Game Development
This curriculum specializes in practical applications in visual arts, audio/video technology, modeling, design, and game programming.
Students will receive hands-on training in design, 3-D modeling, programming, environment creation, and computer animation. This curriculum prepares graduates for employment as graphic designers, modelers, animators, and game developers.
Employment industries could include entertainment, healthcare, engineering, education, NASA, film studios, and governmental agencies. Skills taught in this program provide opportunity for entrepreneurial ventures within the indie game scene. The program will incorporate the competencies of industry-recognized certification exams from Autodesk.
Learning Outcomes
- Examine networking systems and identify security risks.
- Analyze and determine appropriate hardware and software components for computer systems.
- Create a database driven website.
- Utilize management capabilities of various operating systems.
- Develop original game-ready graphical assets.
Job Opportunities
Annual demand for Information Technology in our service area is currently 157 job openings. This is expected to decrease by 0.54% in the next year.
Contact Information

Lead Instructor - Information Technology - Game Development
Phone: 336-838-6437
jdmiles944@wilkescc.edu
Pathways
Course Requirements
First Year - Fall Semester
- ACA 115 Success & Study Skills
This course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives. Emphasis is placed on an exploration of facilities and services, study skills, library skills, self-assessment, wellness, goal-setting, and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals.
- CTI 110 Web, Pgm, & Db Foundation
This course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table.
- CTS 120 Hardware/Software Support
This course covers the basic hardware of a personal computer, including installation, operations and interactions with software. Topics include component identification, memory-system, peripheral installation and configuration, preventive maintenance, hardware diagnostics/repair, installation and optimization of system software, commercial programs, system configuration, and device-drivers. Upon completion, students should be able to select appropriate computer equipment and software, upgrade/maintain existing equipment and software, and troubleshoot/repair non-functioning personal computers.
- SGD 111 Introduction to SGD
This course provides students with an introduction to simulation and game development. Topics include setting, storytelling, narrative, character design, interface design, game play, internal economy, core mechanics, game genres, AI, the psychology of game design and professionalism. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the major aspects of simulation and game design and development.
- SGD 114 3D Modeling
This course introduces the tools required to create three-dimensional (3D) models. Emphasis is placed on exploring tools used to create 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- SGD 116 Graphic Design Tools
This course introduces students to computer-based graphic design tools and their use within the context of simulation and game design. Topics include texture creation, map creation, and introduction to advanced level graphic design techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to competently use and explain industry-standard graphic design software.
First Year - Spring Semester
- SGD 113 SGD Programming
This course introduces the fundamentals of programming languages and tools employed in simulation and game development. Emphasis is placed on programming concepts used to create simulations and games. Upon completion, students should be able to program simple games and/or simulations.
- SGD 162 SG 3D Animation
This course introduces the fundamental principles of 3D animation used in simulation and game development. Emphasis is placed on a historical survey of 3D animation, aspects of the 3D animation techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to produce 3D character sketches, morph simple objects, create walk and run cycles and develop professional storyboards.
- SGD 174 SG Level Design
This course introduces the tools used to create levels for real-time simulation and games. Topics include level design, architecture theory, modeling for 3D engines and texturing methods. Upon completion, students should be able to design simple levels using industry standard tools.
- SGD 214 3D Modeling II
This course introduces the tools used to create and animate advanced 3 dimensional models. Emphasis is placed on identifying and utilizing the tools required to create and animate advanced 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate advanced 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- MAT 110 or MAT 143 or MAT 171
Math Measurement & Literacy or Quantitative Literacy or Precalculus Algebra
- Technical Elective
Elective to be chosen from the following prefixes: CCT, CIS, CSC, CTI, CTS, DBA, DME, GRD, ITN, NET, NOS, SEC, SGD, WBL, or WEB.
Second Year - Fall Semester
- CTI 120 Network & Sec Foundation
This course introduces students to the Network concepts, including networking terminology and protocols, local and wide area networks, and network standards. Emphasis is placed on securing information systems and the various implementation policies. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic tasks related to networking mathematics, terminology, media and protocols.
- CTS 115 Info Sys Business Concepts
The course introduces the role of IT in managing business processes and the need for business process and IT alignment. Emphasis is placed on industry need for understanding business challenges and developing/managing information systems to contribute to the decision making process based on these challenges. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the 'hybrid business manager' and the potential offered by new technology and systems.
