Certificate in Video Game Design

Overview
The certificate in Video Game Design is an introductory course allowing students to gain basic level information about video game designing. It equips students with the necessary knowledge and skills to enter the workforce with confidence. They are taught how to manage and develop complex environments for visual applications and games.

Video Game Design Certificate Programs
The certificate program is an appealing educational option for students aspiring to become game developers. They are made to cover a combination of core and elective courses. Core courses include introductory software designing programs whereas elective courses focus only on courses which teach students to specialize in video game designing. Here are the names of some of the common courses offered in the Certificate of Video Game Design:

• Game mathematics
• Artificial intelligence algorithms
• Basic programming languages
• 3D graphic programming
• Game engine architecture
• Feedback mechanisms
• Correction topology
• Game mechanics

The certificate program is traditionally completed in a year when opted in a campus based institute. However, students interested in completing the degree in more or less than a year can get enrolled in the online certificate in Video Game Design and complete the degree at a pace of their own.

Eligibility Criteria
Students wishing to opt for the certificate in Video Game Design do not need any specific prerequisites to start the degree. It is a multi-purpose degree and can be opted by fresh high school graduates or by professionals seeking to update their technological skills to gain competitive edge. Applicants do not need to have any specific educational background either.

Career Outlook
Students with the video game design certificate programs can find good employment opportunities in the job market. They can be hired in any programming, animation, and game designing company. Entry level graduates of the certificate program can be hired as:

• Game programmers
• 3D artists
• Game testers
• Game reviewers
• Game systems designers
• Mobile game designers
• Technical designer
• Game writer
• Game reviewer
• Game guides editor
• Application developer

According to the United States Department of Labor, beginner level video game designers may secure an annual average salary between $30,000 and $43,000.

How Long Does It Take to Complete a Certificate in Video Game Design?

If you are interested in designing games for a living and have some knowledge of software skills, you can opt for this certificate. Many institutions e.g., the American University, the New York Film Academy and the University of Washington offer certificates in Video Game Design. Usually, this certificate takes 6 to 12 months to complete. However, the duration of a self-paced online certificate may vary.

What Are the Requirements to Complete a Certificate in Video Game Design?

The requirements to complete this certificate vary for each institution. However, the curriculum might have a few similar courses e.g., Fundamentals of Game Design, Game Mechanics & System Design and 3D Art & Animation, etc. Most certificates require students to complete 2 semesters of courses and practical work. In addition to this, students are required to gain hands-on experience by learning various software systems and designing games to build strong portfolios.

How Much Can I Make after Completing a Certificate in Video Game Design?

Graduates of this certificate often tend to work as Multimedia Artists & Animators or as Software Developers. However, for better job options, many graduates opt for a higher education degree in Video Game Design. In 2018, Multimedia Artists and Animators earned $72,520 per year as annual median income as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. On the other hand, the annual median salary of a Software Developer was reported as $105,590.