Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

Immersive Media and Games, Bachelor of Science


Academic Information

While it's easy to dismiss gaming as, well, fun and games, top-tier video games are Herculean engineering and artistic feats. For the last three decades advances in graphics hardware and software have been driven largely by the video game industry. Games can be composed of thousands of lines of code that incorporate physics, optics, color, linear algebra, simulation, parallel computing, and advanced software engineering. Similarly, the creative assets that make up a game often include three-dimensional models, painted textures, 2D and 3D animation, music, motion-captured acting performances, and voice acting that can represent gigabytes or even terabytes of assets for a single title that must be managed and rendered through clever data structures and algorithms. A subset of gaming called "serious games" apply video game principles and technology to areas like defense, education, scientific exploration, and healthcare. An exemplar in this area, EndeavorRx was approved by the FDA in June 2020 as the first video game to treat a health disorder.

The Immersive Media and Games program builds on core coursework in art, programming, and immersive media production. This program uses a blend of existing and new coursework in Computer Science, Art, and Visual Communications to provide students with specialized training in computer graphics, computer animation, immersive media production, modern game engines, and game production workflows.

More Information

Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

Immersive Media and Games, Bachelor of Science


Careers

What Can I Do with a Bachelor of Science in Immersive Media and Games?

Immersive Media and Games students are renaissance thinkers motivated by a passion for both art and technology with a strong understanding of software design, digital image composition, real-time rendering, and interactive media. Graduates of this program will be well prepared to enter the gaming, visualization, and entertainment industries as immersive media producers, game designers, software developers, and technical directors.

Career opportunities that might be pursued:
  • Game Asset Developer
  • Game Designer/Game Developer
  • Immersive Media Producer
  • Production Manager
  • Software Developer
  • Technical Director
  • UI/UX Developer

With further education, one of these paths is possible:
  • Immersive Media Visualization Educator
  • Immersive Media Visualization Researcher
  • Immersive Media Vizualization Scientist

More Information

Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

Immersive Media and Games, Bachelor of Science


University Requirements

More Information

Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

Immersive Media and Games, Bachelor of Science


Overview

In addition to University Requirements:

Students may be able to use some courses to meet more than one requirement. Contact your advisor for details.

Minimum Units for Completion 120
Highest Mathematics Required MAT 226
University Honors Program Optional
Accelerated Undergraduate/Graduate Plan Optional
Some online/blended coursework Required
AZ Transfer Students complete AGEC-S Recommended
Progression Plan Link View Progression Plan

Purpose Statement

While it's easy to dismiss gaming as, well, fun and games, top-tier video games are Herculean engineering and artistic feats. For the last three decades advances in graphics hardware and software have been driven largely by the video game industry. Games can be composed of thousands of lines of code that incorporate physics, optics, color, linear algebra, simulation, parallel computing, and advanced software engineering. Similarly, the creative assets that make up a game often include three-dimensional models, painted textures, 2D and 3D animation, music, motion-captured acting performances, and voice acting that can represent gigabytes or even terabytes of assets for a single title that must be managed and rendered through clever data structures and algorithms. A subset of gaming called "serious games" apply video game principles and technology to areas like defense, education, scientific exploration, and healthcare. An exemplar in this area, EndeavorRx was approved by the FDA in June 2020 as the first video game to treat a health disorder.

The Immersive Media and Games program builds on core coursework in art, programming, and immersive media production. This program uses a blend of existing and new coursework in Computer Science, Art, and Visual Communications to provide students with specialized training in computer graphics, computer animation, immersive media production, modern game engines, and game production workflows.

Graduates of this program will be well prepared to enter the gaming, visualization, and entertainment industries as immersive media producers, game designers, software developers, and technical directors. Further, our students will be well prepared to continue into graduate studies in traditional programs at NAU (e.g., a Master of Science in Computer Science or a Master of Fine Arts) or to join some of the top graduate programs in gaming and visualization across the country.

Student Learning Outcomes

Problem-solving
Design
Communication
Teamwork
Ethics and Cultural Awareness
Conceptual and Critical Thinking

More Information

Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

Immersive Media and Games, Bachelor of Science


Details

Major Requirements
Accelerated Bachelor's to Master's Program
General Electives
Additional Information
More Information

Academic Catalog - 2024-2025

College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

School of Informatics, Computing and Cyber Systems

Immersive Media and Games, Bachelor of Science


Campus Availability

More Information