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B.S. in Computer Science - Game Development

Take courses in coding and game design to prepare for a career in software development.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Game Development is designed for students who want to enter the software industry, particularly the video game industry. The program will equip students with the skills necessary to succeed in any software development role. The game design and development coursework builds on analytical skills begun in the computer science major core work. The curriculum will enhance the knowledge required for the game development industry.

Why Earn Your B.S. in Computer Science Degree in Game Development?

The video game industry is a multi-billion-dollar sector, and Chicago has played a role in building a larger game development and design industry. The goal of the program is to provide students who wish to enter the industry with a strong foundation in computer science and specialized game development skills.  

Students who wish to specialize in video game development will acquire the necessary skills and tools, industry knowledge, and practical experience to prepare them for a career in the digital gaming field. 

 

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About the Program

Students in this program will take a series of introductory and advanced computer science courses that develop the fundamental concepts needed to create software projects such as apps, games and other interactive media. In parallel, students learn specifically about game design and game development. They will become familiar with programming languages (such as Java and C#), game engines, and 3D design environments. Finally, students design, prototype, build and test their own games in the senior capstone project course. 
 
This program is offered through a partnership with Rize Education, providing an expanded catalog of online courses developed by leading academic experts in game development. This innovative partnership provides students with a unique opportunity to take high-quality game development courses that complement our existing courses and offer a broader portfolio of skills, career pathways and learning experiences. 

Many of the computing courses are project-based. A capstone project course is required. Rize provides a capstone game development course in which students build a game. Additionally, students can take advantage of opportunities for internships and research. 

Different personality styles and the job that fits them

  • Students will use computer programming to process and display information. 
  • Students will justify the choice of a data structure to solve a problem. 
  • Students will describe and distinguish between different types of video games and interactive media. 
  • Students will build a time-dependent simulation in 2D and 3D. 
  • Students will integrate knowledge to design and build a video game. 
  • Students will discuss an informed ethical decision in the context of computing.

Why should prospective students choose SXU for their degree?

  • The online courses, developed by top game development academics, deliver in-demand knowledge and skills.
  • In-person classes have small class sizes to allow for close interaction with professors and student colleagues.
  • Students will develop the habit of lifelong learning, enabling them to excel in the rapidly growing software industry. 

The Game Design minor offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Education is an excellent complement to the Game Development concentration. This minor has significant career potential as it provides a solid foundation in digital and web design. 

The Computer Science minor is an alternative to the Computer Science major with a Game Development concentration. It consists of six courses, four of which are electives. The student can choose game development courses to fulfill the elective requirements.

A hybrid college program is a compelling choice, blending in-person and online learning that offers accessibility and flexibility for those with busy schedules, on-campus engagement with peers and professors, and both independent study and hands-on, high-impact practices.

Game Developers Median Salary is $83,000

Academic Plan

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