Tusculum University offers new game design minor

GREENEVILLE, Tenn. (WJHL) — Tusculum University is offering a new minor for students who wish to learn more about creating video games.

Starting in the fall, Tusculum will offer a game design minor. The minor gives students the opportunity to build their own video games and put their art and programming skills to the test.

“We have many students who are interested in video games, and we are focused on meeting the demand,” Walter Wimberly, assistant professor of computer science at Tusculum, said in a news release. “This minor also allows students to take a more diversified series of classes, as it is open to those in any major. We look forward to various majors bringing their own unique experiences and insights to the courses.”

The game design minor is made up of six courses that are split between computer science and visual communications programs. Students will learn about basic programming, 3D modeling, digital graphics and other aspects of game design while creating their own game.

“We are looking to prepare students for indie-style game development,” Wimberly said. “They will learn both the visual arts side and basic programming so they can create their own game or work with a small team to develop a game. This approach also gives them experience so they can determine which elements are their favorite if they do work with a team.”

Tusculum warned that students in the minor may not be able to complete their entire game before reaching the end of their studies. As such, some will have to focus on completing different levels of the game and putting the finishing touches on afterward.

According to Wimberly, the minor in game design will allow interested students to get hands-on experience in the field while not requiring as much time and dedication as a major.

In 2022, Tusculum opened its gaming and Esports lab. The Tusculum Esports Valoran team has since seen success by defeating Michigan Tech in October 2023 in the National Association of Collegiate Esports contest.

The university also held Pioneer Con in spring 2024, which featured a variety of video games and tabletop games. The next Pioneer Con will take place in October.

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