Certificate in Game Design
GS 1001 Game Design
Course Description
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and concepts essential for designing interactive digital games. Through a combination of theoretical study, practical exercises, and hands-on projects, students will explore the key elements of game design, including game mechanics, narrative development, level design, player experience, and aesthetics.
Throughout the course, students will learn how to analyze game mechanics and systems and examine the principles that drive player engagement, motivation, and enjoyment.
Students will also engage in practical exercises and collaborative projects to apply theoretical concepts and develop foundational skills in game design. They will learn how to create game prototypes, design game levels, and develop compelling narratives. Special attention will be paid to playtesting and using feedback to change prototypes.
By the end of the course, students will acquire a solid understanding of the core principles of game design and gain practical experience in designing and prototyping non-digital and digital games.
Learning Objectives
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
PLO1: Apply key concepts, theories, and approaches to game development, such as by devising gameplay mechanics, story elements, and aesthetic elements.
PLO2: Design and develop unique game ideas, characters, and worlds.
PLO3: Create prototypes and game design artifacts using relevant tools, engines, and platforms.
PLO4: Apply project management skills, such as planning, organizing, and executing game projects.
PLO5: Revise games based on playtesting and user feedback.
PLO6: Collaborate with other students to create game artifacts.
PLO7: Apply concepts and theories related to ethics, culture, and gaming, such as inclusivity and diversity, representation, and identity.
PLO8: Generate a game design document, deliver a game pitch, and present a complete game.
PLO9: Create a portfolio of work that showcases one’s unique contributions and game development techniques.
Course Learning Objectives (CLOs)
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
CLO1: Examine the essential elements of game design, including game mechanics, goals, rules, and systems. (PLO1)
CLO2: Analyze game mechanics, identifying the principles that contribute to player engagement and enjoyment. (PLO1)
CLO3: Complete practical exercises, prototypes, and hands-on projects. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO4: Critique existing games, identifying strengths, weaknesses, and design choices. (PLO1)
CLO5: Collaborate with peers to brainstorm ideas, iterate on designs, and provide constructive feedback. (PLO6)
CLO6: Identify areas for further development and specialization in game design through reflection on personal growth and course learning. (PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO8)
Co/Prerequisites
None
GS 1101: Games and Society
Course Description
This course explores the historical, cultural, ethical, and social dimensions of games and gaming. Students will examine how games reflect and shape societal values, identities, and power structures. Through case studies, they will analyze the historical evolution of games, from ancient traditions to digital experiences. They will also examine a variety of game types, including board games, card games, tabletop role-playing games, social VR, and larp.
Throughout the course, students will examine the social, cultural, and technological contexts in which games have emerged, exploring how games reflect and influence human experience, communication, and expression. Students will also investigate ethical dilemmas in game design, such as representation, inclusivity, and the impact of violence. The course will explore the social dynamics of gaming communities, including issues of toxicity, accessibility, and belonging. The course also considers how games are used for health, education, and psychological well-being. Additionally, the influence of intellectual property, plagiarism, and generative artificial intelligence (genAI) on the games industry will be examined.
By the end of the course, students will have a deeper awareness of how games shape and are shaped by societal forces. Ultimately, this course aims to foster a deeper appreciation for the artistry, innovation, and cultural impact of games while equipping students with a foundational understanding of the historical context and evolution of game design.
Learning Objectives
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
PLO1: Apply key concepts, theories, and approaches to game development, such as by devising gameplay mechanics, story elements, and aesthetic elements.
PLO2: Design and develop unique game ideas, characters, and worlds.
PLO3: Create prototypes and game design artifacts using relevant tools, engines, and platforms.
PLO4: Apply project management skills, such as planning, organizing, and executing game projects.
PLO5: Revise games based on playtesting and user feedback.
PLO6: Collaborate with other students to create game artifacts.
PLO7: Apply concepts and theories related to ethics, culture, and gaming, such as inclusivity and diversity, representation, and identity.
PLO8: Generate a game design document, deliver a game pitch, and present a complete game.
PLO9: Create a portfolio of work that showcases one’s unique contributions and game development techniques.
