Oakland University launches new video game minor

Oakland University students interested in the growing world of video games now have a new way to explore the industry through their studies.

Beginning this fall, Oakland offers an interdisciplinary minor in video game studies through the Department of Communication, Journalism and Public Relations. The minor is designed to complement students’ existing degrees while introducing them to video games as an important and increasingly influential form of media.

“Video games have become an important part of the media landscape,” said Sam Srauy, associate professor in communication at OU. “This minor gives Oakland students an opportunity to study that medium while developing knowledge and skills that can complement a wide range of academic and career interests.”

The video game industry has grown into a major force in entertainment and media, surpassing the combined size of the cinema and music industries. But the applications of video game technology and skills extend well beyond traditional gaming.

Game-based tools and technologies are increasingly used for applications such as simulations, rapid prototyping, animation and visual effects for movies, television and web content. As a result, studying video games can provide students with an understanding of technologies and creative practices that are relevant across the broader media landscape.

OU's new video game minor gives students interested in the growing world of video games a new way to explore the industry through their studies.

For students pursuing degrees related to media, communication, journalism and other creative fields, the new minor can provide an opportunity to expand their education into an evolving area of study while adding another dimension to their primary degree.

The minor also reflects Oakland’s emphasis on forward-thinking educational opportunities that prepare students to engage with emerging technologies and industries.

“We want students to see video games not simply as entertainment, but as a significant medium with applications across creative and professional fields,” Srauy said. “The minor provides another pathway for students to explore those possibilities as part of their Oakland education.”

The new minor is part of Oakland’s broader commitment to expanding opportunities for students through innovative academic experiences. It also supports the university’s focus on clear pathways to student success and expanding opportunities for faculty and students to engage with emerging areas of study.

The Video Games Studies Minor is hosting a series of events this fall called Play/Create/Critique. The series includes a confessional booth at the Oakland Center, Video Game Creation Workshops for high school students, a Gaming Mixer aimed at people looking to try or new to video games and a Student Screening where students will show off their work in digital media arts like animation and game design. The series is supported by a Cultural Ambassador Grant from the College of Arts and Sciences to promote cultural understanding and community engagement with OU’s various forms of art.

Students interested in learning more about the video game minor and related courses can explore the program through the Department of Communication, Journalism and Public Relations.