Design a better world: Local university offers video game, AI and UX design degrees

Have you ever dreamed of designing new technology or a brand new video game, producing music for top artists or leading the way in artificial intelligence? Northwest University (NU), nestled in Kirkland, is a regionally accredited Christian institution dedicated to helping individuals establish themselves in a variety of careers.

One of NU’s standout offerings is Creatio, a hub for students aiming to excel in entertainment, technology and design. Creatio provides hands-on learning with small class sizes and experienced professors and instructors with deep experience working for local companies. View the Northwest University Creatio video here.

Craig Chapman, Dean of Creatio, emphasizes that job placement rates are strong among their graduates, with many securing roles in various companies across the Pacific Northwest. He notes that each major is specifically designed to align with targeted career paths, with a strong emphasis on practical career development.

Chapman noted that one of the most significant impacts of Creatio has been through its music production program, where students have gone on to become performers, recording artists and technical directors at churches.

“They’re getting jobs in the real world,” he told MyNorthwest. “They’re doing great things.”

A software engineer with 35 years of software development experience, including a decade of experience at Microsoft before founding his own tech company, Chapman helped launch Creatio’s technology design programs and established it as a distinct school within NU five years ago.

“It’s really hard to find good designers,” he said. “While engineers are not easy to find, there are even fewer designers — especially those skilled in user interface or product design, creating products that work well for people.”

NU is one of only two universities in the state, alongside the University of Washington, to offer a UX design program. Chapman explained that Creatio’s mission is to teach students how to build, design, record, code and film a better world.

“Our tagline might be catchy, but it’s rooted in our true goal: to train individuals in various fields, whether they’re designing software for businesses, cars, or video games, or perhaps writing music or making videos,” Chapman said. “We aim to leave the world better than we found it by helping students become outstanding designers, engineers, and technologists.”

Chapman shared that one of his favorite parts of his role is witnessing students’ enthusiasm as they discover their passion and watching their progress from the beginning of the program through to graduation.

“It’s really fun and rewarding,” he added.

He also noted that Creatio is launching a new master’s degree in applied artificial intelligence, starting in January. Unlike traditional programs, this degree focuses on practical applications of AI.

“We’re the first university in the area that I’ve seen offering applied AI,” Chapman said. “We’ll train you to apply AI in your current profession or help you transition into a new career, regardless of your background.”

For those interested in applying, Chapman mentioned that NU’s AI program does not require a deep technical background in software development or model design.

“All you need is the desire to advance your career in one of today’s most in-demand fields. Everyone is eligible,” he said.

To explore all the programs Creatio offers, visit Northwest University’s website.

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