- ENG 111 Writing and Inquiry
This course is designed to develop the ability to produce clear writing in a variety of genres and formats using a recursive process. Emphasis includes inquiry, analysis, effective use of rhetorical strategies, thesis development, audience awareness, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English.
- SGD 213 SGD Programming II
This course covers advanced programming concepts used to create simulations and games. Emphasis is placed on acquiring advanced programming skills for use in creating simulations and games. Upon completion, students should be able to program an advanced simulation or game.
- SGD 237 Rigging 3D Models
This course covers the fundamentals of rigging 3D models for animation. Emphasis is placed on learning how to properly weight a model, rig it with a skeleton, and create fluid movement. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to properly rig 3D models.
- SGD 274 SG Level Design II
This course introduces the advanced tools used to create levels for real-time simulations and games. Topics include advanced level guide and architecture theory, concepts related to critical path and flow, game balancing, playtesting and storytelling. Upon completion, students should be able to design complex levels using industry standard tools.
Second Year - Spring Semester
- ENG 112 Writing/Research in the Disc
This course, the second in a series of two, introduces research techniques, documentation styles, and writing strategies. Emphasis is placed on analyzing information and ideas and incorporating research findings into documented writing and research projects. Upon completion, students should be able to evaluate and synthesize information from primary and secondary sources using documentation appropriate to various disciplines.
- SGD 289 SGD Project
This course provides students with the opportunity to create a functional simulation or game with minimal instructor support. Emphasis is placed upon verbal and written communication, skill documentation, professional presentation and user training. Upon completion, students should be able to create and professionally present a fully functional simulation or game.
- Humanities and Fine Arts Elective
Following are humanities and fine arts elective courses that are recommended for fulfilling humanities and fine arts elective requirements. All of the courses listed earn a minimum of three semester hours of credit. Other courses with humanities and fine arts elective prefixes may be suitable for these requirements as well. Students should discuss all course selections with their advisor before registration.ART 111, ART 114, ART 115, ART 121, ART 131, ART 132, ART 240, ART 241, ART 283, ART 284, DRA 111, ENG 125, ENG 126, ENG 231, ENG 232, ENG 241, ENG 242, ENG 261, ENG 262, HUM 110, HUM 115, HUM 120, HUM 121, HUM 122, HUM 123, HUM 130, HUM 150, HUM 160, HUM 161, HUM 170, HUM 180, HUM 220, MUS 110, MUS 112, MUS 114, MUS 210, PHI 240, REL 110, REL 211, REL 212
- Social/Behavioral Science Elective
Following are social/behavioral science elective courses that are recommended for fulfilling social/behavioral science elective requirements. All of the courses listed earn a minimum of three semester hours of credit. Other courses with social/behavioral science elective prefixes may be suitable for these requirements as well. Students should discuss all course selections with their advisor before registration.ANT 220, ECO 151, ECO 251, ECO 252, GEO 111, GEO 130, HIS 111, HIS 112, HIS 116, HIS 121, HIS 122, HIS 131, HIS 132, HIS 145, HIS 163, HIS 211, POL 120, POL 130, POL 220, PSY 118, PSY 150, PSY 241, PSY 281, SOC 210, SOC 213, SOC 220
- Technical Elective
Elective to be chosen from the following prefixes: CCT, CIS, CSC, CTI, CTS, DBA, DME, GRD, ITN, NET, NOS, SEC, SGD, WBL, or WEB.
Course Requirements
First Year - Fall Semester
- ACA 115 Success & Study Skills
This course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives. Emphasis is placed on an exploration of facilities and services, study skills, library skills, self-assessment, wellness, goal-setting, and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals.
- CTI 110 Web, Pgm, & Db Foundation
This course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table.
- CTI 120 Network & Sec Foundation
This course introduces students to the Network concepts, including networking terminology and protocols, local and wide area networks, and network standards. Emphasis is placed on securing information systems and the various implementation policies. Upon completion, students should be able to perform basic tasks related to networking mathematics, terminology, media and protocols.
- SGD 111 Introduction to SGD
This course provides students with an introduction to simulation and game development. Topics include setting, storytelling, narrative, character design, interface design, game play, internal economy, core mechanics, game genres, AI, the psychology of game design and professionalism. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the major aspects of simulation and game design and development.
