--- title: "Game Design and Production B.S. / B.A. / Minor" url: "/academics/programs/game-design-production" type: program date: 2026-06-14 updated: 2026-06-18 --- # Game Design and Production B.S. / B.A. / Minor # Game Design and Production B.S. / B.A. / Minor **Design, code, and launch original video games in one of the world's largest creative industries.** Study the history, theory, and practice of game design while building real skills in design, interactive storytelling, and AI-driven coding. Work in small classes led by professors, specialize in the area that fits your goals, and graduate having produced and launched an original game with your team. [ Request Information ](/admissions/undergraduate/request-information) [ Visit Manhattan University ](/admissions/visit) [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) Credit Hours120 Time to Complete4 Years Image ![3D designer is working on a project on a graphic tablet with a screen.](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-3000x2000.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=TB6Bsf_r) This program is part of [Communication, Sound & Media Arts](/academics/kakos/departments/comm-sou-med-arts) The Manhattan University Difference ## What Sets Us Apart Game Design and Production at Manhattan University is an interdisciplinary program that pairs the creative and technical sides of game development. Students explore the history and culture of games while building practical skills in design, storytelling, and coding, all in small classes taught by professors who work closely with each student. Taught by Professors, Not TAs You learn in small groups directly from faculty, not graduate assistants, with individual attention to build an educational plan tailored to your interests. An Interdisciplinary Approach The program brings together art, computer science, and digital media and communications, so you graduate fluent in design, code, and storytelling rather than just one piece of game development. Grounded in the Liberal Arts A broad arts and sciences foundation helps you understand the world around you and bring stronger, more original ideas to the games you create. Build and Launch a Real Game Your studies culminate in producing and launching an original video game with your team, gaining hands-on experience in design, project management, promotion, and marketing. Direct Industry Connections As an official educational partner for the Rockstar Games internship, the program opens doors to opportunities reserved for only a few select universities. Built for a Fast-Changing Field A flexible curriculum adapts to a rapidly evolving industry and prepares you for game and technology careers that may not even exist yet. Image ![#D rendering of a hand Holding Wireless Joystick With Gaming Gamepad Controller, VR Goggles, Headphones, Video Game Console On Background.](/sites/default/files/styles/original_aspect_ratio_400/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-3-3000x2000.jpg?itok=OpDv1AHM) The Manhattan Advantage ## Why Study Why Study Game Design and Production at Manhattan University? At Manhattan University, you learn every step of developing and producing interactive digital video games to work in an industry now worth more than $200 billion. The program blends design, storytelling, and coding so you graduate with a versatile, in-demand skill set, supported by personalized instruction and close faculty mentorship in small classes. **You graduate ready to design, build, and launch games, with hands-on skills across three connected areas:** - **Design -** UI/UX design, graphic design fundamentals, 3D modeling, and animation, plus fluency in standard game engines like Unity and Unreal. - **Storytelling -** Narrative structures, interactive storytelling, and compelling characters and plots, alongside traditional video production and editing, virtual production and CGI, and immersive storytelling, including VR. - **Coding -** Coding fundamentals, including modular design, data structures, object-oriented design, and building artificial intelligence (AI) models. These skills are highly transferable. While the program prepares you for careers in the video game industry, the same abilities open doors in related fields such as AI, software development, instructional design, scientific visualization, digital simulation and engineering, and the visual effects and animation studios behind film, video, and online content. Image ![#D rendering of a hand Holding Wireless Joystick With Gaming Gamepad Controller, VR Goggles, Headphones, Video Game Console On Background.](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-3-3000x2000.jpg?h=99d542f5&itok=AiGVgHpD) Image ![A neon sign on a brick wall shows a video game controller with neon arrows coming out of the top in this 3-d illustration about gaming.](/sites/default/files/styles/original_aspect_ratio_400/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-4-3000x2000.jpg?itok=YWmxaPJv) Degree Program Options ## Choose the Degree That Fits Your Goals **Game Design and Production offers a major with three concentrations and a minor, so you can shape your studies around the area of game development that fits your goals. The major requires 30 credits in the program, and your concentration determines whether you earn a B.A. or a B.S.