Behind every sword swing, item drop, and hit point in a video game lies a complex system of rules embedded within the game’s code. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Game Design teaches you to become a versatile software developer with the knowledge and ability to design, program, and implement these systems.

You’ll be balancing coursework in computer science with design classes that leverage your technical skills to create better games, levels, and mechanics. By the time you graduate, you will be a hybrid programmer and designer who can navigate both ends of the scientific and creative spectrum on any software development team.

If your passion for computers and technology is only matched by your love of creating games, DigiPen’s BS in Computer Science and Game Design program may be an excellent fit for you.

Who Should Pursue This Degree?

The BS in Computer Science and Game Design is a cross-disciplinary computer science program for those who also want to hone their design capabilities. In addition to advancing your understanding of math, physics, and computer science principles, you’ll be learning how to design fun and interesting game systems, levels, and mechanics. While this dual focus gives you the flexibility to pursue a wide range of roles on a game or software development team, it also means you won’t delve quite as deep into either subject area as you would in other degree programs.

As a student in this program, you will:

• Become a Proficient Software Engineer

  Dive deep into core programming languages as you tackle coursework in data structures, artificial intelligence, user interface design, and more.

• Study Game Design Theory and Methodology

  Examine the practice of game design from a variety of angles, including system design, level design, technical design, and more.

• Gain Experience in a Collaborative Studio Environment

  Work with others on a large codebase and shared creative vision as you solve problems and tackle the challenges of game software development.

Academic Roadmap

As a BS in Computer Science and Game Design student, you’ll begin with foundational coursework in math and computer science in year one. After that, you’ll start taking coursework in physics and design, in addition to continued math and computer science. On top of that, you’ll also be working each year on multidisciplinary game projects. The final year of the program places a stronger emphasis on elective coursework across multiple subject areas.

View a sample course sequence

Admissions Requirements

In order to apply for the BS in Computer Science and Game Design program, you should have a strong foundation in math, science, and problem-solving. Precalculus (or its equivalent) is strongly recommended for applicants to this program, but not required.

View all requirements

Topics Covered

Students in the BS in Computer Science and Game Design program concentrate on the following subjects: