Program Overview

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Gaming Degree

Everything that goes into game development behind the scenes – software engineering, artificial intelligence, programming, and more.

Types

• Associate
• Bachelor
• Minor

Location

• On-Campus
• Online

Credits

39*

Cost

$9,875 $220/credit hour

Overview

You will never look at a video game the same again. While pursuing an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Gaming from University of the Cumberlands, you will focus on the foundational elements of gaming, such as gamification, game design, and game development. The world of gaming is a treasure trove of creativity, intelligence, and entertainment. In addition to computer science, this growing, techno-creative gaming industry is a balancing act of consumer interest and high-end technology, immersive stories and imaginative gameplay.

Stats

$109,020

Average Salary

25%

Industry Growth

16:1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

5

National Distinctions

Programs & Requirements

Bachelor of Science in Gaming

Pursuing a degree in something you’re passionate about is an investment in your future. If you love computer science and video games, then a gaming degree from University of the Cumberlands may be perfect for you. Your classes will peel back the layers of gaming, and you’ll gain an understanding of essentials like computer programming, software engineering, and more. Explore databases and simulations, interactions and AI, all in a supportive environment focused on your success. Your courses will prepare you not only for a career in game development but also for high-demand computer software jobs. You will have the knowledge and skillset to tackle any technological profession – and it all starts here.

Course Requirements

Required Courses (39 hours)

• ITAD 331 - Foundations of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence
• ITGS 130 - Introduction to Game Development
• ITGS 231 - Fundamentals of Interactive/UX Design
• ITGS 233 - Essentials of Gamification
• ITGS 330 - Human-Computer Interaction
• ITGS 431 - Games for Learning & Simulation
• ITGS 435 - Advanced Multi-Player
• ITSS 131 - Introduction to Object Oriented Programming
• ITSS 230 - Fundamentals of Databases
• ITSS 333 - Video Game Programming
• ITSS 338 - Programming of Mobile Devices
• ITSS 435 - Software Engineering
• ITSS 440 - Information Technology Capstone

Bachelor of Arts

A Bachelor of Arts requires all the same courses as a Bachelor of Science with the addition of four classes (12 hours) in a foreign language.

Choose one foreign language sequence:

• FREN 131 Elementary French I
• FREN 132 Elementary French II
• FREN 231 Intermediate French I
• FREN 232 Intermediate French II
• SPAN 131 Elementary Spanish I
• SPAN 132 Elementary Spanish II
• SPAN 231 Intermediate Spanish I
• SPAN 232 Intermediate Spanish II

Minor in Gaming

Are you passionate about video games and computer science but have other interests as well? No worries; with University of the Cumberlands’ minor in gaming, you can explore other passions while learning more about game development too. You will grow as a developer and creator while still maintaining a balance between your other interests. Don’t sacrifice what you love. Embrace the flexibility of UC’s gaming minor. There are many jobs where a background in programming and game development will benefit you.

Required Courses (21 hours)

• ITSS 131 - Introduction to Object Oriented Programming
• ITGS 130 - Introduction to Game Development
• ITGS 231 - Fundamentals of Interactive/UX Design
• ITSS 230 - Fundamentals of Databases
• ITGS 233 - Essentials of Gamification
• ITSS 338 - Programming of Mobile Devices
• ITSS 333 - Video Game Programming

Associate of Science in Gaming

Earn an associate degree that gives you a broad fundamental understanding of important game development concepts. You'll cover the essential knowledge and skills to make you more marketable in the gaming and IT industries, and it won't take you four years to get there.

Required Courses (18 hours)

• ITSS 131 - Introduction to Object Oriented Programming
• ITGS 130 - Introduction to Game Development
• ITSS 230 - Fundamentals of Databases
• ITGS 231 - Fundamentals of Interactive/UX Design
• ITSS 232 - Web Design
• ITSS 333 - Video Game Programming

Mission & Goals

Program Mission

The purpose of the gaming degree program at Cumberlands is to instill in you solid critical-thinking skills and technological awareness. We're here to prepare you for a successful career in multiple avenues of computer-based professions.

• Design video game concepts for diverse audiences.
• Apply the fundamentals of interactive/UX design.
• Understand the basic concepts of gamification.
• Create advanced multi-player game environments.
• Adapt games for a mobile platform.

Career Outcomes

Gaming Careers & Outcomes

All stats from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

• Video Game Designer: $78,790
• Computer Programmer: $93,000
• Video Game Artist: $78,790
• Quality Assurance Tester: $109,020
• Software Developer: $109,020
• Web Developer: $78,300

FAQs

Common Questions

• What is a gaming degree? A gaming degree focuses on the development and design of video games, incorporating elements like software engineering, artificial intelligence, game design, and user experience. It prepares students for roles in the gaming industry by teaching them the technical and creative aspects of game development.
• How long does a gaming degree take? An associate degree in gaming typically takes two years, while a bachelor's degree usually requires about four years to complete. Both programs consist of a mix of general education courses and specialized gaming coursework.
• Can I get a gaming degree online? Yes, many institutions offer online gaming degrees, allowing students to complete coursework remotely. These programs provide flexibility and cover the same essential topics as on-campus programs, such as game design, programming, and development.
• Is a gaming degree worth it? A gaming degree can be worth it for those passionate about entering the game development industry. With growing demand and high earning potential in fields like video game design, programming, and quality assurance, a degree can provide a strong foundation for a successful career.
• What can I do with a gaming degree? Graduates with a gaming degree can pursue roles such as video game designer, software developer, game artist, quality assurance tester, or computer programmer. These roles involve various aspects of game development, from designing and coding to testing and improving video games.
• How to get a gaming degree? To get a gaming degree, enroll in an accredited associate or bachelor's program in game development or a related field. Complete required courses that focus on game design, programming, and other technical aspects of game creation.
• Can you get a degree in gaming? Yes, many colleges and universities offer degrees specifically in gaming or game development. These degrees cover a range of topics, including game design, computer science, artificial intelligence, and interactive storytelling.
• Can you go to college to be a professional gamer? While there are degrees related to game development, there aren’t specific degrees for becoming a professional gamer. However, some colleges offer programs or clubs that focus on esports, which may provide a path toward a professional gaming career through competitive gaming opportunities and related studies.

Faculty

Faculty Experts in Gaming

• Dr. Christian Youngblood Associate Professor School of Computer Information Sciences
• Dr. Elyson De La Cruz Adjunct Professor School of Computer Information Sciences
• Dr. Aashis Luitèl Adjunct Professor School of Computer Information Sciences