The 10 Best Online Bachelor’s in Video Game Design Degree Programs
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, anonline 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.
The Best Online Bachelor’s in Game Design Programs
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.
1. Lindenwood University
St. Charles, Missouri
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.
Lindenwood University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
2. Davenport University
Grand Rapids, Michigian
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.
Davenport University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
3. Southern New Hampshire University
Hooksett, New Hampshire
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:
- 3-D Art and Design
- 3-D Character Animation
- 3-D 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.
Southern New Hampshire University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).
4. Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah, Georgia
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 a 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
Savannah College of Art and Design is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
5. Baker College
Flint, Michigan
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.
Baker College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
6. Liberty University
Lynchburg, Viriginia
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 cognate. 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.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
7. Academy of Art University
San Francisco, California
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
- Programing Game Engines
- Programming for Games
Students in both online degree programs must also complete an internship.
Academy of Art University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
8. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
Lakewood, Colorado
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 programming concepts, 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.
The Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
9. University of Advancing Technology
Tempe, Arizona
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.
The University of Advancing Technology is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
10. The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Established in 2000, the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division provides a variety of undergraduate degree and non-degree programs with the same career-readiness focus of the Institute’s main campus programs. Covering a diverse array of arts fields, including game design, fashion design, and photography, the Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division meets the needs of non-traditional students interested in capitalizing on their artistic skills. The Institute provides a variety of distance and online support programs and resources to ensure student success.
The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division offers an online Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design degree program for students seeking to enter a variety of careers in the field. The program establishes comprehensive knowledge of the theory and practice of game design. The curriculum blends computer science and programming principles with fundamental concepts of 2-D and 3-D art and design. Students engage in theoretical coursework, hands-on design projects, and team projects to grow as well-rounded professionals. Students prepare to enter careers such as game concept artist, level designer, interactive designer, modeler, and technical artist.
The online Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design program requires 180 quarter-credit hours and includes the following core courses:
- Design Fundamentals
- Game Animation
- Game Design and Game Play
- Game Modeling
- Game Prototyping
- Level Design
- Team Production Planning
- Texture Mapping for Games
Students in the online Bachelor of Science in Game Art and Design program must also complete a portfolio.
The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
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, and offer 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 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.
Full Sail University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Note: Some regionally accredited colleges and universities may not accept credits from colleges and universities which don’t have regional accreditation.
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 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.
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/Game App Designer
- Mobile User Interface Designer
- Modeler
- Technical Artist
- UI/UX Designer
- Video Game Designer
- Web and Social Media Developer
Video Game Design Salary Information
Specific salaries for video game design professions depend on place of employment, experience, specific job responsibilities, and other factors. As of 2015, according to Sokanu.com, video game designers in the US currently see an average annual salary of $85,240, drawing from a pool of 233,000 members. Entry-level video game designers can expect a salary around the average of $45,320, while top-end video game designers can expect a salary around the average of $129,700.
Video Game Designer Job Outlook
According to Sokanu.com, between 2014 and 2024 the video game design job market should grow by 3.3% from its current population of 233,000 members, providing plenty of new jobs for talented game designers. As with other niche fields, job availability for video game designers depends on location, with most of the jobs concentrated in California, Illinois, and Maryland.
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.