Virtual Reality and Gaming, BS

The BS in Virtual Reality and Gaming at Bowie State University (BSU) will provide collaborative and interdisciplinary experiences between fine and performing arts and computer science in the areas of game design, XR, virtual production and in the visual and media arts through iterative cycles of design, problem-solving and analysis 

The program will equip students and graduates with the skills and knowledge to apply computing, modeling, and simulation techniques, and digital media arts (art, animation, interactive, video, sound) and virtual production for entertainment, film, immersive experiences, research, education, military, sports, and other disciplines. 

Objectives 

• Both BS degrees and programs through their respective departments will develop computer scientists, creatives, technicians, and designers who can 
• Demonstrate fluency in at least one programming or scripting language used in the production of interactive games and be an expert in at least one game development platform. 
• Demonstrate elements and principles of art/design, principles of animation, problem-solving and design thinking. 
• Develop and prototype a successful game, entertainment, and/or XR product and/or experience from concept to completion including but not limited to XR (VR, AR & MR). 
• Produce productions using motion capture, animation, films, special/visual effects, virtual production, and other innovations in technology in the gaming and entertainment industries. 
• Apply strategies to the gaming and entertainment industries with an entrepreneurial mindset and emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and diversity. 

Student outcomes 

• Both BS degrees and programs will develop graduates who will be able to successfully and respective to each degree: 
• Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions. 
• Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline. 
• Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts. 
• Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing Practice based on legal and ethical principles.  
• Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline. 
• Apply computer science theory and software development fundamentals to produce computing-based solutions. 
• Apply principles of visual organization, including the ability to work with visual elements in two and three-dimensions, color theory and its applications, and drawing.  
• Demonstrate knowledge and skills in the use of basic principles, concepts, tools, techniques, procedures, and technologies sufficient to produce animation art from concept to a finished product that communicates ideas and/or stories to a viewer or to an audience.  
• Demonstrate knowledge of the principles of animation, including its visual, spatial, and sound, motion, and temporal elements and features, and how these elements are combined in the development of animation art. 
• Utilize the characteristics and capabilities of various animation methods and technologies in creative and project development contexts (examples include but are not limited to stop motion, traditional animation, 2D Digital, 3D Digital, etc.). 
• Demonstrate knowledge of the history of animation, game design, immersive media, artistic and technological evolution, and an understanding of basic aesthetics, visual communication, and critical theory. 
• Collaborate and communicate with all members of teams at multiple stages of animation project development and in associated production processes (examples may include but are not limited to working with background artists, layout artists, title artists, lighters, riggers, production managers, writers, technicians, etc.). 
• Analyze and synthesize relevant aspects of human interaction in various contexts (physical, cognitive, cultural, social, political, and economic) and with respect to technologically mediated communication, objects, and environments.  
• Understand the importance of diversity, inclusion and the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans and other underrepresented groups in gaming, entertainment, and related industries. 
• Produce unique and innovative XR (AR, VR & MR) experiences and products to be used in other industries including but not limited to education, business, health, military, sports, the arts, humanities, and natural sciences, and demonstrate a successful portfolio with examples of research, gaming and/or entertainment products, writing and creative content.