Mixed Reality (XR) Certificate (98 hrs)

Mixed Reality (XR) Certificate (98 hrs) 
Adults: Ages 18+ 
 
This program is hosted by the Center for the Digital Arts at SUNY Westchester Peekskill, located at 27 North Division Street, Peekskill, NY. Software versions are subject to change. These courses are for ages 18 and up unless otherwise noted. To apply for certificate programs, (excluding Social Media Specialist, AI for Business Owners, and the Historic Preservation programs) visit www.sunywcc.edu/peekskill-apply   

To register for certificate programs, email [email protected] or contact SUNY Westchester Peekskill Center for Digital Arts at 914-606-7300 or email [email protected]  

The Mixed Reality Certificate program at SUNY Westchester Peekskill Center for the Digital Arts offers an intensive, two-semester online certificate that prepares students to create mixed reality experiences. Covering game design, 3D modeling, programming, VR/AR development, and portfolio building, the program equips learners with in-demand skills for emerging tech careers. This program is remote. Students must register for the entire program at the time of registration; a payment plan is available. These classes will be remote. 
For details, visit www.sunywcc.edu/mixed-reality-cert 
Program tuition is $1,715. 

Game Design 

Combining technical skills with creativity, students will design and program their own games using Unreal Engine’s Blueprint system. They will learn key concepts such as character design, terrain building, and user experience creation. These foundational skills will also serve as a basis for future development in mixed reality environments. 
CE-DGART 2132PE, 7 Mon., Sept. 14-Oct. 26, 6:30-8:30 pm.  

Digital 3D Modeling 

This course introduces students to digital 3D modeling using Blender, covering a wide range of techniques to build a strong foundation in the field. Through hands-on exercises in modeling and texturing, students will create original 3D assets and learn how to optimize them for game development. Additionally, they will gain practical experience in preparing assets to be game-ready for integration into Unreal Engine. 
CE-DGART 2131PE, 7 Tues., Sept. 15-Oct. 27, 6:30-8:30 pm.  

Game Programming 

This course provides an in-depth exploration of Unreal Engine and C++ scripting for game development. Students will start with the fundamentals and gradually learn advanced programming techniques to create polished games. By the end of the course, students will have a solid foundation in C++ programming within Unreal Engine, preparing them for future work in mixed reality development. 
CE-DGART 2130PE, 7 Mon., Nov. 2-Dec. 14, 6:30-8:30 pm.  

Game Art – VFX and Animation 

In this course, students will focus on two key aspects of game art: particle systems and animation. Using Unreal Engine’s Niagara system, students will create various visual effects, from simple particles to more complex, interactive VFX. In addition, students will learn basic animation techniques for characters and props, using appropriate tools within Unreal Engine. By the end of the course, students will have a clear understanding of the pipeline for integrating both VFX and animation into games. 
CE-DGART 2150PE, 7 Tues., Nov. 3-Dec. 15, 6:30-8:30 pm.  

Designing Experiences in Virtual Reality 

In this course, students will dive into the world of immersive design, leveraging Unreal Engine to create interactive games and experiences in virtual reality (VR). Building on foundational game development skills, students will explore the unique challenges and opportunities of designing for VR, including spatial interaction, user immersion, and environmental storytelling. With hands-on access to VR headsets, students will prototype, test, and refine their own virtual worlds, gaining practical experience in developing for this rapidly evolving medium. 
CE-DGART 2138PE, 7 Mon., Jan. 4-Feb. 22, 2027, (skip 1/18), 6:30-8:30 pm.   

Designing Experiences in Augmented Reality 

This course introduces students to the exciting world of augmented reality (AR),where digital elements blend seamlessly with the physical world. Using Unreal Engine, students will design and develop interactive AR experiences that span diverse applications—from entertainment to practical tools. Projects will focus on3D modeling/animation, interactive design, and spatial awareness, with the flexibility to target mobile devices or AR headsets. Through hands-on experimentation, students will learn to create engaging, immersive experiences that enhance real-world environments. 
CE-DGART 2133PE, 7 Tues., Jan. 5-Feb. 16, 2027, 6:30-8:30 pm.  

Portfolio – Capstone Project 

In this course, students will build a portfolio that showcases their work throughout the certificate program. Over the last seven weeks, they will explore different portfolio styles and compile a collection of completed and ongoing projects. Students are encouraged to highlight projects in both game development and mixed reality, demonstrating their skills in emerging technologies and interactive design. 
CE-DGART 2135PE, 7 Mon., Mar. 1-Apr. 12, 2027, 6:30-8:30 pm.