University of New Orleans offers game dev courses

Students at the University of New Orleans will now be able to study games development.

The school has revealed the new course as part of its computer science department, and says it hopes to attract a new wave of pupils keen on getting into the multi-billion dollar industry.

"The pervasiveness of computer gaming on personal computers, game consoles and handheld devices has generated significant student interest and job opportunities after graduation," Computer Science Chair Mahdi Abdelguerfi told the Advocate.

The University will offer introductory and advanced game development courses, as well classes on mobile development.

Sudents will take taditional courses in computer science to ensure the concentration gives them the necessary tools to compete in the local job market.

"With the presence of Touch Studios, Gameloft and Red Ticket Games in New Orleans and Electronic Arts in Baton Rouge, game development promises to be a significant industry in the Silicon Bayou of southeastern Louisiana," Abdelguerfi said.