Online game design degree programs teach students how to design and develop video games through training in graphics, story-boarding, animation, and the use of various computer programs and software applications. These programs are designed for students who would like to work in the growing video game industry and have an interest in computers, information technology, project management, development, and design. Students can earn career diplomas, certificates, and associate, baccalaureate, or master’s-level degrees in game design.

Graduates of online game design degree programs may seek employment in many areas within the video game industry, such as development, design, production, or animation. Proper training may provide students the skills required to work as a graphic designer, quality assurance tester, associate producer, game developer, or project manager.

Available Degree Levels

• Career Diploma: Varies
• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete

An online game design career diploma introduces students to the basics of game design, touching on topics such as drawing, color theory, 2-D design, modeling, and animation. Students may gain practical experience in the field and typically build a portfolio, providing them with a platform to display their work to potential employers.

Online game design certificate programs may supplement an existing education or provide students who are new to the field a strong foundation in the basics. These programs may provide students with in-depth training in 3-D graphics, programming, character animation, and game theory. The experience gained in a certificate program may earn students the skills they need to excel in the dynamic gaming field.

An online associate degree in game design focuses on the basics of art and design with courses in modeling, elements of game design, game design theory, and vector graphics. Students enrolled in these programs may secure employment in gaming upon graduation, or they may transfer credits from the associate degree program to a four-year option in game design or related field.

A bachelor’s degree in game design teaches students how to build captivating and engaging games. Coursework may include digital literacy, design tools, storytelling for games, and game mechanics. Graduates of are well-prepared to excel as a game designer, gaining valuable experience through a comprehensive curriculum and in-depth training in game design theory, design tools, technology industries, and programming foundations. Additionally, students may gain practical experience and hands-on training through collaboration with peers, research, and a final design project.

A master’s degree in game design blends information technology basics with game design theory. Students can tailor their coursework to their interests, choosing from specialty courses, such as story-boarding, computer simulation, and programming. These programs expose students to advanced principles in game design, which can benefit them as they seek a career in the field.

Career Options

Graduates of online game design programs contribute to the design and development of games in a number of ways. After acquiring skills in graphic design, 2-D and 3-D modeling, digital imaging, computer applications, and project management, graduates may seek positions as developers, graphic artists, or project managers.

Possible career fields include:

• Game Designer
• Project Manager
• Quality Assurance tester
• Associate Producer
• Graphic Artist