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Additional Requirements (dependent on track):

• Engineering Track Applicants Only: A code sample is required. Any non-scripting language is acceptable (preference to C++, C# and Java) working code that you developed, but does not need to be a complete buildable/compilable system. Some topics that would be useful to demonstrate include understanding of modularity, object-oriented concepts, macros, operators, etc. Your code should help show that you have an understanding of algorithms and data structures. All code samples should be submitted with your application. Please include at most two different code samples – maximum of 1000 lines of code. Source code only. GRE scores are optional.

• Technical Arts Track Applicants Only: Applicants should submit both an art portfolio and code samples. The portfolio should demonstrate a solid understanding of art and design fundamentals and a breadth of technical ability which may include 3D modeling, animation, rigging, technical animation, lighting, VFX, shaders, materials, or problem solving with scripting languages or node based scripting. Preferably, a code sample should demonstrate an understanding of usability from an artist perspective or game systems. Code samples from any language are acceptable. Technical artists frequently use scripting languages such as Python and some focus on compiled languages such as C++.

• Game Design Track Applicants Only: Applicants should submit a design portfolio featuring completed works, as well as summaries of individual contributions to those works. The portfolio should demonstrate a solid understanding of design fundamentals and/or engine-oriented technical ability and may include samples such as level layouts, game design documents, loot tables, quest chains, enemy designs, and videos/schematics of implemented mechanics and combat features from completed works. Strong applications will demonstrate a breadth of knowledge in multiple design areas and a level of criticality and depth of knowledge in at least one of the major design areas: systems design, level design, encounter design, economy design, world building/narrative design, serious games, etc.

As the design track is still under development, there are no guarantees of rollout for the Fall 2024 cycle. However, if interested in the design track, students should apply under the Production track, submit a design portfolio, and indicate an intention to enroll in the design track at the start of their personal statement. In the event that the design track is not approved, applicants will be evaluated as part of the production track.

• Game Art Track Applicants Only: Applicants to the Master Game Studio degree program must submit an art portfolio. This portfolio should contain between 10-15 samples of original artwork by the applicant for review (3-5 samples of drawing from life preferred). The portfolio should demonstrate that the applicant has strong foundational art (demonstrable knowledge of design principles) and observational skills. The portfolio should include drawings directly from live observations.

The emphasis should be on representational accuracy rather than on cartooning or heavy stylization. Avoid cliché examples that rely on characters with exaggerated physical qualities as large eyes, big hair, and elongated limbs, or samples copied directly from manga, animé, Disney, Pixar etc. Instead, focus on creating works that demonstrate your ability to draw from observation and your own imagination.

The drawings should clearly communicate the structure and three-dimensional form of the subject. Familiarity with 3D is not a requirement, but if you have solid 3D examples, you are encouraged to include them. Work completed in the past 12 months is preferred, but earlier examples are acceptable. Include your best work that represents your artistic abilities, regardless of the subject matter or medium. Students accepted into the program without either a traditional 2D design class or digital media experience may be encouraged to take an articulation class before starting their first semester.

Work may include but not limited to the following original traditional and digital artwork: Figure poses/life drawings, artwork that demonstrates design principle knowledge (i.e. composition, design), environmental drawings, animation, graphic design, typography, digital media samples of digital art are strongly encouraged, screenshots from games created, work created in such digital programs as Maya, Photoshop, Illustrator, etc., or samples of painting, sculpture, animation, figure/animal studies, character designs, architectural renderings, and landscape studies may be included.

Please Note: The work required for the game development industry is primarily applied art rather than fine art. Fine art students are encouraged to apply but must be interested and willing to work with peers on creating work for applied game applications. Your submissions will tell us a lot about you as a student as well as your artistic eye and capabilities. Among other things, we will be examining your work to determine your ability to see visually. Use of shading to accurately depict the way light and shadow work on the volumes and masses in observational art is a plus. Composition always matters as well as considered choices regarding value, hue, and color schemes. Your work submitted should be selected with an eye toward quality, design, and composition. Prior knowledge of digital 2D and 3D programs is a definite advantage for what you will be doing, but it is not a requirement.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS PLEASE EMAIL dylan.zollinger@utah.edu

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