The Denius-Sams Gaming Academy, UT’s first post-baccalaureate game development program, began accepting applications last week.

The gaming academy is a 12-month program intended for students who have completed a bachelor’s or master’s degree and have substantial experience in game design. The 20 students selected will receive tuition waivers and $10,000 stipends.

The program is a collaborative effort between the Moody College of Communication, the department of computer science and the College of Fine Arts, and offers students the opportunity to supplement their degrees with certificates.

Students can expect an advanced curriculum based on game development and leadership within a game design team. The skill set acquired during the program will allow students to feel the impact of their work on the real world, program director Warren Spector said.

According to Spector, the program will allow students to create and design a video game, as well as interact extensively with faculty and consult a development council of local and outside experts.

“We’ve really put together a hell of a group,” Spector said.

The academy’s application period closes April 15, 2014.