Those with an interest in film, video games or the realm of 3D graphics are more than welcome at Eastern Michigan University. With the Simulation, Animation and Gaming program, students can learn to utilize tools and programs relevant for a wide scope of careers spanning various fields and interests.
The SAG program not only covers video games, but also 3D simulation, which makes EMU’s program different from other Michigan universities. Pamela Speelman, program coordinator for SAG, said the need for training materials in all fields gives students who pursue a degree in SAG a wide range of career opportunities.
“Simulation goes into any profession,” she said. “You can find your passion [through it], and every profession needs simulation.”
Some of the many career titles a SAG major can earn include Technical Animator, Digital Artist and Environment artist. Two cognates are available for students to choose, each with its own bent based on either design or computer science.
The design branch, labeled as “Cognate A,” takes students through courses focusing on creating 3D environments, texturing and lighting them as well as elements of animation – creating the visuals.
“Cognate B,” the computer science branch, is geared toward programming graphics and games – the underlying processes which go into making simulations and video games tick.
All students in the major take courses in animation, audio/video production, story development and more.
Mark Steeby, a junior in SAG, chose his major because of his passion for both art and technology, and likes the mix of both he’s given in this program.
“There’s so much to like [about SAG],” he said.
Senior Angelous Hasan-Holden said he likes the creativity involved in the program. He also said he likes the fact SAG is more than just video games.
“A lot of freshmen and sophomores walk in and think it’s just gaming,” he said, “and then they get their minds blown.”
Speelman said most students entering the program go into SAG for gaming. However, she said a great deal more possibilities come out of focusing in on simulation, as the program offers three branches to explore: training, communication and “aid to thought.”
The number of students majoring in SAG this fall is 115, up from 75 previously and the programs beginning semester of 55.
As the population in SAG grows, the need for venues for senior projects increases. In response to this need, Steeby, Hasan-Holden and three other SAG students have created SAGdev, a student organization geared toward projects on multiple levels.
According to Steeby and Hasan-Holden, SAGdev was made to help organize grant and university projects, as well as building personal portfolio pieces by gathering students together. Steeby said he received notice of SAGdev’s official organization status Nov. 6.
SAGdev is already looking for new members and planning projects. One of its first desired projects is to update EMU Athletic’s graphics for basketball and football. Those interested in becoming a part of SAGdev can find its official site at www.emu.collegiatelink.net/organization/sagdev.
