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Game Design
Game Design
From Tomb Raider and Tetris to poker and Pictionary, we all play games.
Of course, some games are better than others. A good game entertains you, challenges you, perhaps even teaches you something. Game Design majors learn to create compelling games that will be popular with users—and profitable for game companies. Most Game Design programs focus on video games, although that category is broader than you might expect. After all, games are no longer just for entertainment (although traditional video games are a huge market). They’re also used to sell products, teach specific skills, raise awareness about social issues, even train doctors and soldiers. Game Design programs teach you how to create interactive digital environments for any type of computer or gaming system, from a cell phone to an Xbox. And the skills you learn—in strategy, design and business—can be applied to a variety of “off-line” professions. The best Game Design programs give you hands-on experience in your specific area of interest, as well as a broad knowledge of the field. Classes typically fall into three categories: art and design, technology, and business. Art and design classes include 2-D and 3-D animation, level and character design, visual storytelling, storyboarding, and creative writing. Technology classes include computer programming, sound production, motion capture, and artificial intelligence. Business classes include project management and marketing. In short, you’ll learn to build a game, from initial idea to public launch. You’ll also learn the theory behind game design: what is the social impact and history of games? What makes a game compelling and challenging to the user? How do games differ across cultures? Should games have an ethical component? How can game theory (a type of applied math that predicts how humans will react in strategic situations) help designers create great games? As an undergraduate Game Design major, you’ll graduate with a portfolio of work that can give you a leg up in this competitive field. Grads find work as game designers, level designers, animators, programmers, quality assurance testers, and even marketers and distributors of games.
Preparation
To excel in this major, it helps to be well-versed in games, particularly computer and video games. You need to know what you like and what you don’t.
But that doesn’t mean you can slack off in high school. Game Design students should have strong math and computer skills, to prepare for college-level programming courses. English classes that involve creative writing are good preparation for script-writing and story development. Art classes are also a good idea. Some programs with a focus on the “design” part of Game Design ask applicants to submit a portfolio of visual art.
Gay and Lesbian Studies
Gay and Lesbian StudiesThere has been a significant number of high-impact jobs working with the gay and lesbian population much longer than there has been an entire major on which to build a foundation for those jobs. Times do change. Gay and lesbian studies is a multidisciplinary major that will give you a strong body of knowledge in gay and lesbian history and culture. The gay and lesbian community—often called the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgendered (LGBT) community—has faced many challenges over the years and still faces many challenges today. You’ll study how this culture has affected and been affected by heterosexual culture, and the conflicts that have arisen between them. You’ll learn about the LGBT population’s concerns with civil rights in the workplace and home, struggles with public policy, and battles over legal issues. Media portrayal of the LGBT community will be discussed, as well as how the media has both harmed and helped their efforts to establish their place in the culture. With this major, sexuality will be treated as an important element of the humanities and social sciences. You’ll study sexuality critically, examining its role in history, art, literature, and psychology, among other fields. The relationship between identity and sexuality has changed over the years and you’ll gain a deeper understanding of what it means to be LGBT today, the intricacies of LGBT relationships, and the number of ways those relationships are viewed by society. You’ll also spend time on how LGBT relationships are perceived within different cultures and social classes. Art, music, politics, psychology, philosophy, and literature will all be part of your gay and lesbian studies major. If you plan to obtain a master’s degree in psychology, social work, or sociology, this major offers a solid background for a career working with this population. You don’t have to be involved in a LGBT relationship to major in gay and lesbian studies—this major is open to all.
Preparation
As with other humanities majors, your best preparation will be a broad spectrum of courses in all disciplines. Take upper-level courses in science and math, such as calculus and physics. Good reading, writing, and spoken communication skills will be vital to your success in a gay and lesbian studies major, so be sure to take advanced courses in English, languages, history, and other humanities disciplines. If your school or community has any gay and lesbian organizations, becoming involved might give you some good perspectives with which to begin your college studies. Volunteer work is another good option.
Genetics
GeneticsWhy do you have brown eyes, while your brother’s are blue? Jeans, baby. Wait, we mean genes, which are all the little chemical components that make up you, from the color of your hair, to the shape of your nose, to whether your middle toe is longer than your big toe. Genetics is the science of heredity. In other words, it’s the study of which genes are responsible for which physical traits in humans and other organisms. Genetics is often broken down into more specialized areas of study. For example, Washington State University divides Genetics into transmission genetics, molecular genetics, and evolutionary genetics. As an undergraduate, you’ll most likely become well versed in all of three of these fields. As a Genetics major, you’re in a position to do a great deal of good, medically and scientifically. Many Geneticists eventually choose to focus on molecular genetics, which includes, among other things, cancer research. In this field, you would study how cell growth, reproduction, and mutation leads to cancer and how to stop (or reverse) the process. You might eventually concentrate on human gene therapy, in which you’d study the possible treatments and cures for currently incurable diseases like cystic fibrosis. You might also choose to become involved in genetic engineering, which uses the fundamentals of Genetics to alter and improve plants, animals, and other organisms. Most Genetics majors choose to continue their studies in graduate or medical school.
