Game development is a specialized skill in programming and design that involves the creation of digital games. Game developer jobs are high in demand worldwide and taking one of the best game development associate degrees can help you enter the field. Obtaining an Associate Degree in Game Development can help get you an entry-level position and launch your career in the industry.
Below you will find a comprehensive guide on the best Associate Degrees in Game Development and the jobs you can land with this degree. Discovering various programs’ tuition costs, admission requirements, and core courses, you’ll be able to find the best game development associate degree programs for you.
What Is Game Development?
Game development, video game development, or game dev is the art and process of creating a game. It involves conceptualizing the game mechanics and features as well as designing, building, testing, and preparing the product for its release in the market.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Game Development?
The best college where you can get an Associate Degree in Game Development is the New York Film Academy. Of course, it is important to consider factors such as distance, cost, admission requirements, and core course offered concerning your dream job. If you want an Associate Degree in Game Development, check out the schools below.
What Schools Offer the Best Game Development Associate Degrees?
- New York Film Academy
- Kent State University
- Lake Washington Institute of Technology
- Joliet Junior College
- Academy of Art University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Game Development?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Game Development are a high school diploma, GED, or other recognized alternative to a high school diploma. Other degree requirements may include basic computer literacy and programming skills.
The required language for a game development associate degree is English for schools in the United States. Some programs may require prior knowledge of certain coding or programming languages such as Python, C++, or JavaScript.
Game Development Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Online application form
- Placement test scores
- Application fee
- Additional materials such as recommendation letters or short essays
How to Get an Associate Degree in Game Development
You can get a game development associate degree by completing all of the necessary degree requirements. For the most part, associate degrees require 60 to 70 credits for completion, of which 15 to 20 are general education credits and 30 to 50 are core course credits.
The best way to get a game development associate degree is to stay up to date in all of your courses and maintain at least a 2.5 GPA.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Game Development?
You need 60 to 70 credits for an Associate Degree in Game Development. These credit hours are made up of general education courses, core courses, and electives. The specific number of credits varies per program.
Game Development Degree Requirements
- Complete 60 – 70 total credits
- Complete 15 – 20 general education credits
- Complete 30 – 50 core course credits
- Maintain a 2.5 GPA or a C average
- Complete all group projects/presentations
Best Game Development Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Academy of Art University | Associate of Arts in Game Development | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Central Piedmont Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Hillsborough Community College | Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Joliet Junior College | Associate of Applied Science in Game Design and Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Keiser University | Associate of Science in Video Game Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Kent State University | General Associate of Science for BS Game Design transfer | Higher Learning Commission |
| Lake Washington Institute of Technology | Associate of Applied Science-Transfer in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| New York Film Academy | Associate of Fine Arts in Game Design | National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation |
| Northwest Vista College | Associate of Applied Science, in Game Development – Specialization in Game Programming | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Pratt Institute | Associates of Occupational Studies in Game Design and Interactive Media | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Game Development: Top Game Development Associate Degree Programs
The best schools for an Associate Degree in Game Development are the ones that offer the courses and specializations that will prepare you for a successful career. All the best game development associate degree programs below are registered with the US Department of Education and are recognized by at least one regional accreditor.
Best Online Game Development Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Danville Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology – Gaming & Mobile Applications Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Genesee Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Digital Art | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Guilford Technical Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Joliet Junior College | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming | Higher Learning Commission |
| New England Institute of Technology | Associate of Science in Video Game Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Ocean County College | Associate of Science in Computer Science – Game Development and Design option | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Palomar College | Associate of Science in Computer Science with Emphasis on Video Gaming | Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges |
| Rasmussen College | Graphic Design Associate’s Degree | Higher Learning Commission |
| Vincennes University | Associate of Science in Information Technology-Programming and Game Development | Higher Learning Commission |
| Western Iowa Tech Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Video Game Design | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Colleges for Game Development: Top Online Game Development Associate Degree Programs
Many prospective students prefer to study for their degrees from home. Fortunately, there is no shortage of high-quality online game development associate degrees. Below you will find a list of schools that offer online programs or hybrid degrees that can give you a start in the field of game design.
