2026-2027 Academic Catalog

Welcome to Virginia Tech! We are excited that you are here planning your time as a Hokie.

View Undergraduate Section View Graduate Section

Explore Programs

Explore programs to find a fit for you.

Search Courses

Explore courses by subject and keyword.

Previous Publications

Navigate to previous publications.

Games and Simulations (GAMS) Minor

I. Introductory Experience
ENGL 1724Learning from Play: What Video Games Teach About Humanity and Behavior (Pathways 3, 10)3
LAHS 2124Perspectives on Games and Humanity (Pathways 2 or 3, 11)3
Subtotal6
II. Mid-Level Experience
LAHS 3124Topics in Games and Simulations3
Electives
Select two of the following. One of the two electives must fulfill Pathways concept 1 or 6:6
CLA 2464
Mythology, Philosophy and Video Games
ENGL 2744
Introduction to Creative Writing (Pathways 1A, 6A, 6D, or 11)
HIST 3774
Digital History
HIST 4014
History Lab: Creative Technologies, Hidden Histories, Informal Learning (Pathways 6D, 10)
IDS 1114
Play to Make (Pathways 6A or 6D, 11)
JPN 2744
From Atom to Akira: Japan's Pop Culture (Pathways 2, 11)
Subtotal9
III. Capstone Experience
LAHS 4114Transdisciplinary Enabling Capability Studio3
Subtotal3
Total Credits18

Graduation Requirements

Students enrolled in the minor must also complete the following graduation requirements:

  • Hours Requirement: Students must complete a minimum of 18 credit hours to earn the Games and Simulations minor.
  • GPA Requirement: Students must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 in courses used to fulfill this minor. All courses listed above are included in the calculation of the minor GPA.
  • Prerequisites: Some courses listed above have prerequisites or enrollment restrictions. Students should consult the Academic Catalog and/or contact their Academic Advisor for prerequisite and enrollment information.
  • Double Counting: Courses completed for other degree programs may also count toward this minor, provided the course is listed among the approved requirements or electives for the minor.