Key takeaways
- The game design degree has seen a recent boost in employment opportunities due to surging demand for more adaptive games.
- New trends are constantly emerging in the game design industry, making it highly competitive.
- Some of the most recent changes and trends in the game design industry include the development of multi-platform games, VR, AR, and artificial intelligence.
- Game design degrees are interdisciplinary, incorporating elements from various fields such as computer engineering, software development, psychology, and arts.
- Different colleges have different types of program coursework.
- It is vital to explore college admission and graduation requirements when making a choice.
- Moreover, a huge number of colleges offer degrees in game development.
- The best colleges for computer game design include, but are not limited to, the University of Texas, the University of California Santa Cruz, Michigan State University, and the University of Utah.
- Online degrees are relatively cheaper and offer more flexibility.
- However, online degrees limit in-person interactions and access to campus facilities like computer labs and industry-level tools.
Recently, there has been an increasing popularity of video games and computer games across the globe. People from various age groups and social backgrounds are getting online to indulge in video games for leisure, as well as professional careers as well. This has sparked a soaring growth in the game design and art industry.
Therefore, if you are considering what college major to choose and have stumbled upon the idea of pursuing a game design degree, you are set in the right direction. Firstly, a game design degree is an artistic yet technical degree that focuses on aspects like character design, programming, and physics, qualifying graduates for roles such as game designer or project manager.
Moreover, this degree also tends to be interdisciplinary, overlapping with many fundamentals from fields like computer science, marketing, psychology, and visual art. So, when it comes to choosing game design as a college major, there are various options available such as different colleges by state, varying program accreditations, degree levels, and so on.
Additionally, an undergraduate video game design degree is different from an associate’s degree or professional certification. In fact, there are numerous types of undergraduate degrees, such as B.A., B.S.., B.S.c, and so on.
A huge part of your college planning is finding reliable and credible academic resources that can guide you toward helpful information. Therefore, this ultimate guide by All Bachelor Degrees can help you discover so many things about getting a game design degree. Let’s dig in!
What is game design?
Before we dive into the technicalities of game design and its degree programs, first fully understand what game design itself is. In essence, game design is an artistic yet technical skill to create visual experiences that are interactive, engaging, and are typically narrative-driven.
Game designer jobs typically involve the process of creating virtual environments, stories, characters, and different elements of a video game. Their focus is on various aspects, including user experience (UX), psychology, artistic expression, and so on.
Today, the game design industry has become more complex than ever, and it continues to evolve and change over time. Due to technological advancements, video games, and virtual gameplay is now becoming multi-device, dividing the game design indu
stry into different segments. So, the broader game design industry is segmented into various types of platforms such as VR, PC, AR, mobile, and console.
Furthermore, different games are targeted towards different types of audiences. Audiences may be segmented based on factors like age, gender, and many other demographics. In-game purchases, sponsorship, and in-game ads are also a huge part of the industry.
Game design & art industry – interesting facts and trends
Now that you know what game design is, here is a quick overview of the recent trends and changes in the industry:
- Due to advancements in AR and VR, the global video game market is set to exceed $230 billion in 2024.
- There is an expanding role of AI in the gaming industry, involved in the game designing process along with the final gameplay
- With next-gen engines like Unreal Engine 5, photorealistic graphics are becoming the norm, making game visuals nearly indistinguishable from reality.
- There is an increasing number of accessible game development platforms, allowing independent games to become more common.
- There is a broader audience for various games now, with more focus on inclusivity and diverse representation in the video game experience.
- Games supporting cross-platform multiplayer are increasing, allowing players on different systems to connect and collaborate seamlessly.
In summary, these trends are important for preparing you for a successful and efficient career in the game design industry.
What is a game design degree?
Firstly, all colleges offer hundreds of academic programs with varying levels of degrees and qualifications. Each program has its own benefits and unique advantages that may or may not be comparable to other programs. So, you might want to do your research and explore the various bachelor’s programs offered, such as an undergrad degree in cybersecurity, a bachelor’s in sociology, or a degree in entrepreneurship.
Secondly, all programs are often interconnected in one way or the other. For example, an entrepreneurship degree might be good for someone who already has a game design idea but needs business acumen to sell the product.
