Learn how to create unique game software on state-of-the-art technology.
The National High School Game Academy (NHSGA) allows disciplined, passionate, and dedicated high school students to experience modern video game development.
NHSGA encourages students interested in art, music, design, and programming to apply for this interdisciplinary program. Students are encouraged to expand their own creative possibilities in a unique blend of left- and right-brain college-level work.
Sharing methods and paradigms used in Carnegie Mellon's Masters of Entertainment Technology (M.E.T.) graduate program, the NHSGA focuses on an innovative blend of hands-on team projects combined with in-depth traditional lecture and discussion. Designed to elevate a student’s rigor, working process, and discipline, the NHSGA prepares students for their college experience.
Who should apply?
NHSGA encourages students interested in ART, MUSIC & AUDIO, GAME DESIGN, and SOFTWARE DEVELOPMENT to apply for this interdisciplinary program.
Students will be encouraged to expand their own creative possibilities in a unique blend of left- and right-brain college-level work. Every student accepted to the program will be expected to contribute to every area of development.
Curriculum
Carnegie Mellon University’s teaching philosophy is that all students learn by doing. The NHSGA enthusiastically embraces that philosophy and every student will learn all the skills needed to develop video games.
In Weeks 1-3, students attend classes that teach best practices and core skills needed in game development. Every student takes classes in the following disciplines: 2D and 3D art, software development, music composition, audio, game design, production, management, and interactive narrative.
In Weeks 4-6, students are divided into teams based on a combination of their area of interest and skills as demonstrated in class. No student is guaranteed any specific role on any team. We assign roles with the goal of creating the best possible teams for the current project. One student on each team is chosen to be the team’s producer. All other students receive deep instruction in all areas and will be ready to perform any role on the team to which they're assigned.
This program is a rigorous and demanding six-week experience. Participation throughout the entire six weeks is critical.
