The Best Online Bachelor’s in Video Game Design Degree Programs

Last Updated: Oct 21, 2019

By TBS Staff

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An online bachelor’s in game design provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary for professional success in video game design careers. Though initially thought of as a passing fad, video games have grown into a massive, multi–national, multi–billion dollar industry, commanding a strong influence on pop–culture, how people spend their free time and disposable income, and even childhood nostalgia. With that kind of importance, companies large and small demand highly trained professionals to design the next big games and corner the market. For individuals with a passion for gaming, an online bachelor’s in game design degree program can provide the education necessary to turn their personal interests into a lucrative career. This article ranks the 10 best online bachelor’s in game design degree programs available today.

Online Bachelor’s in Game Design Program Ranking Guidelines

We selected the programs based on the quality of the program, the types of courses offered, the faculty, rankings, awards, and reputation, including the school’s reputation for effectively providing online degree programs.

RANKING METHODOLOGY

Methodology for College Rankings

The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:

The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.

To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):

1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]

• Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
• Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
• Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
• Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
• Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
• Considers range of electives within that discipline
• Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline

2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]

• Considers education background of the faculty
• Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
• Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
• Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
• Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources

3. Reputation [weight = 20%]

• Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
  • Faculty
  • Curriculum
  • “Freshness” of academic knowledge
  • Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
  • Suitability of graduates for the workplace

4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]

• Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
• Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants

5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]

• Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
• Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business

6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]

• Considers the following of the online classes:
  • Types of online technology used to deliver content
  • Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
  • Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
  • Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
• Considers the following of instructors:
  • Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
  • Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
  • Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
  • Ratio to number of students in a class
• Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees

Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.

To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:

• Accreditation
• Public or private status
• Acceptance rate
• Retention rate
• Graduation rate
• ACT/SAT requirements
• Cost in-state / out of state
• Undergrad, grad, or both offered
• Region
• State
• City

Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!

If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.

Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!

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The Best Online Bachelor’s in Game Design Programs

1. Lindenwood University

St. Charles, Missouri

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Building on the long tradition of education and career preparation at Lindenwood University, the School of Arts, Media, and Communications provides degree and non–degree programs in a diverse array of fields. The School emphasizes the importance of hands–on experience alongside classroom learning, with experiential learning components included at the core of its programs. With numerous online options, professional development services, and other valuable resources, the School meets the academic and professional needs of traditional and non–traditional students alike.

The School of Arts, Media, and Communications offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Game Design degree program that prepares students to enter a variety of careers in the field. The program utilizes a comprehensive blend of art theory and practical skills, industry–specific skills, and technical knowledge. Students engage with in–depth coursework and earn hands–on experience through developing a portfolio and completing an internship. Students emerge prepared to enter careers like game designer, creative director, concept artist, animator, and 3D modeler.

The online Bachelor of Arts in Game Design program requires 120 credit hours and includes the following core courses:

• 3D Animation
• 3D Graphics
• Arts Entrepreneurship
• Concept Design
• Game Development I
• Game Development II
• Introduction to Game Design
• Level Design

Students in the online Bachelor of Arts in Game Design program must also complete a capstone, portfolio and internship.

2. Liberty University

Lynchburg, Virginia

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The School of Business at Liberty University offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs, both on–campus and online, in diverse fields of study. Incorporating the evangelical mission of Liberty University, the School of Business builds its programs on a foundation of Christian principles.

Through the Liberty University Online platform, the School of Business offers an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree program with a Game Design specialization. Through a blend of IT core coursework, in–depth specialized courses in game design, and hands–on learning in an internship, students develop a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. The curriculum covers key topics, including interactive development, 3D graphics design, critical thinking and technical problem solving, and various programming languages. Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, such as video game designer, creative director, graphics director, and software programmer.

The online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program requires 120 credit hours and includes the following Game Design cognate courses:

• C# Programming
• Digital Imaging
• Interactive Game Development
• Introduction to 3D Graphics
• Introduction to Graphic Design

Students in the online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program must complete an internship in the game design field.

GO TO SCHOOL PROFILE

3. Southern New Hampshire University

Hooksett, New Hampshire

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Through the College of Online and Continuing Education, Southern New Hampshire University serves the needs of a diverse population of non–traditional students. With a wide selection of undergraduate, graduate and professional programs in fields ranging from business to liberal arts to social sciences, students of all interests and backgrounds can find something that serves their educational needs. The College provides plenty of resources, support, and professional development services.

