New Certificate program a first in Manitoba
WINNIPEG, MB – The University of Winnipeg is pleased to announce the launch of an innovative, industry driven certificate program in gaming. A first in Manitoba, The Serious Games Certificate was jointly developed by Project Whitecard Inc. and UWinnipeg’s Professional, Applied and Continuing Education (PACE). The initiative helps develop the local gaming industry and is fueled by the vision to develop Winnipeg as a center of excellence in game development.
“Using games technology for learning is our driving passion at Project Whitecard Inc., and we could not be more thrilled that UWinnipeg continues to be a strong advocate with this new certificate program. In Winnipeg, we should shout it from the roof-tops, because the Serious Games Certificate program is world-leading and soon to be known as a new standard in the field. I look forward to working with the many years of graduates,” said Khal Shariff, CEO Project Whitecard.
Serious games are those that extend beyond entertainment. Using video game technologies and principles, serious gaming employs the use and functionality of 3D interactivity within virtual environments. By providing an experiential environment and a method for engagement they are extremely effective when used for training and education. Serious games can be a solution for training skills that are either dangerous or require challenging hands-on components in a fun and compelling delivery – for example — laparoscopic simulation, flight training, and welder training.
This certificate program brings together the latest game technology, design and learning models. Students will learn the constructs of game design by creating their own storyboards, level designs and prototypes. Graduates will be able to meet the demands of employers who are increasingly recognizing the power of interactive learning and are seeking to incorporate these strategies into their employment environments.
“The Serious Games Certificate program is a terrific example of how post-secondary institutions like the University of Winnipeg are responding to the needs of Manitoba’s employers. This program will connect talented students to career opportunities that will not only be rewarding to them personally, but will also play a key role in growing this sector for the future. Kudos to the University of Winnipeg for having the vision to bring this program to fruition,” said Kathy Knight, CEO of Information Communications and Technology Association of Manitoba.
The Certificate is offered part-time (eight courses) and usually takes one year to complete. It begins in September 2014. In addition, students currently completing complementary courses at Sisler High School will be able to attain some credits towards the new Serious Games Certificate.
To find out more, contact:
Stevi Dram, – Professional Studies
204.982.1168
http://pace.uwinnipegcourses.ca/serious-games-certificate
MEDIA CONTACT
Diane Poulin, Senior Communications Specialist, The University of Winnipeg
P: 204.988.7135, E: d.poulin@uwinnipeg.ca
