The Art Institute of Portland is offering a new Bachelor of Science degree program in Visual & Game Programming to help give students the skills they need to stand out in these growing fields.

Scheduled to launch on Oct. 7, 2004, at the start of fall quarter, the Visual & Game Programming curriculum begins with courses in foundation art and general studies, building in a strong foundation in mathematics and science as well as design courses. After a few quarters, students may focus on one of two tracks: technical directing or toward programming.

The Visual & Game Programming curriculum is designed more for the entertainment industry than a traditional computer science program. “The greater Northwest is a growing development community for new game developers, animation and film companies.” said Daniel Brick, Visual & Game Programming Department Director. “By educating qualified technical artists for these industries at The Art Institute of Portland, we hope to help foster that development,” he said.

Upon graduation, students from this program the institute says they will be prepared to enter the workforce in entry-level positions such as digital artist, technical director, or game programmer.

The Art Institute of Portland (www.aipd.aii.edu/nz) offers bachelor’s and associate’s degrees in Advertising, Apparel Design, Design Management, Digital Media Production, Game Art & Design, Graphic Design, Interactive Media Design, Interior Design, Media Arts & Animation and Visual & Game Programming.