Overview

The Computer Game Design programme at George Mason University provides a robust foundation in the artistic and technical components of modern gaming. Students engage in a multidisciplinary curriculum that balances creative expression with the rigorous coding skills required for professional success. This degree ensures that graduates are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the global gaming industry.

The curriculum is designed to foster both individual creativity and collaborative technical proficiency. By integrating visual arts with computer science, the programme allows students to explore the full lifecycle of game development. Participants benefit from a structured learning environment that emphasises practical application and portfolio development, ensuring they are ready for the competitive job market upon completion.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 39312 per year
National fee: USD 39312 per year
Local fee: USD 14316 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The syllabus focuses on a blend of design theory, technical implementation, and artistic practice. Modules may include:

Game Design
Applied Coding for Game Designers
Three-Dimensional Game Art
Gameplay Scripting Implementation
Story Design for Computer Games
Digital Game Design
Computer Game Platform Analysis
Music for Film and Video
Writing and Editing Music and Sound

Careers with Computer Game Design

Graduates of this programme are prepared for diverse roles within the interactive entertainment and digital media sectors. The training provided supports career paths in game production, technical art, and software development. By completing a mandatory internship and a senior capstone project, students gain the professional exposure necessary to secure positions in various creative industries. Potential career outcomes include:

Game Designer
3D Modeller
Gameplay Scripter
Technical Artist
Level Designer
Sound Designer for Games

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Two-Dimensional Design and Color

Applied Coding for Game Designers

Basic Game Design

History of Computer Game Design

Computer Animation for Games

Online and Mobile Gaming

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-10-01 00:00:00
Starting 2027-08-25 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-06-01 00:00:00 , International

More details

Freshman Priority Application Deadline (for Spring Semester) October 1
Regular Decision Deadline(for Fall Semester) February 1

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

110

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Fairfax, United States

Disciplines

Game Design Computer Sciences Software Engineering View 646 other Bachelors in Software Engineering in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

110

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Completed online application and application fee. Mason accepts the Common Application and George Mason University’s Undergraduate Application for Admission.

Certified official, original transcripts from all secondary schools as well as official results from any leaving certificates or university entrance exams taken. A certified English translation must be submitted for any documents not already in English.

Official scores from SAT or ACT. International students have the option to submit SAT or ACT scores with your application or apply Score Optional.

Secondary School Report (PDF) and counselor recommendations. We suggest sending two (2) letters of recommendation, one from a high school counselor and one from a teacher.

An optional, but strongly encouraged Personal Statement or Essay of approximately 250 words explaining to the Office of Admissions why YOU want to attend university study.

Resume for any applicant with gaps in enrollment.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

39312 USD / year

≈ 39312 USD / year
Out-of-State

39312 USD / year

≈ 39312 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14316 USD / year

≈ 14316 USD / year

Living costs

Fairfax

United States

1330 - 2300 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Computer Game Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

Fairfax

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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