SMU Offering Master’s Degree in Video Game Development

The Guildhall at Southern Methodist University will add a new production specialization to its Master of Interactive Technology in Digital Game Development degree  this fall making SMU the only university in the U.S. to offer a graduate video game development program with four key industry specializations: Art Creation, Level Design, Production and Software Development.

“The decision to add the Production track is based on consistent messages from industry representatives and extensive research, according to Raad. “Producers need experience leading teams of varying sizes and complexity on game development projects, from concept to publishing the final product.  Ideally, this includes experience learning new skills, working as a part of a team to produce a game, and then leading a team to produce a game – what we calllearn it, live it, lead it,” said Raad. 

Courses in the new specialization will be taught by full-time faculty members and industry veterans Gary Brubaker, Ed Clune, Corey Rosemond, Elizabeth Stringer, and Paul Toprac, along with faculty members from other SMU schools.

The Guildhall at Southern Methodist University is the premier graduate video game education program in the US. Many of the school’s founders are industry icons, and classes are taught by industry veterans. Since 2005, the program has graduated nearly 400 students and alumni are working at more than 140 video game studios around the world. SMU offers a Master’s degree in Interactive Technology and a graduate Professional Certificate.

“The Guildhall at SMU was established from the ground up with the direct input of industry icons and experts, and we are fortunate to have maintained a longstanding relationship with visionaries who see us as a conduit to the game industry of tomorrow,” explained Raad.  “Over the past few years, they have consistently expressed a need for professionals who can leverage their skills in developing games to effectively navigate the production pipeline.  When they talk, we listen.”

Information on the program and how to apply can be found at www.guildhall.smu.edu.