- SGD 114 3D Modeling
This course introduces the tools required to create three-dimensional (3D) models. Emphasis is placed on exploring tools used to create 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- SGD 116 Graphic Design Tools
This course introduces students to computer-based graphic design tools and their use within the context of simulation and game design. Topics include texture creation, map creation, and introduction to advanced level graphic design techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to competently use and explain industry-standard graphic design software.
First Year - Spring Semester
- ENG 111 Writing and Inquiry
This course is designed to develop the ability to produce clear writing in a variety of genres and formats using a recursive process. Emphasis includes inquiry, analysis, effective use of rhetorical strategies, thesis development, audience awareness, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English.
- MAT 143 Quantitative Literacy
This course is designed to engage students in complex and realistic situations involving the mathematical phenomena of quantity, change and relationship, and uncertainty through project- and activity-based assessment. Emphasis is placed on authentic contexts which will introduce the concepts of numeracy, proportional reasoning, dimensional analysis, rates of growth, personal finance, consumer statistics, practical probabilities, and mathematics for citizenship. Upon completion, students should be able to utilize quantitative information as consumers and to make personal, professional, and civic decisions by decoding, interpreting, using, and communicating quantitative information found in modern media and encountered in everyday life.
- SGD 113 SGD Programming
This course introduces the fundamentals of programming languages and tools employed in simulation and game development. Emphasis is placed on programming concepts used to create simulations and games. Upon completion, students should be able to program simple games and/or simulations.
- SGD 162 SG 3D Animation
This course introduces the fundamental principles of 3D animation used in simulation and game development. Emphasis is placed on a historical survey of 3D animation, aspects of the 3D animation techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to produce 3D character sketches, morph simple objects, create walk and run cycles and develop professional storyboards.
- SGD 174 SG Level Design
This course introduces the tools used to create levels for real-time simulation and games. Topics include level design, architecture theory, modeling for 3D engines and texturing methods. Upon completion, students should be able to design simple levels using industry standard tools.
- SGD 214 3D Modeling II
This course introduces the tools used to create and animate advanced 3 dimensional models. Emphasis is placed on identifying and utilizing the tools required to create and animate advanced 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate advanced 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- Technical Elective
Elective to be chosen from the following prefixes: CCT, CIS, CSC, CTI, CTS, DBA, DME, GRD, ITN, NET, NOS, SEC, SGD, WBL, or WEB.
Second Year - Fall Semester
- SGD 237 Rigging 3D Models
This course covers the fundamentals of rigging 3D models for animation. Emphasis is placed on learning how to properly weight a model, rig it with a skeleton, and create fluid movement. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to properly rig 3D models.
Course Requirements
- SGD 111 Introduction to SGD
This course provides students with an introduction to simulation and game development. Topics include setting, storytelling, narrative, character design, interface design, game play, internal economy, core mechanics, game genres, AI, the psychology of game design and professionalism. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the major aspects of simulation and game design and development.
- SGD 113 SGD Programming
This course introduces the fundamentals of programming languages and tools employed in simulation and game development. Emphasis is placed on programming concepts used to create simulations and games. Upon completion, students should be able to program simple games and/or simulations.
- SGD 114 3D Modeling
This course introduces the tools required to create three-dimensional (3D) models. Emphasis is placed on exploring tools used to create 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- SGD 116 Graphic Design Tools
This course introduces students to computer-based graphic design tools and their use within the context of simulation and game design. Topics include texture creation, map creation, and introduction to advanced level graphic design techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to competently use and explain industry-standard graphic design software.
Course Requirements
- ACA 115 Success & Study Skills
This course provides an orientation to the campus resources and academic skills necessary to achieve educational objectives. Emphasis is placed on an exploration of facilities and services, study skills, library skills, self-assessment, wellness, goal-setting, and critical thinking. Upon completion, students should be able to manage their learning experiences to successfully meet educational goals.
- CTI 110 Web, Pgm, & Db Foundation
This course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table.
- CTS 115 Info Sys Business Concepts
The course introduces the role of IT in managing business processes and the need for business process and IT alignment. Emphasis is placed on industry need for understanding business challenges and developing/managing information systems to contribute to the decision making process based on these challenges. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the 'hybrid business manager' and the potential offered by new technology and systems.
