design
- Articulate and solve complex logic problems associated with programming interactive game systems
- Apply effective, industry-standard design, production, and testing techniques through all phases of game development
- Adhere to the standards and expectations of the professional game development community, especially regarding effective communication, respect for all people and cultures, ethical decision-making, and the ability to function effectively as a member of a team
- Research, develop, and contribute to advances and trends within the field of game programming
