Registration Info

July 5-10, 2026

Stephen Gonzalez, Program Director

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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.
  • Two students work on video game on computer
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Faculty and Instruction

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.