- CTS 120 Hardware/Software Support
This course covers the basic hardware of a personal computer, including installation, operations and interactions with software. Topics include component identification, memory-system, peripheral installation and configuration, preventive maintenance, hardware diagnostics/repair, installation and optimization of system software, commercial programs, system configuration, and device-drivers. Upon completion, students should be able to select appropriate computer equipment and software, upgrade/maintain existing equipment and software, and troubleshoot/repair non-functioning personal computers.
- DBA 110 Database Concepts
This course introduces database design and creation using a DBMS product. Emphasis is placed on data dictionaries, normalization, data integrity, data modeling, and creation of simple tables, queries, reports, and forms. Upon completion, students should be able to design and implement normalized database structures by creating simple database tables, queries, reports, and forms.
- ENG 111 Writing and Inquiry
This course is designed to develop the ability to produce clear writing in a variety of genres and formats using a recursive process. Emphasis includes inquiry, analysis, effective use of rhetorical strategies, thesis development, audience awareness, and revision. Upon completion, students should be able to produce unified, coherent, well-developed essays using standard written English.
- HUM 110 Technology and Society
This course considers technological change from historical, artistic, and philosophical perspectives and its effect on human needs and concerns. Emphasis is placed on the causes and consequences of technological change. Upon completion, students should be able to critically evaluate the implications of technology.
- SGD 111 Introduction to SGD
This course provides students with an introduction to simulation and game development. Topics include setting, storytelling, narrative, character design, interface design, game play, internal economy, core mechanics, game genres, AI, the psychology of game design and professionalism. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the major aspects of simulation and game design and development.
- SGD 114 3D Modeling
This course introduces the tools required to create three-dimensional (3D) models. Emphasis is placed on exploring tools used to create 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- SGD 116 Graphic Design Tools
This course introduces students to computer-based graphic design tools and their use within the context of simulation and game design. Topics include texture creation, map creation, and introduction to advanced level graphic design techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to competently use and explain industry-standard graphic design software.
- SGD 162 SG 3D Animation
This course introduces the fundamental principles of 3D animation used in simulation and game development. Emphasis is placed on a historical survey of 3D animation, aspects of the 3D animation techniques. Upon completion, students should be able to produce 3D character sketches, morph simple objects, create walk and run cycles and develop professional storyboards.
- SGD 214 3D Modeling II
This course introduces the tools used to create and animate advanced 3 dimensional models. Emphasis is placed on identifying and utilizing the tools required to create and animate advanced 3D models. Upon completion, students should be able to create and animate advanced 3D models using 3D modeling tools.
- SGD 237 Rigging 3D Models
This course covers the fundamentals of rigging 3D models for animation. Emphasis is placed on learning how to properly weight a model, rig it with a skeleton, and create fluid movement. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to properly rig 3D models.
Course Requirements
- CTI 110 Web, Pgm, & Db Foundation
This course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table.
- CTS 115 Info Sys Business Concepts
The course introduces the role of IT in managing business processes and the need for business process and IT alignment. Emphasis is placed on industry need for understanding business challenges and developing/managing information systems to contribute to the decision making process based on these challenges. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the 'hybrid business manager' and the potential offered by new technology and systems.
- CTS 120 Hardware/Software Support
This course covers the basic hardware of a personal computer, including installation, operations and interactions with software. Topics include component identification, memory-system, peripheral installation and configuration, preventive maintenance, hardware diagnostics/repair, installation and optimization of system software, commercial programs, system configuration, and device-drivers. Upon completion, students should be able to select appropriate computer equipment and software, upgrade/maintain existing equipment and software, and troubleshoot/repair non-functioning personal computers.
- DME 110 Intro to Digital Media
This course introduces students to key concepts, technologies, and issues related to digital media. Topics include emerging standards, key technologies and related design issues, terminology, media formats, career paths, and ethical issues. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the various media formats that are used in digital media technology.
Course Requirements
- CTI 110 Web, Pgm, & Db Foundation
This course covers the introduction of the tools and resources available to students in programming, mark-up language and services on the Internet. Topics include standard mark-up language Internet services, creating web pages, using search engines, file transfer programs; and database design and creation with DBMS products. Upon completion students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of programming tools, deploy a web-site with mark-up tools, and create a simple database table.
- CTS 115 Info Sys Business Concepts
The course introduces the role of IT in managing business processes and the need for business process and IT alignment. Emphasis is placed on industry need for understanding business challenges and developing/managing information systems to contribute to the decision making process based on these challenges. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the 'hybrid business manager' and the potential offered by new technology and systems.
