Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

This BA focuses on the full lifecycle of interactive media and game creation, combining technical foundations with creative practice. The curriculum typically includes core courses in programming for interactive media, game design principles, 2D and 3D digital art and animation, user experience and interface design, narrative and storytelling for games, and real-time graphics. Students also study supporting areas such as mathematics for graphics, audio design, artificial intelligence for games, networking for multiplayer experiences, and project management.

A distinctive feature of the programme is project-based learning: students design and build playable projects in teams across the degree. Capstone projects — often known at WPI as Major Qualifying Projects (MQPs) — require students to take a full project from concept through deployment, and there are opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration with other departments. Throughout the programme students assemble a professional portfolio and gain experience with common game engines, scripting languages, digital art tools and version-control workflows.

Typical modules and activity

• Introduction to Interactive Media & Game Development (principles and practice)
• Programming for Games (scripting, engine use, gameplay programming)
• Interactive Storytelling and Narrative Design
• 2D Art and Animation; 3D Modelling and Rigging
• Real-Time Graphics and Shading
• Game Systems and AI
• User Experience, Playtesting and Accessibility
• Multiplayer & Networked Games
• Audio Design and Implementation for Interactive Media
• Major Qualifying Project and team-based production courses

Entry requirements

Admission to the BA in Interactive Media & Game Development requires a completed secondary education (high school diploma or equivalent) with a record of academic achievement. Applicants are normally expected to have studied mathematics and to demonstrate some experience or interest in programming, visual art, design, or other relevant creative work. A portfolio of game or interactive projects, code samples, digital art, design documents or related work is strongly recommended and can significantly strengthen an application.

WPI considers applicants holistically, so extracurricular activities, project experience, letters of recommendation and personal statements are important. International applicants must meet English language proficiency requirements. Specific course prerequisites, test policies and documentation requirements can be found on WPI admissions pages.

Career prospects

Graduates of the programme move into a wide range of roles across the games and interactive media industries as well as adjacent sectors. Common career paths include:

• Gameplay programmer, engine developer or tools developer
• Game designer, level designer or systems designer
• Technical artist, 3D artist or animator
• User experience (UX) designer and interaction designer for interactive applications
• AR/VR developer and immersive experience creator
• Producer, project manager or quality assurance specialist in game studios
• Designer/developer of serious games and simulations for education, training or health
• Independent developer or studio founder, entrepreneurship in digital media

The programme’s emphasis on team projects, portfolio development and industry-standard tools supports entry into studios, startups, digital agencies and research labs, and also prepares students for graduate study in game design, computer graphics or interactive media.

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is known for a hands-on, project-based curriculum that puts students in collaborative teams to solve real problems — an ideal environment for learning how to ship interactive products. The IMGD programme leverages that approach with multiple production courses and a Major Qualifying Project that simulates professional studio workflows. Students benefit from access to specialised facilities, industry-standard software and fabrication/makerspaces where art, hardware and software converge.

Located in New England, WPI maintains connections with regional game studios, tech companies and research centres, providing internship and networking opportunities. Faculty and staff combine academic expertise with industry experience, and the university’s career services support portfolio presentation, internships and employer engagement. The result is a programme that balances creative craft, technical depth and real-world project experience to prepare graduates for the evolving fields of games and interactive media.