The new concentration allows students to connect their passion for gaming and interactive technology with the rigor of a Purdue engineering education

Purdue University’s Elmore Family School of Electrical and Computer Engineering is launching a new Gaming and Interactive Systems Engineering concentration in Indianapolis, creating a new opportunity for students who want to combine their interest in gaming, technology and creativity with a Purdue engineering education.

The concentration blends the technical foundation of electrical and computer engineering with industry-connected experience in the gaming world. Students in the program will participate in an Xbox Game Camp, where they will be paired with Microsoft mentors, gain insight from industry professionals and explore the technologies behind modern gaming experiences.

The Xbox Game Camp connection adds another dimension to the program. Designed to help open doors for emerging talent in gaming, the initiative supports future creators, storytellers and developers while encouraging growth in game development communities. For Purdue students in Indianapolis, that means exposure not only to the engineering behind games, but also to the larger creative and collaborative ecosystem that brings interactive experiences to life.

"This breakthrough initiative with Xbox Game Camp provides a unique opportunity for our students," said David Umulis, Purdue senior vice provost for Indianapolis. "Making meaningful connections with leaders in the massive gaming industry while providing technical training and experience will give these Boilermakers a tremendous advantage in their career pursuits."

“As a Purdue alumnus, I'm proud to see Xbox Game Camp and Purdue come together. Xbox Game Camp pairs aspiring creators with professional game developers from Xbox who mentor them from ideation all the way to pitching original games. This partnership is a great example of what's possible when industry and academia work together to support the next wave of game creators,” commented Matt Booty, Chief Content Officer at Xbox.

Through the concentration, students will study how engineering shapes the games and digital platforms people use every day. Areas of focus include hardware, systems, graphics and software, along with the technical and creative collaboration required to build engaging interactive experiences.

“This new concentration gives students a chance to connect their passion for gaming and interactive technology with the rigor of a Purdue engineering education,” said Milind Kulkarni, the Michael and Katherine Birck Head of Purdue ECE. “By creating opportunities like Xbox Game Camp, we are giving our students meaningful exposure to the people, tools and ideas shaping this industry.”

The new concentration adds a distinctive option for Purdue students studying in Indianapolis. In addition to earning a Purdue engineering degree, students will learn in an urban environment with growing access to industry, innovation and professional connections.

Kulkarni said the concentration reflects Purdue ECE’s commitment to preparing students for the technologies and industries shaping the future.

“This is a powerful example of what Purdue ECE can offer in Indianapolis: a top-ranked engineering education, meaningful industry access and a chance for students to turn an interest in gaming into real technical experience,” Kulkarni said.

The Gaming and Interactive Systems Engineering concentration is aimed at students who want to combine creativity and technical problem-solving while preparing for careers in gaming, software and other interactive technology fields. By blending classroom learning with hands-on experiences, Purdue ECE is creating a new pathway for students to turn a personal passion into future opportunity.