A new major is currently undergoing the process for approval. Dr. Roger Mailler, the member of the computer science department spearheading the effort to get the major approved, is confident that the “Computer Simulation and Gaming” (CSG) major will be unveiled this coming fall.
The major focuses on the creation of game engines—enabling things like physics, lighting, etc.—and their use in making games. It also incorporates a wide variety of elements: script writing from the English department, 3D modeling and animation from the arts and programming from the computer science department.
According to Dr. Mailler, Computer Simulation and Gaming “mandates some courses that computer science (CS) considers elective, removes some courses that are required by CS, and requires a greater depth of knowledge in areas related to game and simulation development.”
Additionally, he said that, “Being a non-ABET-accredited major, students have a greater degree of freedom to tailor the major to the particular niche areas of CSG that they find interesting. For example, a student could easily major in CSG and get minors in both Math and Art.
Another student could work toward a minor in Music with a major in CSG.” ABET accreditation has a long list of criteria, so not receiving that accreditation reduces the number of classes specific to the major.
Double-majoring in computer science and CSG should be relatively easy, but there will be “some pretty intense semesters,” according to Mailler. “However, if a student comes in with AP credit, it would be quite easy to get the double major.”
Dr. Mailler commented that the most exciting part of the major is its future potential.
“We’re seeing a great deal of excitement from all over the university about this new major because games are exciting,” he said. “As time goes on and the major matures, I hope to see new courses that supplement our already strong collection of gaming-related courses offered here at TU.
I’m thinking of offering a new course in Game Level Design that would be appropriate for freshman students from all over the university. I have also heard rumors of a new Digital Studies minor in A&S that could certainly complement what we are doing in ENS.”
If students are interested in getting more information, they may contact Dr. Mailler. However, he cannot release details until they are approved.
