The gaming industry is currently witnessing an unprecedented boom, presenting immense opportunities for aspiring game design professionals. The demand for skilled individuals in this field is skyrocketing, creating a favorable job market. With the projected growth and expansion, there has never been a better time in history to dive into the gaming industry and pursue a career in game design.
Exploring Game Design Programs in California’s Colleges
When it comes to pursuing a career in video game design, California stands out as the ideal location for university studies. This vibrant state is renowned for housing global gaming and entertainment giants, providing unparalleled opportunities for aspiring professionals. Moreover, California boasts a multitude of top-tier video game design schools, ensuring that students receive world-class education and exposure. Discover why countless passionate individuals choose California as their dream destination for video game design studies.
The Top Game Design Schools to Consider in California
Ex’pression College for Digital Arts – Emeryville
Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of digital arts at Ex’pression College, nestled in Emeryville, the hometown of Pixar Animation Studios. Alternatively, explore their San Jose campus just over an hour away.
Choose from six dynamic Bachelors of Applied Science degrees, including Animation & Visual Effects, Digital Filmmaking, Game Art & Design, Interactive Audio, Motion Graphic Design, and Sound Arts.
Through their Game Art & Design program, students gain invaluable knowledge and skills to thrive in the interactive entertainment industry. Engage in hands-on projects mirroring real game production pipelines and studio environments, covering areas like fine arts, theory, 2D computer graphics, scripting, animation, texture, lighting, and 3D modeling.
Collaborate with peers to design and develop game levels, fostering teamwork and creativity. Graduates of this program embark on diverse gaming careers, from Level Designers and Character Artists to Modelers, Texture Artists, and Environmental Artists.
Noteworthy is their unique class structure, with new sessions starting every eight weeks and class sizes ranging from 10 to 35 students. However, it’s important to consider the cost, as tuition fees amount to around $12,000 per semester. With an average program duration of eight semesters, the total tuition investment reaches nearly $100,000 upon graduation.
UC Santa Cruz
Nestled amidst a picturesque forested hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean, the University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) boasts a stunning campus, considered one of the most beautiful in the entire UC system and beyond. Established in 1965, UCSC is one of the youngest universities in the system, comprising ten vibrant colleges and hosting approximately 18,000 students annually.
Within UCSC, the Jack Baskin School of Engineering offers a highly regarded Bachelor of Science in Computer Science program, with a specialization in video game creation and design. While the curriculum leans towards the technical aspects of game development, encompassing advanced computer science courses, it also provides students with exposure to the artistic and narrative elements that make games captivating.
A standout feature of the program is the intensive senior game design studio course, where students collaborate in teams throughout their final year to develop a complete and functional video game. This hands-on experience ensures students are well-prepared for the industry.
UCSC’s game design program excels on two fronts. Firstly, it equips students with a solid foundation in computer programming while offering valuable insights into the art, storytelling, digital media, and music components of game design. Secondly, the program is led by a distinguished faculty comprising renowned professors with extensive experience in game design and development.
Notable faculty members include Michael Mateas, an authority in Expressive AI, Noah Wardrip-Fruin, a prolific author on games and digital media, and Jim Whitehead, the founder and board chair of the Society for the Advancement of the Science of Digital Games. Additionally, esteemed game developers John and Brenda Romero serve as directors, further enriching the program with their expertise.
NYFA – LA
New York Film Academy (NYFA), renowned for its excellence in film and acting education, extends its reach worldwide with campuses in New York City, Los Angeles, London, Beijing, Barcelona, Florence, and more.
Established in 1992, NYFA has evolved into a comprehensive for-profit institution, offering a diverse range of programs across various creative fields. From animation and screenwriting to film directing and game design, NYFA caters to aspiring artists seeking to master their craft.
While NYFA’s Los Angeles campus stands as the sole location providing game design programs, it ensures a comprehensive selection of degrees. Students can pursue an Associate of Fine Arts in Game Design, Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design, or Master of Fine Arts in Game Design. For those interested in a shorter program, a one-year conservatory option in game design is also available.
Leading the charge in game design education are esteemed faculty members such as Chris Swain, co-founder of the Electronic Arts Game Innovation Lab at UCSC and a seasoned veteran with two decades of game industry experience. Richard Wyckoff, another accomplished industry professional, brings his expertise from renowned companies like EA, Dreamworks Interactive, and Pandemic Studios.