Preparation
Since the field of Genetics involves a great deal of science, try to take courses in biology, chemistry, physics, and anything else involving research that your high school offers. Also important are math courses such as calculus, statistics, analytic geometry, and computer courses. And don’t forget English. As a scientist you’ll need good reading and writing skills.
Geography
GeographyDo you get sucked into maps, or have an interest in the weather or the environment that your friends don’t share? If so, Geography may be a field to explore. There’s more to Geography than locating state capitals and identifying mountain ranges. Geographers predict the weather and analyze environmental changes; they deal with issues of population such as where population is greatest and why, and how populations change and have changed. If you have an interest in foreign affairs, many geographers focus on specific parts of the world such as Europe or Africa.
Human Geography and Physical Geography are two main branches of this field, and both offer many opportunities for interesting study. According to the Association of American Geographers, Human Geography deals with the spatial aspects of human existence: where we live and work, how we use space-basically how we create our worlds. Physical Geographers, on the other hand, focus more on the land and climate. Geography majors usually become familiar with Geographic Information Systems, so be prepared for a lot of science, math, and computer work.
Preparation
Since Geography involves quite a bit of science, take as many courses as you can in physics, chemistry, or biology. Math courses-especially statistics-will certainly help you out, as will computer classes. A drawing class or two couldn’t hurt, nor could courses in history and social studies.
Geological Engineering
Geological EngineeringGeological Engineering combines the fields of Geology and Engineering in a way that makes a lot of sense: majors study how human beings can put the earth to safe and efficient use. For example, they learn how to evaluate a site on which a tunnel, dam, or road might be built. They learn about geologic hazards, such as earthquakes and volcanoes, and how to best protect people from them. They examine ways to search for and harvest energy resources. They also discover ways to protect the earth while still exploiting it through careful industrial practices. Geological Engineering is very much field oriented; much of your study will be hands-on research. Many programs offer summer field study programs in various parts of the country. Your studies will involve laboratory work, computer work, and problem-solving. The practical nature of Geological Engineering—using your knowledge of the earth to solve engineering problems—can make for a rewarding and exciting career.
Preparation
As with most Engineering majors, you’ll be taking a heavy load of math and science courses. Your best preparation will be advanced courses in calculus, analytic geometry, trigonometry, physics, chemistry, biology, and geology (if your high school offers it). And since most colleges require you to take a certain number of humanities courses, don’t forget about English, history, and foreign languages.
Geology
GeologyIf you’re fascinated by how the environment affects us and vice versa, or if you’re concerned about maintaining clean water and a healthy environment, Geology might be the major for you. As a Geology major, you’ll learn how and why the Earth has evolved. You’ll study natural and artificial environmental processes and learn how those processes should be improved. You’ll study the history of the earth and see how humans have brought about change for better or for worse. Geologists are concerned with the entire physical makeup of the earth, and many specializations are available within the major. Mineralogists study the formation and structures of minerals while glaciologists study ice. Paleontologists are concerned with what fossils can tell us about our history while economic geologists search for valuable minerals like crystallized carbon. Other areas to study include the formation of the Earth’s crust, the continents, planets, chemical elements of rocks, and water. No matter what your concentration, you’ll be learning how all aspects of the earth relate to each other—and to us.
Preparation
The more science courses, the better. Try physics, biology, chemistry, physical science, and whatever else your high school offers. Math courses will be valuable as well, especially upper-level ones. Also important are computer courses—much of a geologist’s work involves a computer and other technological equipment.
Geophysics
GeophysicsThe ground may pretty feel solid to you, but there’s a lot happening under your feet! The Earth’s outer shell is divided into huge sections called tectonic plates, which float on the hotter, softer rocks of Earth’s mantle, or center. Every year, these plates move between 0.4 and 4 inches a year. How do we know? Geophysics. Geophysics is the study of the physical characteristics of Earth and other planets. As a geophysics major, you’ll develop a strong background in physics, mathematics, Earth sciences, and computer science. You’ll also learn to recognize and measure the subtle features and movements of Earth that human senses cannot detect. You’ll be trained in how to take electrical, magnetic, radioactive, and gravitational measurements. These techniques are used by geophysicists to explore for oil, natural gas, minerals, and groundwater. They’re also used in the related field of seismology, the study of earthquakes. The small measurements geophysicists take of the shape, motion, and energy of the Earth are used to understand big geologic events, like tidal waves, volcanoes, landslides, and of course—earthquakes.
Preparation
Take as many advanced math and science classes as possible, including algebra, calculus, physics, and chemistry. Familiarity with at least one computer programming language will also be helpful.
