Graduate Certificate in Game Design and Development — Boston

The Graduate Certificate in Game Design and Development offers a practice-oriented approach to the art and science of game making.

Boston, MA

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Enrollment
Full-Time, Part-Time
Entry Terms
Spring
Completion Time
6-12 Months
F1 Visa Eligible
Yes
Program Type
Classroom

Overview

Northeastern’s Graduate Certificate in Game Design delivers a practice-oriented approach to one of the fastest growing fields in entertainment, business and education - video game design. Throughout the world, video game technology is now used more than ever by entities from healthcare to government to educate their constituents and enhance employee skills.

The program offers a strong emphasis on visual design and programming for video games. Coursework also gives you a conceptual understanding of the principles of game design for all varieties—from educational board games to iPhone games.

Courses from the game design program also serve as a concentration in the Master of Professional Studies in Digital Media.

Program objectives

  • Build hands-on experience with visual design and programming for video games
  • Develop a conceptual understanding of game design principles across genres and industries

Unique features

  1. This graduate certificate in gaming is ideal for those looking to begin or build upon an existing career in game design.
  2. Courses in this program also serve as a concentration in the Master of Professional Studies in Digital Media

Career Prospects

Beginning your journey with us is a big decision. But it's a smart one. Your field is evolving rapidly. That's why we're constantly innovating our programs to anticipate your industry's needs. So, no matter where your field goes, you can lead the way.

 

Graduate Certificate in Game Design and Development - Alumni
Where They Work What They Do What They’re Skilled At
Harvard Art and Design Adobe Creative Suite
MIT Engineering Social Media
ViralGains Information Technology CSS
Google Marketing Digital Media
Cognizant Media and Communication Marketing

Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on LinkedIn.

 

$83,240

Average Salary, Game Interface Designer

$80,730

Average Salary, Game Developer

Program Curriculum

For details on required courses, concentrations, and electives, please consult the current academic catalog.

Cost and Tuition

$23.4K*

Tuition

Estimated Total Tuition

This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025-2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Select programs at select campuses offer additional scholarships of up to 25% off the listed price for domestic students studying on campus. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.

For students interested in pursuing financial assistance or educational loans, additional educational costs, known as Cost of Attendance (COA) components, can be included in the calculation of aid and loan eligibility. Components may include food, housing, books, course materials, supplies, equipment, transportation, personal expenses, and the cost of obtaining a first professional licensure. You can find comprehensive details on the Student Financial Services website. Please keep in mind that COA can vary significantly depending on academic program, enrollment intensity, and individual circumstances.

Application Deadlines

Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis; however, we do recommend the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term:

Domestic Application Guidelines

International Application Guidelines*

*International deadlines are only applicable if the program is F1 compliant.

Admissions

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Call Toll Free: 877.668.7727

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