Games & Playable Media (M.S.)
The Games & Playable Media program offers a Master of Science degree.
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**Applications for 2025 have been paused. Please contact Games & Playable Media for further details**
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Important: Transcripts and Letters of Recommendation are required of all applicants.
Read the Application Instructions​ page for full details.
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See the test score requirements for this program.
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Below are specific requirements also needed for this program:
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Résumé or Curriculum Vitae
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​Online Portfolio is required:
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Submit your most exciting and relevant work. This can include student projects; personal work (individual or in groups) is strongly encouraged. In the case of group work, ensure that your specific contributions are enumerated. The portfolio may include one or more of the following:
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10-15 still images maximum
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10 minutes of video maximum (video is highly recommended)
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2-3 links to interactive pieces maximum
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Recommendations for an excellent online portfolio:
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If you are submitting a game, image, or video, each should be accompanied by text that discusses the nature of the work, the process of making it, and your specific contribution to it (in the case of group work).
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Videos with voiceover, where you discuss the game and your process, are particularly effective for communicating your creative skills.
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Not all portfolio work must be games. If you have work that shows a creative and/or technical process such as a UX design or architectural design, that is also good. However the bulk of your portfolio should be game related.
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A Statement of purpose is required:
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Please describe your plans for graduate study or research and for your future occupation or profession. Include any information that may aid the selection committee in evaluating your preparation and qualifications for graduate study at the University of California, Santa Cruz. Recommended length is a concise 2-4 pages single spaced.
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A Personal History Statement is required:
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Required of all applicants. This statement will be used in conjunction with your application for graduate admission and financial support. Note that the Personal History Statement should not duplicate the Statement of Purpose. Recommended length is a concise 1-3 pages single spaced.
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UC Santa Cruz is interested in a diverse and inclusive graduate student population. In an essay, discuss how your personal background informs your decision to pursue a graduate degree. Include any educational, familial, cultural, economic, or social experiences, challenges, or opportunities relevant to your academic journey; how you might contribute to social or cultural diversity within your chosen field; and/or how you might serve educationally underrepresented segments of society with your degree.
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See the application deadline
Read more about this program:
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