Game Design & Development, Certificate
The Game Design and Development Certificate at Prairie State College provides hands-on training in game mechanics, programming, art, and storytelling. This program prepares aspiring game developers to bring their creative ideas to life and succeed in the fast-growing gaming industry.
What Can You Do with a Game Design & Development Certificate?
With this certificate, you can contribute to the entire game development process—from
designing game mechanics and storytelling to coding and creating artwork. It prepares
you for entry-level positions in game studios, interactive media companies, or independent
development projects, helping you turn your passion for gaming into a professional
career.
The gaming industry is rapidly expanding, with a high demand for skilled designers,
programmers, and artists. Graduates can pursue roles such as game designer, game programmer,
quality assurance tester, or digital artist. The skills gained also open opportunities
in related fields like interactive media, virtual reality, and mobile app development.
With the industry’s growth, talented game developers are increasingly sought after
across entertainment, tech, and education sectors.
Suggested Curriculum
This program offers students the ability to explore different facets of the gaming
industry, as well as other digital entertainment and educational areas, while combining
current technology skills with art, design, writing, and programming.
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ENG 101 Composition I (C1 900)
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GC 115 Introduction to Computer Art or
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ART 115 Introduction to Computer Art
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GC 175 2D Animation
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IT 101 IT Orientation
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IT 140 Introduction to Operating Systems
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IT 205 Ethics in Information Technology
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ITPRG 103 Introduction to Programming Logic
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ITPRG 144 C++ Programming I (CS 911)
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ITPRG 171 Game Design
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ITPRG 173 Digital Storytelling
Select one of the following courses:
- ITPRG 147 Java Programming I (CS 911)
- ITPRG 154 C#.Net Programming
- ITPRG 244 C++ Programming II (CS 912)
Note: Due to the rapid change of technology in IT fields, there is a five year time limit on applying courses with IT, ITAPP, ITNET, ITPRG, and ITWEB prefixes to this program. Information Technology will accept returning student courses that are 5-7 years old if the student received a grade of “A” or “B” for the course. If the student did not receive a grade of “A” or “B” for the course and the course is older than 5 years, the course will not be accepted for completion of any degree or program. Courses beyond 7 years, with any grade, will not be accepted for this program.
Each college and university has its own major requirements and transfer policies. Consult the schools you are considering and a PSC advisor to discuss courses and their transferability.
Gainful Employment Disclosures - 2026
For more information about graduation rates, loan repayment rates, and post-enrollment earnings about this institution and other postsecondary institutions please click here: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/
Game Design and Development Certificate (IT.GAME.TCE)
This program is designed to be completed in 12 months.
This program will cost $6,510 if completed within normal time. There may be additional costs for living expenses. These costs were accurate at the time of posting, but may have changed.
Of the students who completed this program within normal time, the typical graduate leaves with $0 of debt.
Faculty Contact Information
Jackie Dennis
Professor Emeritus
Email: jdennis@prairiestate.edu
Brian Donovan
Professor, Department Chair
Email: bdonovan@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-2959
Office: 2184
Nichelle Manuel
Associate Professor
Email: nmanuel2@prairiestate.edu
Phone: (708)709-3649
Office: 2184
Prairie State College provides a comprehensive array of resources designed to foster student success and well-being. These include disability support services, health and safety protocols, career development counseling, and personal support. Academic assistance is readily available through tutoring, advising, and library services, while transfer advising and campus security ensure a safe and seamless college experience. Additionally, the college offers various financial aid options to help students achieve their educational objectives.
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