Video games aren’t just entertainment — they’ve evolved into complex software systems that push the limits of what computers can accomplish. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation prepares you to build and optimize the technology at the core of these systems — from graphical algorithms to level editors to physics engines.

Through an in-depth study of mathematics and computer science — combined with real-world projects where you design and program your own fully playable games from start to finish — this program transforms you into an efficient software developer, able to understand, communicate, and solve problems at every stage of the development process.

Developers from all over the world have made their marks on the video game and technology industries after earning a BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation degree from DigiPen. Will you join them?

Who Should Pursue This Degree?

If you want to develop the software technology that makes video games and interactive worlds possible, the BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation program can help get you there. Program students have landed positions working on AAA video games and commercial software right out of DigiPen as skilled programmers, producers, and more. While all of DigiPen’s computer science programs prepare you for careers in software development, this program is the most focused on the skills and graphics technologies used to create cutting-edge 3D games and simulations.

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, graphics rendering, computer networks, and more.

• Create 2D and 3D Simulations from the Ground Up

  Work with teams to design and develop 2D and 3D video games and simulation software, starting with your own engine technology.

• Gain Experience in a Collaborative Studio Environment

  Learn how to collaborate with others on a shared codebase as you solve problems and tackle the challenges of game software development.

Academic Roadmap

As a student in this program, you will split your time between academic courses in mathematics, computer science, and other subjects with team-based project classes that will allow you to collaborate with students from other disciplines. Each course will build on your foundational knowledge, while the project coursework will give you the opportunity to apply your education in a setting that emulates the professional studio environment.

View a sample course sequence

Admissions Requirements

In order to apply for the BS in Computer Science program, you should have a strong foundation in math, science, and problem-solving. You’ll need to have completed precalculus (or its equivalent) prior to attending DigiPen.

View all requirements

Topics Covered

Students in the BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation program will learn how to:

• Program a variety of simulations and games, including two-dimensional and three-dimensional games.
• Draft game design and technical design documents to aid in the scheduling and organizational aspects of game production.
• Implement efficient graphical user interfaces (GUIs), including the management of windows, menus, and dialog boxes.
• Create robust artificial intelligence algorithms to serve as the cognitive processes for computer-controlled game objects.
• Apply concepts such as computer networks, TCP/IP, and internet programming to a multiplayer video game environment.

BS/MS Accelerated Schedule

If you’re interested in pursuing both the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation and a master’s degree in the Master of Science in Computer Science program, DigiPen offers an accelerated schedule that allows you to complete both programs in just five years. See the BS/MS Accelerated Schedule page for more details.

ABET Accredited

The BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation degree program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. Learn more at www.abet.org.