Dec 13, 2024  
Undergraduate Catalog | 2023-2024 
    
Undergraduate Catalog | 2023-2024 Previous Edition

Game Design and Development, Undergraduate Certificate


The Undergraduate Certificate in Game Design and Development (GDD) provides undergraduate students with the opportunity to reach a demonstrated level of competence in game design and development. Coursework towards the certificate in GDD can be used for credit towards the Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. However, its primary purpose is to provide a well-defined target for students who want to advance their knowledge of modern game design and development techniques and work with a variety of professionals, from artists to writers, to being the vision for an interactive game or media product to life. The certificate may be pursued concurrently with any of the undergraduate degree programs at UNC Charlotte.

All program-level Admissions and Progression Requirements are in addition to the University of North Carolina at Charlotte Admission Requirements .

Admission Requirements


Current UNC Charlotte Undergraduate Students

To be admitted into the Undergraduate Certificate in Game Design and Development, students must meet the general University requirements for admission into Undergraduate Certificate Programs. See University Admission Requirements .

In addition, the program expects a current working knowledge of two higher-level languages, including at least one procedural language; and a familiarity with computer applications. The following minimal background in mathematics is also required: two semesters of calculus and one semester of discrete structures. Individuals who have worked at a high professional level in the computer industry may be able to substitute work experience for specific subject area admission requirements.

Students who anticipate applying certificate courses toward an undergraduate degree program should seek advice from that program prior to enrolling. Admission to an undergraduate degree program does not ensure admission into a discipline-related certificate program.

Course Requirements


The certificate will be awarded upon completion of five to six undergraduate level courses (15-18 credit hours) in the area of game design and development. Up to a maximum of six transfer credits may be applied to the certificate. Course substitutions may be made at the discretion of the GDD Certificate Coordinator.

Concentration Courses (3-6 credit hours)


Select one of the following two-course sequences:

Computation


Graphics


Networking


Other


A sequence of two related courses (generally from ITCS/ITIS at the 3000-level or above) approved by the GDD Certificate Coordinator.

Total = 15-18 Credit Hours


Progression Requirements


The certificate program requires all courses taken for the certificate to be passed at the C level or above, and a GPA in all certificate courses of 2.5 or above.