B.S. in Simulation Science, Games, and Animation

The Simulation Science, Games, and Animation Program’s mission is to advance knowledge through content creation, interdisciplinary research and development, and to equip students with an essential foundation in simulation science, games and animation. The curriculum prepares students for excellence as future leaders in constructing interactive, immersive experiences that leverage emerging technology to improve the human experience and foster lifelong critical and design thinking skills.

The SSGA degree requires diligence in computer science, game design, digital media, simulation, systems modeling, spatial computing, software engineering and general education that merge into a coordinated, coherent major. The breadth and depth designated for areas of study provide a functional and whole degree experience.

The program consists of project-based production courses, where students design virtual worlds and user experiences using industry-standard applications and cutting-edge equipment. Example courses include Games Systems, Interactive Media, World Building, Multiplayer Systems, Game Engine Architecture, Artificial Intelligence, Mixed Reality, User Interface Design, Data Visualization, Systems and Procedural Simulation.

From these experiences, students can design real-time interactive systems from the ground up; build game systems to employ artificial intelligence, code, and content designed to generate compelling interactive models and virtual environments. Students design data-driven simulations for user-centered and multi-user training, management, scientific research, and concept exploration.

Graduates of this major can expect to find flexible options and rewarding career opportunities. Employment opportunities are possible in the established global entertainment industries, such as game design, game development, and a vast array of other areas, such as military and intelligence communities, high-tech manufacturing, aviation, and healthcare.

Students will:

• Use prototyping to test and refine new ideas for larger scale-development.
• Construct interactive programs using software development principles and methods.
• Create appealing user experience employing principles and methods of engaging storytelling, worldbuilding, and interface design.
• Apply software design principles to produce functional and informative user experiences.
• Incorporate aesthetic concepts in content creation.
• Synthesize technical and creative domains to solve design problems.
• Collaborate to maturely exchange and interact with different ideas through conflict, analysis and consensus.
• Effectively exchange constructive criticism.

Degree Requirements

The Bachelor of Science degree can be earned in eight semesters assuming appropriate background and full-time enrollment. Successful completion of a minimum of 127 credit hours is required. Students entering this program should have demonstrated a competence in mathematics and science (preferably physics). They should be prepared to enter Calculus I, having demonstrated proficiency in algebra and trigonometry.  The Simulation, Games and Animation program is designed to prepare students to work as part of a team on the development of simulation systems and games. Relevant concepts, methods, and techniques are integrated through the curriculum. The curriculum includes courses in general education, media arts, computer programming, mathematics, and software design.

Students should be aware that several courses in each academic year may have prerequisites and/or co-requisites.

Program Requirements

General Education 

Embry-Riddle degree programs require students to complete a minimum of 36 hours of General Education coursework. For a full description of Embry-Riddle General Education guidelines, please see the General Education section of this catalog.

Students may choose other classes outside of their requirements, but doing so can result in the student having to complete more than the degree's 127 credit hours.  This will result in additional time and cost to the student.

Simulation Science, Games, and Animation Core (124 Credits)

The following course of study outlines the quickest and most cost-efficient route for students to earn their B.S. in Simulation Science, Games, and Animation. Students are encouraged to follow the course of study to ensure they complete all program required courses and their prerequisites within four years.

Courses in the core with a # will satisfy your general education requirements.

Technical Elective 3 Credits

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Offered in Fall Only

**

Offered in Spring Only

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General Education Courses

All Army ROTC students are required to complete SS 321 - U.S. Military History 1900-Present (3 credits) in order to commission.

Simulation Science, Games, and Animation