March 12, 2014
The St. Mary’s Computer Science Department unveiled a certificate program in educational computer gaming last March. This type of certification prepares graduate students for careers in the emerging industry of game-based learning. Students also learn game design skills while pursuing Master of Science in Computer Science and Master of Science in Computer Information Systems degrees.
The rankings are based on a fall 2013 survey of administrators at 150 institutions offering game design coursework. The survey covers a wide range of topics, from academics and faculty credentials to graduates’ employment and achievements. Data collected from the schools on curriculum, facilities and career services also was considered.
Carol Luckhardt Redfield, Ph.D., whose specialty is educational computer gaming, is the Graduate Program Director of Computer Science and Computer Information Systems.
“Learning is inherently fun; let’s keep it that way,” she said of her passion for engaging students in learning.
The University of Southern California led both the top-25 undergraduate and graduate schools rankings. PC Gamer will publish a feature article on the rankings in its May issue.
The courses St. Mary’s offers in its 12-credit hour certificate program are part of the existing curriculum of the Master of Science in Computer Science and Computer Information Systems degrees. A student may apply these courses to an M.S. degree, but it is not required. Game Development and E-Learning courses are required for the certification, and students select two additional elective courses to tailor the certificate’s focus to their intended career path.
The Princeton Review, a national education and admission service company, developed the rankings in 2009 with the assistance of an advisory board that created the survey and its methodology. Board members included faculty at top game design institutions and professionals at leading companies in the gaming industry. The Princeton Review is not affiliated with Princeton University.