The University of Lynchburg’s Professional Development Institute has launched a noncredit Computer Game Art Certificate. The first course in the five-part certificate, Game Design Fundamentals, will be taught by seasoned game designer and educator Gabriel Wilson.
Classes start in August.
Wilson’s portfolio includes design work for Ballet Wichita, the Ulrich Museum for Virtual Reality, and the NASA STEM Gateway. In addition to his game art design experience, Wilson has been teaching for 16 years.
Designed for aspiring game developers, career switchers, and creatives with a passion for games, the PDI’s program offers a hands-on, project-driven curriculum in a flexible online-hybrid format.
Students will gain practical experience in 3D modeling, gameplay mechanics, engine shader development, and real-time lighting and materials, preparing them for entry-level roles in the booming game industry or for launching their own independent projects.
“We’re excited to bring this program to learners who want to move from playing games to designing them,” said John Zinn III, the PDI’s executive director. “Gabriel brings a rare combination of industry credibility and teaching talent, and we’re fortunate to partner with him to deliver a high-quality, portfolio-building experience.”
Wilson holds a Master of Fine Arts in game design from the Academy of Art University in San Francisco and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Art Institute in Pittsburgh. He has developed immersive learning experiences and original games for PC, virtual reality, and mobile platforms.
“Game design is a discipline that blends storytelling, systems thinking, and art,” Wilson said. “This program gives students a chance to not only learn tools like Unreal Engine and Autodesk Maya, but to also understand the why behind great game mechanics and player experiences.”
The full certificate, comprising five courses, is priced at $2,999. Students may take individual courses for $699 each.
Courses are fully online with optional live components and are designed to accommodate recent high school graduates and adult learners. No prior coding or game development experience is required.
Enrollment for the August 2025 cohort of Game Design Fundamentals is now open. For more information and to register, visit pdi.lynchburg.edu.
The Professional Development Institute, or PDI, at the University of Lynchburg empowers learners with accessible, career-aligned, and high-quality online education. Through partnerships with expert practitioners, the PDI offers flexible certificate programs in business, technology, the arts, and emerging industries. Learn more at pdi.lynchburg.edu.
