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 with the video game industry in view. 

The program is designed to provide students with the skills they need to succeed in any software development work. The game design and development coursework builds on analytical skills begun in the computer science major core. The curriculum is designed to increase and expand the knowledge needed for the game development industry.

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

• Careers for digital designers and web developers are projected to grow at a rate much faster than average for other occupations. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for digital designers and web developers is $83,240. Furthermore, with the increasing age of the Baby Boomer generation, the number of jobs in this type of role is expected to increase by 16% over the next 10 years—much faster than the average growth rate of all occupations (3 percent).
• Students who wish to pursue a specialization in video game development will learn the needed skills and tools, industry knowledge, and practical experience tailored to prepare students to enter the digital gaming field.
• Students in this program will have a series of introductory design courses that introduce the tools needed for the creation of digital graphics for motion design projects such as videos, games and other interactive media. In itermediate classes in this program, students will interact with some of the more complex technical and theoretical elements of motion graphics such as becoming familiar with game engines and 3D design environments. Students will then take two advanced course that focus on the creation of completed 3D animation and or games.

A capstone course is required in the computer science major. Rize provides a capstone game development course in which students build a game. Additionally, the computer science major recommends students take advantage of opportunities for internships and research.

Learning Outcomes

• 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 your professors and student colleagues.
• Saint Xavier University’s core values of service, integrity, and excellence, critically important in higher education, support your development as an asset to your employer and community.

Minors

• 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 grounding in digital and web design.
• The Computer Science minor is an alternative to the Computer Science major with 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.