B.S. in Game Design

The B.S. in Game Design at DePaul University is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in the rapidly evolving game industry. This interdisciplinary program blends creative and technical training, preparing graduates to design, develop, and produce engaging games across various platforms. Students learn about game mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and the overall game development process.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the B.S. in Game Design includes core courses in game design principles, programming, digital art, and interactive media. Students engage in hands-on projects that cover all aspects of game creation, from concept development to final production. The program emphasizes collaboration, encouraging students to work in teams on game projects. Elective courses allow students to specialize in areas such as game audio, mobile game development, or advanced programming techniques.

Research Focus: DePaul University emphasizes research in the field of game design, encouraging students to explore innovative concepts and technologies. Faculty-led research projects may focus on areas such as game usability, immersive environments, and the psychological impacts of gaming. Students can participate in research initiatives, gaining valuable experience that enhances their academic and professional profiles.

Industry Engagement: The Game Design program at DePaul fosters strong connections with the gaming industry through internships, networking events, and collaborations with local game studios. The university's location in Chicago, a hub for tech and creative industries, provides students with numerous opportunities for real-world experience. Guest lectures, workshops, and industry events enable students to learn from professionals and gain insights into current industry trends.

Global Perspective: DePaul University integrates a global perspective into its Game Design program by exploring international gaming cultures and practices. Students learn about the global market for games, the impact of cultural differences on game design, and the importance of inclusivity in gaming. Opportunities for study abroad programs and partnerships with international institutions enrich students’ understanding of the global gaming landscape.

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants for undergraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their previous academic qualifications.

English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
• TOEFL: Overall score of 80 or higher.
• PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
• DET (Duolingo English Test): 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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

Graduates of the B.S. in Game Design program at DePaul University are well-equipped to enter a dynamic and growing industry. With a blend of technical skills and creative expertise, they can pursue a variety of career paths within the gaming and interactive media fields. 

Game Designer: Game designers are responsible for creating the concepts, mechanics, and gameplay experiences in video games. They develop game narratives, design levels, and create engaging user interactions, ensuring that players have a compelling experience.

Level Designer: Level designers focus on crafting individual game levels, environments, and challenges. They work closely with game designers and artists to create immersive spaces that enhance gameplay and storytelling.

Game Programmer: Game programmers write the code that brings games to life. They implement gameplay mechanics, optimize performance, and troubleshoot issues, working in various programming languages and game engines.

User Experience (UX) Designer: UX designers specialize in optimizing the player experience. They conduct user research, create wireframes, and design interfaces that ensure intuitive and enjoyable interactions within the game.

3D Modeler/Animator: 3D modelers and animators create the visual assets for games, including characters, environments, and animations. They use software tools to design and animate 3D models, bringing game worlds to life.

Game Producer: Game producers oversee the game development process, coordinating teams and managing projects from concept to completion. They ensure that timelines are met and budgets are adhered to, facilitating communication between departments.

Quality Assurance (QA) Tester: QA testers play a critical role in the development process by testing games for bugs and gameplay issues. They provide feedback on gameplay mechanics and ensure that the final product meets quality standards.

Narrative Designer: Narrative designers focus on storytelling within games. They create compelling plots, character arcs, and dialogue, ensuring that the game’s narrative aligns with its gameplay and design.

Mobile Game Developer: With the rise of mobile gaming, graduates can specialize in developing games for mobile platforms. Mobile game developers adapt gameplay and user interfaces for mobile devices, creating engaging experiences for on-the-go players.

Independent Game Developer: Many graduates choose to become independent developers, creating and publishing their own games. This path allows for creative freedom and the opportunity to explore unique ideas and concepts.