Video Game Design Degrees

The gaming business is a multi-billion dollar industry. The number of gaming consoles, devices and games out in the market are testament to the global popularity of video games. As a result those with degrees in video game design, programming, animation and digital entertainment among other related areas are in high demand. If you are a video game enthusiast, then you can channel your passion into acquiring a related degree and ultimately launch a successful career in the gaming industry.



Video Game Design Degrees and Programs
A variety of video game design related degrees are available at all levels of education including certificate, Associate’s, Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees. You can find programs that focus on video game art and design while other are related to game design and development. Some animation degrees offer students the option of taking up a minor concentration in video game design.

Some related video game design degrees are:

  • Associate in Video Game Design and Development
  • Bachelor in Game Art and Design
  • Bachelor in Game Software Development
  • Bachelor in Game Design and Development
  • Master of Science in Game Design

A video game design degree teaches students about all the aspects of the gaming business. Gaming tools and technologies, animation, game design, game theory and programming are all part of the curriculum of such a program. Such programs also develop the analytical and problem solving skills of students.

Areas of Study in Video Game Design


Video game design encompasses various areas ranging from designing, programming and prototyping among much more. Subjects covered during the course of a video game design degree include:

  • Multimedia
  • Digital media
  • Programming languages such as C++ and Java
  • Algorithms
  • Computer graphics
  • 3D animation
  • Drawing
  • Modeling
  • Game design
  • Physics
  • Color theories
  • Cinematography

Video game design students learn to create 2D and 3D games based on the subjects taught. The video game design process begins with the creation of content and rules of the game. Students are also taught to document the game design correctly. Game design strategies, art and animation, programming and production are all aspects of video game designing that are taught.

 

Careers for Video Game Design Professionals


If you crave a creative career then gaining a degree in video game design can result in working in an innovative and cutting-edge environment. The demand for video game design experts who can develop games for gaming consoles, computers and mobile phones is steadily increasing. Video game design graduates can find roles related to game designing, developing, programming and testing. Such individuals can also work in the area of creation of animations, sets and scenes for games. Character drawing, game level designing and texture mapping are other roles that video game designers can work in. Video game designers who are entering the workforce can earn on average between 40,000 – 50,000 US dollars.

How long does it take to get a video game design degree?

To become a video game designer, you will need at least a bachelor’s degree, which would take four years to complete. Most programs require completion of 120 credit hours, with courses in video game design, along with general education courses.

What are the requirements for getting video game design degrees?

To complete a video game design degree, you will have to clear courses such as 2D and 3D modeling, Animation, Level and Interface Design, Drawing, Scripting and Storyboard Rendering. In addition to that, it is important that you are well-aware of the latest video games and advancements in the world of animation and design.

How much can I make with video game design degrees?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, Special Effects Artists and Animators earned $84,780 in 2019 as mean annual salary. Their yearly median wage was $75,270. Motion Picture and Video Industries paid these professionals $100,910 as mean annual income, the highest among all industries. In Connecticut, Special Effects Artists and Animators earned $105,770 (mean annual income), a figure that was the highest among all the states of the country.

Job Outlook

Special Effects Artists and Animators will enjoy a 4% increase in employment opportunities over the next decade (2019 and 2029) according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:What do you need to be a game designer?

A:You will need at least a bachelor’s or a master’s degree in computer engineering or computer science to get into the field of game design. In addition to a formal education, you will also require functional skills such as problem solving ability, and creativity to enable you to design games that are unique and visually appealing.

Q:What are the advantages of an online game design degree?

A:As game design degrees are largely software based, they can easily be acquired through online programs. Some of the main advantages of pursuing a game design degree online are that it is flexible and convenient in nature like most online degrees. Secondly, a great variety of courses is now being offered on-line, some of which are rarely found in universities or schools. Thirdly, one can enroll in and study courses from different programs simultaneously.

Q:Can you please guide me about the kind of courses in bachelors in game design degree online?

A:Although the type of courses may vary across programs, but typically all game design programs focus on the same areas. Some of these are: 3D Animation- about principles of 3D animation, Computer Programming- about programming languages like C++ and Java, game Theory- about mathematical principles governing decisions in games, artificial Intelligence- creations of complex algorithms, advanced Drawing.

Q:What is the differences between video game design degrees and video game certifications?

A:Video game design degrees can be pursued at graduate, undergraduate, and post graduate level. These programs are offered my many video game design schools. On the other hand, certifications are short courses that can be completed in 6-12 months. These programs offer career oriented skills and certify an individual in a specific occupation or field.

