VIDEOGAMES are not just for entertainment — they've evolved into complex software systems that push the limits of what computers can do.
Game-based software systems are the backbone of many technologies used in various industries. It is now more relevant than ever to dive into the fields of computer science and game design with the rise of technological trends, such as the metaverse, artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), big data, blockchain, cloud computing and edge computing.
As an extension of its consistent emphasis on high-quality education, The One Academy has forged a strong partnership with one of the leading names in computer science — the DigiPen Institute of Technology in the United States — to lead the game development industry in Southeast Asia.
DigiPen was founded in 1988 by Claude Comair as a computer simulation and animation company. However, to fulfil the need for qualified personnel who have fundamental understanding of computer science and were well-versed in the latest technologies, DigiPen, in partnership with Nintendo of America, began offering courses specialising in computer science and game development.
Today, it is known as the first school in the world to offer a bachelor's degree in video game technology and development.
As a result of shared passion and education philosophy, The One Academy has collaborated with DigiPen to establish its campus in Malaysia.
At present, DigiPen The One Academy offers students five top-grade courses, all of which are accredited by the Malaysian Qualifications Agency. They are the Diploma in Computer Science, Diploma in Game Design, Bachelor of Arts in Game Design, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Game Design and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation (RTIS).
The game design programmes combine the theory and practice of designing games and user experience with coursework in the humanities, social sciences, and the fundamentals of mathematics and computer science.
Students learn about the artistic and narrative principles that make interactive experiences both intuitive and compelling, as well as the tools and processes that professional designers use to implement, test and refine their ideas in a real-world production environment.
The computer science and game design programme combines game design theory and practice, with coursework in computer science, mathematics and physics.
Students learn to leverage technical tools and processes used by professional designers, including scripting languages, level and map editors, and databases while designing, prototyping and iterating their projects in a collaborative and driven environment.
The computer science in RTIS programme focuses on developing, implementing and programming complex interactive simulations and computer graphics in real-time, using game development as a tool for teaching advanced computer science concepts.
Students begin with a solid foundation in mathematics, physics and programming, then applying that knowledge in yearly team-based projects, and finally releasing their own game software to the public.
These courses will be taught locally or online by professionals from the US, and they mirror the syllabus in DigiPen's main campus in Redmond, Washington.
The One Academy is committed to providing the best art education programmes and continues to nurture its students passionately through its "Masters Train Masters" coaching philosophy, which has been practised for more than 30 years.
For more information, visit www.toa.edu.my, call (+603) 7875 5510 or email enquiry@toa.edu.my.