Registration Info
July 5-10, 2026
Stephen Gonzalez, Program Director
Register by June 12, 2026
Rider University’s Game Design Academy introduces high school students to the skills and tools used to develop digital games in a professional creative environment. Students will work with industry-standard software and learn the basics of digital design and game production. Please contact Stephen Gonzalez, Program Director for curriculum questions.
During a one-week session, students will work through the complete process of developing a playable game in the Godot engine that can be shared with family and friends. Concepts in system design, digital art, programming, and interaction design will be learned through hands-on creation creative workshops.
Program Highlights
- Work hands-on in Rider University’s newly created Game Production Lab
- Explore production with the latest industry-standard software and hardware.
- Develop a better understanding of game analysis
- Gain experience with graphic design tools and basic interactive programming
- Learn about the relationships between interactive design systems in game production
- Explore Rider University’s B.A. in Game and Interactive Media Design and discuss career opportunities in the field
- Preview college living and prepare for undergraduate life. Stay in a college dorm and participate in campus activities.
Itinerary
- Sunday: Academy introduction with a tour of the facilities, a meet and greet, BBQ and time to test some Rider student creations!
- Monday-Wednesday: Participants will attend workshops on sprite design, interaction design, audio and level design.
- Wednesday afternoon-Friday morning: Game Jam! Students will use their new skills to work on a team and publish a shareable 2D game in under 48 hours.
- Friday: Game Jam! Showcase and Q&A sessions.
Faculty and Instruction
- Stephen Gonzalez, Assistant Professor II, Game and Interactive Media Design
- Matthew DiMatteo, Assistant Professor I, Game and Interactive Media Design
Tuition
$1,500 (includes the $150 deposit/ processing fee and Room & Board)
This camp is capped at 36 participants per week.
Rider University's pre-college enrichment programs are structured to introduce students to a full college campus experience. From rigorous coursework, access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities to on-campus housing and activities, students will explore college life at Rider University. Enrichment programs are non-credit bearing; however regular attendance and completed assignments are expected. Students are evaluated by the same academic standards and procedures as Rider University undergraduates.