Master of Science - Accounting
Aalto University’s Master of Science in Accounting program is de...
Master of Science in Computer, Communication and Information Sciences - Game Design and Development
Aalto
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The Master of Science in Computer, Communication and Information Sciences with a specialization in Game Design and Development at Aalto University provides students with an in-depth understanding of the art, technology, and science behind game creation. The program bridges creativity and technical expertise, preparing students to excel in the competitive gaming industry. It covers the entire game development pipeline, from conceptualization and storytelling to programming, design, and user experience. Students learn to create immersive games, interactive experiences, and innovative digital solutions, equipping them with the skills to contribute to a variety of entertainment, educational, and simulation applications.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Game Design and Development specialization is a blend of core and elective courses that focus on both theoretical foundations and hands-on practice. Core subjects include game programming, graphics and animation, game mechanics, and interactive storytelling. Students also study user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR), and artificial intelligence (AI) in games. Elective options allow students to explore niche areas such as serious games, multiplayer online systems, and sound design. Collaborative projects are an integral part of the curriculum, where students work in teams to design and develop fully functional games, often in partnership with industry professionals.
Research Focus: Aalto University is at the forefront of research in Game Design and Development, addressing topics such as immersive technologies, gamification, and human-computer interaction. Students have the opportunity to engage in groundbreaking research on augmented and virtual reality, procedural content generation, and player psychology. The university's Game Research Lab collaborates with global institutions and industry leaders, fostering innovation in areas like adaptive gameplay, AI-driven narratives, and accessibility in gaming. Research projects often aim to expand the boundaries of what games can achieve, exploring their applications beyond entertainment, including education, health, and social impact.
Industry Engagement: The program offers robust connections with the gaming industry, both locally and internationally. Students gain practical experience through internships, industry-sponsored projects, and networking events with leading game studios. Aalto University collaborates with renowned companies such as Rovio, Supercell, and Remedy Entertainment, giving students exposure to real-world challenges and expectations. Industry mentors frequently guide student projects, and many graduates go on to work in top-tier studios or start their own game development companies. The program also encourages participation in game jams and exhibitions, where students can showcase their work and network with industry professionals.
Global Perspective: The Game Design and Development program at Aalto University embraces a global perspective, attracting students and faculty from diverse cultural and professional backgrounds. The program incorporates global gaming trends and addresses challenges such as designing for multicultural audiences and creating games that resonate worldwide. Students have opportunities to participate in international exchange programs, collaborative projects, and global gaming competitions. This international exposure prepares graduates to work in a globalized gaming market, equipped to develop games that appeal to audiences across different cultures and regions.
Location
Aalto
Score
Tuition Fee
€ 17000
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: €100
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 60% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- English language test waiver is applicable if the Bachelor's, Master's, Licentiate, or Doctoral degree is in English language.
Standardized Test Requirements:
- Graduate Record Examinations (GRE): Overall score of 315 or higher is required.
- Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT): Overall score of 600 or higher is required.
Aalto University in Finland offers a variety of scholarships to support international students who wish to study at one of the leading universities in Europe. These scholarships are designed to alleviate the financial burden of tuition fees and help students focus on their studies while living in Finland.
Aalto University Tuition Fee Scholarships: Aalto University offers scholarships specifically for international students who are required to pay tuition fees. The scholarships cover either partial or full tuition fees for master’s degree students from non-EU/EEA countries. The scholarship amounts range from 50% to 100% of the tuition fee, depending on the applicant’s academic achievements. Scholarships are awarded based on the strength of the application and the applicant’s academic background.
Aalto University Scholarship for Living Expenses: While the primary focus of the scholarship program is to assist with tuition fees, some additional financial support is available for students to help cover living expenses. These scholarships are typically awarded to students who already receive a tuition fee scholarship but need further assistance to cover their living costs.
Graduates of the Master of Science in Computer, Communication and Information Sciences – Game Design and Development program at Aalto University are equipped with the creative and technical expertise required to excel in the global gaming industry. This specialization opens doors to a wide array of career opportunities in game development, interactive media, and related fields.
Game Designer: Responsible for creating gameplay concepts, mechanics, and levels, ensuring an engaging and immersive player experience.
Game Developer/Programmer: Focuses on coding and implementing game features, graphics, and artificial intelligence, using advanced programming languages and game engines.
Level Designer: Specializes in creating detailed and interactive game levels, balancing aesthetics with gameplay functionality.
UI/UX Designer: Designs intuitive user interfaces and experiences, ensuring that games are accessible and enjoyable for players.
Virtual and Augmented Reality Developer: Builds immersive VR/AR applications for gaming, entertainment, education, and simulations.
Game Artist/Animator: Works on visual elements, including character modeling, environmental art, and animations, to bring the game world to life.
Sound Designer/Audio Engineer: Creates and integrates sound effects, voiceovers, and background music, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Game Producer/Project Manager: Manages the game development process, ensuring projects are completed on time and within budget, while maintaining high-quality standards.
Independent Game Developer/Entrepreneur: Many graduates venture into independent game development, launching their own studios or self-publishing innovative games.
Serious Game Developer: Designs games for non-entertainment purposes, such as education, healthcare, and corporate training.
Researcher/Academic: Pursues research in areas like game mechanics, player psychology, or immersive technologies, contributing to advancements in the gaming industry.
