Video Game Design

Video Game Design Degrees

Video Game Design degrees teach the artistic and technical skills needed to prepare you to work in the video game industry. Video game design includes the study of game theory, game mechanics, visual arts, and programming. Game designers develop all aspects of the video game including storylines, character development, and visual layouts. You can learn the fundamentals of game design through a certificate degree program, or earn an associate's degree or bachelor's degree in game design. While coursework varies depending on the program, typical coursework in graphics and multimedia include:

• Programming and execution
• Gaming animation
• Problem solving skills
• Programming design
• Gaming preproduction
• Game level design and play

Video game designers work with other animators and programmers to develop a game. As technology continues to evolve, the video game industry is becoming more creative, productive, and profitable. Careers in the game industry include game programmers, artists, analysts, and game and software testers. There are also specific designers that ensure the games are engaging and challenging enough for their audiences.

Types of Game Design Degree Programs

An associate’s degree in game design is the best way to start your career in the gaming industry. You will study areas such as digital graphics, animation, graphic design, programming, marketing, and sales. After graduating with an associate’s degree in game design, individuals often work as entry level game designers, level programmers, or game testers.

A bachelor’s degree in game design will provide you with a concrete undergraduate education as well as prepare you for work in the gaming industry. Coursework will focus on digital graphics, animation, graphic design, programming, digital image manipulation, among other things. Individuals with a bachelor’s degree will have the technical skills and knowledge to apply towards programs being used by the industry’s game design professionals. Once you have earned a bachelor’s degree in game design, you are qualified for positions as a game designer, animator, or and background artist.

Job Opportunities for Game Designers

As the gaming industry continues to grow, so will the need for more video game designers. Individuals who have earned a Video Game Design degree may find work in start-up companies, well-established multimedia companies, or as independent contractors or consultants. They are qualified to work as designers, programming experts, artists, or testers.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition