(January 22, 2010) With the recent publicity about the new movie “Avatar”, directed by James Cameron, one can only be curious as to how the animation for such an epic film was created. “A lot of the animation created in the new movie “Avatar” used 3-D modeling software, similar to what we teach here at SCC,” explains Scott Barlowe, Program Head for the Simulation and Game Development (SGD) Degree at Stanly Community College (SCC).

Mr. Barlowe encourages his students to play many types of video games when researching emerging technologies. “Finding a job in the video game industry is like a dream come true for some students. We not only teach the fundamentals needed for students to gain employment developing games, but also for creating virtual environments for human and engineering services,” explains Barlowe.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics-U.S. Department of Labor, employment for computer software engineers and computer programmers (of which some develop video games) is projected to increase much faster than the average for all occupations.

“People of all ages are playing video games for many different reasons. Even during an economic slump the market still stands strong--some of the many companies having locations in North Carolina focusing either on video games or virtual environments for industry are: Epic, Virtual Heroes, and EA," notes Barlowe.

SCC’s Simulation and Game Development curriculum provides students with a broad background with practical applications in creative arts, visual arts, audio/video technology, creative writing, modeling, design, programming and management.

Students receive hands-on training in design, 3D modeling, and programming for the purpose of creating simulations and games. Graduates should qualify for employment as designers, artists, animators, programmers, testers, quality assurance analysts, engineers and administrators in the entertainment industry, health care, education, and government organizations.

For more information about the Simulation and Game Development Degree at Stanly Community College, contact Scott Barlowe at 704.991.0368 or click here.