Now, let’s explore what a video game design degree entails and why it can be a good choice of college major for you. So, a game design degree is an academic program that focuses on teaching students the art and technicalities of developing a game. Typically, an undergraduate game design degree will need you to spend about 4 years in college learning and developing core competencies.
Furthermore, game design degrees tend to cover industry insights, including the business of gaming, project management, and collaborative skills. Such programs often require students to complete internships or hands-on work opportunities. These ensure access and exposure to real-world experiences and create networking opportunities.
While teaching methods can vary from college to college, some typical patterns are found in different institutes. For example, through cooperative projects, students gain exposure to the fast-paced, deadline-driven nature of game production, building skills in teamwork, communication, and creative problem-solving. Group-based working and team projects are a common learning techniques.
What are the core courses in a game design degree?
The coursework can vary significantly between various colleges. Keep in mind that when you are choosing a college for a game design degree, you must ponder over numerous factors. One of the most important factors on the list is the core courses and program outline.
Typically, most colleges offer access to their program outline and coursework on their websites. This allows prospective students like yourself to learn about the objectives, goals, and methods involved in the bachelor’s program.
Moreover, the courses, electives, and areas of specialization – are all crucial for dictating your career path. While the coursework can vary, the most typical courses and activities included in computer game design degrees are:
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What are the benefits of getting a degree in game development?
So, you must weigh the pros and cons of getting degrees in game development. Here is a quick look at some of the most notable benefits and possible challenges of getting a degree in game design:
| Pros | Cons |
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What are the degree requirements in colleges for game design?
You must prepare everything before enrolling in college for a degree in video game development. However, the enrollment requirements can vary from college to college. In addition to this, different colleges have different requirements for graduation, so you must be fully aware of those too.
Here is what you need to know:
Requirements for admission:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Standardized tests with appropriate scores
- Personal statement or essay
- Application forms
- English proficiency tests
After admission requirements:
- Completion of core courses
- Completion of technical and creative electives
- Portfolio Development
- Capstone Project or Thesis
- Internship or proven track record of work experience of at least 2 years
- Minimum GPA maintenance
- Compelling 120 credit hours
- Completion of degree within 6 years or any other specific maximum duration by the college
In game design and development, requirements for hardware and study material can vary. You may be required to own or have access to facilities like computers, internet connection, and development software. Moreover, requirements can vary if you opt for an online game design degree.
What skills and competencies will develop with a degree in video game design and art?
By the end of every college degree, graduates are left with fulfilling and rewarding competencies and skills that they can finally apply to real-world situations. So, whichever degree you choose to pursue, make sure it leads you to a broader skill set, enhanced knowledge base, and develops important competencies.
Similarly, when it comes to pursuing a video game and design, make sure that the learning objectives of the program align with your career goals. The most important skills and competencies that you may be able to develop with a video game design degree are:
Transferable/soft skills
Fortunately, there are so many transferable skills you can develop with this degree. As a result, you can apply these skills to various types of organizations and professions.
- Communication
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Time management and meeting deadlines
- Conflict resolution
- Understanding consumer needs
- Project management
- Analytical skills
- Content ideation and brainstorming
- Idea pitching
- Portfolio development
Technical skills
So, here are some of the most crucial and technical skills that allow you to succeed at your job:
- Proficiency in programming languages like C++ or Python
- Familiarity with industry-standard game engines such as Unity a
- 3D modeling
- Character rigging
- Animation techniques using tools like Blender and Maya
- UX/UI design
- Digital art
- Audi editing
Core competencies
Depending on your skill set, here are the core competencies and functions you can perform after getting a degree in game design and art:
- Story and narrative building
- Storytelling and planning game sequences
- Creating ideas for in-game purchases
- Character building and development
- Understanding principles of gameplay engagement
- Understanding player psychology and behaviors
- Enhancing user experience and game interface
- Adapt to changing technology and market trends
Which colleges offer a degree in game design and related fields?
In the end, it all comes down to where you get your formal education, in the field of video games and design. Therefore, it is vital to find colleges for game design that offer well-rounded program coursework along with expert faculty and excellent college facilities.