The College of Online and Continuing Education offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Game Art and Development degree program for students seeking to utilize their creativity in a variety of game design professions. The program develops a balanced foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to game design. The curriculum blends computer science principles with aspects of art, animation, design, storytelling, and mythology. Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers in video game design, including lead artist, lead storyteller, modeler, animator, and designer.

The online Bachelor of Arts in Game Art and Development program requires 120 credit hours and includes the following core courses:

• 3D Art and Design
• 3D Character Animation
• 3D Modeling and Animation
• Basic Design and Color Theory
• Character Design
• Environment Design
• Illustration
• Intro to Digital Sculpting
• Introduction to Digital Imaging
• World Mythology

Students in the online Bachelor of Arts in Game Art and Development program must also complete a capstone.

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4. Savannah College of Art and Design

Savannah, Georgia

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Founded in 1978 with the goal of serving the unique needs of arts students, the Savannah College of Art and Design currently enrolls over 10,000 students in a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in diverse arts fields. With online program options, as well as professional development resources, internship opportunities, and scholarship options, the College provides plenty of opportunities for growth and development to a diverse student population.

Savannah College of Art and Design offers an online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media degree program with an interactive design and game development concentration. The program develops a balanced foundation of knowledge and skills necessary to success in game development professions. Students engage with key concepts, blending coursework in areas such as game art, programming, interactive design, and digital aesthetics, with a strong liberal arts foundation. Students prepare to enter a variety of careers, including game designer, game programmer, modeler, technical artist, and level designer.

The online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media program requires 180 quarter–credit hours and includes the following Game Development concentration courses:

• Core Principles: Game Art
• Core Principles: Game Design
• Core Principles: Interactive Design
• Core Principles: Programming
• Digital Design Aesthetics
• Introduction to Game Development

5. Davenport University

Grand Rapids, Michigan

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The College of Technology at Davenport University provides a variety of undergraduate and graduate program options in diverse technical fields. Through online program options, internship and scholarship opportunities, labs and workshops, and professional development resources, the College of Technology serves the needs of both traditional and non–traditional students.

The College of Technology offers an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree program with a specialization in Gaming and Simulation. The program incorporates a blend of core computer science coursework, specialized coursework, and hands–on field experience. Students develop a strong foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for success in the field. The curriculum emphasizes key aspects of computer science and game design, with courses in areas such as programming languages, 2D and 3D game development, modeling and simulation, and collaborative development. Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, including game designer, level designer, animator, and 3D modeler.

The online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program requires 120 credit hours and includes the following Gaming and Simulation specialization courses:

• 2D Game Development
• 3D Game Development
• Collaborative Game Development
• Introduction to Modeling and Simulation

Students in the online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program must complete an internship.

6. Baker College

Flint, Michigan

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The College of Information Technology at Baker College provides students with a variety of undergraduate options for studying diverse information technology fields, including web development, database administration, and game development. With a variety of online program options, professional development services, and internship opportunities, the College serves the academic and professional needs of traditional and non–traditional students alike.

The College of Information Technology offers an online Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development degree program for students seeking to enter game design professionally. The program provides a comprehensive approach to the technical aspects of game design. Students engage in coursework that addresses game design principles and concepts, as well as the specifics of programming in a variety of languages, including HTML and C++. Additionally, the program includes a work experience component to provide students with exposure to the realities of professional game design. Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers in the field, including game programmer, graphics director, game designer, level designer, and engine programmer.

The online Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development program requires 120 credit hours and includes the following core courses:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Game Design and Analysis
• Game Development
• Principles of Computer Science
• Unity Game Programming I
• Unreal Game Programming I

Students in the online Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development program must also complete 300 hours of field experience.

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7. Franklin University

Columbus, Ohio

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The College of Arts, Sciences, and Technology, one of three colleges at Franklin University, offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields, preparing students for careers that involve communication, technical, and practical knowledge. With plenty of online programs and professional experience opportunities, the college serves traditional and non–traditional students alike.

The College of Arts, Sciences, and Technology offers an online bachelor of science in interactive media design degree program for students seeking careers developing games, apps, and websites. The program blends foundational technical knowledge with advanced game design applications and professional concepts. Students engage with topics, such as:

• Interactive Media in a Variety of Settings
• Team Communication
• User Experience

The online game design degree program requires 120 credits and includes the following online college courses:

• Advanced Graphic Design
• Communication in Groups and Teams
• Digital Media Design
• Human–Computer Interaction
• Interactive Media for Advertising
• Interactive Media for Entertainment
• Interactive Media for Training and Instruction

Students earning this game design degree online must complete a practicum and capstone project. Students must complete at least 30 credits at Franklin University.

