Video Game Design
Summer '25 Applications Open
The Take-Aways
Real-world Experience
Experience the game design process, grasp the basics of coding and programming tools, and come home with a simple game you code and create yourself.
Credentials For Your Future
Topics for your college essays, experience to inform your future career, and your own video game design.
Life Skills And New Friendships
Return with greater self-confidence, independence, and improved communication skills. Enjoy a broader worldview and diverse friendships from across the U.S.
45
Hours Of Expert Instruction
3
Weeks Pursuing Your Passion
1
Life-changing Experience
The Destination
Welcome to Kyoto, home of some of the world’s greatest video game franchises.
Japan’s capital for more than a thousand years, Kyoto is the both the center of traditional Japanese culture and a mecca for video gamers. Ancient architecture and serene landscapes blend with numerous gaming cafés and arcades, which host tournaments for new and classic games regularly. The International Manga Museum, featuring gaming titles, and the Nintendo Museum are perfect places to discover the artistic influences behind iconic video game universes. Super Mario, Zelda, Resident Evil, and Final Fantasy—just to name a few—all hail from Kyoto!
There are many remarkable experiences that await. The city boasts zen rock gardens, incredible views of surrounding hills, districts that feel like villages from another era, and 2000 temples and shrines. At restaurants, you can try some of the best traditional flavors the city has to offer, like ramen, sushi, and the most exclusive green teas. In Kyoto's mix of old and new, traditional and modern, you'll discover a city full of inspiration that you can channel into your game design.
Cultural Awareness
CIEE wants all our students to feel welcomed, supported, and empowered to succeed while studying abroad. Local CIEE staff have provided details about conditions and cultural attitudes that students with specific identities might encounter in Kyoto.
Sample Activities
Just imagine all the fun you’ll have!
- Experience the marching rhythms of Japanese taiko drumming as you get musical with your fellow Global Navigators.
- Transport yourself into your favorite video game adventures and thrill rides at Super Nintendo World, located at Universal Studios Japan in the city of Osaka.
- Step into virtual reality worlds and release your inner warrior as you become a Samurai or Ninja at Kyoto’s Samurai & Ninja Museum.
- Check out the old Nintendo Uji Ogura Plant, turned into the new Nintendo Museum, displaying a wide array of gaming products from Nintendo’s past.
- Pick out your favorite souvenirs and find hidden Pokémon throughout the world-famous Pokémon Centers in both Kyoto and Osaka!
Please note activities are based on past programs and subject to change at CIEE's discretion to adapt to local circumstances and participant feedback. Our goal when arranging activities is always to enhance your experience.
Universal Studios Japan
Thrills were had by all when we visited Universal Studios Japan. Students were so excited to experience the thrills at the amusement park. From Super Nintendo World to Jurassic Park... keep reading
Games Galore!
Last week, we visited Ritsumeikan University in Kyoto, renowned for its contributions to game studies and its impressive archives. The students were thrilled to explore the extensive collection of games... keep reading
To Fight or To Eat?
It’s hard to decide which was better: fighting with swords or making candy. Students were able to experience both of these during their second week here in Kyoto. Students traveled... keep reading
Eligibility
- Participants must be 14 years old and above.
- Program open to all current high school students: Freshmen, Sophomores, Juniors, and Seniors.
- For scholarship eligibility requirements, please check our scholarship page.
For more information, refer to the detailed Program Essential Eligibility Criteria.
Dates & Fees
Application Fee
$25
Program scholarships and tuition include iNext Travel Insurance, but do not cover the cost of flights. Find additional details about what’s included with your tuition.
More Questions? Find answers, get application support, sign up for virtual presentations, or contact us!
Program |
Application Due |
Start Date |
End Date |
Costs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Program Summer Session I 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,450 | |
| Program Summer Session II 2025 3 weeks | Start Date | End Date | Costs $6,450 |
Ready to change your life?
What's Included
Interactive Classes
Housing
3 Meals/Day
(Dietary Needs Accommodated)
All Ground Transportation
(Once In-country)
Optional Flight Chaperone
(Flight Cost Not Included)
Pre-departure Advice and Orientation
Access to WIFI
(No international data plan or SIM card included)
All Cultural Activities and Excursions
Comprehensive Medical and Travel Protection
24/7 Emergency On-site Support
Our Staff
Conor Aherne
Center Director
Conor’s passion for Japan began 12 years ago when he studied abroad in Tokyo. He holds an MA in Japanese & Asian History from Saitama University and is a specialist in Kyoto history.
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