The School of Applied and Creative Computing (ACC) is partnering with the Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE) to expand academic offerings in gaming and interactive technology for Purdue students in Indianapolis.
The two schools will launch a new undergraduate certificate in Gaming and Interactive Systems Engineering. The credential combines coursework from ACC's Game Development and Design major with ECE's new Gaming and Interactive Systems Engineering concentration.
ACC contributes expertise in game design, user experience, 3D art, digital media and interactive storytelling. Feng Li, head of ACC, said the partnership reflects the interdisciplinary nature of the modern gaming industry.
"The future of gaming and interactive media depends on people who can think across boundaries," Li said. "ACC's students in the game major have strong foundations in game design, software development, 3D art, interactive storytelling and user experience. Through this collaboration with ECE, they will also have new opportunities to learn about the engineering side, including embedded platforms, game consoles, sensors and hardware."
ECE brings engineering instruction focused on hardware, systems, computing platforms, and software. Milind Kulkarni, head of ECE, noted that the joint program gives students a broader understanding of the field.
"Gaming and interactive systems sit at the intersection of engineering, computing, creativity and human experience," Kulkarni said. "By partnering with the School of Applied and Creative Computing, we can give students a more complete view of this field. They will understand not only how these systems are built, but also how they are imagined, designed and experienced by users."
The new certificate creates another academic pathway for students on the urban campus in Indianapolis. David Umulis, Purdue senior vice provost for Indianapolis, emphasized the local industry connections built into the collaboration.
"This collaboration is exactly the kind of opportunity Purdue is building for students in Indianapolis," Umulis said. "It brings together academic strengths from across Purdue, connects students with a fast-growing industry and gives them hands-on experience in a city where technology, creativity and innovation are continuing to expand."
The program will prepare graduates for technical and creative roles across the gaming, software, and interactive media sectors.
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