Game Design & Development
Are you looking for a career that aligns with your passions? Then our Game Design and Development program may be a great fit for you. The modern world is geared toward interactive gaming and technology, resulting in a higher demand for workers with the skills and knowledge to implement these aspects into the industry. If you’ve always wanted to work in gaming, now is the time.
While earning your Associate in Applied Science degree in Game Design and Development, develop skills in computer hardware, networking and basic computer programming. Receive training in game programming, 3D modeling and animation, level design and game engines.
You’ll also have the unique opportunity to start your gaming portfolio by creating a fully-functional 3D game as part of your final project.
Whether you choose to become a developer, designer, game tester or programmer, you’ll learn the ropes of the role in a hands-on work environment through our program. Enter the workforce with proof of your technical training and experience.
Faculty Contact
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Weston Miller Associate Professor & Program Coordinator | Computer Programming and Game Design & Development 712-362-7938 | wmiller@iowalakes.educreate new email |
Program Details
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Curriculum
Term 1
CIS 141 – Computer Science
Introduction to the concepts of computer programming and Graphical User Interfaces. Includes structured design techniques for modern problem solving.
CIS 146 – Introduction to Video Game Development
This course will introduce students to all aspects of the game development process. The course will begin with a brief history of the gaming industry and then delve into the specific design phases. Emphasis will be placed on the development of the design document and evaluating real world examples. Character design and storyboarding will be discussed as well as gaming genres and gaming consoles.
CIS 332 – Data Base and SQL
This course provides students with a foundation in the design, implementation and management of database systems. This course will provide an illustration of the physical and logical representation of data using theory and practice. The concepts of Data Modeling, Normalization and the SQL language will be explored in depth followed by actual implementation in case studies and class projects. The students will also discuss the role of database technology in modern industry. The students will utilize the open source MySQL database for all in-class examples and projects.
NET 122 – Computer Hardware Basics
Student will learn how to prepare and evaluate system specifications, troubleshoot minor hardware problems, configure and install hardware, manage memory, maintain and optimize operating systems, and use diagnostic software.
BUS 161 – Human Relations†
Students are given the opportunity to apply human relations concepts and evaluate experience and observations. Social skills required in various occupational settings will be developed, emphasizing how appropriate personal attitudes lead to social and business success.
PSY 111 – Intro to Psychology†
An introduction to the scientific study of behavior; a brief history of psychology as a science, and topics fundamental to human behavior including developmental issues, sensory abilities, cognitive performance, social and emotional factors in behavior, and abnormal behavior and therapies.
SOC 110 – Intro to Sociology†
A survey course applying basic sociological concepts, theories, and methods to examine society, culture, cultural institutions, cultural diversity, and cultural stability and change.
MAT 140 – Finite Math
An applied mathematics course dealing with mathematics related to most academic disciplines .It provides introduction to matrices, linear programming, combinations, permutations, statistics, mathematics of finance.
Prerequisites: MAT 110 – Math for Liberal Arts, MAT 120 – College Algebra, MAT 121 – College Algebra, or MAT 127 – College Algebra and Trig
MAT 120 – College Algebra
Operation of real and complex numbers; factoring; exponents; quadratic equations; inequalities; matrices; rational functions; logarithmic functions; and graphing or functions .
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score or MAT 110 – Math for Liberal Arts
MAT 121 – College Algebra
Topics include linear functions and inequalities; quadratics; conics; polynomials and rational functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; linear systems; matrices and determinants .Additional topics may include sequences, series, permutations, combinations and probability.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score or MAT 110, MAT 140, MAT 156 or MAT 157
Choose either BUS 161, PSY 111 or SOC 110
Choose either MAT 140, MAT 120 or MAT 121
Term 2
CIS 147 – 3D Level Design for Games
This course will give students a hands on, example based introduction to the level design process for use in 3D games. Students will learn to use industry standard design programs and will understand basic lighting, texturing, NPC (non player character) and object placement as well as level layout concepts. Students will critique professional and peer designed levels through play testing and critical analysis.
CIS 148 – 3D Modeling and Character Animation
This course will give students a hands-on, example based introduction to the modeling and animation process for use in movies or games. Colors, textures, physical simulations, and keyframe based animation are covered.
CIS 204 – Intro to Website Development
This course will give students the opportunity to explore web development concepts without the aid of design products like Adobe Dreamweaver. This course will begin with a brief history of the technological constructs of the Internet followed by an in depth, hands on approach to XHTML, CSS along with basic JavaScript. Concepts will include XHTML Documents Type Descriptions, basic formatting, hyperlinks, handling graphics and XHTML events, and various XHTML tags. JavaScript concepts will include: The Document Object Model, variables, statements, loops, decisions and program logic. Students will be exposed to the new tags and properties of HTML5 and CSS3.
ENG 105 – Composition I
Emphasis on expository and argumentative writings including a review of usage and mechanics.
Prerequisites: Satisfactory score on the ACT, Accuplacer, ASSET,COMPASS as determined by Iowa Lakes policy
NET 142 – Network Essentials
This course is designed to provide students with the background necessary to understand the local area networking information in Microsoft courses on workstations and networking. This course provides students with the information needed to build a foundation in current networking technology for local area networks, wide area networks, and the Internet.
