[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]People used to think of video game design as a hobby. Not anymore. Today, video game design is a booming industry, full of opportunities for people passionate about the field. Many roles are available as a designer, artist, programmer, or tester.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online game design degree is a common path to entry-level jobs in game design. Many employers require a bachelor’s degree in video game design or a related field. This degree provides industry-standard skills and knowledge, as well as practical experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition, online degree programs are generally cheaper and more flexible than traditional programs. Students with reliable home internet can customize their schedule and balance their academic, work, and other obligations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]This guide ranks the best online video game design programs to help students find the right program for their needs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Top Online Video Game Design Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/ranking-methodology/”]Read About Our Methodology Here[/hen-ui-link][/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What is an Online Video Game Design Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An online video game design degree program provides the knowledge, skills and experience to enter the field of video game design and development. These programs combine art, tech, and creativity. They teach the basics of game design, storytelling, character development, level design, coding, and digital art.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Students gain skills to design, create, and implement video games across various platforms. These programs focus on collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking, meaning learners develop into well-rounded game designers. Many programs incorporate experiential learning in studios to provide industry-relevant experience.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Online game design degrees are available at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree levels. Some are in video game design. Others are in related fields, such as software engineering or computer science. A bachelor’s degree is a typical entry-level requirement for video game designers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Long Does it Take to Complete an Online Game Design Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The time to finish an online game design degree can vary. It depends on many factors, such as the program, the degree level, and the student’s pace (full-time or part-time).[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Typically, you can complete an associate degree in game design in about two years. A bachelor’s degree program often takes about four years to complete. A master’s degree program can take 1-2 years more than a bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]But these timeframes are general estimates. They can vary based on factors such as the course load, transfer credits, and any breaks or interruptions in instruction.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some online programs may be faster than others, or have flexible schedules. These flexible programs let students finish the degree at their own pace. It’s best to ask the school offering the online game design degree about the flexibility; they will have more accurate information on how long the program takes.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Video Game Design Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Admission requirements can vary between degree, institution and programs. Here are some common requirements you may encounter:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Educational Background[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You need a high school diploma or equivalent for associate or bachelor’s degree programs. Master’s degree programs may require a bachelor’s degree in a related field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Application[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You will need to complete and submit an application form to the institution offering the program. You can do this online through the institution’s website.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Transcripts[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most programs will need you to provide official transcripts, which you can get from your previous schools. These transcripts should demonstrate your academic performance and any relevant coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]GPA[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many programs have a minimum grade point average requirement (GPA) for admission, usually between a 2.0-3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Letters of Recommendation[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some programs may ask for letters of recommendation from teachers, professors or professionals (like your manager or volunteer work supervisor). The letters must be from people who can speak to your abilities and potential in the field of game design.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Portfolio[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may need to submit a portfolio showing your creative work in game design, such as game prototypes, artwork, coding samples and level designs. This allows the admissions committee to assess your skills and potential as a game designer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Personal Statement[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You may need to write a personal statement or essay to explain your interest in video game design, your career goals and how the program will help you achieve them.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Degree is Best for Video Game Design?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best degree for video game design depends on your career goals, interests, and strengths. That said, a variety of degrees can be beneficial to become a video game designer, including:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Game Design[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pursuing a specific video game design degree is a common path for aspiring game designers. These programs focus on many parts of game design, such as storytelling, game rules, level design and coding.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science degree[/hen-ui-link] or software engineering degree provides a strong foundation in programming and technical skills, which are valuable in the game design field.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Graphics, Animation, or Digital Art[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These degrees focus on the artistic and visual aspects of game design, including character design, 3D modeling, animation and visual effects.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Game development programs include a wide variety of skills and disciplines, including game design, programming, art and audio. These degrees provide a well-rounded education in game development.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Interactive Media or Multimedia Design[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These programs cover various interactive media forms, including video games, websites, and mobile apps. They provide a blend of design, programming, and multimedia skills applicable to game design.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Graduation Requirements for an Online Video Game Design Degree[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The requirements for an online video game design degree may vary. They depend on the specific program and school offering the degree. Some common requirements include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Coursework:[/hen-ui-text] You will need to complete all the required courses and credits specified by the program. Most bachelor’s degree programs require at least 120 college credits. These courses include topics such as game design principles, programming, computer graphics, animation, level design, storytelling, and game development.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Assignments and projects:[/hen-ui-text] Throughout the program, you will complete assignments, projects, and possibly a capstone or thesis project. These show your understanding and application of game design concepts.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]GPA:[/hen-ui-text] To graduate, you may need to maintain a GPA of between 2.0-3.0. The minimum GPA requirements for graduation may vary.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Portfolio:[/hen-ui-text] Some programs may require a portfolio showcasing the work you’ve done during your studies. This portfolio may include game prototypes, artwork, coding samples, level designs, or any other relevant projects.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Internship or practical experience: [/hen-ui-text]Some programs may require an internship or practical experience in the field. It may be practice working on real game design projects. Or, it could involve interning at a studio and learning from industry professionals.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do with an Online Game Design Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]There is a lot you can do with a video game design degree, from becoming an animator or a technical artist. The following are examples of video game design careers:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]3D Modeler[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Animator[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Audio Programmer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Concept Artist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Environment Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Game Artist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Game Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Game Programmer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Level Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Lighting Artist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Mechanics Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Mobile User Interface Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Mobile/Game App Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Modeler[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Technical Artist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]UI/UX Designer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]These careers can be general or niche. You can work on the creative, artistic side of games as a concept artist. Or, you can work more on the technical side as a level designer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some may find employment at massive multinational gaming companies. Others at small independent publishers. Many may even start their own game design firm.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What is the Outlook for Video Game Design Careers?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]According to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.payscale.com/research/US/Job=Video_Game_Designer/Salary” target=”_blank”]January 2024 Payscale data[/hen-ui-link], the average annual salary for a video game designer is $69,076. The field’s most experienced video game designers earn $111,272, Payscale data shows. Entry-level designers earn $59,629.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not specifically have projections for video game design careers. However, data is available for related careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The BLS projects jobs for software developers (including mobile application developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers) to [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm” target=”_blank”]grow by 25%[/hen-ui-link] from 2022-2032. Software developers earned a median salary of $124,200 per year as of May 2022.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-separator /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”em”]Page last reviewed on February 14, 2024.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]