Fun fact: Physicist William Higinbotham created what is considered to be the first video game in 1958 (a simple tennis game for two), inspiring the creation of countless other games that have become staples in popular culture. Super Mario Bros., released in 1985, is a prime example, as it remains one of the most popular video games of all time, enjoyed by players of all ages even today.
The gaming industry is considered to be one of the fastest growing entertainment industries globally. And if you are considering a career in video game design, it may just be the right choice.
What is video game design?
Video game design is the creation of digital games that allows players to interact with. It includes storytelling, game mechanics, art, level design and sound design to build an immersive gaming world. The aim is to make gameplay engaging and also challenging at the same time, keeping players interested. The design process involves testing and feedbacks to refine the game and make it as fun and interesting as possible.
Difference between Video Game Design vs Graphic Design
| Video Game Design | Graphic Design |
| Involves creating interactive and immersive experiences that engage players. Requires an individual to have skillsets in storytelling, game mechanics, sound design and level design. | More focused on creating individual visual designs that communicate specific messages (through websites, ads, Instagram, etc.) Focuses on visual elements such as color, typography and layout. |
What does program accreditation mean?
Program accreditation is a certification process that evaluates different degree programs to ascertain that it meets the standards set by a recognized agency. It has a number of benefits such as – improving the program’s credibility and recognition by potential employers and students, ease credit transfer between institutions, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for their chosen field, and encouraging continuous improvement by setting goals and providing feedback.
Additionally, the 12 video game design degrees listed by US Degrees are all programmatically accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).
What degree is best for video game design?
In a video game design program, individuals have the liberty to pursue an associate’s, a bachelor’s and a master’s degree. An associate’s degree helps to build strong basic fundamentals in video game design while a bachelor’s and a master’s degree will help students to build better skillsets to help them progress in their career.
Have a look at the degree options available below:
| Degree | Credits (may vary) | Duration | General Admission Requirements (may vary by college) |
| Associate’s Degree | 66 credits | 2 years | GED/Meet GPA Requirements |
| Bachelor’s Degree | 120-132 credits | 4 years | Official High School Transcripts/Minimum Required GPA |
| Master’s Degree | 30-63 credits | 1-2 years | Bachelor’s Degree in a related field. |
3 Online Associate’s Degree in Video Game Design
1. Academy of Art University
Program: AA – Game Development
Tuition: $1,072/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,156/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 66 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
Acquiring an associate’s degree in Game Development will help students build a foundation in game construction, design and game engine technology.
2. Academy of Art University
Program: AA – Animation & Visual Effects
Tuition: $1,072/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,156/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 66 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
The Animation and Visual Effects associate of arts program features coursework in 3D modeling, storyboarding, visual effects, 2D/3D animation and stop motion.
3. Academy of Art University
Program: AA – Visual Development
Tuition: $1,072/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,156/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 66 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
The program’s core curriculum gives focus to form analysis, figure drawing and other design disciplines applicable in a video game design career.
4 Online Bachelor’s Degree in Video Game Design
1. George Mason University
Program: BFA – Computer Game Design
Tuition: $408.15/credit hour (resident); $1,415/credit hour (non-resident)
Credits: 120 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the SACSCOC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #120 in Top Public Universities in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 79% of students receiving financial aid.
The program offers the opportunity for students to learn both art and technical skills through coursework including computer science, art, music and game design.
2. Academy of Art University
Program: BFA – Game Development
Tuition: $1,072/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,156/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 132 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
Academy of Art University’s online BFA in Game Development program offers a comprehensive guide to 3D modeling, animation, lighting and art for video games.
3. Academy of Art University
Program: BFA – Animation and Visual Effects
Tuition: $1,072/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,156/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 132 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
The online program equips students with more advanced digital skills in areas such as animation, 3D/2D animation, stop motion and storyboarding needed for a career in video game design.
4. Academy of Art University
Program: BFA – Visual Development
Tuition: $1,072/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,156/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 132 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
The Visual Development program offers students the opportunity to advance their video game design skills in areas including figure modeling, narrative principles and character design.
5 Online Master’s Degree in Video Game Design
1. West Virginia University
Program: MA – Game Design
Tuition: $667/credit hour
Credits: 30 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the HLC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #89 in Top Pubic Universities in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 95% of students receiving financial aid.
The master’s degree in Game Design is designed with an advanced coursework including – game theory, game production and game design to name a few.
2. Drexel University
Program: MS – Digital Media
Tuition: $1,121/credit hour
Credits: 45 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the MSCHE.
Ranking: The university is ranked #49 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 100% of students receiving financial aid.
The online MS in Digital Media at Drexel University blends research and hands-on learning experience to develop advanced design skills for careers in the digital media industry.
3. Academy of Art University
Program: MFA – Game Development
Tuition: $1,218/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,276/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 63 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
The master’s program offers students the opportunity to gain practical experience in designing and developing video game mechanics, art, and building a professional portfolio.
4. Academy of Art University
Program: MA – Animation & Visual Effects
Tuition: $1,218/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,276/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 63 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
Individuals taking up the program will get to explore more advanced levels of coursework in animationvisual effects while also building skills in time management, communication and collaboration.
5. Academy of Art University
Program: MFA – Visual Development
Tuition: $1,218/per credit hour (domestic students); $1,276/credit hour (international students)
Credits: 63 credits.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the NASAD. The university is accredited by the WSCUC.
Ranking: The university is ranked #58 in Best Colleges for Design in America.
Financial aid: Available, with 88% of students receiving financial aid.
The program includes advanced coursework in still life painting, figure drawing, character and concept design, and animation which help students to build marketable skillsets.
Are video game designers in demand?
The gaming industry is one of the fastest growing entertainment industries across the globe and companies are always on the lookout for skilled video game designers.
Now according to US Bureau of Labor Statistics, video game design related professions have been projected to grow at 5% through 2021 to 2031. This is as fast as the average occupation in the US.
Is video game design a good career?
Getting a degree in video game design will prepare and set you in one of the highly paying careers based on your level of skillsets and expertise.
Have a look at the median annual wage comparison below:
Source: US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Video game design can be a good choice of career for those who are passionate about gaming, enjoy working creatively in a fast-paced industry, and possess technical, artistic, and creative skills. While it can offer professional growth, competitive salaries, and innovative projects, success will depend on expertise, experience, and dedication.