Course Learning Objectives (CLOs)
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
CLO1: Examine the social, cultural, and technological factors that influence games, and how games influence these factors. (PLO7)
CLO2: Analyze key milestones, movements, and trends in game history, from ancient to modern times. (PLO1, PLO7)
CLO3: Evaluate the cultural significance of games by exploring themes of identity, representation, and social interaction. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO4: Develop a critical perspective on the relationship between games, society, and human experience. (PLO1. PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO5: Reflect on ethical considerations, such as belongingness and inclusion in games. (PLO1. PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO6: Explore different ways that games may be used beyond entertainment, such as health and education. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO7)
Co/Prerequisites
None
GS 2001: Narrative and Storytelling in Games
Course Description
The course explores the role of narrative in shaping player experiences and driving engagement in games. Through a combination of analyzing existing games and hands-on creative projects, students will develop a deeper understanding of storytelling techniques, formats, and principles specific to the medium of games.
This course examines how narrative elements, such as plot, character development, dialogue, and world-building, contribute to immersive and compelling gameplay experiences. Students will study the narrative design process from concept development to implementation by analyzing various narrative formats, including linear and branching narratives, and how they are applied in different genres and styles of games.
During the course, students will engage in practical exercises and collaborative projects to craft engaging narratives that resonate with players and integrate with gameplay mechanics, level design, and player choices. Students will apply their narrative design skills to create game prototypes, design narrative structures, and develop character arcs and dialogue.
By the end of the course, students will have acquired a comprehensive understanding of narrative techniques and storytelling principles in game design.
Learning Objectives
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
PLO1: Apply key concepts, theories, and approaches to game development, such as by devising gameplay mechanics, story elements, and aesthetic elements.
PLO2: Design and develop unique game ideas, characters, and worlds.
PLO3: Create prototypes and game design artifacts using relevant tools, engines, and platforms.
PLO4: Apply project management skills, such as planning, organizing, and executing game projects.
PLO5: Revise games based on playtesting and user feedback.
PLO6: Collaborate with other students to create game artifacts.
PLO7: Apply concepts and theories related to ethics, culture, and gaming, such as inclusivity and diversity, representation, and identity.
PLO8: Generate a game design document, deliver a game pitch, and present a complete game.
PLO9: Create a portfolio of work that showcases one’s unique contributions and game development techniques.
Course Learning Objectives (CLOs)
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
CLO1: Explore the role of narrative in shaping player experiences and driving engagement in games. (PLO1, PLO7)
CLO2: Examine various narrative formats and structures, including linear, branching, and emergent narratives. (PLO1, PLO7)
CLO3: Analyze the elements of storytelling in game design, including plot, character development, dialogue, and world-building. (PLO1, PLO7)
CLO4: Examine the narrative design process from concept development to implementation, including storyboarding, scriptwriting, and narrative pacing. (PLO1, PLO7)
CLO5: Develop practical skills in narrative design through hands-on exercises and creative projects. (PLO2, PLO3, PLO7)
CLO6: Create game prototypes, design narrative structures, and develop character arcs and dialogue. (PLO2, PLO3, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO7: Critique existing games based on their narrative strengths and weaknesses. (PLO5, PLO7)
CLO8: Collaborate with peers to brainstorm ideas, iterate on designs, and provide constructive feedback. (PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO7)
Co/Prerequisites
None
GS 3000: Game Prototyping
Course Description
This course involves students in the iterative and creative process of developing game prototypes. Through a blend of theoretical exploration, practical exercises, and hands-on projects, students will learn essential prototyping and playtesting techniques and tools used in the game development industry.
This course introduces students to the principles of rapid prototyping and iterative design, emphasizing the importance of experimentation, iteration, and user feedback in the game development process. Students will explore various prototyping methods, including paper prototyping, digital prototyping, and rapid prototyping using game engines and development tools.
Students will learn how to translate game concepts into playable prototypes, focusing on core gameplay mechanics, user interaction, and player experience. They will study the role of prototyping in validating design ideas, testing game mechanics, and refining gameplay features to enhance player engagement.
Through the course, students will engage in hands-on prototyping projects individually and collaboratively, applying theoretical concepts to create functional prototypes of game concepts. They will utilize prototyping tools, game engines, and scripting languages to develop interactive prototypes that demonstrate gameplay mechanics, level design, and player progression. Additionally, students will explore the role of aesthetics, sound, and visual design in shaping the player experience and enhancing immersion.
