Shanghai Vancouver Film School

Shanghai Vancouver Film School (SVFS)

Shanghai Vancouver Film School is a premier educational institution specializing in industry-relevant training for creative careers in film, animation, and game design. Established through a collaboration between the renowned Vancouver Film School and the Shanghai University of Technology, SVFS provides students with world-class, hands-on training in the heart of Shanghai. The school offers a unique blend of Eastern and Western teaching methodologies, preparing students for global opportunities in the creative industries.

As a lecturer in Game Art at SVFS I contributed my extensive experience in the gaming industry to guide students through the intricacies of game design, 3D modeling, UI/UX, animation, story and digital art. I brought real-world insights into the classroom, equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in the fast-evolving world of game development.

The Game Design course at the Shanghai Vancouver Film School (SVFS) offers a hands-on, immersive education tailored to prepare students for careers in the game industry. I taught Art Fundamentals and Drawing, 3D, Story, UI/UX, Animation, Photography, Project Management and  Cinematics. I also used the Motion Capture Studio (shown below) to teach that too. The course is uniquely structured to blend Western and Eastern approaches to game design, providing students with a global perspective on the gaming landscape. Here’s an overview of what makes this program unique and valuable for aspiring game designers:

Curriculum Overview

The SVFS Game Design course covers a wide range of topics crucial to game development, including concept development, storytelling, character design, level design, and interactive gameplay mechanics. Students also learn to use industry-standard software, providing practical skills that directly translate to the workplace. The course balances theory with practice, allowing students to develop a strong foundation in game design principles while continuously applying their knowledge through hands-on projects.

Project-Based Learning

A distinctive feature of the SVFS Game Design program is its emphasis on project-based learning. Throughout the course, students work in small teams to develop their game projects, simulating the collaborative environment found in professional studios. This approach allows students to experience the entire development process, from brainstorming and prototyping to playtesting and final presentation.

Industry-Connected Faculty

The program’s faculty members are industry veterans with experience at leading studios worldwide. Their expertise covers various areas, from game art to programming and project management, offering students a well-rounded education. Mentors provide not only technical guidance but also insights into the demands of the industry, ensuring students are well-prepared to transition smoothly into professional roles after graduation. All my students gained jobs in studios around China.

Cross-Cultural Exposure

Located in Shanghai, SVFS attracts students from across the globe, creating a culturally diverse learning environment. This exposure allows students to understand different gaming preferences and trends in various regions, a skill particularly valuable in today’s interconnected gaming industry. By collaborating with peers from different cultural backgrounds, students gain insights into designing games that appeal to a broad, international audience.

Career Opportunities

Graduates from the Game Design course at SVFS are well-positioned to enter the industry with the skills, experience, and portfolio required to impress potential employers. The program’s strong connections to industry networks in Asia and abroad offer students access to internships, job placements, and alumni resources that can support their career development.

Overall, the Game Design course at Shanghai Vancouver Film School offers a rigorous, practical education in game development, blending technical skills, creativity, and industry insights to prepare students for a successful career in gaming.