Simulation and Game Development

You are visually-minded, analytical, and creative, excited by growing technology trends, such as augmented and virtual reality. Beyond your tech skills and interests, you also manage your time efficiently to meet project deadlines — often within a team setting. Earn an Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development from Central Piedmont. You can also earn a diploma with a specialization in game development, game design, game programming, 3D modeling, or animation. Certificates in simulation and game development are also available.

What You Will Learn

You will study visual arts, audio and visual technology, conceptual planning, creative writing, 3D modeling, artificial intelligence, and database administration. You will develop a range of programming language proficiency to write scripts and examine software engineering.

You will learn to debug, develop, and test programs. You will create use-specific techniques to create things, ranging from character art to military simulation and learning modules. You will also study licenses, psychological profiling, customer relations, and contract negotiations.

You will train throughout this program with a variety of software and tools, including Adobe products, Java, Python, Unreal Engine, MS Visual Studio, Google Sketchbook, Game Maker Studio, and Xsens. You will also work with a full-motion capture system with wireless and camera-less motion capture capabilities. Upon completion of the program, you will be able to:

• design, develop, test, debug, and document computer/mobile simulations, animations, or games using industry-standard tools and technologies
• demonstrate strong verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills and design for usability and customer satisfaction according to the client’s targeted audience requirements when developing and deploying computer/mobile simulations, 3D models, animations, or games

Graduates may work as designers, concept and graphic artists, animators, programmers, database administrators, testers, quality assurance analysts, as well as engineers and administrators in the game development industry, entertainment industry, the healthcare industry, engineering, forensics, education, NASA, and government agencies.

Learn more about degrees, diplomas, and certificates in Simulation and Game Development.

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Why Choose Central Piedmont

The simulation and game development program at Central Piedmont is among the first in the country to use augmented and virtual reality equipment to create virtual simulations and games. You will have the opportunity to intern with local companies — such as Red Storm, Epic Games, and Virtual Heroes — to design, develop, and publish your own games for a variety of platforms.

Our program works closely with the local International Game Developer’s Association (IGDA) chapter, IGDA Charlotte, and international IGDA leadership; students are encouraged to join Central Piedmont’s IGDA academic chapter. Our Diversity in Games club offers another opportunity for students to get involved on campus. The club helps promote female presence in technology and the game development industry.

Real World Education

At Central Piedmont, your education goes beyond what you learn in class. We offer numerous opportunities for you to enhance your learning — and to make friends, network, and pursue your passions — through clubs and organizations, sports, events and activities, leadership opportunities, job experience, volunteer experiences, visual and performing arts, and even international experiences.