German
GermanIf you’ve always wanted to read Goethe’s Faust in its original language, can’t stand your translation of Nietzsche, or simply dream of going off to the Bavarian Alps to listen to Mozart, German might be the right major for you. In addition to learning the language inside and out, a German major is also an opportunity to explore the rich culture and history of Germany. Here you can learn about everything from Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation to Frederick Barbarossa and the Holy Roman Empire; from Otto von Bismarck and the Prussian Empire to Wilhelm II and the German Empire. In the process, you’ll expand your knowledge of some of the most significant events in world history. German thinkers, writers, and artists have played pivotal roles in defining all aspects of Western culture. From music to philosophy to science to literature, you’ll find a German influence. A major in German is your opportunity to understand those influences up close and personal. On a more practical level, with the global economy becoming more tightly interwoven, national corporations are becoming multi-national, creating a greater demand for people with foreign language skills and knowledge of foreign cultures. Germany is the largest, most powerful European economy (think BMW and DaimlerChrysler here), which means that the prospects for young German majors looking to get into business are good.
Preparation
You don’t have to be fluent or even know any German before entering college, but we’re going to state the obvious, anyway, and tell you to take some German classes if they’re at all available. Lots of western civilization or history classes will be helpful, as Germany (or the area and people of what became Germany) happened to play a pretty important role in both for the last couple thousand years or so. Tough English classes will help, since English itself is a Germanic, rather than Latinate, language.
Gerontology
GerontologyGerontology is the study of aging and old age. Unlike geriatrics, which focuses mainly on the medical problems and issues associated with aging, Gerontology is highly interdisciplinary. You’ll study the biology of aging—what happens physically, how bodies change. You’ll learn how aging affects psychology and the psychological issues associated with the elderly. You’ll learn how society views aging and what societal roles aging people play. And you’ll study aging and old age from the perspectives of literature, history, philosophy, and religion. Gerontology involves a good deal of science, and you’ll do a lot of research in your coursework. You’ll apply the scientific process to various topics and problems, and you’ll learn how to effectively document and communicate your findings. Most importantly, your studies in Gerontology will give you the skills you need to apply your knowledge in ways beneficial to the aged in our society.
Preparation
AP courses in math and science will be solid preparation for your Gerontology major. Also, since Gerontology is multi-disciplinary, you’ll also benefit from courses in history, English, psychology, philosophy, and government. If you can, consider volunteering at a local nursing home to become familiar with issues involving older folks.
Government
GovernmentIf you fancy picturing yourself striding down the halls of the White House someday—or you’re simply fascinated by what goes on there—then welcome to a major in government. As a government major, you’ll kick off with government basics such as the legislative process, political parties, and our judicial system. You’ll move on to comparing different political systems and learning how the government operates on the state and municipal levels. You’ll gain an understanding of political theory and begin to develop ideas of your own about what government is and should be—though you probably have plenty of those already. An understanding of our government is crucial to understanding our country, but the reverse is also true. With a government major, you’ll study American history, and you’ll see how our civilization has changed over the years. When you study the history of law in our country, it becomes evident just how our society has been shaped by it. Civil rights, and the challenges still posed in that area, will be part of the curriculum, too. Different programs might ask you to choose a concentration in a specific realm of government, such as international relations or comparative politics. You might study the governments of different countries in order to compare and contrast the politics at work, or analyze U.S. involvement with foreign countries. You might be asked to examine the role government plays in business, the environment, and the press. No matter where your college studies lead you, you’ll gain a deep understanding of our government, and you’ll acquire the skills necessary to critique, evaluate, and, eventually, contribute to it.
Preparation
Needless to say, any courses your school offers in politics, government, or history would be especially useful. But since government touches every aspect of our society, a solid foundation in many disciplines will be the best preparation for your college studies. Take courses in science, math, and the humanities, the more challenging the better. A government major requires excellent communication skills, so take courses that will strengthen your reading, writing, and speaking abilities.
Graphic Design
Graphic DesignAre you fascinated by the visual world? Are you drawn to logos, illustrations, cartoons, and advertisements? You may be on your way to a Graphic Design major. Graphic Designers find innovative ways to communicate ideas visually, incorporating a range of media including digital imaging, photography, and illustration. As a Graphic Design major you might explore web design, product development, or advertising, using a wide variety of artistic skills and perspectives to create your own personal vision. Developing your personal artistic vision involves critically studying both your own work and the work of others. You’ll share your work, receive feedback, and, in turn, learn the art of critiquing others. By studying Graphic Design you’ll learn how creative ideas have changed and developed, and the concepts and creations of practicing Graphic Designers will help you see where the field of Graphic Design is now-and where you might lead it.
Preparation
Take advantage of your high school art department. Take as many art classes as you can, and get involved in extracurricular art clubs. Since Graphic Design majors are required to take the same foundation curriculum as fine arts majors, brush up on your drawing skills. Most likely, you’ll be required to present a portfolio for admission. Although you’ll be majoring in Graphic Design, the majority of your portfolio should consist of drawings from life. For feedback or a review of your portfolio by several schools at once, visit a National Portfolio Day.