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What is GDIAC?

The Game Design Initiative at Cornell (GDIAC) is a group of faculty, students, staff, and community members all devoted to the academic study of game design and development. Refer to the About GDIAC link for more information about our mission, history, and structure.

How do I get involved?

Participate in one of our courses. You enter via CIS300 (or eventually INFO200, which is still under development). Students who continue into CIS400 and "Part 4" work on extensive projects, usually leading to the development of a portfolio, which is extremely helpful regardless of career interests.

Can I get a degree in games?

Not at Cornell, though we do offer a Minor in Game Design. Note any undergraduate student in an any college at Cornell University can pursue this minor and get it on their transcript. We strongly encourage students to follow this advice:

  • Pick a major in a core area (e.g., Computer Science, Information Science, art, music, writing, ...).
  • Take as many game courses as you can, often repeating "Part 4" to build a portfolio. Even taking just one game course can help you discover if this field suits you.

Some students choose to pursue independent majors. For example, see the Arts & Science Independent Major and Engineering Independent Major.

Where will GDIAC take me?

GDIAC holds ties with industry leaders such as Electronic Arts, Vicarious Visions, Seven Studios, and Bethesda Softworks.

We do not guarantee a job in the game industry, just as no department will guarantee you in a job in whatever field in which you get a degree. However, we do offer among Cornell's best opportunities to do the following:

  • Work in a large multidisciplinary team that spans engineering, the arts, and the humanities.
  • Develop a project portfolio that demonstrates to potential employers your professional and team skills.
  • An intensively creative environment, motivated by the excitement of building your own game.
  • A collaborative learning experience in which you delve into new areas or apply concepts you learn in other courses.

Those who do wish to work in the game industry should consider investing time in the courses and programs GDIAC offers. The game industry is competitive and the interdisciplinary team-based approach of GDIAC is appealing to this industry. Students are encouraged to do well in their major area, as this provides the foundation to their ability in game design and development. The construction of a strong portfolio is also beneficial when seeking roles in industry. The nature of GDIAC will help dedicated students to do this.

The game industry is very interested in hands on experience. Some companies offer summer internships, and GDIAC can be instrumental in connecting students with these opportunities. GDIAC has also helped to connect students with game development opportunities in the area of education and the military. In addition, GDIAC holds ties with industry leaders, such as Electronic Arts, Vicarious Visions, Seven Studios, and Bethesda Softworks. GDIAC can also facilitate connections between current students and alumni who are working in industry. This will help students to network within the field and to develop relationships.