- CTS 120 Hardware/Software Support
This course covers the basic hardware of a personal computer, including installation, operations and interactions with software. Topics include component identification, memory-system, peripheral installation and configuration, preventive maintenance, hardware diagnostics/repair, installation and optimization of system software, commercial programs, system configuration, and device-drivers. Upon completion, students should be able to select appropriate computer equipment and software, upgrade/maintain existing equipment and software, and troubleshoot/repair non-functioning personal computers.
- DBA 110 Database Concepts
This course introduces database design and creation using a DBMS product. Emphasis is placed on data dictionaries, normalization, data integrity, data modeling, and creation of simple tables, queries, reports, and forms. Upon completion, students should be able to design and implement normalized database structures by creating simple database tables, queries, reports, and forms.
MAT 110 Math Measurement & Literacy
MAT 143 Quantitative Literacy
MAT 171 Precalculus Algebra
ART 111 Art Appreciation
ART 114 Art History Survey I
ART 115 Art History Survey II
ART 121 Two-Dimensional Design
ART 131 Drawing I
ART 132 Drawing II
ART 240 Painting I
ART 241 Painting II
ART 283 Ceramics I
ART 284 Ceramics II
DRA 111 Theatre Appreciation
ENG 125 Creative Writing I
ENG 126 Creative Writing II
ENG 231 American Literature I
ENG 232 American Literature II
ENG 241 British Literature I
ENG 242 British Literature II
ENG 261 World Literature I
ENG 262 World Literature II
HUM 110 Technology and Society
HUM 115 Critical Thinking
HUM 120 Cultural Studies
HUM 121 The Nature of America
HUM 122 Southern Culture
HUM 123 Appalachian Culture
HUM 130 Myth in Human Culture
HUM 150 American Women's Studies
HUM 160 Introduction to Film
HUM 161 Advanced Film Studies
HUM 170 The Holocaust
HUM 180 Internat Cultural Explor
HUM 220 Human Values and Meaning
MUS 110 Music Appreciation
MUS 112 Introduction to Jazz
MUS 114 Non-Western Music
MUS 210 History of Rock Music
PHI 240 Introduction to Ethics
REL 110 World Religions
REL 211 Intro to Old Testament
REL 212 Intro to New Testament
ANT 220 Cultural Anthropology
ECO 151 Survey of Economics
ECO 251 Prin of Microeconomics
ECO 252 Prin of Macroeconomics
GEO 111 World Regional Geography
GEO 130 General Physical Geography
HIS 111 World Civilizations I
HIS 112 World Civilizations II
HIS 116 Current World Problems
HIS 121 Western Civilization I
HIS 122 Western Civilization II
HIS 131 American History I
HIS 132 American History II
HIS 145 The Second World War
HIS 163 The World Since 1945
HIS 211 Ancient History
POL 120 American Government
POL 130 State & Local Government
POL 220 International Relations
PSY 118 Interpersonal Psychology
PSY 150 General Psychology
PSY 241 Developmental Psych
PSY 281 Abnormal Psychology
SOC 210 Introduction to Sociology
SOC 213 Sociology of the Family
SOC 220 Social Problems
Technical Standards
The Information Technology – Game Development program technical standards have been developed to inform students of the nonacademic essential functions of the program and profession. Examples are not all inclusive.
Standard | Essential Function | Examples |
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Communication Oral / Written |
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Mobility / Motor Skills |
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Physical Strength and Stamina |
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Sensory
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Environmental / Occupational Exposure |
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Field or Industry Professional Standards |
Disability Services Statement
Wilkes Community College is an ADA compliant institution. WCC does not discriminate based on a disability in the admissions process or in access to its programs, services, and/or activities for qualified individuals who meet eligibility requirements. WCC will provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with documented disabilities who are eligible to receive or participate in college programs, services, and/or activities. If a student believes that he/she cannot meet one or more of a program’s essential functions without accommodations, the student is encouraged to disclose this to Disability Services as soon as possible.
2+2 Information
A 2+2* agreement is an opportunity for students to complete their Associate's degree at Wilkes Community College and then transfer into a specified program at a partnering four-year institution for their Bachelor's degree. Wilkes Community College has the following 2+2 agreements for our Game Development graduates:
* The 2+2 model is the proposed timeframe, but may be subject to change.