NeXReality Lab
Discover the endless possibilities of the latest VR/AR/XR tools and technology through creative collaboration with SHU students, faculty and local talent at NeXReality Lab.
Our Mission
The NeXReality Lab is a University-wide resource dedicated to promoting innovative faculty and student research in virtual reality, augmented reality and extended reality (VR/AR/XR) across Sacred Heart University’s five colleges. The lab supports bold experimentation to enhance immersive learning opportunities for our students, and establishes SHU as a leader in VR/AR/XR integration and innovation.
What Does the NeXReality Lab Do?
SHU faculty can enhance teaching through tools and technologies found at NeXReality Lab, fostering collaboration across VR/AR ecosystems locally and globally.
Our lab encourages applied research and development in VR/AR. Through collaboration, we can investigate VR/AR’s impact on learning across academic areas of study.
NeXReality Lab develops programs to strengthen the local talent pipeline and create training opportunities in VR/AR technologies and content creation.
NeXReality Lab provides a key platform to showcase student projects and creations and forge exciting partnerships and networking and career opportunities with local businesses, academia and startups.
What are AR, VR & XR?
Augmented Reality (AR) overlays computer-generated information on top of what we see in the real world. This technology is often used in smartphone applications that require users to hold their phones in front of them.
Virtual Reality (VR) is a fictional, fully-immersive experience using a headset for the user to enter that reality.
Mixed Reality (XR) is a combination of the two in which the virtual can ‘interact’ or ‘see’ the real world.
Facilities
Our dedicated classroom offers the tools students need to make their visions reality:
- 30+ VR headsets
- MR headsets
- High-end computers
- Audio recording gear
- Suite of applications to support all of these devices
Lab Equipment
What Services are Possible at NeXReality Lab?
- Research opportunities
- Game development for both AR and VR
- A variety of 2D and 3D games
Schedule Lab Time
For questions about the lab or to schedule time in the lab, email NeXReality_Lab@sacredheart.edu. Drop-ins are welcome for academic lab work or playing games.
Request Equipment
For current students and faculty who wish to use the equipment, please visit the lab. All equipment must be used within the lab.
Center Hours
Center Hours- Monday: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Tuesday: 10 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Wednesday - Friday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
- Saturday: Noon - 4 p.m.