In an era where the video game industry has eclipsed a staggering $135 billion in sales, the demand for proficient video game designers has reached unprecedented heights. As a response to this burgeoning industry, aspiring designers are increasingly turning to video game design degrees to equip themselves with the necessary knowledge and experience to navigate this dynamic and competitive field.
1. University of Southern California (USC)
Leading the pack is the University of Southern California (USC), renowned for its Interactive Media and Game Design program. USC’s commitment to providing hands-on experience and industry recognition sets it apart. The program, housed in the School of Cinematic Arts, offers two bachelor’s degrees and two master’s degree programs, each designed to prepare students comprehensively for a future in game design. Noteworthy is the Computer Science program with a concentration in games, which is more technically oriented and falls under the School of Engineering.
2. University of Utah
The University of Utah stands out for its bachelor’s degree in games, emphasizing valuable internship experiences that offer students a profound insight into the artistry and technical skills required in the industry. The program’s selective admissions process, coupled with personal interviews by the admissions committee, ensures a diverse student body. Students also have the option to minor in games or pursue a Master of Entertainment Arts & Engineering.
3. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)
SCAD’s BA in digital media with a concentration in game development has consistently secured top positions in the E3 College game competition. The program places a strong emphasis on portfolio building, a crucial factor for graduates entering the job market. SCAD offers not only traditional on-campus courses but also provides online courses in interactive design and development degrees, catering to a broader spectrum of aspiring designers.
4. Drexel University
Drexel University, located in the vibrant city of Philadelphia, PA, has established itself as a consistent presence in the top 10 programs for video game design. With offerings like B.S. in Game Art and Production and B.S. in Game Programming and Development, Drexel showcases its strength through student successes in competitions such as the Game Developer Conference’s Intel Student Showcase and the Unity Awards.
5. Rochester Institute of Technology
Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is a powerhouse, offering B.S. and M.S. degrees in Game Design and Development, along with a B.S. in New Media Interactive Development. The co-op program at RIT is a standout feature, providing students with the opportunity to gain valuable career skills and real-world experience in the gaming field. With a 97% outcome rate of graduation and a $70,000 median first-year salary, RIT prepares graduates for success.
6. Parsons The New School for Design
Parsons stands as a unique institution, offering a BFA in Design and Technology with concentrations in Game Design or Creative Technology. The program, part of the School of Art, Media, and Technology, distinguishes itself by its design-focused curriculum, setting it apart from more technically oriented programs. Its location in New York City, a hub for game development, provides students with unparalleled networking opportunities.
7. Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech, a pioneer in technological education, offers a B.S. in Computational Media. The program features various labs and studios, including the Augmented Reality Game Studio and the entertainment intelligence lab. What sets Georgia Tech apart is its involvement in cutting-edge research, notably using big data algorithms to customize video game difficulty. This B.S. degree is offered as a joint venture between the College of Computing and Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts.
8. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT, a prestigious institution globally recognized for its technological advancements, offers an undergraduate degree in Comparative Media Studies with a concentration in Games. This program is highly ranked by the Princeton Review, emphasizing courses in video game theory, game design methods, and design interactions. MIT’s Game Lab provides students with opportunities to engage in hands-on research and contribute to the development of new games.
9. New York University, Tisch School of the Arts
NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts offers a BFA program treating game design as a creative art form. With specializations in game art, development, and sound, students embark on a journey that delves into the history of video games and the industry. A senior capstone project requires students to collaborate as a team, offering insights into the collaborative process of bringing a game into production.
10. Northeastern University
Located in the vibrant city of Boston, Northeastern University provides students with the flexibility to choose from three majors in the game development field. Whether pursuing a BFA in games, a BFA in digital arts and game design, or a B.S. in computer science and game development, students have access to a range of courses that explore the intersection of technology and creativity. The program also offers a master’s program in game science and design and a graduate certificate in game analytics.
The landscape for aspiring video game designers is diverse, offering a plethora of options in the top 10 video game design degree programs. Each program boasts unique strengths, from hands-on experiences and faculty expertise to specializations and research opportunities. As aspiring designers embark on their educational journey, considerations such as personal preferences, career goals, and the distinctive features of each program should guide their choices. Building a robust portfolio and gaining practical experience remain pivotal steps toward a successful career in the ever-evolving realm of video game design.