What Is a Game Development Associate Degree?
A game development associate degree is a two-year course on game programming and design offered by a community college or university. The program will introduce you to the basics of computer science and programming languages such as JavaScript and C++. The goal is to learn how to apply programming skills to video game creation.
An Associate Degree in Game Development is math and programming-heavy. You will need to be comfortable with subjects such as calculus and physics. You will learn about data science, algorithms, graphics, and artificial intelligence. Toward the end of your degree, you will likely get hands-on experiences beta testing 2D and 3D games.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Game Development?
It is very important to have a game development associate degree because it gives you a strong foundation of the core skills needed for most entry-level jobs in the industry. Not only does it boost your resume, but it also enhances your technical, conceptual, communication, and cooperation skills.
A program like this dives deep into programming and tech languages which are essential aspects of almost every information technology or video game industry. The script, storyboarding, and design classes expand a student’s creative mind and open them to different techniques. All of these are reasons why a game development associate degree is important.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Game Development?
You can get the following types of Associate Degrees in Game Development.
- Associate of Arts
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Occupational Studies
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Arts or an Associate of Science in Game Development?
It is better to get an Associate of Science in Game Development because it’s usually more narrowly focused on math and science aspects such as coding and programming. Not only are these skills necessary for game development, but they are also extremely useful tools for a variety of computer and information technology fields.
The difference between an Associate of Science and an Associate of Arts is that an Associate of Arts tends to be slightly more flexible and focuses on the creative side of game development, with a large emphasis on game narrative, storyboarding, and design. Although these are important aspects of the job, they are more difficult to translate to other careers and skillsets.
What Is the Difference Between a Game Development Associate Degree and a Game Development Certificate?
The main difference between a game development associate degree and a game development certificate is that a certificate only takes a year to complete. Most courses only require 15 to 18 credits compared to an associate degree’s standard of 60. Although certificates in game development can be taken in person, the majority have been moving towards an online format.
You should get a game development associate degree instead of a certificate because you will receive more in-depth training over two years. Even though there’s no academic standard for game development, you’re more likely to get better higher-paying jobs if you have a more fine-tuned skillset. In-person associate degrees allow students to network and make use of the high-tech labs.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Game Development?
An Associate Degree in Game Development’s cost is $11,391, based on 2019-2020 data by the National Center for Education Statistics. This figure includes tuition, room and board, and other school fees.
Game Development Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Game Development Degree
Financial aid options for Associate Degrees in Game Development include student loans, federal grants, local grants, and institutional grants. Some colleges and educational institutions offer affordable education through deferred payment options. You may also qualify for a scholarship so check to see whether the school you are interested in offers any.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Game Development Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Game Development. These programs are typically broken down by credit, of which there are usually 60. A student can complete their game development associate degree in two years by taking at least 15 credits for four semesters. An Associate Degree in Game Development length varies by program.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Game Development?
An Associate Degree in Game Development is fairly easy to get as the admission requirements are simple. The program is a relatively short length and students are often put together for group projects. If you are an attentive dedicated student, your studies should not be a problem.
Getting a game development associate degree can be difficult if you do not have an innate understanding of how computer languages and programming works. Along the same vein, game development is not just programming the game, but designing and creating it. If you lack a strong creative vision you will find it difficult to succeed in your classes.
Why Should You Get a Game Development Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Game Development include:
- Enhancing your creative skills
- Receiving technical training
- Obtaining skills and knowledge for entry-level jobs in the gaming industry
- Preparing you for a long-term career
The reasons for getting a second game development associate degree are so you can specialize in a different subject. You could take an Associate of Science for your first degree and an Associate of Arts for your second degree. Specializations differ from program to program, so a second degree could allow you to specialize in two subjects.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Game Development?
You need to take a variety of programming, animation, and design courses for an Associate Degree in Game Development. The Associate Degree in Game Development course list varies from program to program, but here is an overview of typically required courses you may encounter.
Game Software Testing
Using the skills acquired in other classes of the program, students learn how to apply their knowledge to an already designed game. They use their technical and creative knowledge to improve the design and programming aspects of a game. They will also learn about quality assurance methods.
