High School Center Programs ⟶ Program Themes ⟶ Animation & Game Design

Animation & Game Design

The Animation & Game Design Center Program prepares students to create engaging two‑dimensional (2D) and three‑dimensional (3D) digital experiences for film, television, advertising, virtual reality, and interactive entertainment. As part of the MCPS Regional Visual Art & Design programs, students develop strong drawing foundations, specialized media skills, and real‑world arts experiences that prepare them for postsecondary education or entry into the creative workforce.

Students progress from foundational 2D motion graphics to professional‑level 3D modeling, rigging, rendering, and real‑time integration. Instruction mirrors production pipelines used by professional animation and game studios, providing students with authentic industry‑aligned skills and experiences.

Core Experiences

• Cohorted coursework in animation and game design
• MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal
• Industry Recognized Credentials in products such as Auutodesk or Adobe
• Career experiences with MCPS Partners

Program Goals

1. Develop Foundational Knowledge and Skills in the Arts: Students develop competitive portfolios demonstrating strong drawing skills and media‑specific technical abilities across animation and game development platforms.
2. Provide Hands-On, Real-World Experience in the Arts: Students have opportunities to earn industry‑recognized credentials related to media production and/or business marketing or entrepreneurship while designing and implementing a capstone project aligned with their chosen career focus, supported by MCPS partners.
3. Foster College, Career, and/or Community Pathways in the Arts: The program supports students in exploring and pursuing postsecondary education and careers in animation, game design, and related creative industries. Students gain access to certifications, dual‑enrollment opportunities, and engagement with industry professionals, preparing them to complete the MSDE Animation and Game Design Program of Study and the MSDE Arts Pathway Diploma Seal.

Application & Locations

Application: Interest-based application

Schools:

• Region 2: Blake
• Region 3: Woodward
• Region 5: Gaithersburg

Course Progression

Below is a sample sequence of courses for students enrolled in the Animation & Game Design Program. Cells in blue are related to the program pathway. This is subject to change as the programs are developed.

Program Requirements

In addition to MCPS requirements for graduation, all students must complete the following courses in order to remain enrolled in the Animation and Game Design Program and earn the related certificate:

• Design Core
  • Digital Art 1-4
• Animation & Game Design Core
  • Animation & Game Design1 & 2
  • Animation & Game Design 3 or Career Connected Learning experience
• Electives (one of the 2-credit options below)
  • 2 credits from the following categories
    • Art electives
    • Computer Science electives
    • Art Business electives
  • or 2 credits in world languages during grades 11-12 & meeting the requirements of the Seal of Biliteracy