By the end of the course, students will acquire practical prototyping skills and gain a deep understanding of the iterative design process in game development. They will be equipped with the knowledge, tools, and techniques necessary to rapidly prototype game ideas, iterate on design concepts, and refine gameplay mechanics to create compelling and polished game experiences.
Learning Objectives
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
PLO1: Apply key concepts, theories, and approaches to game development, such as by devising gameplay mechanics, story elements, and aesthetic elements.
PLO2: Design and develop unique game ideas, characters, and worlds.
PLO3: Create prototypes and game design artifacts using relevant tools, engines, and platforms.
PLO4: Apply project management skills, such as planning, organizing, and executing game projects.
PLO5: Revise games based on playtesting and user feedback.
PLO6: Collaborate with other students to create game artifacts.
PLO7: Apply concepts and theories related to ethics, culture, and gaming, such as inclusivity and diversity, representation, and identity.
PLO8: Generate a game design document, deliver a game pitch, and present a complete game.
PLO9: Create a portfolio of work that showcases one’s unique contributions and game development techniques.
Course Learning Objectives (CLOs)
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
CLO1: Explore various prototyping methods and tools used in the game development industry. (PLO1, PLO3)
CLO2: Translate game concepts into playable prototypes, focusing on core gameplay mechanics and user interaction. (PLO2, PLO3)
CLO3: Examine the role of prototyping in validating design ideas, testing game mechanics, and refining gameplay features. (PLO1)
CLO4: Develop practical skills in prototyping through hands-on exercises and projects. (PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5, PLO6)
CLO5: Utilize prototyping tools, game engines, and scripting languages to create interactive prototypes. (PLO1, PLO2)
CLO6: Collaborate with peers to brainstorm ideas, iterate on prototypes, and provide constructive feedback. (PLO5, PLO6)
CLO7: Evaluate and iterate on prototypes based on user feedback and playtesting results. (PLO5, PLO6)
Co/Prerequisites
GS 1001 Game Design, GS 1101 Games and Society, GS 2001 Narrative and Storytelling
GS 3100: Game Engines
Course Description
This course provides students with a comprehensive understanding of one game engine, which will be Godot. Through practical exploration and hands-on projects, students will learn how to utilize Godot, an open-source game engine, to create digital games across various platforms. Additionally, students will explore the core features and functionalities of game engines.
This course will compare Godot to other popular game engines, such as Unity and Unreal Engine, and explore engine options suited for different types of game projects.
Students will learn how to navigate the interface of Godot, set up projects, and leverage built-in tools and editors to create progressively more complex games. They will work individually and in teams to develop game projects. Students will also study best practices for optimizing performance, managing assets, and debugging code within the engine environment.
By the end of the course, students will have gained practical experience in Godot, preparing them to create their own games.
Learning Objectives
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
PLO1: Apply key concepts, theories, and approaches to game development, such as by devising gameplay mechanics, story elements, and aesthetic elements.
PLO2: Design and develop unique game ideas, characters, and worlds.
PLO3: Create prototypes and game design artifacts using relevant tools, engines, and platforms.
PLO4: Apply project management skills, such as planning, organizing, and executing game projects.
PLO5: Revise games based on playtesting and user feedback.
PLO6: Collaborate with other students to create game artifacts.
PLO7: Apply concepts and theories related to ethics, culture, and gaming, such as inclusivity and diversity, representation, and identity.
PLO8: Generate a game design document, deliver a game pitch, and present a complete game.
PLO9: Create a portfolio of work that showcases one’s unique contributions and game development techniques.
Course Learning Objectives (CLOs)
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
CLO1: Compare the core features and functionalities of game engines used in modern game development. (PLO1)
CLO2: Analyze popular game engines, such as Godot, Unity, and Unreal Engine, as well as other engine options suited for different types of game projects. (PLO1)
CLO3: Describe how to navigate the interface of Godot, set up projects, and manage assets within the engine environment. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3)
CLO4: Explain the best practices for optimizing performance, managing assets, and debugging code within the engine environment. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3)
CLO5: Develop practical skills in using Godot to create digital games. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3)
CLO6: Utilize built-in tools and editors within Godot to create and modify game assets, scripts, and game logic. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3)
CLO7: Develop interactive digital experiences using Godot by applying knowledge and skills through hands-on projects. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO5, PLO6)
CLO8: Collaborate with peers to brainstorm ideas, iterate on designs, and provide constructive feedback on game projects. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5, PLO6)
Co/Prerequisites
GS 1001 Game Design, GS 1101 Games and Society, GS 2001 Narrative and Storytelling
GS 4000: Game Design Capstone (Portfolio)
Course Description
This course is the culmination of the game design program, providing students with the opportunity to integrate and apply their knowledge, skills, and creative vision to develop a complete and polished game project. Serving as a bridge between academic learning and realworld game development, this course challenges students to conceive, design, prototype, and produce an original game from concept to completion.
