Online Art and Design Degrees in Video Game Design
Discover the online game design degree that's right for you. Compare video game development programs from several different accreditied universities and colleges. Study design art for video games, game play design, character design, background design and game environments, game software development and more.Online Video Game Design Degree Programs
The video game industry as a whole is expected to reach record-breaking revenues of more than $22 billion in 2008 according to NPD Group statistics. As the market demand for computer and video games continues to grow, the demand for skilled game designers is likely to increase. The growing market is reflected by the popularity of games such as Warcraft and Grand Theft Auto. On its first day of release, Grand Theft Auto IV sold over 3.6 million copies and generated over $300 million dollars in sales. A degree in game design and development can provide the skills you need to cash in on this rising demand.
Individuals interested in technology and design often find it challenging to take their interests to a professional level. A degree in game design and development can be the crucial first step. While degree programs in graphic design traditionally focus only on the creation of graphics, programs in game design and development typically teach all the phases of game creation--from writing the design to marketing the final product. Students can pursue the basics of game design through a certificate degree program, or go more in-depth with an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in game design and development.
Video Game Design: Relevant Coursework and Skill Development
Coursework varies from program to program, however, typical coursework in graphics and multimedia include:
- Programming and implementation
- Animation for gaming
- Logic and problem solving skills
- Interactive programming design
- Preproduction
- Game play and level design
Career Opportunities for Designing Video Games
Career training in video game design may open a variety of doors to this lucrative industry. Some specific careers in the game industry include game programmer, artist, or analyst. In addition to these positions, there are also game and software testers to make sure functionality and gameplay are accurate. Level designers and support specialist work behind the scenes to ensure the games are interesting and challenging to their respective audiences. General administration and management positions are responsible for design and production.
Because technology continually shifts and develops, aspiring video game designers should realize they face a steep learning curve. Overtime hours are common and there are stories of designers working over seventy hours a week for more than two years to design a game.
Video Game Design Salary and Earnings Information
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that software publishing should be the third-fastest growing industry over the next decade. In fact, employment growth in the software publishing field is expected to reach 32 percent through 2016. Although the Bureau of Labor Statistics does not track video game designer salaries, a survey conducted by Game Developer notes that video game designers earn a median annual salary of $73,000.
If you enjoy video games and have a desire to start a career in this mega industry, a video game design degree can set you on the right path. Remember though, a career in the gaming industry is no game itself--expect to work under pressure and meet serious deadlines.
Pursue your Video Game Design degree today…
Westwood College isn't your typical institution of higher learning. With our career-focused education, students can earn a bachelor's degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months. Career-focused means students are immersed in career-related courses starting in their first term.* And with day, night and online schedules**, we can accommodate almost any lifestyle.
Westwood College schools are accredited by either the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges of Technology (ACCSCT) or the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS).
Westwood is also a candidate for accreditation with The Higher Learning Commission and an affiliate of the North Central Association (http://www.ncahlc.org/).
The U.S. Department of Education maintains a database of post-secondary institutions accreditations. To conduct a search of credentials by institution, go to http://ope.ed.gov/accreditation/.
Develop your creative potential through The Art Institute of Pittsburgh - Online Division where we give you the freedom to decide when and where to attend class. Because you're always on the go, we offer education to go wherever you connect to the Internet.
Accreditation validates the quality of the educational programs and services offered by The Art Institute of Pittsburgh.? The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). The Art Institute of Pittsburgh is authorized by the Pennsylvania Department of Education to award Bachelor of Science and Associate of Science degrees.
First and foremost, the Academy's faculty comprises industry-experienced creative professionals in graphic design, web design and web development. IADT Online's faculty infuses every virtual classroom with enthusiasm, understanding and real-world perspectives.
Designed around the current, real-world demand for knowledgeable, skilled professionals in a wide range of creative industries, IADT Online's curriculum is continually updated to meet the needs of today's changing global marketplace for creative professionals.
From the time they enroll through the day they graduate, the focus of Academys Career Services Department is to prepare students with the portfolio samples, interviewing skills and confidence to pursue and achieve a rewarding career.
When the latest technology hooks up with the power of a broadband Internet connection, amazing things become possible for motivated students who have the talent to think visually and communicate graphically!
Accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools
Since 1979, Full Sail has been a leader in providing campus-based education for careers in media and entertainment. This role in academic leadership combined with our unique approach to real world curriculum development, gives us the needed perspective to create world-class online degrees.