Graphics Design
Students in this class learn the foundational design and drawing techniques used in game development. They will familiarize themselves with popular software such as Photoshop and Illustrator, as well as creative techniques.
Programming
In this course students learn all the core skills needed to thrive in computer programming and information technology. The curriculum reviews the most used coding languages such as Python, JavaScript, and HTM. Students learn to create, debug, and improve code.
Storyboarding and Narrative Development
This course aims to teach students the basic principles of storytelling and narrative structure. Graduates leave having an in-depth comprehension of cinematic drawing techniques, transitions, and film language, as well as having developed their own specific narrative style. Through camera angles, lighting elements, and plot devices, students learn to create dynamic stories.
2D and 3D Animation
Students learn to animate people, items, and environments in both 2D and 3D styles. By learning traditional techniques and using new high-tech software, students can animate characters for a variety of mediums, including video games.
Continuing Education Paths for Game Development Associate Degree Graduates
A continuing education path to take as a game development associate degree graduate is to pursue a bachelor’s degree. A Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development expands on the knowledge learned in your associate degree and dives a little deeper into the material. For very high-paying jobs and positions, you can also pursue a master’s degree.
Related Game Development Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Game Development Associate Degree Programs
When looking for the best game development associate degree programs, there are a few aspects that you should consider to ensure you will receive a quality education. It’s also important to consider how a program aligns with your personal circumstances. Below is a summary of the most important aspects to consider when choosing your Associate Degree in Game Development.
Accreditation
If your program is accredited, it means it passes the standard qualification for a good education. Attending a school or program that isn’t accredited can not only affect your chances of getting hired after school but also affects the general quality of the information you’re learning.
Cost
Attending college or university is already a costly process, and you want to choose a program that will alleviate your financial burden. Student loans and scholarships are also options if you think you might need extra help and are important to consider during your school search.
Employment Outcomes
It’s important to choose a program that will increase your chances of getting hired after graduation. Although your skills adequately prepare you, it can be very beneficial to attend a program that offers career services or is known for producing top-quality students. Some programs may even have partnerships with video game companies.
Reputation of the Program
It’s very helpful to communicate with alumni or current students of the program you’re thinking of attending. They can inform you about how your teachers, classes, and learning experiences will be. If your school has a bad reputation, it could tarnish your career.
Specializations/Concentrations
Many programs offer specializations or concentrations within the degree itself. These can be a great way to learn detailed and vital information about certain career paths or jobs. It’s a good idea to consider your long-term goals and review the various options offered.
What Is the Most Affordable Game Development Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degree in Game Development is the Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development at Guilford Technical Community College. It costs $76 per credit hour for in-state students and $268 per credit hour for out-of-state students. The AAS in Simulation and Game Development program at Central Piedmont Community College also costs the same.
Salary and Job Outlook for Game Development Associate Degree Graduates
According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a game developer is $71,295. When it comes to your earnings, your experience level matters a great deal. An entry-level game developer makes, on average, $67,738 a year, while a senior professional with 10 years of experience has a median salary of $96,760.
Your Associate Degree in Game Development Salary will vary significantly depending on your employer. For example, big companies like Amazon pay their game developers around $105,000 on average. Keep reading below to discover the best game development associate degree jobs.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Game Development Associate Degree?
It is very easy to get a job with a game development associate degree. The knowledge and technical skills earned prepare students for most entry-level jobs in the field, in which they can work their way up the ladder. As long as you did well in your program, it is not difficult to get a job with an Associate Degree in Game Development.
What’s the Average Game Development Associate Degree Salary?
According to PayScale, the average salary for someone with a game development associate degree is $65,000 a year. The typical annual salary varies depending on the state, company, and position.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Game Development Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with a game development associate degree are in the video game, film, and TV industries, specifically in programming, design, and animation. Below is a list of possible jobs you can get with an Associate Degree in Game Development.
Game Development Degree Jobs
- Storyboard artist
- Programmer
- Texture artist
- Audio engineer
- Story writer
Potential Careers With a Game Development Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Game Development?