** ### Bachelor of Science — Coding Concentration The Coding concentration leads to a B.S. and is built for students who want to focus on the technical foundations of game development. Coursework moves from computer science fundamentals into data structures, discrete structures, object-oriented design, and artificial intelligence. This is a 125-credit path. ### Bachelor of Arts — Design Concentration The Design concentration leads to a B.A. and centers on the visual and interactive craft of games, with work in digital drawing, 3D design and modeling, and animation. This is a 120-credit path. ### Bachelor of Arts — Narrative Concentration The Narrative concentration leads to a B.A. and focuses on interactive storytelling, with work in digital storytelling, interactive narratives, and VR perception and production. This is a 120-credit path. Image ![A neon sign on a brick wall shows a video game controller with neon arrows coming out of the top in this 3-d illustration about gaming.](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-4-3000x2000.jpg?h=99d542f5&itok=1IoLJINB) This block only displays content on program pages. ## Game Design and Production: From Concept to Launch. At Manhattan University, Game Design and Production students gain the technical skills, creative range, and hands-on experience to build games and thrive across the industries shaped by interactive media. Hands-On Game Development Build games end to end using industry-standard engines like Unity and Unreal, from first concept to a finished, playable product. Design and Visual Craft Develop UI/UX, graphic design, 3D modeling, and animation skills that bring game worlds and characters to life. Interactive Storytelling Master narrative structure, character, and immersive techniques including VR to create stories players shape as they play. Coding and AI Foundations Learn modular design, data structures, object-oriented programming, and how to build the AI models that drive modern games. A Rockstar Games Partnership Compete for internships through our selective educational partnership with one of New York City's most influential studios. Career-Ready Versatility Graduate with transferable skills that open doors in gaming, AI, animation, visual effects, simulation, and beyond. Image ![eSports team playing video games in row lit by neon light](/sites/default/files/styles/original_aspect_ratio_400/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-5-3000x2000.jpg?itok=jkjm0b8r) Real World Experience ## Internships and Industry Partnerships Manhattan University's location and industry connections give Game Design and Production students direct access to the studios shaping the field. As an official educational partner for the prestigious Rockstar Games internship, a closed program based in New York City and open only to a select few universities, the program connects students to opportunities that are difficult to find elsewhere. **Rockstar Games:** **An Official Rockstar Games Educational Partner,** Manhattan University is one of a small number of universities invited into Rockstar Games' selective, NYC-based internship program, placing our students in direct reach of one of the industry's most influential studios. **Where students intern:** As a Game Design and Production major, you are well-positioned for internships at studios and companies, including: - Avalanche Studios - Defiant Studios - Epic Games - E-Sports League - Mobile Games - Quytech - Riot Games - Rockstar Games - Unity Technologies - Virtual Production Majors may apply 3 internship credits in the gaming industry toward their degree, turning real studio experience into academic progress. Image ![eSports team playing video games in row lit by neon light](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/game-design-bs-ba-minor-5-3000x2000.jpg?h=99d542f5&itok=MWBVie_j) ## Meet Our Faculty Study the history, theory, and practice of game design while building real skills in design, interactive storytelling, and AI-driven coding. An interdisciplinary program shared by the Computer Science and Communication, Sound, and Media Arts departments, Game Design and Production lets you specialize in the area that fits your goals, learn in small classes led by professors, and graduate having produced and launched an original game with your team. [Communication, Sound and Media Arts Faculty](/node/2322) [Computer Science Department Faculty](/academics/kakos/departments/computer-science/faculty "Faculty | Department of Computer Science") Image ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/square_400/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=aPR2TTA5) ## Why Study in New York City New York City is one of the world's great hubs for games, media, and technology, home to major studios, independent developers, and the artists, engineers, and storytellers who power them. Game Design and Production students study at the center of this ecosystem, with access to internships, industry