Programme objective
The study programme of Experimental
Game Cultures aims at critical reflection of the societal impact of games while at the same time applying it to
the prototypical development of innovative game concepts and approaches. Therefore, the central aspect of the studies
is formed by the development of innovative game concepts beyond the commercial game industry in interconnection with
the critical reflection of games in their various historical, societal, and social contexts. Research areas of the study
programme are, among others, the use of games as an instrument for a better understanding of social, economic, and political
interrelations and for a democratic shaping of their future (serious games, critical games, educational games, etc.).
Target
group
This interdisciplinary master's programme is geared to graduates of bachelor and diploma degree studies
of all disciplines (in particular art, design, architecture, technical and social sciences, and the humanities).
Course
contents
The study programme is project oriented and is structured around the subjects "Game Development and Reflection",
"History and Theories of Games", as well as a number of free electives. In addition, a master's thesis is to be produced containing
either the development of a prototype of an experimental game with theoretical reflection, or a critical-theoretical work
from the field of Cultural Studies.
Graduates' qualification profile
Graduates of the master's programme
Experimental Game Cultures have an in-depth knowledge regarding sociological, philosophical, historical, and artistic perspectives
on games. On this basis, they will be able to profoundly analyze, systematize, and contextualize current developments in the
field of game culture, games industry, and game-based influencing strategies directed by state and economy. Furthermore, they
know the constructive potential of games for raising awareness and dealing with issues relevant to the future.
The core
competence of graduates lies in the development of innovative games concepts with societal impact. This includes creating
game narrative and dramaturgy, game design and prototyping/simulation. In addition, they possess a generalist's fundamental
understanding of the whole game development process which also covers basic competencies in project management and digital
game development. Graduates are able to operate in interdisciplinary teams and can draw on a broad spectrum of communicative
and methodological skills for collaborative game development.
Graduates' professional fields
Professional
fields are available for graduates in games research, games criticism and games journalism plus in the conceptional development
of art games, serious games, educational games and gamification projects.