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8. Academy of Art University

San Francisco, California

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One of many diverse schools at Academy of Art University, the School of Game Development provides students with a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs dedicated to the study of video game professions and design skills. Through online program options, internship opportunities, and professional development services and resources, the School serves students seeking careers in the video game field.

The School of Game Development offers an online Bachelor of Science in Game Programming degree program, as well as an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development. Between these two programs, students of all backgrounds may pursue careers in game development that combine their individual talents and passions. The BS program takes a more technical approach, incorporating aspects of computer science, mathematics, programming, and engineering, while the BFA program takes a more conceptual and artistic approach, with coursework in art theory, storytelling, character development, and the history of the field. Regardless of the path chosen, students develop a balanced foundation of knowledge and skills, built on a liberal arts core. The curricula blend in–depth coursework with hands–on experience. Students prepare to enter careers such as game designer, concept artist, level designer, interactive designer, 3D modeler, and programmer.

The online Bachelor of Science in Game Programming program requires 120 credit hours, the online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development program requires 132 credit hours, and both include the following core courses:

• 3D Animation for Games
• 3D Modeling for Games
• AAA Game Engine Architecture
• Introduction to Game Development
• Low–Level Programming and Optimization
• Object–Oriented Programming and Design
• Programming Game Engines
• Programming for Games

Students in both online degree programs must also complete an internship.

9. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

Lakewood, Colorado

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Since 1963, the Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design has provided arts students with a variety of degree and non–degree program options for honing their artistic abilities and turning their passion into a rewarding profession. Currently, the College offers programs in a diverse array of fields that include studio art, graphic design, and game design. With a dedication to the perfection of the arts, as well as professional development services and plenty of online programs, the College serves traditional and non–traditional students in numerous arts fields.

The Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design offers an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art degree program for students seeking to apply their artistic skills and passion to video game professions. The program blends game design theory, practical applications and skills, basic to intermediate visual scripting, artistic theory and graphic design principles, and professional skills. Students develop a well–rounded foundation of knowledge necessary to success in the field. Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers, including concept artist, level designer, animator, lighting artist and 3D modeler.

The online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art program requires 123 credit hours and includes core course work in key areas, including level design, visual storytelling, 3D modeling, lighting and texture, character rigging and animation, and business ethics and copyrights.

10. University of Advancing Technology

Tempe, Arizona

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The University of Advancing Technology provides a variety of degree and non–degree programs dedicated to preparing students for a diverse array of careers utilizing the cutting edge of technology. With plenty of online program options, professional development services, and academic and professional resources, the University of Advancing Technology serves the needs of traditional and non–traditional students alike.

The University of Advancing Technology offers three online degree program options, with a Bachelor of Arts in Game Design, a Bachelor of Arts in Game Art and Animation, and a Bachelor of Science in Game Programming. Each degree provides students with an in–depth education in different aspects of game development, providing more focus on the artistic aspects, the technical aspects, or the interplay between the two. The programs include theoretical and practical coursework, professional development components, and studio work. Students prepare to pursue a variety of careers in the field, including art director, concept artist, game designer, game programmer, and technical artist.

The online Bachelor degree programs each require 120 credit hours for completion, with each requiring a different blend set of core courses. The Bachelor of Arts in Game Design program, for example, requires the following core courses:

• Critical Game Studies
• Game Scripting for Designers
• Introduction to Game Design
• Introduction to Game Development
• Level Design
• Rapid Game Prototyping and Experimental Gameplay
• Writing for Interactive Games

Students in each of the programs must also complete a portfolio and professional component.

 

 ❱ Note:   The following school is a for–profit school. If you have any questions about for–profit schools, check out our Guide to For–Profit Colleges: What You Need to Know.

Honorable Mention Full Sail University

Winter Park, Florida

Established in 1979 as an audio recording workshop, Full Sail University has grown significantly to include numerous campuses worldwide. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs in a diverse array of fields. Maintaining a core dedication to career–readiness, Full Sail University focuses on the development of key knowledge and skills for success in creative professions. Students at Full Sail University benefit from access to a variety of online program options, fast–paced programs, and professional development services.