Q:Game design degrees can be used in which professional fields?

A:Game design degrees are becoming a very popular academic choice for students nowadays. With a game design degree at bachelor or masters level, one can work as a game producer or a game designer. Many largest companies require the services of skilled designers. This occupation is growing rapidly and will become one of the largest sectors of the tech based industry.

Q:What are the degrees available in game design courses?

A:The field of video game design is becoming increasingly popular with the growing craze for video games among kids as well as adults. This is why academic wise this field is fast expanding and new and better course options are being made available. Most colleges now offer this degree on various degree levels such as certificate, Associate's, Bachelor's and Master's degrees. While some degrees focus on video game art and design, others are based on game design and development. Some related video game design degrees are: Associate in Video Game Design and Development, Bachelor in Game Art and Design, Bachelor in Game Software Development, Bachelor in Game Design and Development and Master of Science in Game Design.

Q:How important is an aesthetic sense for a video game graphic designer?

A:A video game graphic designer is responsible for the visual look of a game he/she is designing. A user will first go by the visual appeal of the game and if it is attractive enough then only will the user play it. Boring graphics can be a big turn off, therefore it is important for a video game designer to be creative and also to have a good aesthetic sense.

Q:Is drawing also part of video game design Courses?

A:As video game designing requires images with graphic details, the need observation and understanding of art concepts in sketching is important. For any object image to be produced in computer first requires sketching that can be done directly in photoshop or any such software. Some people draw on paper first and do rough sketching before producing the work in the shape of computer images. Drawing therefore becomes an important element and is mostly included in video game design courses.

Q:Do I have to complete high school studies before enrolling in a video game design degree?

A:Yes, it is important that you complete high school education before applying in game degree programs. Every college and university will accept students who provide a high school diploma. This is the most basic level of education and must be completed in order to be eligible for any degree program.

Q:What career options are offered by Game Designing Programs?

A:Video game design experts are some of the most creative individuals in the field. These professionals are mostly involved in developing games for computers, gaming consoles and mobile phones. They design, create and test video games, and can every easily be expected to earn somewhere in the vicinity of 40,000 to 50,000 US Dollars.

Q:How to be a video game designer?

A:To be a successful Video game designer, students need to study subjects like Multimedia, Programming languages such as C++ and Java, Cinematography, Digital media, Computer graphics, Game design, Algorithms, Color theories 3D animation, Drawing, Modeling and Physics. Apart from this, students are also required to master the art of creating 2D and 3D games.

Q:How much does a video game designer make annually ?

A:Video game designing is a fast growing field and character drawing, game level designing and texture mapping are a few of the most sought after off-shoots of this field. Professionals qualified in these disciplines who are entering the workforce can stand to earn on average between 40,000 – 50,000 US dollars.

Q:what degrees do I need to be a video game designer

A:You often come across the reference of various courses and programs relevant to the field when going through search such as what degrees do I need to be a video game designer. Color Reproduction Techniques course is included in a number of programs related to the field. In this course the students get to study about color creating techniques.

Q:While looking for online degrees Video Game Design Development, I came across Debugging the impossible course. What is it about?

A:It is common to come across courses such as Debugging the Impossible while going through search like online degrees Video Game Design Development. In this specific course, the students are taught how to debug and remove occasional errors and bugs that might appear during the development of a video game.

Q:What are the contents of the course on Local Area Networks in the best schools for game design?

A:The best schools for game design usually have dedicated course on Local Area Networks. This course is worth 3 credits in total. It is structured to provide students with substantial understanding of the primary levels of networking as well as cabling and functioning of wireless networks. Students are also highlighted on the various functions of communicative protocols.

Q:As I went through the different fields in video game designing mention in an article, there was mention of a course on Local Area Networks. What are the contents of this course?

A:It is quite common to get to read about the course on Local Area Networks while going through the list of Different Fields in Video Game Designing. This course is usually of around 3 credits in total. It is structured to offer students with substantial understanding of the basic networking concepts and the different tools of communication as well as protocols.

Q:Searching for game art online degrees mentioned a course in material and lighting. What is included in this course?

A:Course on material and lighting would be mentioned when searching for game art online degrees. This course is worth 3 credit hours and deals with material, lighting and texture strategies. Students are guided on how to simulate real world surfaces and textures without adding complexity to the model. Prospective students interested in this course are advised to search our website for more information.