Throughout the course, students will work in interdisciplinary teams, simulating a professional game development studio environment. Drawing upon their expertise in game design, narrative, prototyping, and game engines, students will collaborate to create innovative and engaging gameplay experiences.
The course begins with the conceptualization phase, during which students will brainstorm game ideas, develop design documents, and pitch their concepts to their peers and instructors. Once the game concepts are selected, teams will proceed to the pre-production phase, where they will create detailed game design documents, including storyboards, inspiration boards, and other documentation.
Teams will then transition to the production phase, where they will utilize game engines, development tools, and asset pipelines to bring their game concepts to life. Students will implement gameplay mechanics, design game levels, create assets, and integrate audiovisual elements to create immersive and polished gaming experiences.
Throughout the production phase, teams will engage in iterative playtesting, gathering feedback from peers and external playtesters to refine and improve their game projects. They will also address technical challenges, optimize performance, and ensure compatibility across different platforms and devices.
In the final weeks of the course, teams will focus on polishing their game projects, addressing any remaining issues, and preparing for a public showcase. The course culminates in a showcase event where students will present their completed game projects to faculty, industry professionals, and fellow students.
By the end of the course, students will have gained valuable experience in all aspects of the game development process, from conceptualization and design to implementation and production. They will have produced a portfolio-worthy game project that demonstrates their creativity, technical proficiency, and collaborative skills, preparing them for careers in the game industry or technology and design fields.
Learning Objectives
Program Learning Objectives (PLOs)
PLO1: Apply key concepts, theories, and approaches to game development, such as by devising gameplay mechanics, story elements, and aesthetic elements.
PLO2: Design and develop unique game ideas, characters, and worlds.
PLO3: Create prototypes and game design artifacts using relevant tools, engines, and platforms.
PLO4: Apply project management skills, such as planning, organizing, and executing game projects.
PLO5: Revise games based on playtesting and user feedback.
PLO6: Collaborate with other students to create game artifacts.
PLO7: Apply concepts and theories related to ethics, culture, and gaming, such as inclusivity and diversity, representation, and identity.
PLO8: Generate a game design document, deliver a game pitch, and present a complete game.
PLO9: Create a portfolio of work that showcases one’s unique contributions and game development techniques.
Course Learning Objectives (CLOs)
By the end of this course, students will be able to:
CLO1: Apply knowledge, skills, and creative vision to develop a complete and polished game project. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4)
CLO2: Collaborate effectively in interdisciplinary teams to simulate a professional game development studio environment. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5, PLO6)
CLO3: Design, conceptualize, prototype, and produce an original game from concept to completion. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5)
CLO4: Create detailed game design documents, including storyboards, game mechanics, inspiration boards, wireframes, character art, and other documentation. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO5: Utilize game engines, development tools, and asset pipelines to implement gameplay mechanics, design game levels, and create assets. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3) 3
CLO6: Conduct iterative playtesting and gather feedback to refine and improve game projects. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5)
CLO7: Diagnose technical challenges, optimize performance, and ensure compatibility across different platforms and devices. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4)
CLO8: Present completed game projects in a public showcase event and receive feedback from faculty, industry professionals, and peers. (PLO1, PLO2, PLO3, PLO4, PLO5, PLO6, PLO7, PLO8)
CLO9: Reflect on personal growth and learning outcomes, identifying strengths, areas for improvement, and future career goals. (PLO5, PLO6, PLO8, PLO9)
Prerequisites
GS 1001 Game Design, GS 1101 Games and Society, GS 2001 Narrative and Storytelling in Games, GS 3000 Game Prototyping, GS 3100 Game Engines