The goal of the B.S. in Computational Media degree is to provide students a deep understanding of the technical aspects of computer game engineering and a broad background in the artistic, systemic, and production elements of game design and development.

The core of the degree program is a strong grounding in computer science and computer engineering, preceded by a foundation in mathematics. Classes also develop skills in areas such as visual communication and team-oriented game production, while developing knowledge of topics such as game history, play experiences, game systems, and social and ethical issues.

In their upper-division courses, students gain depth by taking electives in computational media and computer science and engineering, with options such as Game AI, Game Graphics and Real-Time Rendering, Generative AI (Procedural Content Generation), Mobile Applications, Interactive Storytelling, and Algorithmic Music. A two-course game development sequence (Game Development Experience and Game Development Patterns) and a two-quarter comprehensive sequence (Rapid Prototyping and Game Design Studio) allow students to develop complex computer games and integrate materials from the rest of the program.

Kết quả học tập của chương trình

Recipients of a B.S. degree in Computer Game Design at University of California, Santa Cruz, are expected to have the following skills and experiences:

✔ Demonstrate mastery of computer science in the following core knowledge areas: algorithms, data structures, complexity, and software engineering and development.

✔ Apply system-level perspective by thinking at multiple levels of detail and abstraction and by recognizing the context in which a computer system may function, including its interactions with people and the physical world.

✔ Apply problem-solving skills and the knowledge of computer science to solve real problems.

✔ Recognize and take into account the social, legal, historical, ethical, and cultural issues in the discipline of computer games.

✔ Demonstrate written, oral, and graphic design communication skills regarding technical material about computer science and computer games, broadly conceived.

✔ Design and build a technical system that achieves an artistic goal for audience experience, employing sound computer science techniques.

✔ Demonstrate the ability to collaboratively plan, organize, and execute complex, team-oriented projects, using appropriate communication and coordination techniques.