Game Design Major at Samford University

Is This Program for Me?

The game design major is designed for students who want to create immersive digital experiences by blending art, technology and storytelling. This interdisciplinary degree builds a strong foundation in both creative and technical skills used in the video game and interactive media industries.

This program may be a good fit if you:

Enjoy creating video games, animations or interactive experiences
Are interested in both art and computer programming
Want hands-on experience with 3D modeling, animation and game engines
Like learning through project-based coursework
Want to build a professional portfolio while earning your degree
Are excited by collaboration, creative problem-solving and production-based learning
Want to turn a passion for games, storytelling or digital creation into a professional path

What Will I Learn?

Students develop core skills used in modern game and interactive media production. Coursework emphasizes 3D art, animation, visual storytelling, gameplay development, technical production and collaborative workflows within a simulated professional environment.

You Will Learn

Create character-focused 3D animations with expressive movement and performance
Develop strong foundations in timing, staging and fluid motion
Model and texture 3D assets for use in game engines
Build complex organic and hard-surface models for games and animation
Apply digital sculpting techniques to produce high-resolution characters and environments
Integrate assets into a live-rendered game engine
Prototype interactive experiences and gameplay systems
Collaborate on projects that reflect real-world production pipelines
Present work through portfolio-ready documentation, videos and finished projects
Complete a culminating project such as an animated short or video game

What Makes Us Different?

Samford’s game design program brings together art, animation and programming to prepare students for careers in the interactive media and video game industries. Through hands-on, project-based learning, students gain both creative and technical skills in a collaborative, production-focused environment.

Portfolio‑Driven Experience

Students build a professional portfolio throughout the program. Final work may include playable games, animations, 3D assets, design documentation and gameplay videos that demonstrate creative, technical and collaborative skills.

Interdisciplinary by Design

This Bachelor of Science program combines visual storytelling, animation, programming and game technology in one integrated curriculum. Students develop both creative and technical skills without choosing between art and computer science.

Studio‑Based, Project‑Focused Learning

Courses follow real‑world production workflows. Students create 3D assets, animations and interactive experiences in simulated professional environments that reflect industry standards. Learning is hands‑on and emphasizes both independent and collaborative projects.

Specialized 3D and Game Engine Training

Students receive focused instruction in character‑based 3D animation, modeling, digital sculpting, materials and texturing, and live‑rendered game engine development. Coursework uses industry‑relevant tools to show how art, design and technology come together in playable experiences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there prerequisite courses to apply?

No prerequisite courses are required.

Can I customize the program or choose concentrations?

Yes. Students customize their degree through nine credits of upper-level ART electives (ART 209–499).

Can I study abroad as part of this major?

Yes. Study-abroad participation is available during May term, summer and semester-long programs.

Is this program accredited?

Plan approval has been accepted by the National Association of Schools of Art & Design (NASAD), and additional changes are in progress.

What careers do graduates of this program pursue?

Career paths include game designer, level designer, gameplay programmer, technical artist, 3D modeler, 3D animator, environment artist, character rigger, VFX artist, game producer, software developer, digital communications specialist, project coordinator and content strategist.

Is a portfolio required?

A portfolio is not required, although it is encouraged and used for scholarship consideration.

Game Design Major – Create the Future of Gaming | Samford University

Is This Program for Me?

What Will I Learn?

You Will Learn

What Makes Us Different?

Portfolio‑Driven Experience

Interdisciplinary by Design

Studio‑Based, Project‑Focused Learning

Specialized 3D and Game Engine Training

Career Preparation

Prepare to Succeed

Career Opportunities

Internships and Professional Development

Examples Include

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Application Information

Frequently Asked Questions

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