Bachelor of Science in
Simulation Science, Games, and Animation
The Bachelor of Science in Simulation Science, Games, and Animation degree teaches students the principles behind building virtual worlds and simulations by using mathematical algorithms and technologies underlying aviation simulators, computer aided design (CAD) systems, animation software, streaming video networks, and games. The program prepares students to be skilled in building the digital experiences of the future and to be leaders in this emerging and interdisciplinary field.
As a technical, multidisciplinary degree, students will take courses in computer science, mathematics, physics, engineering, animation, modelling, computer graphics, simulation, and artificial intelligence. Aspects of art and design will complement the technical side of this degree.
Work in the computer labs is extensive and students can expect to graduate proficient in C#, C++, Python, JavaScript, HTML5, Maya and Unity3D. Example courses include Gaming Capstone, Interactive Media, Multiplayer Game Systems, Game Engine Architecture, and Artificial Intelligence.
Graduates of this program will be ready to work in a variety of industries from gaming to virtual training environments. Examples include building computer game software for Microsoft, designing virtual reality environments for Boeing, or working at the Department of Defense Modeling and Simulation Office or one of its contractors.
DEGREE DETAILS
About Simulation Science, Games, and Animation at the Prescott, AZ Campus
Embry-Riddle's new Simulation Science, Gaming & Animation Degree has been designed to provide you with a solid foundation in computer game technology, and covers areas far and beyond just programming. With Embry-Riddle's unique strengths in aviation, engineering, and intelligence, students receive a depth of knowledge unequaled in higher education.
Graduates of this major can expect to find rewarding careers in game design, entertainment, or software development, and will also be in position for careers in a vast array of other areas, such as military and intelligence communities, high-tech manufacturing, or aviation.
In 2012, the median annual wage for applications software developers was over $90,000 a year. The annual median wage for systems software developers was nearly $100,000 a year. Employment of software developers is projected to grow 22 percent by 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. Embry-Riddle's expert instruction and guidance can place you in position to move into these industries after graduation.
The Simulation Science, Gaming & Animation degree offers a variety of STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) courses combined with aspects of art and design necessary to provide a first-rate education to students in this major.
With Embry-Riddle, you will be in the best possible position to succeed in an industry searching for quality, skilled professionals.
The Simulation Science, Games and Animation degree program is meant to address our society’s increasing use of computer science in design, visualization, and entertainment.This is a technical but multidisciplinary degree.It enables graduates to design and build the technologies underlying aviation simulators, computer aided design (CAD) systems, computer animation software, streaming video networks, computer games and so forth. This degree combines aspects of computer science, aeronautics, mathematics, physics, engineering, military science, intelligence, security, management and business.
This degree will impart a depth of knowledge in computer science, engineering, mathematics, and software design sufficient to understand the problems, techniques, and issues of game development, animation, and digital media at a professional level. In addition, this program will give the students the skills in intelligence and management sufficient to lead and direct teams of professionals in the development of systems in these areas. Other aspects of information science imparted include artificial intelligence, discrete event simulation, and computer graphics.
Graduates of this program will work in a variety of industries. Examples include designing virtual reality environments for Boeing, building computer game software for Microsoft, working at the DOD Modeling and Simulation Office or one of its contractors
Degree Requirements
The Bachelor of Science degree can be earned in eight semesters assuming appropriate background and full-time enrollment. Successful completion of a minimum of 124 credit hours is required. Students entering this program should have demonstrated a competence in mathematics and science (preferably physics). They should be prepared to enter Calculus I, having demonstrated proficiency in algebra and trigonometry. Students can prepare for this program by taking MA 140, College Algebra, and MA 142, Trigonometry, prior to taking MA 241. For those students who have not taken physics in high school, it is recommended that PS 113 Physics I, be taken prior to PS 150. The Simulation, Games and Animation program is designed to prepare students to work as part of a team on the development of simulation systems and games. Relevant concepts, methods, and techniques are integrated through the curriculum. The curriculum includes courses in general education, mathematics, computer programming, and software design.
Students should be aware that several courses in each academic year may have prerequisites and/or co-requisites.
Suggested Program of Study
| Freshman Year | ||
|---|---|---|
| Credits | ||
| COM 122 | English Composition | 3 |
| Lower-Level Humanities | 3 | |
| CEC 220 | Digital Circuit Design | 3 |
| CEC 222 | Digital Circuit Design Laboratory | 1 |
| CS 121 | Introduction to Computer Game Systems | 3 |
| CS 125 | Computer Science I | 4 |
| EGR 115 | Introduction to Computing for Engineers | 3 |
| MA 241 | Calculus and Analytical Geometry I | 4 |
| MA 242 | Calculus and Analytical Geometry II | 4 |
| PS 150 | Physics for Engineers I | 3 |
| UNIV 101 | College Success | (1) |
| Credits Subtotal | 31.0 | |
| Sophomore Year | ||
| COM 221 | Technical Report Writing | 3 |
| CS 225 | Computer Science II | 4 |
| MA 225 | Introduction to Discrete Structures | 3 |
| MA 335 | Introduction to Linear and Abstract Algebra | 3 |
| MA 243 | Calculus and Analytical Geometry III | 4 |
| CS 233 | Interactive Media I | 3 |
| CS 234 | Modeling and World Building | 3 |
| CS 315 | Data Structures and Analysis of Algorithms | 3 |
| CS 335 | Introduction to Computer Graphics | 3 |
| SE 300 | Software Engineering Practices | 3 |
| Credits Subtotal | 32.0 | |
| Junior Year | ||
| COM 219 | Speech | 3 |
| Lower-Level Social Science or Psychology | 3 | |
| Physical Science with Lab | 3-4 | |
| CEC 320 | Microprocessor Systems | 3 |
| CEC 322 | Microprocessor Systems Laboratory | 1 |
| CEC 470 | Computer Architecture | 3 |
| CI 311 | Securing Computer Networks | 3 |
| CS 455 | Artificial Intelligence | 3 |
| CS 333 | Interactive Media II | 3 |
| CS 336 | Graphics Processors | 3 |
| MA 412 | Probability and Statistics | 3 |
| Credits Subtotal | 31.0-32.0 | |
| Senior Year | ||
| Upper-Level Humanities | 3 | |
| Upper-Level Social Science | 3 | |
| CS 420 | Operating Systems | 3 |
| CS 434 | Game Engine Laboratory | 3 |
| CS 350 | Computer Modeling and Simulation | 3 |
| CS 437 | Multiplayer Game Systems | 3 |
| CS 438 | Visualization and Virtual Reality | 3 |
| CS 480 | Simulation Science Preliminary Design | 3 |
| CS 481 | Simulation Science Detail Design | 3 |
| Technical Elective | 3 | |
| Credits Subtotal | 30.0 | |
| Credits Total: | 124.0-125.0 | |
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Degree Summary
124-125 Credits
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