However, there is an overwhelming number of colleges that offer amazing game design and art degrees. Therefore, many students find it confusing and challenging to pick the right option. So, here is a list of the best game design schools and colleges that you can shortlist and narrow down your search. The list includes colleges in Texas for game design, as well as Arkansas colleges for video game design. Let’s dig in!
University of Texas at Dallas (Texas)
The University of Texas at Dallas offers an undergraduate program for those interested in game design. The Bachelor of Arts in Animation and Games program focuses on core competencies like 3D modeling, character rigging, motion graphics, and much more. Moreover, The program integrates hands-on learning with theory, enabling students to build a strong portfolio for industry careers. Lastly, the college is located in the urban area of Richardson, Texas.
| Location: Richardson, TX | Acceptance Rate: 79% | Graduation Rate: 70% |
Southern Methodist University (SMU) (Texas)
At the Southern Methodist University in Texas, you can opt for the Bachelor of Arts in Creative Computing. This degree particularly covers both artistic and technical aspects of game design, ensuring a diverse skill set for students after they graduate. Moreover, the degree is suitable for students interested in interactive media, game design, and digital arts. Lastly, the college is located in Dallas, Texas.
| Location: Dallas, TX | Acceptance Rate: 47% | Graduation Rate: 86% |
University of California, Santa Cruz (California)
For those seeking highly reputable and high-ranking game design programs from the best colleges for game design in California, UCSC is the perfect choice. It offers a thorough Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Game Design, known for its perfect blend of creativity, technicality, and interdisciplinary nature. Moreover, this program includes hands-on experience through game development projects, with students learning coding, visual design, and game mechanics. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in game development, animation, and interactive entertainment.
| Location: Santa Cruz, CA | Acceptance Rate: 64% | Graduation Rate: 79% |
Arkansas State University (Arkansas)
For studying at a renowned Arkansas college for video game design, you should definitely opt for Arkansas State University which is located in Jonesboro, AR. Firstly, the college offers an incredible program, that is the BS in Digital Technology and Design with an Emphasis in Game Design. The program focuses on many crucial aspects of game development, such as 3D and 2D modeling, along with aspects like digital art and user experience or UX. Lastly, the program aligns with the modern-day gaming industry, allowing students to learn about multi-platform games such as AR, VR, and PC.
| Location: Jonesboro, AR | Acceptance Rate: 70% | Graduation Rate: 58% |
Michigan State University (Michigan)
At Michigan State University, you can opt for a major in Games and Interactive Media. Firstly, this college major focuses on the design, development, and analysis of games and interactive experiences. Moreover, the program emphasizes creativity and innovation, covering aspects like game mechanics, user experience, and storytelling. Lastly, students engage in collaborative projects and gain practical skills applicable to various industries, preparing them for careers in game design, production, and other interactive media fields.
| Location: East Lansing, MI | Acceptance Rate: 76% | Graduation Rate: 82% |
University of Utah (Utah)
The University of Utah is the epitome of adaptability and progression. Its BS in Games program is focused on creating future-proof learning experiences and outcomes for students. Firstly, the program combines computer science with creative courses in art and design, allowing students to specialize in areas such as game development, programming, and production. Moreover, a collaborative and hands-on experience is provided to students that helps them prepare for professional opportunities.
| Location: Salt Lake City, UT | Acceptance Rate: 62% | Graduation Rate: 68% |
Other colleges to explore:
DePaul University (Illinois)
| Location: Chicago, IL | Acceptance Rate: 70% | Graduation Rate: 76% |
University of Colorado, Boulder (Colorado)
| Location: Boulder, CO | Acceptance Rate: 77% | Graduation Rate: 76% |
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) (New York)
| Location: Rochester, NY | Acceptance Rate: 65% | Graduation Rate: 73% |
University of Florida (Florida)
| Location: Gainesville, FL | Acceptance Rate: 41% | Graduation Rate: 87% |
Can I get an online game design degree?
So many factors and features of virtual education make it one of the most feasible options for most students, whether young or adults. For people enthusiastic about the gaming industry and seeking a career in this field, an online game design degree might be a great option.
