Virtual Reality and Visualization

A concentration area in the M.S. Computer Graphics Technology Program
in the Department of Computer Graphics Technology

The Virtual Reality and Visualization (VRVis) concentration equips students with the knowledge and skills to become pioneers in creating innovative applications using immersive technologies, real-time interaction, and advanced data visualization. This concentration provides an in-depth understanding of virtual reality (VR) and visualization techniques and their efficient implementation across various professional domains. With a balanced mix of practical and theoretical skills, the program prepares students for successful careers in the industry or for pursuing doctoral studies.

The MS concentration in VRVis is designed to equip students with the advanced knowledge and technical expertise required to excel in the rapidly evolving fields of virtual and augmented reality, interactive simulations, and visual data representation. This interdisciplinary program delves deep into integrating VR techniques with real-world applications, offering a comprehensive curriculum that covers cutting-edge visualization methods and immersive experiences across industries such as education, healthcare, urban planning, and simulation training. Students will gain hands-on experience with state-of-the-art tools and technologies, learning to develop interactive and immersive environments that enhance user engagement, decision-making, and real-time data interpretation. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to tackle complex challenges and drive advancements in various industries, including medical visualization, architectural simulation, and professional training systems.

In this program, students will explore how virtual and augmented reality can revolutionize traditional visualization methods, from developing realistic simulations for medical procedures to creating interactive educational experiences and dynamic data-driven environments. Through collaborative projects and research opportunities, students will work alongside academic leaders to push the boundaries of what is possible in immersive technology. Graduates of the program will emerge as leaders in the field, equipped with the skills and knowledge to innovate and excel in various career paths, whether in cutting-edge tech companies, research institutions, or entrepreneurial ventures. The MS concentration in VRVis prepares students for immediate success in their careers and positions them at the forefront of the ongoing revolution in virtual reality, interactive media, and advanced visualization.

Sample Plan of Study

Fall (Year 1) Spring (Year 1)

CGT 520 Computer Graphics Programming (3 cr.)

CGT 525 Virtual Reality (3 cr.)

CGT 501 Seminar in Computer Graphics Technology (3 cr.)

CGT 570 Information Visualization (3 cr.)

CGT 521 Advanced Real-Time Computer Graphics (3 cr.)

CGT Elective (3 cr.)

Fall (Year 2) Spring (Year 2)

STAT 501 Experimental Statistics (3 cr.) or another methods course

CGT 621 Compute Shaders (3 cr.)

CGT 698 MS Thesis (3 cr.)

CGT Elective (3 cr.)

CGT Elective (3 cr.)

CGT 698 MS Thesis (3 cr.)