Master of Science Game Programming

The Master of Science in Game Programming is designed for those interested in game development programming at the highest level, including real time computing, computer graphics, and professional retooling for the game industry. Students will learn about software engineering, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, animation, software architecture, and networking. The game programming degree addresses the real-world needs of industry through special, topic-based classes. Courses are taught with a mixture of theory and practice. Covering both emerging trends and proven knowledge, the program's content is always relevant and current. This combination of approaches allows students to understand the connection between realized applied systems and issues they'll likely face professionally in years to come.

For international students: this is a STEM-designated program, which can qualify you to extend your post-graduation stay in the United States.

Degree Requirements

Learning Outcomes

Students will be able to:

Demonstrate mastery of the C++ programming language.
Use design patterns to create and design large-scale real-time software systems.
Architect and implement real-time Game Engine.
Implement and apply advanced rendering techniques for real-time graphics simulation.
Create and manage a development schedule of a complex software projects.

Career Outcomes

92% of reporting School of Computing master’s graduates were employed, continuing education, or not seeking employment within six months of graduation

$75,000median salary reported by School of Computing master’s graduates six months after degree completion

View All Faculty

Andre Berthiaume
Associate Professor
Edward Keenan
Sr. Professional Lecturer
Xiaoping Jia
Associate Dean

Industry Leaders

The faculty in the game development program—including renowned industry leaders serving as adjunct instructors—bring a real-world perspective to the classroom. Courses are taught with a mixture of theory and applied practice. Covering both emerging trends and proven knowledge, the program's content is always relevant and current. This "best of both worlds" combination allows students to understand the connection between realized applied systems and issues they'll likely face professionally in years to come.

Game Labs

Game Programming students have access to all CDM labs, but there are several that intersect with the program specifically, including game development and research, gameplay, virtual reality, and playtest and usability labs.

Cutting-Edge, Hands-On Coursework

The game programming curriculum addresses the real-world needs of industry though special topic-based classes. Specialized, hands-on experience—in global software development, software methodologies such as SCRUM, and parallel computing architecture thorough CUDA—gives our students an advantage in highly competitive job market.

DePaul Esports

The DePaul Esports Gaming Center, open to the DePaul community, is a place to flex your competitive edge in various esports titles. Whether you're a new player or seasoned veteran, this center is where you'll find all esports related games that are supported, as well as the various communities that support them.

DeFRAG

One of the largest social student organizations on campus, DePaul Fundamental Research in Academic Gaming (DeFRAG), provides events and resources in gaming for both entertainment and education. Events include weekend-long game jams, multiplay nights, and video game Jeopardy, to name just a few.

DePaul Originals

DePaul Originals is a game development studio located on our Loop campus. Its focus is the production of high quality game experiences that are delivered on commercial platforms.

Online Learning

This degree can be completed entirely online. One hundred percent of the program’s lectures—from audio and video to whiteboard writing and supplemental materials—are captured and available online.

Application Deadlines

Enrollment Quarter	Domestic Student Deadline	International Student Deadline
Fall	August 1	June 15
Winter	December 1	October 15
Spring	March 1	January 15
Summer	May 1	April 15

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Please note that the desired entry quarter may be subject to change based on review of applicant’s transcripts. This is to ensure the applicant begins with the proper course sequence. Each applicant will be reviewed on an individual basis.

Admission Process

The graduate application process involves completing an online application, sending in your transcripts and submitting any supplemental material (e.g., letters of recommendation, certifications, etc.). To learn more about your program specific requirements, visit our Graduate Admission page.

Admission Requirements

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Admission Events

Tuition & Financial Aid