NET 140 – Networking Essentials
Foundational training in local area networking technology serving as a general introduction to LANs, WANs and the internet. Topics include IQRs, network interface cards (NIC), cabling (coax, STP, UTP and fiber), ARCNET, network protocols, hubs, routers and bridges.
Choose either NET 142 or NET 140
Term 3
CIS 941 – Computer Science Practicum
Students will gain practical experience at individual work stations and will be required to report on their field experience. Evaluations will be based on their on-site performance.
Term 4
CIS 125 – Intro to Programming Logic W/Language
Studies the most commonly used structured techniques of flow charting included with the concept of data flow in large integrated systems. Also included are systems design, systems analysis and systems development for data processing solutions.
CIS 161 – C++
Structured language which is powerful, efficient and versatile. The student can write programs from very simple applications to advanced editors, operating systems and sophisticated application programs.
CIS 366 – Game Development I
This course exposes students to 2-dimensional game development concepts using the Torque2D game engine. Students will learn concepts related to 2d game development and then apply what they learn to a variety of scenarios through examples and tutorials. The culmination of this course involves creating a fully functional 2d game. Topics include: introduction to the Torque2D software, level editing, sprites (animated and static), networking, behaviors, scripting, basic physics, GUI development, and sound.
Prerequisites: CIS 141 – Computer Science
MAT 156 – Statistics
This course provides a foundation of statistical concepts and procedures that can aid the student as both a consumer and producer of statistical information. The course emphasizes descriptive and inferential statistical methods, probability, estimation, hypothesis testing and linear regression. Students are introduced to technology as it applies to introductory statistical methods.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score or MAT 110, MAT 140, MAT 120, MAT 121, MAT 127 or MAT 210
MAT 157 – Statistics
This course provides a foundation of statistical concepts and procedures that can aid the student as both a consumer and producer of statistical information. The course emphasizes descriptive and inferential statistical methods, probability, estimation, hypothesis testing and linear regression. Students are also introduced to software as it applies to introductory statistical methods.
Prerequisites: Appropriate placement score or MAT 110, MAT 140, MAT 120, MAT 121, MAT 127 or MAT 210
PHS 113 – Intro to Physical Science
A survey of the basic concepts of astronomy and physics, recommended for students who have not had high school physics. Lecture, demonstration and laboratory.
PHY 162 – College Physics I
Demonstrations, lectures, recitations and laboratory work beginning a two semester sequence covering the subject. Mechanics is primarily covered during the first semester. Recommended for pre-medical, dental, pharmacy and for liberal arts student interested in the sciences.
Prerequisites: An elementary understanding of algebra, trigonometry and geometry from high school
Choose either MAT 156 or MAT 157
Choose either PHS 113 or PHY 162
Term 5
CIS 367 – Game Development II
This project-based, portfolio building course expands the concepts introduced in Game Development I. There will be more emphasis on C++ code editing, under the hood, of the game engine of choice.
Prerequisites: CIS 366 – Game Development I, CIS 125 – Intro to Programming Logic W/Language
ENG 106 – Composition II
Continuation of ENG 105 with emphasis on research and documentation as well as literary analysis.
Prerequisites: ENG 105 – Composition I
MMS 185 – Digital Media Law & Ethics
This course will provide an overview of legal theories, principles, and rules governing digital media law. The course will explore the ethics behind the laws and actions discussed in class. At the end of the course, students will possess a working knowledge of media law, including issues relating to First Amendment rights, copyright infringement, intellectual property, defamation, libel, slander, and consumer protection, and will have critical thinking skills to examine situations from an ethical standpoint.
WDV 132 – Mobile Application Development
This course is designed to introduce the student to the concepts and practical uses of mobile application development. The major objective is to develop a practical approach to learn the fundamentals of mobile application development and learn how they can be applied to other Operating Systems.
SPC 101 – Fundamentals of Oral Communication†
The fundamentals course develops the basic skills involved in a variety of communication situations, including oral presentations and interpersonal speaking. Emphasis is placed on organization, audience analysis, vocal and physical delivery, listening, nonverbal communication, critical thinking, and methods of dealing with communication apprehension through class discussion and activities.
SPC 112 – Public Speaking
This course examines both the theoretical and practical basis of speech communication, particularly public speaking. Emphasis is placed on speech preparation, organization, support, delivery, and audience analysis.
SPC 122 – Interpersonal Communications
Examines how humans communicate in one-on-one situations through personal and professional relationships.
BUS 102 – Intro to Business
The basic fundamentals of business. Basic business and economic concepts and terminology; management, marketing, finance, human resource management, accounting and other business areas.
CSC 110 – Intro to Computers
CSC-110 is an introductory course that surveys a variety of topics to include history, hardware, software, terminology, communications, computer ethics, and societal impact of computers. In addition to computer literacy, students will complete hands-on modules using operating systems, word processing, database, presentation, and spreadsheet software; such as Microsoft Office programs.
CSC 116 – Information Computing
This course presents the basic concepts of information systems and computer literacy. The course incorporates theory as well as hands-on practice which focuses on spreadsheets and database management systems (DBMS).
Choose either SPC 101, SPC 112 or SPC 122
Choose either BUS 102, CSC 110 or CSC 116
† indicates a course that fulfills the diversity requirement. This course may also fulfill another general AA requirement.