You can make between $50,000 and $115,000 with an Associate Degree in Game Development. These numbers vary depending on many factors. Graduates emerging straight out of college will most likely land on the lower end of this scale in their first entry-level jobs.
Highest-Paying Game Development Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Game Development Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Quality Assurance Analyst and Tester | $110,140 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Special Effects Artist and Animator | $78,790 |
| Digital Designer | $77,200 |
| Video Game Writer | $69,510 |
| Video Editor | $62,680 |
| Graphic Designer | $50,710 |
| Game Level Designer | $50,710 |
| Sound Engineering Technician | $49,050 |
Best Jobs for Game Development Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for game development associate degree grads are in the computer programming and information technology fields. Any job that involves designing, programming, or animating tends to head high salaries. Keep reading below for a breakdown of the best paying game development associate degree jobs.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Game Development Bootcamp vs. Game Development Associate Degree: Which Is Better?
An Associate Degree in Game Development is better than a game development bootcamp because it covers a broader curriculum and prepares you for a stable high-paying job. To become a game developer, you can also join a coding bootcamp. A coding bootcamp is a short but fast-paced training program that prepares the student for a specific career in tech.
Coding bootcamps have intensive curricula that focus on the technical and soft skills students will need in the workplace. The best game development bootcamps offer career services like one-on-one coaching and resume writing workshops to help students land a job as fast as possible.
Each option has its advantages, and your choice will ultimately depend on your career goals. Below we explore the benefits of associate degrees and coding bootcamps. Read on to learn what’s the best learning path for you.
Benefits of a Game Development Associate Degree
- It prepares you for a bachelor’s degree. Once you finish your associate degree, it is easy to transfer credits to a four-year institution. This will allow you to finish your undergraduate studies faster.
- It can land you a stable job. For many entry-level positions, an associate degree is enough. In the game development industry, you can land a stable and well-paying position with just an associate degree.
- Broader curriculum. An associate degree will expose you to a wide range of subjects and areas of study. The curriculum is broader, so you will learn about animation, design, programming, and other key concepts.
- Reputable credential. Earning an associate degree will give you a leg up over candidates that only have a high school diploma or a certificate.
- Different payment options. You can finance your associate degree through different methods, including loans and deferred tuition schemes. You could even land a job with a game company that offers to pay for your education as part of a professional development program.
Benefits of a Game Development Bootcamp
- Intensive learning. A game development bootcamp is ideal for those who want an intensive learning environment with hands-on training and mentorship.
- Faster results. A bootcamp is the right option if you want to acquire the skills you need without sacrificing the quality of your learning. Most bootcamp programs last three to nine months.
- Flexible learning. Bootcamp programs come in a variety of formats to fit everyone. You can find online, in-person, hybrid, part-time, full-time, self-paced, and instructor-led options.
- Targeted curriculum. In a bootcamp program, you will learn only the skills you need to enter the game development industry.
- High job placement rate. Between 74 and 90 percent of coding bootcamp students land a programming job within six months of graduation, according to a report from Career Karma.
Is an Associate Degree in Game Development Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Game Development is worth it if you want to have a long-term career and a stable job in the gaming industry. With an associate degree, you can land your first job in the video game industry. From there, you can build your skills and vie for more senior positions.
Moreover, an associate degree is ideal if you want to further your education and pursue a bachelor’s, a master’s, or even a PhD program in Game Development. This will give you access to more career opportunities and higher income. All in all, if you are considering a career in game development, a game development associate degree is an excellent option.
Additional Reading About Game Development
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Game Development Degree FAQ
To become a game developer, consider an associate or bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject, such as game design, game engineering, or interactive media. You can also consider degrees in computer science, computer animation, or digital production.
With a game development degree, you can be part of a game development team and work as a game programmer, concept artist, animator, level designer, sound engineer, or game tester. As you can see, if you study game development you will have access to many career options.
Most companies hiring for game developer require that candidates have at least an associate degree in a related field. However, you can also be hired as a game developer after completing a game development bootcamp.
A good game developer needs to have both technical and soft skill as well as certain personal characteristics. For technical skills, you need to be proficient with at least one programming language and master at least one game engine. Common soft skills include creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
