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Bachelor of Science in
Simulation and Digital Entertainment

Program Description:

There's a lot more to interactive simulation than just video games. Scientists and engineers regularly use simulations both to model complex systems and to explain their work to the public. Defense planners turn to interactive software--often the same platforms and programs used for games--to analyze threats to national security. Educators are widely adopting simulations as a powerful method for problem-based learning. And of course simulation in games and films, already a multi-billion-dollar industry, continues to expand at a steady pace.

The Baltimore area is one of the best places in the world to start a career in interactive design and game development. The region is home to leading concerns in engineering, aerospace, security analysis, education, and training. The state of Maryland also boasts the largest concentration of computer game developers outside California with approximately 30 companies now in operation, many located in Baltimore County's Hunt Valley. A recent survey by Baltimore county Department of Economic Development tallied over 100 companies in Maryland engaged in interactive development. Conservative estimates see employment increasing by about ten percent annually. As defense planning and industrial training integrates more simulation technologies, hundreds of new jobs will be created in this field.

The skills and concepts needed to create simulations can also provide a foundation for related careers and further study. Among other things, students of games and simulations learn fundamentals of computer programming, 3-D graphics, user experience design, and project management. By taking electives or additional courses they can prepare themselves for graduate study in information technology and computer science, as well as business and visual design.

The BS in Simulation and Digital Entertainment is offered as a four year degree as well as a transfer degree. It is also offered on two campuses. Beginning in Fall, 2007, students in the SDE program may enter as freshmen and upper division students may elect to take classes at a sister institution, Universities at Shady Grove, in Montgomery County. SDE majors may also elect to participate as full time of part time students. Courses are offered at convenient times for those with full time jobs.

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What You will learn:

In the core sequence you'll study basic game concept and design, fundamentals of computer programming, 3-D modeling and animation, usability and experience design, application of simulation to education and other non-entertainment fields, integration of audio in interactive media, and the design of multiplayer games. Two required internships allow you to continue learning in a professional setting, as you work on real-world projects. In a capstone seminar you'll evolve your own game or simulation idea and work in teams building prototypes.

The curriculum includes six elective courses which may be chosen from applicable offerings in the Yale Gordon College of Liberal Arts or the Merrick School of Business.

When you graduate you will:

• comprehend principles of interactive design both in theory and practice
• understand the economic, social, and cultural implications of interactive media
• know how the game and interactive design industries are organized and how to find and evaluate opportunities
• be able to develop games and simulations for education, training, and other non-entertainment purposes
• be proficient in designing for various media including 2-D and 3-D graphics, animation, and sound
• have a basic understanding of object-oriented programming and software development;
• be able to work effectively both individually and in groups to plan, produce, and test complex programs.

What makes this program unique

Other schools offer courses in digital imaging, computer simulation, and interactive design. Continuing education facilities offer training in software and development tools. However, other programs specialize only in particular areas, such as graphics or programming. Only the SDE programs at the University of Baltimore and its articulated programs at Anne Arundel Community College, The Community College of Baltimore County, Carroll Community College, Howard Community College, and Montgomery College integrate the full range of concepts and skills needed to launch a career in game and simulation development. With its internships and capstone development seminar, the Bachelor of Science program provides an ideal entry point for aspiring professionals.

Open to all

You may still pursue the BS at the University of Baltimore if you transfer from a school or program other than those mentioned above.

Students who have not completed an articulated program at one of the state community colleges may enroll for the BS at the University of Baltimore by meeting the University's general requirements for transfer and satisfying the following course requirements:

• a college-level course in 2-D graphics or digital imaging (e.g., CMAT 350, Computer Graphics)
• a college-level course in multimedia authoring or production (e.g., CMAT 456, Multimedia Production)
• a college-level course in technical writing or technical communication (e.g., WRIT 313, Writing for Information Systems)
• a college-level course in 3-D modeling and/or animation(e.g. COSC 260, 3-D Graphics)

Three of the requirements above can be met by courses at the University of Baltimore. The requirement in 3-D modeling or animation may be satisfied by MULT 205 at Essex or an equivalent course elsewhere.

Students may take these courses in place of electives in the BS program. Though exceptions can be made, students will generally be expected to satisfy the requirements in computer graphics, multimedia, and 3-D before taking any courses in the BS core sequence.

Admission Information:

Admission for first-year students is based on:

• the completion of a college-preparatory curriculum, including English, mathematics, science and social science
• grades in college-preparatory courses
• SAT or ACT test scores
• an essay or personal statement that explores your interest in UB, your intended career path, personal interests, talents and leadership experiences.
• optional elements like SAT subject test scores, a resume or list of extracurricular activities or letters of recommendation from teachers or counselors.

If you are a transfer student, you must have a minimum 2.0 GPA when transferring 56 or more credits, a minimum 2.3 GPA with 42 to 55 credits or a minimum 2.5 GPA with 24 to 41 credits. If you have not earned an associates degree in an articulated Simulation and Digital Entertainment program, be prepared to satisfy the above four core course requirements.

You may:

Request more information.

Apply online.

Contact the UB Office of Admissions at admissions@ubalt.edu or 410.837.4777 or 1.877.ApplyUB (1.877.277.5982) for more information, or visit http://www.ubalt.edu/admissions.

Principal Faculty:

• Kathleen Harmeyer
• Nancy Kaplan
• Mohammed Ketel
• Stuart Moulthrop
• Kathryn Summers
• Charles Sykes
• James Dutt

See faculty bios for more info.

These regular faculty are joined by a select group of adjunct instructors from the local game industry and research communities.

Contact Information: Program Director or Program Coordinator

For information about the SDE Program at the Community College of Baltimore County, please contact the Program Coordinator:

• Doug McNamara
• Assistant Professor
• The Institute of Art, Design and Interactive Media
• Community College of Baltimore County-Essex
• 7201 Rossville Boulevard
• Baltimore, Maryland 21237
• 410.780.6461