Full Sail University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Game Art degree program, as well as an online Bachelor of Science in Game Design. The BS in Game Art utilizes a greater focus on the application of art, animation, and design principles, while the BS in Game Design focuses more on structuring, planning, playability, and storytelling. Both programs prepare students to pursue a variety of careers in the field, based on their personal interests and talents. Students engage with comprehensive coursework that blends key theoretical and practical approaches to the field. Graduates of the programs may enter careers like game developer, programmer, level designer, 3D modeler, and art director.

Both programs require 120 credit hours for completion. The Bachelor of Science in Game Art includes the following required courses:

• 2D Animation
• 3D Animation
• Art Creation for Games
• Environment Art
• Fundamentals of Art I
• Game Animation I
• Game Characters
• Level Assembly and Lighting
• Shading and Lighting

The Bachelor of Science in Game Design includes the following required courses:

• Design and Development Analysis
• Design Tools
• Game Design I
• Game Mechanics
• Level Design
• Programming Foundations I
• Prototyping
• World Building

Students in the online BS programs must also complete a portfolio. Both online programs may be completed in 29 months.

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What is a Bachelor’s in Game Design Degree?

Though they come in several flavors, including Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Fine Arts, all Bachelor’s in Game Design degrees prepare students to pursue careers in professional video game design. Typically, these programs utilize a somewhat interdisciplinary approach, incorporating a blend of art theory and training, mythology and storytelling, and technical skill and programming to develop a well–rounded foundation of knowledge. All programs incorporate studio work, many programs incorporate a portfolio or project component, and some incorporate a field–experience component.

How Long Does it Take to Complete an Online Bachelor’s in Game Design Degree Program?

Like most bachelor’s degree programs, an online Bachelor’s in Game Design program typically requires four years for completion. However, some universities offer accelerated or degree completion programs that may be completed in as few as two years.

What Are the Video Game Designer Education Requirements?

While plenty of different video game design careers exist, they all have in common the basic prerequisite of a Bachelor’s degree in Game Design. Depending on their specific interests and talents, students may pursue programs that utilize different focuses, to ensure that they may enter their desired career after graduation.

What Can You Do With a Bachelor’s in Game Design Degree?

A Bachelor’s in Game Design degree prepares students to pursue a variety of general or niche careers in the game design field. With this degree, graduates may enter careers in the conceptual, artistic development of games, or the technical, nuts–and–bolts aspects of game design. Individuals may find employment at massive multinational gaming companies, small independent publishers, or even start their own game design firm.

Video Game Design Careers

Individuals with a Bachelor’s in Game Design degree can pursue a wide variety of careers in the field, including the following:

• 3D Modeler
• Animator
• Art Director
• Audio Programmer
• Concept Artist
• Creative Director
• Engine Programmer
• Environment Designer
• Game Artist
• Game Designer
• Game Programmer
• Graphics Director
• Interactive Designer
• Level Designer
• Lighting Artist
• Mechanics Designer
• Mobile User Interface Designer
• Mobile/Game App Designer
• Modeler
• Technical Artist
• UI/UX Designer
• Video Game Designer
• Web & Social Media Developer

What Are Video Game Design Salaries Like?

Specific salaries for video game design professions depend on place of employment, experience, specific job responsibilities, and other factors. As of 2019, according to PayScale.com, video game designers in the US currently see an average annual salary of $64,129. Entry–level video game designers can expect a salary around the average of $72,721, while experienced video game designers can expect a salary around the average of $89,485.

What is the Video Game Designer Job Outlook Like?

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developer jobs, including video game design, are projected to grow 21% between 2018 and 2028. This growth is much faster than average, providing plenty of new jobs for talented game designers.

What Are the Video Game Designer Professional Organizations?

International Game Developers Association (IGDA)

With 90 chapters worldwide, the IGDA maintains its mission of advancing the careers of its members through a commitment to four key principles: advocacy, networking and community, professional development, and international reach. Membership includes benefits such as access to professional resources and publications, access to events and conventions, and a large member network.

Entertainment Software Association (ESA)

The ESA dedicates its activities to serving the needs of businesses, publishers, and individuals in the industry. Moreover, through the ESA Foundation, the ESA provides scholarships for video game design students. Membership includes benefits such as access to resources and publications, access to conventions and events, legal resources, and a large member network.