University of Advancing Technology (UAT) established UAT Game Design in 1995. At the graduate level, the program offers an MS that allows students to combine four skills-based learning modules to complete their degree. Modules can also be taken independently or as a certificate. Students may create a specialization from electives as well. Sample modules include Game Development, Game Production, Digital Maker, App Development, Technology Startup, and Technology Leadership.
Like all UAT programs, the MS consists of live simulation, mentors, the opportunity to work on tech and community projects solo or with a team, and a mandatory industry internship. Graduate programs are offered on campus or online.
Undergraduate game design programs at University of Advancing Technology include BAs in Game Art and Animation, Game Design, and Virtual Reality, and a BS in Game Programming.
The Game Art and Animation BA trains students to create 2D and 3D art and animation for mobile, PC, console, and virtual reality platforms, and online. Students in the 120 credit hour Game Design BA will work their way through the entire game production pipeline to create an original game. In addition, students will complete a professional portfolio and the Student Innovation Project. The curriculum for the BS in Programming, also known as the Game Coder Degree, immerses students in coding and programming techniques for all areas of video game programming. Examples include artificial intelligence (AI), C++ programming, game engine architecture, scripting, application programming interfaces (APIs), game play interaction, data handling, Middleware, networking, and DirectX/Open GL development.
BA and BS graduates are prepared to pursue positions such as game designer, game developer, game programmer, mechanical mesh animator, game artist, animator, designer, interface designer, modeler, rigger, or texture artist, character animator or texture artist, and environment artist.
Graduates of UAT Games work for major studios and organizations such as Nickelodeon, the Department of Defense, Intel, Electronic Arts (EA), Microsoft, Blizzard Entertainment, and Google, among others.
University of Advancing Technology is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA). Founded in 1983 as the CAD Institute, today UAT operates as one of the few 100% STEM-based universities in the U.S. With more than 1,000 students, the University of Advancing Technology offers over 20 technology degrees from cybersecurity and software engineering to digital arts and game studies.