Online Game Design Degree Programs

Studying for a game design degree can allow you to obtain employment creating exciting and entertaining games for consoles and computers that provide consumers a lot of enjoyment. Learn more about what game design programs have to offer.

Game design involves the process of designing the content and rules of a game. It is the set of type definitions and rules of a game. It is often composed from several game modules. Studying for a game design degree can allow you to obtain employment creating exciting and entertaining games for consoles and computers that provide consumers a lot of enjoyment. With a degree in this field, you can work alongside other individuals in the development of the future generation of entertainment applications. There is the option of choosing an associate or bachelors degree in this field. With consoles and PCs now being sold in increasing numbers each year, there will be no shortage of desirable positions for graduates. Game development degrees and animation degree programs focus on video consoles, hand-held gaming devices, mobile phones, and computer application.

Selected Animation & Video Game Design Programs

Westwood College

• Bachelor of Science in Animation
• Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design

• Bachelor's in Computer Information Systems - Web Game Programming

Kaplan University

• BS in Information Technology / Multimedia & Animation
• BS Information Technology

American InterContinental University and American InterContinental University Online

• Bachelor's (BFA) - Digital Design

• Game Art & Design — Bachelor of Science
• Media Arts & Animation — Bachelor of Science

Full Sail University

• BS in Music Production Online Computer Animation
  • Digital Arts & Design
• Bachelor of Science (Online)
  • Film Game Art
  • Game Development

Graphics & Animation Programs in Canada (Diploma Programs)

Visual College of Art and Design

Applied Arts Program

• 3D Animation, Modeling Art and Design
• Graphic Design

Reeves College

Department of Technology

• Computer Graphic Design (CGD)

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Game Designer Education and Training

The first year of a game design course is likely to focus on modules that are of a general nature. This may include Flash, Photoshop, general mathematics, algebra, statistics, basic programming skills, problem solving concepts, and creative skills. Once a solid base has been formed, it is then possible to specialize in specific disciplines.

There are a few schools that offer hands on training as part of the educational course, though on the job training is also usually given. It is important to keep abreast of new technologies and concepts to achieve the greatest financial rewards. Online training is also possible through interactive lectures.

Depending on the school and course that is chosen, the degree may include any of the following subjects in the second and third year: 3-D animation, game mapping, image manipulation, anatomy and drawing, layout design, color theory, design fundamentals, visual language, Perl, Java, C++, and game prototyping. It is important to think carefully about the type of games you would like to be involved in the creation of, prior to choosing a program of study.

This type of degree can provide various career paths in a field that is growing fast. It is possible to go beyond the actual design process and break out into other areas such as strategy, testing, sound, and environments. There is usually the option to work as a freelancer, specialist, or even set up your own design company.

Game Design Careers

If you want to enter the exciting and fun world of video game design and animation be sure to get the right training with a video game degree. Most graduates would work alongside a team of animators, storyboard writers, and programmers to develop a strategy, plot, and implementation process. The role of a tester is extreme desirable and important, they help to analyze possible bugs and problems that may exist. With the gaming industry somewhat cushioned from fluctuations in the economy, it is a field in which there is expected to be a constant and growing demand for qualified individuals.

Expected Salary and Projected Career Growth

Data made available from the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest an increase in employment opportunities far and above other sectors. Over the coming decade, it is predicted that the number of positions will grow steadily at rate between 10% and 15%.

Those graduates holding a game design degree can expect to earn anywhere from $25,000 to $120,000 per annum. The actual figure would depend upon the career path chosen as well as experience. According to information made available from the United States Department of Labor, in 2009 an animator could command a salary between $45,000 and $70,000, a game tester could expect to earn from $25,000 to $45,000, whereas a creative director would bring home $45,000 to $90,000.

Online game design degree programs and computer programming degrees