M.F.A. in Game Design

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

Application Fees : US$ 75

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for postgraduate programs are required to have a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. The minimum academic requirement is often a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, which is equivalent to 60% or above.

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS: An overall score of 6.5 or higher, with no individual band score below 6.
   • TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80 with no band less than 17.
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): A score of 53 or higher.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 115.

DePaul University is dedicated to supporting the academic aspirations of international students. The university offers various scholarships and financial aid opportunities to help make education more accessible. 

1. International Student Scholarships: DePaul University provides merit-based scholarships to international undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships consider academic achievements, test scores, and other criteria.

2. Global Gateway Scholarships: These scholarships are designed for undergraduate international students who transfer from specific partner institutions to DePaul. They help facilitate a smooth transition.

3. Dean's Merit-Based Scholarships: DePaul's colleges and schools offer dean's merit-based scholarships to international students within their respective programs. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements and contributions.

4. Graduate Assistantships: Graduate assistantships may be available to international students pursuing master's or doctoral degrees. These assistantships offer a stipend and sometimes a tuition waiver in exchange for research or teaching assistance.

5. International Experience Scholarship: This scholarship is for undergraduate students planning to participate in study abroad programs. It provides financial support to students seeking to gain global perspectives.

6. Vincent G. Rinn Family Endowed Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students with financial need. It helps cover tuition costs and promote diversity within the DePaul community.

7. Donor-Funded Scholarships: DePaul University administers a range of donor-funded scholarships, some of which are available to international students. These scholarships often have specific eligibility criteria and application requirements.

8. Athletic Scholarships: DePaul offers athletic scholarships for international student-athletes who excel in various sports. These scholarships may cover tuition and related expenses.

9. External Scholarships: DePaul encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities, both in their home countries and in the United States.

10. Fellowship Programs: Some academic departments and schools offer fellowship programs that provide financial support to international graduate students pursuing specific areas of study.

It's important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines can vary among programs and departments at DePaul University.

DePaul University's M.F.A. in Game Design program offers an immersive and comprehensive educational journey that prepares students for diverse and exciting careers in the field of game design. With a curriculum focused on practical experience, an interdisciplinary approach, and guidance from industry experts, graduates are well-equipped to make their mark in the ever-expanding game industry, whether working on commercial video games, serious games, or innovative independent projects.

1. Game Designer: Graduates of the program often pursue careers as game designers. They are responsible for creating game concepts, defining gameplay mechanics, and shaping the player experience.

2. Game Developer: Game developers work on the technical aspects of game creation, including programming, art and animation, sound design, and quality assurance.

3. Narrative Designer: Narrative designers focus on crafting the story and characters in games, ensuring that the narrative aligns with the gameplay.

4. Level Designer: Level designers design the game environments and challenges, optimizing player engagement and progression.

5. Game Artist: Game artists create the visual elements of games, including character designs, 3D models, textures, and animation.

6. Sound Designer: Sound designers are responsible for the audio experience in games, including music, sound effects, and voice acting.

7. Quality Assurance Tester: Quality assurance testers ensure the functionality and playability of games, identifying and reporting bugs and issues.

8. Indie Game Developer: Some graduates choose to start their independent game development studios, creating unique and innovative games.

9. Game Producer: Game producers oversee the development process, managing teams and ensuring projects meet deadlines and budgets.

10. Game Educator: For those interested in teaching, the program provides a foundation for careers in game education and academia.

11. Serious Games Developer: Serious games are used for educational, training, and therapeutic purposes. Graduates may work in this emerging sector.

12. Augmented and Virtual Reality Developer: With the growth of AR and VR, opportunities exist for graduates to work on immersive experiences.