May 10, 2004 – Making your way as Bilbo Baggins through peaceful Rivendell, the goblin-infested Misty Mountains, or another level of Middle Earth in Inevitable’s game “The Hobbit” may come with just a click of a few buttons on your Nintendo GameCube. However, creating that animated journey for game enthusiasts to play takes real, qualified people. That’s why Austin Community College now offers courses in Video Game Development. The program certifies students in Video Game Development with a specialization in Programming, Art, Design, or Production.

“Over the past months I have met with studio heads, seasoned professionals and recent hires in the video game industry. All have felt that the addition of a structured education program would be exceptionally beneficial,” said Bob McGoldrick, Technical Certification Programs Coordinator.

Students enrolled in ACC’s Video Game Development Program concentrate on one specific area like Programming, Art, Design or Production. At the end of their course training, they work in teams to create an actual video game. This hands-on training is crucial for those who plan to seek job opportunities in an industry, which requires artistic, mathematical, critical thinking skills and teamwork.

“It is great that ACC is bringing the first comprehensive gaming curriculum to Austin , since we are the 3 rd largest location for making games in the United States ,” said Sony Online Entertainment Vice President, Gordon Walton. “This program can only help Austin grow in importance as a creative center in the business of building compelling electronic entertainment.”

Video Game Industry recruiters say job opportunities are awaiting trained workers. “The need for experienced game developers is as strong as it’s ever been,” said Robin McShaffry, an entertainment software recruiter. “Video game development is a multi-billion dollar industry that is growing by leaps and bounds.”

Experts from the industry helped shape ACC’s Video Game Development program. Representatives from Sony Online Entertainment, Ion Storm, Online Alchemy, Austin Game Initiative, Inevitable, Mary-Margaret.com, UT IC2, Critical Mass Interactive, Pulse Interactive, and Austin Game Developers serve on an advisory board to the college.

Summer registration for ACC’s Video Game Development Program is now underway.