MFA Games and Interactive Media

3 Years On Campus Masters Program

American University

Program Overview

The Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Games and Interactive Media at American University is a 54-credit terminal graduate degree designed for aspiring game designers, developers, creative strategists and interactive media professionals. The three-year program combines game design, development, interactive storytelling and emerging technologies, enabling students to create meaningful gaming experiences that address social, cultural, educational and community challenges.

Curriculum Structure:

The program combines foundational film and media production, game design, research, development, electives and teaching preparation. Students are generally expected to complete the degree within 36 months and attend a summer Film and Media Arts Boot Camp before their first semester.

First Year: Students establish a foundation in media production and game design through COMM-610 – Principles of Film and Video Production, COMM-663 – Techniques/Aesthetics of Editing, GAME-601 – Game Prototyping, and GAME-605 – Games, History, and Society. These courses introduce creative production, game development concepts and the cultural influence of interactive experiences.
Second Year: Students advance their technical and research abilities through GAME-610 – Game Research Methods and GAME-615 – Game Development I. They also explore meaningful game design, advanced development and interactive storytelling through COMM-620 – Making Meaningful Games, GAME-625 – Game Development II, and GAME-675 – Writing for Interactivity.
Final Year: Students complete additional approved electives and COMM-711 – Teaching Seminar, developing their creative leadership and instructional capabilities. Their remaining coursework allows them to refine their game projects, research interests and professional portfolios.

Focus Areas:

Game Design, Game Development, Interactive Storytelling, Game Prototyping, Digital Game Production, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, Physical Computing, Animation, New Media Art, Game Research, Social Impact Games, Creative Leadership, Game Administration

Learning Outcomes:

Graduates develop advanced skills in designing, prototyping and developing interactive games for different audiences and purposes. They learn to apply game theory, research methods and storytelling techniques to create engaging experiences while exploring emerging technologies such as virtual reality, augmented reality and physical computing. The program also strengthens creative problem-solving, project management, strategic planning and instructional abilities, preparing students for professional and academic roles in the interactive media industry.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation):

The program is offered through American University's School of Communication. American University is institutionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The university does not identify a separate professional accreditation specifically for the MFA in Games and Interactive Media.

Reputation (Employability & Recognition):

American University's Games and Interactive Media program provides students with opportunities to collaborate with faculty, develop original game projects and connect with organizations in Washington, DC. Potential project clients and institutional connections include the Educational Testing Service (ETS), National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), Smithsonian American Art Museum and WAMU 88.5. Students can also engage with industry and community events such as Global Game Jam, MAGFest and Indie Arcade at the Smithsonian. The university reports an 88% employment or graduate-school enrollment rate within six months of graduation for the department; because of the small number of responses for this major, the figure is reported at department level. Graduates can pursue careers as game designers, game developers, interactive media producers, creative directors, UX designers, game researchers and university-level educators.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At American University, the MFA in Games and Interactive Media program is designed to immerse students in hands-on experiences that cultivate practical skills essential for success in the gaming and interactive media industries. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and cutting-edge tools, students engage in collaborative projects that mirror real-world scenarios, preparing them for their future careers. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, including group projects, internships, and specialized labs.

Here are some key aspects of the experiential learning opportunities available in the MFA Games and Interactive Media program:

- Game Lab: A dedicated space equipped with advanced technology for game design and development, allowing students to create and test their projects in a professional environment.
- Software Proficiency: Students gain experience with industry-standard software such as Unity, Unreal Engine, and Adobe Creative Suite, ensuring they are well-versed in the tools used by professionals.
- Collaborative Projects: The program encourages teamwork through group projects, where students work together to develop games and interactive experiences, fostering essential collaboration skills.
- Internship Opportunities: Students have access to internships with leading companies in the gaming industry, providing invaluable real-world experience and networking opportunities.
- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to gaming studios and industry events, allowing students to gain insights into the latest trends and practices in the field.
- Research Labs: Students can utilize specialized labs for research and development, focusing on innovative game design and interactive media projects.
- Access to Libraries and Resources: The university's libraries offer extensive resources, including books, journals, and digital media, supporting students' research and creative projects.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MFA in Games and Interactive Media at American University prepares graduates for a dynamic career in the ever-evolving field of interactive media. Alumni have successfully transitioned into roles such as Game Designer, Interactive Media Producer, and User Experience Researcher. With a strong foundation in both creative and technical skills, graduates are well-equipped to thrive in various sectors of the gaming and interactive media industries.

Here’s how American University supports your journey toward a successful career:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates from the program have reported a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for alumni in related fields is competitive, often exceeding $60,000 annually.
- University–Industry Partnerships: American University has established partnerships with leading companies in the gaming and tech industries, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience.
- Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value in the job market.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni have gone on to work for top companies such as Bethesda, Ubisoft, and Electronic Arts, showcasing the program's strong reputation and network.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MFA in Games and Interactive Media, you may choose to pursue a Ph.D. in a related field, such as Media Studies or Interactive Design, allowing you to delve deeper into research and academia. Alternatively, you could explore specialized certifications or workshops to enhance your skills in emerging technologies like virtual reality or artificial intelligence in gaming. This continued education can further elevate your career prospects and expertise in the industry.