UAlbany Game Center Director Featured on Capital Region Podcast
By Mike Nolan
ALBANY, N.Y. (Feb. 3, 2026) — Students interested in the game industry now have several academic programs available to them at the University at Albany.
Last fall, the College of Emergency Preparedness, Homeland Security and Cybersecurity (CEHC) launched a Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development and a Master of Science in Strategic Game Design and Applied Development — the first graduate program focused on gaming in the SUNY system.
Jason Corace, an award-winning game designer and educator, is serving as the first director of UAlbany’s Game Center, which oversees the new programs along with CEHC’s existing game design and development minor and undergraduate concentration. SUNY is also supporting the creation of a game design lab and classroom space that will be housed at UAlbany.
Corace recently spoke with WTEN’s Anthony Krolikowski on “Bits & Boards,” a podcast focused on the Capital Region gaming scene, about his vision for the programs.
“Being at UAlbany, a Research I institution, gives us the tools and expertise to help students build the skills they need to prepare for where the gaming industry is going,” Corace told Krolikowski. “Although we’re centered in the informatics department, our faculty also teach courses in music, art, and cybersecurity, allowing students to explore games from a wide range of perspectives.”
The launch of UAlbany’s new program comes as the gaming market industry is experiencing rapid growth. Driven by technological advancements and a large community of players and developers, the global video game market is projected to reach $293.2 billion by 2027.
A 2025 report released by the Center for Economic Growth found the Capital Region now has 20 digital gaming studios with a total of 510 workers. This includes large studios such as Blizzard Entertainment, Velan Studios and WB Games New York, as well as multiple other companies that provide gaming services.
“There’s a really great history of game design here in the Capital Region, much of it rooted through the local colleges,” Corace said. “For us, that’s an incredible resource. We can pull in local experts to speak at our events, offer internship opportunities and make the most of the talented gaming community that's right here in our backyard.”
In addition to its academic programs, UAlbany is home to a 4,000-square-foot arena that houses UAlbany Esports, one of the largest collegiate competitive video gaming programs in the country. The facility is open not only to competitive gamers, but also to students looking for a more casual gaming experience with friends.