Copyright: 2026

Virginia Assignment Code: 8400

Suggested Grade Level: 10, 11

Duration: 36 weeks

Hours: 140

Credits: 1

Prerequisites: None

CTSO: TSA

Course Description:

The game design industry is the fastest revenue-growing entertainment medium and has created many new job disciplines. In this project-based course, students will create innovative games through the application of animation, audio, graphic design, programming, and writing skills. Students will utilize problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills. They will analyze, design, prototype, and critique interactive games. This course also explores career opportunities across multiple industries, including the entertainment and educational arenas. Contextual instruction and student participation in co-curricular career and technical student organization (CTSO) activities will develop leadership, interpersonal, and career skills. High-quality work-based learning (HQWBL) will provide experiential learning opportunities related to students' career goals and/or interests, integrated with instruction, and performed in partnership with local businesses and organizations.

Note:

This framework has course sequences that have been revised; they will be published on July 1, 2027, and will be effective for the 2027-2028 school year. For additional information, see the course sequence spreadsheet on the Resources page. For technical assistance, please email CTE@doe.virginia.gov.

Credentials, Course Sequences, and Career Clusters/Pathways can be found here:

https://www.cteresource.org/career-clusters/arts-av-technology-communications/game-design-and-development/