The University, in partnership with Ubisoft, will be offering two new academic programs under the College of Computer Studies after a partnership with the gaming giant was formally announced on March 29 at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel. Present at the event were Ubisoft Singapore Managing Director Olivier de Rotalier and Ubisoft Philippines Studio Manager Chip Go.
The programs, Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Major in Game Development and Bachelor of Science in Entertainment and Multimedia Computing, will be launched in academic year 2017-2018 and 2018-2019, respectively. The programs will be offered at the DLSU-Science and Technology Complex (STC) only.
New academic programs
“The University recognizes the need to integrate industry-driven skills and experience into its technology research and innovation programs. The alliance with Ubisoft will help provide this,” stated DLSU President Br. Raymundo Suplido FSC in the University’s official statement. He added, “Moreover, this will add to the University’s globalized standards and give our students the opportunity to enrich their competencies in this field of study.” While detailed information on the two programs remain unknown to the public, some pertinent details about the BS Computer Science in Game Development program were revealed during the launch. The four-year degree program aims to “prepare students to become innovators and leaders in the growing game development industry in Asia.” Students wishing to apply for the program must be “passionate about software development,” and prior programming experience is not a necessary requirement for students to qualify. Applicants should also ideally have a strong background in math and science, possess analytical and problem-solving abilities, and have completed pre-calculus subjects prior to attending DLSU.
According to the University’s statement, Ubisoft will also be supporting training programs and internships under the new partnership. Ubisoft personnel will oversee co-teaching services and DLSU students will also be prioritized for internships.
Ubisoft in the Philippines
Ubisoft is a growing gaming developer most known for franchises like Assassin’s Creed, Far Cry, Just Dance, Watch Dogs, and Rayman. The French multinational company reportedly generated sales amounting to €1,464 million for fiscal year 2014-2015. Ubisoft’s Philippine studio, based in Laguna, is the gaming company’s 30th studio worldwide and second studio in Southeast Asia. It will be managed by Go and will be under the supervision of de Rotalier.
