Are you a lover of video games? Do you often find yourself thinking up new game ideas during your free time? Have you ever thought that you would love to create your own video game one day? If so, an online degree in game development may be right for you.
An online degree in game development offers exactly what it sounds like: the opportunity to learn how to develop video games and related software. This type of degree is particularly useful for those who wish to pursue a career as a programmer, game designer, or another similar type of position in the gaming industry.
However, it’s important to note that there are various types of degrees with different names that share similar content as an online degree in game development.
Before choosing which type of program is best for you, read on to learn more about why an online degree in gamification could be ideal for your future goals and interests.
What is an Online Degree in Game Development?
A game development degree is a type of program designed to educate students on the skill sets needed to design, develop, and/or code video games. The curriculum for this type of degree program varies from school to school, but, in general, you can expect to complete a course load that includes classes in programming, software design, game design, and game art.
An online degree in game development is an ideal choice for those who want to learn how to create video games but don’t want to move to a different city or state to attend a traditional, on-campus program. Because this type of degree is offered completely online, it is perfect for those who wish to remain in their current location while pursuing their educational goals.
An degree in game development can also be a good choice for those who want to work in a specialized field of the gaming industry but don’t know where to start. Because this type of degree program teaches students about multiple areas of game development, it can easily prepare graduates for a variety of careers in the gaming industry.
Read this: Online Degree in USA: An Ultimate Guide
Types of Degrees in Game Development
As we’ve already discussed, a game development degree is one example of a type of degree program that can help you learn how to develop video games. However, there are a few other options worth considering. Here are a few examples of types of degrees in game development to help you better understand your options.
An associate degree in game design:
This two-year program teaches students the core principles of game design and how to apply them to create video games. You can typically earn an associate degree in game design at a community college, but keep in mind that it’s likely not as in-depth as an online degree in game development.
An online bachelor’s degree in game design:
This degree typically takes three to four years to complete and is designed for students who want to pursue a career in game design at a high-level.
An online bachelor’s degree in computer science with a focus on game development:
This type of degree is designed for students who want to work as programmers or designers in the gaming industry. It includes all of the core computer science principles needed to work in these fields.
An online master’s degree in computer science with a focus on game development:
Master’s degrees are typically designed for individuals who want to pursue a career in a managerial capacity within the gaming industry.
An online master’s degree in human computer interaction with a focus on game design:
This degree is designed for individuals who want to work as usability testers or researchers in the gaming industry.
An online doctoral degree in computer science with a focus on game development:
A doctoral degree is typically designed for individuals who want to pursue a career as an instructor at the university level or as a researcher in their field.
An online doctoral degree in human computer interaction with a focus on game design:
A doctoral degree in human computer interaction is typically designed for individuals who want to pursue a career as a professor or researcher in their field.
Read also: Top 10 Schools Offering Animation Degrees Online in the United States
Why an Online Degree in Game Development?
There are many reasons why an online degree in game development could be a good choice for you. Some of these include the following:
It is an affordable option
Due to their online nature, online degree programs are typically much more affordable than traditional on-campus programs. This means that you can potentially earn a degree without taking out a significant amount of student loans.
It is a flexible option
Because online degree programs are essentially self-paced, you can work on your coursework at any time of day or night. This means that you can fit your coursework into your busy schedule and still be successful. Additionally, online programs often don’t require students to attend group events or live lectures, so you can truly work at your own pace.
It can prepare you for a variety of careers in the gaming industry
Since most online programs include coursework in multiple aspects of game development, you can be prepared to work in multiple roles within the gaming industry. This means that you can truly customize your degree program to meet your individual career goals.
What You’ll Learn with an Online Degree in Game Development?
The exact curriculum you’ll need to complete for a degree in game development will vary depending on which school you choose. However, in general, you can expect to learn the following while earning an online degree in game development:
An introduction to game development:
Before learning how to design or code games, you need to understand the basics of the game development process overall. This means that most programs begin with an introduction to the history of gaming, the various types of games (including those designed for mobile devices), and the gaming industry as a whole.
An introduction to programming:
Once you understand the basics of game development, most programs move on to teach you how to write computer code. This typically includes an introduction to common programming languages like C++, Python, Java, or C#. You can then use this knowledge to create your own games or software.
An introduction to game design:
Once you’ve learned the basics, most programs move on to teach you how to design games. This typically includes an introduction to game design theory, the core components of game design, and the various elements that go into creating a game.
An introduction to game art:
After learning the basics of game design and programming, most programs move on to discuss game art in depth. This often includes an introduction to the most common types of game art (including 2D, 3D, and VR game art), and how to use various game art programs to create your own art.
An introduction to computer science:
To truly be prepared to enter the gaming industry, most programs also contain an introduction to computer science. This typically includes an introduction to common computer science principles like algorithms, data structures, and design.
Check out CG Spectrum College of Digital Art, if you want to commence the process of beginning your online game development degree pursuit.
Is an Online Degree in Game Development Right For You?
Before you commit to earning an online degree in game development, you need to be certain that this type of degree is right for you. With that in mind, here are a few questions to ask yourself to determine if this type of program is truly a good fit for you:
Do you need to earn a degree in order to work in the gaming industry?
While many employers in the gaming industry will prefer to hire candidates with a relevant degree, it isn’t necessarily required to land a job. In fact, many people in the gaming industry begin their careers without a degree and are successful.
Do you have enough time to complete an online degree?
Since most online programs are self-paced, you can typically finish a degree program in as little as two years. However, if you’re not organized, you could easily take longer. Make sure you have enough time to complete a program so that you don’t end up delaying your graduation date.
Do you have the financial resources to earn a degree?
While many online degree programs are significantly more affordable than traditional on-campus programs, they still require students to invest in their education. Before committing to an online degree, make sure that you have the financial resources to complete a program without going into debt.
Rea also: Getting a Graphic Design Degree in the US: 9 Best Career Options
Final Words: Should You Get an Online Degree in Game Development?
If you’re a lover of video games, an online degree in game development can be a great choice for those who want to learn how to design and develop their own games. This type of degree program is typically offered completely online, making it an ideal choice for those who wish to remain in their current location while pursuing their educational goals. Plus, an degree in game development can prepare learners for a variety of careers in the gaming industry, making it a must-consider for gamers and people who wouldn’t mind considering a career in gaming.
Weigh your options now!
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