AUSTIN, Texas (AP) — The University of Texas and video game industry leaders are teaming up to open a gaming academy beginning in the fall of 2014, the school announced Monday.
The Denius-Sams Gaming Academy will focus on training students to become game development team leaders. Warren Spector, a 30-year industry veteran known for work on “Ultima” and “System Shock,” will guide the curriculum. He and Paul Sams, chief operating officer of Blizzard Entertainment, will serve as part-time instructors.
“The program will focus on building the skills required for students to lead teams and develop games from concept to completion, while growing talent for the gaming industry,” Sams said.
Students attending the academy will earn a post-baccalaureate certificate instead of a graduate degree. The academy will include a 12-month program in which students will create a small-scale game.
There are only 20 spots available next year for the academy. Admitted students will receive a tuition waiver and a $10,000 stipend to assist with fees and housing expenses.
“By combining the best professors with some of the gaming industry’s top minds and contributors, The University of Texas will immediately establish itself on the cutting edge of gaming design technology and the gaming industry,” said Wofford Denius, co-founder of the academy.
According to the Texas Film Commission, the state has the second largest concentration of game companies in the U.S. Texas has more than 155 development and publishing companies that provide about 4,000 full-time jobs.