HSE to Launch Master’s Programme in Digital Engineering and Video Game Development
The HSE Tikhonov Moscow Institute of Electronics and Mathematics (HSE MIEM) is introducing a new online master’s programme: ‘Digital Engineering for Computer Games.’ This educational initiative aims to train specialists in video game creation, interactive applications, and simulation software. Students will explore game development technologies, game engines, artificial intelligence, advanced programming methods, and the design of complex systems.
Programme Highlights
The master’s programme integrates multiple disciplines, including digital engineering for video games, mathematical modelling, machine learning algorithms, and software development for interactive systems.
Ilya Semichasnov
‘Game development is becoming increasingly complex due to the adoption of innovative technologies and tools, which demand comprehensive engineering expertise,’ said Ilya Semichasnov, the programme’s academic supervisor. ‘While major companies strive to lower the barrier to entry in the gaming industry using AI tools that automate routine development tasks, these alone are insufficient to make a technologically advanced product capable of reaching a broad audience. This problem is precisely addressed by the concept of digital engineering, which, in the context of game development, trains specialists in the intricacies of developing game engines, as well as covering issues of game and element optimisation.’
Students of the programme will master both the practical and theoretical aspects of computer game development—from creating game engines to optimising graphical and physical models. The curriculum is based on disciplines such as mathematical modelling, simulation physics, game engine architecture, machine learning, VR/AR technologies, and game project management. Students will be able to apply the knowledge they gain using the Claw Engine game engine.
Claw Engine is a modern modular game development environment that uses generative neural network tools to simplify the process of creating video games. The game engine was developed at HSE MIEM in 2024, with the involvement of more than 80 students in its creation.
Educational Process
The educational programme is designed in line with modern industry trends and includes:
the study of advanced game technologies (game engine architecture, physics simulations, machine learning, generative neural networks)
project-based work on real-world challenges (collaborating with leading studios such as Elverils, VK Play, and Lesta Games)
the development and optimisation of game applications (working with game engines such as Unity and Claw Engine)
opportunities for industry internships (participation in scientific and commercial projects)
Flexibility and Individual Learning Trajectories
The programme allows students to tailor their curriculum flexibly, focusing on both academic and practical interests. As part of their studies, students can engage in international research and collaborate with industry partners.
Maria Monina
‘Game development and gaming software is a broad interdisciplinary field that demands a creative and innovative approach,’ noted Maria Monina, co-head of the programme. ‘Students will face complex challenges, but our experienced instructors and experts will guide them through. Their work will not go unnoticed—students will have the opportunity to participate in competitions, accelerators, hackathons, international conferences, and educational projects. I am confident that everyone will find something they are passionate about.’
Key Courses of the Programme
Advanced Mathematics
Physics in Computer Simulation
Machine Learning and Neural Network Technologies in the Gaming Industry
C# Programming for Unity Engine
VR and AR Technologies
Architecture of Game Development Tools
Fundamentals of Computer Graphics
Databases and Information Storage
Game Project Management
Admissions and Career Prospects
The programme is designed for applicants with a foundational knowledge of applied mathematics, computer science, and computing, as well as experience in the gaming industry.
For those without this background, the curriculum includes courses that develop practical skills in video game development, preparing students for more advanced studies in software architecture design.
The programme is also beneficial for bachelor’s graduates from related fields such as business informatics, programming, and technical specialities who wish to strengthen their expertise in game development and software environments with an engineering-game specialisation.
Digital Engineering for Computer Games
Mode of Study: Full-time, fully online
Duration: 2 years
Language of Instruction: Russian
Graduates of the programme will acquire the necessary skills to design interactive products for mass consumers, considering key requirements and modifications to game engines. They will be well-equipped to work in game studios, IT companies, research centres, or develop their own gaming products.