Typically, online programs cover essential areas like game mechanics, 3D modeling, animation, storytelling, user experience (UX), and coding. Online game design degrees also often include courses in industry-standard software, such as Unity, Unreal Engine, Maya, and Blender, which students use to create their own game projects.
In short, online game design degrees are not any different than on-campus or traditional programs. In fact, the coursework and learning outcomes are the same, only the teaching methodology can vary. Furthermore, online education in this field also allows students to enjoy greater flexibility. As a result, they can take an early start in their professional careers and balance work and study together.
There are many crucial aspects of online game design degrees that you must take a good look at before making a choice. To help you decide, we have evaluated the feasibility of an online computer game design degree, along with a comprehensive list of online colleges for game design.
Pros vs. cons of getting an online game design degree
Undoubtedly, there are certain advantages and challenges attached to pursuing a degree online in game design or any other field. Therefore, we have listed them below so you can see what suits you the best.
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Colleges offering online game design degrees
Now that you have considered various benefits and disadvantages of online degrees, you might want to consider taking a good long look at the best online colleges for game design. To help you search for the perfect school, here is a list!
Liberty University
Liberty University offers a 100% BS in Information Technology with a focus in Game Design. The program requires completion of 120 credits.
Franklin University
The BS in Interactive Media Design from Franklin University helps graduates translate their ideas into visual pieces of art that can be used as gameplay. This online program ensures that graduates can build successful game design careers.
Arizona State University online is highly accredited for hundreds of its online programs. Therefore, get a degree in Video Game Design from ASU to land prestigious job opportunities in your career.
Other online colleges for game development degree to explore:
- Art Institute of Pittsburgh (Online Division)
- Champlain College
- Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
- Middle Georgia State University
- Colorado Technical University
What are the career opportunities in the video game and design industry?
Firstly, the career opportunities and paths in video game development are quite promising. In fact, different career paths cater to different skill sets and interests, with substantial economic impact and job support across the U.S.
Moreover, in 2024, the U.S. video game industry contributed an impressive $101 billion to the national economy and supported more than 350,000 jobs. This includes both direct roles in game development and indirect roles such as marketing and retail. Additionally, states leading in video game industry employment include:
- California
- Texas
- Washington
- New York
- Florida
These states collectively account for a large percentage of total industry impact. Therefore, if you are looking for the best colleges for computer game design, start your search by exploring colleges by state.
Furthermore, the popularity of gaming has skyrocketed in recent years, with 78% of U.S. households engaging with gaming on at least one platform. Particularly, reports suggest that mobile gaming continues to dominate, with nearly 78% of players using mobile devices, while console and PC gaming remain popular, especially among younger players. The average age of gamers has also increased, with 26 being the median age in 2024, reflecting a broadening appeal across generations.
So, as gaming technology advances, the job market for game designers, developers, and related roles is expected to grow. Also, careers and game designer jobs range from entry-level roles, such as junior game designers, to advanced positions like lead programmers and project managers.
Lastly, the industry also provides high-paying jobs, with an average annual compensation of $168,000 for professionals working in game software. This high income is a draw for new talent entering the field, especially as gaming continues to intersect with technology and entertainment in innovative ways.
Most common game designer jobs
So, here is a list of the most common game designer jobs you can explore:
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Get a degree in game art and design!
In conclusion, choosing a college major is no easy task. It definitely requires a lot of thought and consideration, and cannot be rushed. However, in order to make the most apt decision, you truly need reliable and credible guidance from experts at All Bachelor Degrees.
In addition to this, thoroughly researching and comparing colleges for game design degrees are also important. Without fully understanding what each college offers, you cannot make an informed decision. Some of the most crucial factors in choosing a college are:
- College Reputation
- Program outline
- Admission and graduation requirements
- Career goals and preferences
So, before choosing the best colleges for computer game design, make sure you have gone through these factors. Furthermore, the game design industry is heavily influenced by changes and advancements in technology. Therefore, you must stay ahead of all the trends and emerging changes.
Lastly, a bachelor’s degree for a career in video game development is the ideal way to go. It will help you get a broader knowledge base, as well as find access to many indispensable benefits such as exposure to industry experts and tools.