Q:Course on game production pipeline was mentioned when searching for website game designers. What is the premise of this course?

A:Course on game production pipeline would be mentioned when searching for website game designers. This course is worth 3 credit hours and acts as a survey of techniques and methods of developing specific content. This course also guides students on gaming engines and emphases on efficient production management. Students interested in this course are advised to search our website for an extensive list of online institutions.

Q:While looking for a degree related to Game Design I came across a course called Physics Engine Development. What is it about?

A:If you are looking for a degree related to Game Design, you will come across many programs and courses. Physics Engine Development is one of the core courses in Game Designing programs. In this course you will be taught creating the physics engine of a game. You will also get to study calculus, algebra and mechanics.

Q:What is taught in Computer Programming course of the Video Game Designer degrees?

A:The Video Game Designer degrees in United States have dedicated course on Computer Programming. This course is worth 4 credits in total and is designed to offer the students with knowledge of basic computer programming, such as working on Visual C# and similar applications. You also get to study the most fundamental concepts of modern programming on computers.

Q:My search for what degree most relates to game design mentioned a course in career development. What is covered in this course?

A:Searching for what degree most relates to game design would mention the course in career development. This course guides students in corporate structures and alternative avenues of employment. This course also helps students in job searching and networking techniques. Students are also trained on portfolio development, interviewing techniques and role play simulation. A comprehensive course that is designed to help students find employment anywhere in the gaming sector.

Q:What are the advantages of pursuing online computer game design degree programs?

A:Online computer game design degree programs have a number of advantages. These courses are designed specifically for students who are unable to attend campus based education. Online programs have comprehensive curriculum that discusses every subject in detail. These courses are relatively inexpensive as students save money on travel and accommodation. Prospective students are advised to search our website for a list of institutions offering these courses.

Q:My search about online classes for game design mentioned narrative. What is the importance of this aspect?

A:Searching for online classes for game design would mention narrative. In recent years the aspect of narration in games has enhanced the entertainment value. These narratives are used to familiarize the player with the concept, history and objective of the game. These narratives are usually in the beginning of the game but also can guide the player at the end of each part. Narratives are an integral part of game design courses that not only entertain but are also essential to understand the concept of the game.

Q:What are the contents of the College Algebra course of the online training video game design programs?

A:The online training Video Game Design programs have a course on College Algebra in the initial stages, worth 3 credits. As the name suggests, this course introduces the students on the basics concepts used in the algebra studies at college level. Some of the most common areas of study of this course include equations, manipulation and evaluation of expressions as well as inequalities.

Q:What are elective options in different video game degrees to major in?

A:There are usually scores of elective courses that can be studied in the video game design degree programs in United States. Most of these Business Analysis, elective courses are from the general fields of Behavioral & Social Sciences, Humanities & Fine Arts, Math & Computer Science and General Science. The most sought after courses include Macroeconomics, Microeconomics, Essentials of Sociology, World Civilizations, Business Analysis, College Maths, Elements of Chemistry and Biology.

Q:What courses are included in the curriculum of a associate online Video Game Maker degree?

A:An associate degree in video game design is a two year undergraduate degree. The courses content of this degree includes various theoretical subjects and training classes. Areas studied in this degree program include 3D, 2D, game mechanics, character design, interface design, testing and analysis, environmental planning, background designing, level designing, game history, modulators and quality assurance techniques.

Q:What are the best jobs upon completion of the Video Game Design programs?

A:Upon completion of the Video Game Design Program you can opt for various designations in the field such as Lead Designer, Game Mechanics Designer, Game Systems Designer, Level Designer, Environment Designer, User Interface Designer and Game Concept Writer.

Q:Is mathematics important in the Video Game design program?

A:Yes. You can find various Video Game design program with an immense focus on mathematics. The most needed concepts of mathematics include a lot of arithmetical studies. The ones using more of computer language may include even more maths and add statistics to the equation as well.

Q:Can students acquire managerial job titles with the game designing degree?

A:In order to get hands on managerial or supervisory roles in the game design industry, students are advised to pursue the master level degrees in game design. These degrees are highly regarded by employers who wish to hire individuals at significant levels. Also, the two years master's program in the field equips students with the required skill set to lead and manage a work force.

Q:Which are the best video game universties for working adults?

A:The most ideal means of video game design degrees for working adults is to get enrolled in any of the online universities listed on our website. Our website consists of a variety of universities that help students complete their education from any location of their choice. For details regarding any particular university, feel free to contact us.

