At the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, an exceptional program stands out among the diverse range of majors offered. The Media Arts and Game Development (MAGD) program provides students with a unique opportunity to explore game design, media arts, and technology. Distinct from similar programs within the UW System, such as UW-Stout, MAGD distinguishes itself through its specialized tracks in media arts, communication/gaming, and gaming technology. Students engage in hands-on learning experiences, participate in extracurricular activities like Game Jam, and showcase their work at events such as the MAGD EXPO. With a focus on teamwork and creativity, this program prepares graduates for a variety of careers in the evolving field of digital media.
The MAGD program at UW-Whitewater offers an innovative approach to education by blending technical expertise with creative expression. According to Associate Professor Fred Leighton, the program stands apart due to its comprehensive curriculum and emphasis on collaboration. Students begin their journey with MAGD 150, an introductory course that equips them with foundational skills necessary for success in any of the three available tracks. This class combines theoretical lectures with practical lab sessions, encouraging learners to experiment with various forms of media production. As Leighton explains, the program's broad scope allows students to create diverse projects while developing essential problem-solving abilities.
Beyond classroom instruction, MAGD fosters community engagement through two student-led organizations: Tabletop and GAMED. While Tabletop focuses on traditional gaming formats like board games, GAMED enables participants to develop their own video games collaboratively. Brian Micheal, president of GAMED and a computer science major, highlights how involvement in these groups has shaped his academic experience and career aspirations. He appreciates the interdisciplinary nature of the program, noting its relevance across multiple industries.
In addition to regular coursework, many MAGD students take part in Game Jam—an international event where enthusiasts gather over a weekend to design new video games. Held locally at Andersen Library, this activity challenges participants to apply their knowledge under time constraints while promoting innovation and teamwork. Although game creation remains central to the program's identity, Associate Professor Bill Miller emphasizes the diversity of projects undertaken by students. These include designing physical games, crafting original soundtracks, and producing animated characters—all integral components of modern multimedia production.
GAMED will present its latest creations at the Midwest Gaming Classic's Future Classics showcase in April. Following this, UW-Whitewater will host the annual MAGD EXPO 2025 in May. This prestigious exhibition offers students the chance to display their hard work to peers, faculty, and industry professionals alike. Through events like these, the program aims not only to impart technical proficiency but also to cultivate independent thinkers capable of adapting to ever-changing tools and trends within their chosen fields.
Ultimately, the MAGD program exemplifies UW-Whitewater's commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals prepared for tomorrow's workforce. By emphasizing process-oriented thinking alongside skill acquisition, the department ensures that graduates enter the professional world ready to contribute meaningfully. Whether pursuing careers as designers, project managers, or developers, MAGD alumni leave equipped with both technical acumen and collaborative spirit—qualities highly valued in today’s dynamic digital landscape.