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We’re committed to creating an education as unique as your career path. So, whether your goal is a new career or moving up in your field, our innovative programs will get you going your way.
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Customize your plan
We work with you to map your path to your goal.
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Learn from experience
From real-world case studies to employer-based projects, we prepare you to manage what comes next.
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Choose your focus
Whatever you’re passionate about, you’ll find the classes to sharpen your specialty.
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Study anywhere, on your time
Part-time or full-time, we move at your speed, to get you where you’re going.
Overview
Game design is one of the fastest-growing fields in entertainment, business, and education. From healthcare to political science, companies use games to educate their constituents and enhance employee skills.
The Graduate Certificate in Game Design offers a practice-oriented approach to the art and science of game making. The program emphasizes visual design and programming for video games, and fosters conceptual understanding of the principles of game design for all varieties of games—from educational board games to iPhone games.
Courses in this program also serve as a concentration in the Master of Professional Studies in Digital Media.
More Details
Unique Features
- The program is designed to emphasize visual design and programming for video games, and foster conceptual understanding of the principles of game design for all varieties of games
- Courses in this program also serve as a concentration in the Master of Professional Studies in Digital Media
Experiential / Co-op opportunities
Northeastern's signature experience-powered learning model has been at the heart of the university for more than a century. It combines world-class academics with professional practice, allowing you to acquire relevant, real-world skills you can immediately put into action in your current workplace.

This makes a Northeastern education a dynamic, transformative experience, giving you countless opportunities to grow as a professional and person.
Get Set with a Custom Course Plan
General Requirements
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Note: For DGM 6308 Intermediate Programming for Digital Media, you must take Test to qualify, if not, take DGM 6108.
Now Let's Talk Admissions
You know where you are headed and you've seen how our program will lead you there. So let's get going. Here's what you need to know before you enroll.
Application Requirements
- Online application
- Statement of purpose (500-1000 words): identifying your educational goals and expectations from the program; please be aware that the university's academic policy on plagiarism applies to applicant's statement of purpose
- Professional resumé: Current resumé that displays job responsibilities, relevant experience, and education history
- Unofficial undergraduate transcripts (Official transcripts required at the time of admission)
- Proof of English language proficiency: ONLY for students for whom English is not their primary language
International Requirements
Are You an International Student? Find out what additional documents are required to apply.
Global Engagement Learn how our teaching and research benefit from a worldwide network of students, faculty, and industry partners.
Financing Requirements
Finance Your Education We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships.
How to Apply Learn more about the application process and requirements.
Cost and Tuition
Estimated Total Tuition
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2020-2021 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. For more detailed information, please visit Student Financial Services.
Application Deadlines
Our admissions process operates on a rolling basis, however we do recommend following the application guidelines below to ensure you can begin during your desired start term.
Winter 2021
Recommended Admissions Deadline: | |
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International out-of-country application complete (Start date: January 19, 2021) | November 2, 2020 |
International in-country application complete (Start date: January 19, 2021) | December 7, 2020 |
Domestic application complete (First half start: January 19, 2021) | January 1, 2021 |
Domestic application complete (Second half start: February 22, 2021) | February 12, 2021 |
Fall 2021
Recommended Admissions Deadline | |
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Domestic application complete (first half start: September 20, 2021) | September 7, 2021 |
Domestic application complete (second half start: November 1, 2021) | October 18, 2021 |
Student Body Profile
Below is a look at where our Digital Media & Design alumni work, the positions they hold, and the skills they bring to their organization.
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Where They Work
- Harvard
- MIT
- ViralGains
- Cognizant
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What They Do
- Art and Design
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Marketing
- Media and Communication
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What They're Skilled At
- Adobe Creative Suite
- Social Media
- CSS
- Digital Media
- Marketing
Learn more about Northeastern Alumni on Linkedin.