Q:Where are the professionals with Video Game Designing degrees most demanded?

A:Professionals with Video Game Designing degrees are the most in demand in the gaming consoles, computers and mobile phones industry. With the advent of various smart phone platforms and operating systems such as Apple's IOS, Microsoft's Windows Mobile, Google's Android and Samsung's Bada OS, we can see a strong future market for video game development over the mobile networking field.

Q:What technologies do we learn in the Game Design programs?

A:The Game Design programs train you over languages like C++, Javascript, GML and Java Actionscript 3.0. and software like Flash, Game Maker and Photoshop. With the advent of enhanced gaming experience on smartphone operating systems like Apple IOS, Windows Mobile and Google Android, there are courses specializing students in developing applications for these gadgets.

Q:Can you list a few colleges offering courses in web design and game design online?

A:A number of recognized colleges are offering online web design and game design courses. Some of these include: West Wood College, DeVry University, the Art Institute of Pitsburgh and Academy of Art University. Students can pursue the associate, bachelor or master level programs at these colleges and establish lucrative careers in their desired fields.

Q:How is the day of a video game designer at work generally?

A:A work routine of a video game designer generally requires multi-tasking. The video game designers are an asset to any organization since they are equipped to program, design, animate and come up with several digital entertainment products. They are well informed about the market demands and can create aesthetically appealing interfaces to draw more customers for the company they are working in. Their work routine is rigorous and involves incorporating constant innovative ideas.

Q:Do I have to be present at the online institute to register for the Game Design degree program?

A:There are many online institutes that do not require yo to be present in person even for the registration of the Game Design degree program. This can be quite convenient for international students or those who have a stringent schedule.

Q:Can the Game Design program be completed entirely online?

A:The Game Design program degree can be quite extensively studied online. However, they may be courses and examinations that you have to give in person.

Q:Which job titles can be earned after graduating from a Game Design school?

A:Students with advanced game designing degrees can work as game testers, game developers, software developers, foreign language translators, and animators. Such jobs are normally available in game design studios and game developing companies. The job titles earned are largely dependent on the qualifications and overall expertise of the students.

Q:Which is the best online school for Video Game Design degrees?

A:We have an entire list of the best online schools for video game designing. These include The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division, DeVry University, Full Sail University, Academy of Art University, and Westwood College. These institutes offer associate, bachelor, and master's degrees in video game designing.

Q:What is the duration of the Game Design certificate?

A:The certificate in Video Game Designing is a one year program, if pursued at the traditional campus based schools. However, the duration can vary if the certificate in Video Game Designing is pursued online. Online certificate in Video Game Designing has no time restrictions. It can be completed at the pace and ease of the student, hence there are no specified restrictions on that.

Q:How long does it take to complete the Master's level video game design courses online?

A:The Master of Science in Video Game Design program is a two year program. However, that's not the case with the online Master of Science in Video Game Design program. The online video game design courses can be completed in as much time as seen fit by the student. since these are self-paced programs and do not have any specified duration restriction for degree completion.

Q:What major subjects are studied in Game Designing Online programs?

A:The curriculum of game designing online degree programs involves a diverse range of subjects that develop student’s knowledge in this area step by step. Some important courses include introduction to interactive media, mathematics, physics, database and data modeling, computer animation, web site development, analytic geometry, visual C++ for programmers, program language concepts, artificial intelligence, algorithms and techniques, and interactive environments.

Q:What are the different Video Game Design degree programs offered?

A:Associate in Video Game Design and Development, Bachelor in Game Art and Design, Bachelor in Game Software Development, Bachelor in Game Design and Development, and Master of Science in Game Design are the currently available degree programs related to Video Game Design.

Q:Where can Game Designing be used?

A:The Game Designing application is much needed in Multimedia, Digital media, Programming languages such as C++ and Java, Algorithms, Computer graphics, 3D animation, Drawing, Modeling, Game design, Physics, Color theories, Cinematography,

Q:Can I work in the major gaming consoles industry with the Video Game degree programs offered by universities listed on your website?

A:Definitely! The Video Game degree programs offered by universities listed on our website are some of the most comprehensive available worldwide. You can end up working for Sony, Microsoft, Apple Inc. or video game manufacturers such as Electronic Arts, Capcom, Nintendo etc. Keep in mind that all of the major corporations and industry giants require that you have ample and impressive past work experience.

Ask your Question

* All Fields are Required
Call Now(877) 721-2529