Frequently Asked Questions
and Frequently Answered Answers

Who can take the course, and what are the prerequisites?
CIS300 takes pretty much everyone. But, each "track" (art, music, writing, programming) has prerequisites. For programming, you'll need to have completed CS211 and either have experience in C++ or be willing to learn it quickly. Recommendation: use Winter Break or CS213. See the CU course description for specifics and prerequsites for other tracks.

When and where does the class meet?
For Spring 2005, MTWF 12:20-1:10. Labs will be held in CL³.

What semesters do the class meet?
It's likely that the course will held only in Spring, but that may change.

How do project teams work?
Students usually work in teams of about 4 people. The course staff picks the teams, but tries to accommodate "pre-made" teams and matches people according to interests. Solo projects are not allowed.

Does this course fulfill technical writing credit?
CIS300 will fulfill Engineering's technical writing credit for the Fall 2004 and and Spring 2005 semesters. Afterwards, it will be under review, so we have to do a good job this year!

What does CIS300 count for?
We're certain it does not count as a 400-level project/practicum course. We hope some day to have another game course that fulfills that requirement.

What happened to DIS's CS/CIS490 and CS790?
They still exist. In the past, we ran what's now called CIS300 as a CS/CIS490 called "Part 1." The 490/790 that remains is called "Part 2." You can think of Part 2 as an independent study that follows Part 1. In Part 2, students pitch either pitch projects (games and game technology) or sign up for occasional industry projects that we have been getting (work experience!). In general, students may continue to "retake" 490s/790s if they have multiple projects and a desire to enter the game industry. Also see the next question.

I heard something about $25K. Is there some sort of contest?
There are 2 different game design contests that we're sponsoring with 490s/790s: Imagine Cup and Hidden Agenda. In Spring 2004, we had 2 CS students as finalists in Hidden Agenda! We want to prove to the world that Cornell is where it's at for game design!

Can I be a TA?
We might have a couple more positions. If so, they will be available to students who have demonstrated excellent design in at least two of our game "courses."

For other questions, please check out the labs, homeworks, and past projects on this site and the GDIAC site, or email the course staff.