partnerships, and the professional networks that turn classroom skills into careers. From Rockstar Games to emerging independent studios, the companies defining interactive entertainment are within reach, and the city's overlapping worlds of film, animation, advertising, and software give students a uniquely broad view of where their skills can take them. This real-world context strengthens both your technical confidence and the professional network you need to launch a career in one of the most competitive and creative markets anywhere. Image ![Aerial photo of New York City](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/nyc-3200x1800.jpg?h=f0fb51a5&itok=p09sBu3Y) Image ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=mTaC6uLo) ## The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences The Kakos School of Arts and Sciences is the largest of Manhattan University's three schools, offering 33 undergraduate majors, six graduate programs, and six combined degrees across the humanities, natural and social sciences, and professional fields. Grounded in the University's Lasallian Catholic mission and located near the heart of New York City, the School pairs rigorous academics with small classes, close faculty mentorship, and real-world experience throughout the five boroughs and beyond. That foundation delivers: Manhattan University ranks in the top 3% nationally for salary impact (Wall Street Journal, 2026), a measure of how strongly a degree here translates into graduates' career earnings. [ Explore Kakos School of Arts and Sciences ](/academics/kakos) Image ![Manhattan University students sitting on a bench outside talking](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-06/students-outside-bench-kakos.jpg?h=c6980913&itok=mTaC6uLo) This block only displays content on program pages. ## Program Costs & Financial Aid Manhattan University is committed to making a high-quality, career-focused education accessible and affordable. Through a combination of competitive tuition, robust financial aid, and our **Jasper Guarantee**, students and families can plan their education with confidence. The Jasper Guarantee locks your tuition rate for all four years—ensuring financial stability and eliminating unexpected increases as you work toward your degree. More than 90% of Manhattan University students receive some form of financial assistance, including merit scholarships, grants, and need-based aid, significantly reducing the overall cost of attendance. - [View Tuition & Fees](/admissions/financial-aid/tuition) - [Explore Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/undergraduate) - [Learn More About Scholarships](/admissions/financial-aid/loans-grants/scholarships-and-grants) - [Learn About the Jasper Guarantee](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee) A Manhattan University education is an investment in your future, and we are dedicated to helping you access the resources that make it possible. [Learn More About Costs and Financial Aid](/admissions/financial-aid/) Image ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) A Smarter Investment in Your Future ## Jasper Guarantee At Manhattan University, every undergraduate student is protected by the Jasper Guarantee, which locks your tuition rate for all four years, ensuring clarity, stability, and peace of mind as you plan your education. This promise reflects our commitment to affordability and to supporting students and families throughout their academic journey. [ Learn More About the Jasper Guarantee ](/admissions/undergraduate/jasper-guarantee) Image ![Manhattan University Admission counselors and students smiling during an open house event](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/3000x2000-admissions-open-house-2025.jpg?h=1cb48fc4&itok=37la0IHA) ## Admissions Information for Manhattan University **Start Your Journey in Game Design and Production** Applying to Manhattan University is designed to be clear and accessible. Review the requirements below to take the next step toward your degree. **Requirements:** - Application & transcript - SAT/ACT optional - Personal statement - Letter(s) of recommendation **Deadlines:** - Early Action: November 15 - Regular Decision: February 1 [Admission and Application Process](/admissions/financial-aid/) ### International Students: Support available for visas, documentation, and English-language assessments. [Learn More about International Financial Aid](/admissions/international/financial-aid/) Image ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43) ## Prepare for the Real World At Manhattan University, your education is built around who you are and where you want to go. Whether you’re ready to apply or just starting to explore, take the next step when you’re ready — we’re here to help. [Visit Manhattan University](/admissions/visit) [Apply Today](/admissions/apply) [Request Information](/admissions/request-information) [Explore Virtual Tour](https://www.youvisit.com/tour/62170/) Image ![Aerial photo of Manhattan University](/sites/default/files/styles/4_3_327w/public/media/2026-03/drone-2025-3200x2400.jpg?h=9b8bd6ff&itok=xYR2ar43)