At NYFA, the Game Design program adopts the Playcentric Design methodology, focusing on fundamental game theories, core development processes, and the critical role of prototyping. Students immerse themselves in analyzing and critiquing existing games while honing their skills in game creation. Emphasizing the power of storytelling, students dissect narrative-driven games like Mass Effect, Red Dead Redemption, Uncharted 2, Bioshock, Portal, and more.
University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
When it comes to the finest game design schools in California, the University of Southern California (USC) stands in a league of its own. With consistent top rankings nationwide, USC has solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in the field.
What began as a humble private institution with only a handful of students has blossomed into a globally acclaimed university. With a staggering enrollment of over 40,000 students, USC offers aspiring game designers two distinct paths to embark on their journey.
For those seeking a comprehensive understanding of game design challenges, the School of Cinematic Arts is the perfect choice. Within this esteemed program, students delve into the intricacies of video game design, equipping themselves with essential skills for success in the industry.
At USC’s School of Cinematic Arts, a multitude of degree options await passionate individuals. The Bachelor of Arts in Animation and Digital Arts or Interactive Entertainment provides a solid foundation for aspiring game designers.
Given the competitiveness of universities in major US cities, securing admission requires a strong edge. To position yourself favorably, it is recommended to aim for an ultra-competitive GPA of 3.5 or higher.
The Los Angeles Film School
Established in 1999, the Los Angeles Film School is a dynamic for-profit college dedicated to shaping talent in the entertainment industry. Offering a diverse range of associate and bachelor’s degrees, this institution attracts approximately 2,500 students each year, providing both on-campus and online programs.
The following areas are:
- Computer animation
- Film
- Entertainment Business
- Animation
- Visual effects (VFX)
- Music Production
- Graphic design
- And more
Two programs related to gaming are available: an 18-month Associate of Science in Game Production and a 36-month Bachelor of Science in Game Production and Design. Both programs provide students with comprehensive courses that equip them with a solid grasp of contemporary programming, production, and design techniques employed in the gaming industry.
Students can anticipate studying the following key areas:
- Game development
- Game programming
- Game art
- Level design
- Game theory
Prominent courses necessary for graduation encompass Storytelling for Games, World Building, Visual Programming, as well as a three-course sequence covering Game Art, Game Programming, Game Design, and Game Production. It is worth noting that the 18-month program includes a reduced number of courses compared to the 36-month program.
A significant advantage of this institution lies in its location at the epicenter of Hollywood. This proximity grants students unparalleled opportunities to engage with industry professionals as guest speakers and forge connections within the entertainment industry that surpass those available elsewhere.
Common career paths pursued by graduates include:
- Independent game producer
- Associate designer
- Game tester
- Production Assistant
- Project manager
- Online game support representative
- Project Coordinator
- Community Manager
Academy of Art – San Francisco
Since its establishment in 1929, the Academy of Art University has played a vital role in nurturing and honing the artistic talents of San Francisco residents. The institution takes pride in its impressive roster of alumni, which includes Pulitzer Prize and Emmy winners, as well as individuals who have collaborated with esteemed organizations like NASA, Nike, and 20th Century Fox Television.
In addition to on-campus degree programs spanning nearly 30 fields of study, the Academy of Art University has been offering online art courses since 2002.
The School of Game Development was specifically founded to equip students with the necessary tools and skills to pursue thriving careers in the gaming industry. This encompasses various game development roles, such as game designer, concept artist, game programmer, 3D modeler, UI/UX designer, and more.
The strength of the programs lies in their hands-on learning approach, facilitated by industry professionals. As a result, students graduate with a robust portfolio that showcases their work to potential employers. The emphasis on collaborative work among students during projects also prepares them for real-world game studio environments.
Currently, the undergraduate degree programs offered are Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development, Bachelor of Science in Game Programming, and Associate of Arts in Game Development. Furthermore, there is a graduate degree option available in the form of a Master of Fine Arts in Game Development, along with an Online Award of Completion in Game Development.
Numerous other academic programs, such as Animation & Visual Effects, Illustration, and Graphic Design, can also serve as pathways for aspiring game artists to embark on successful careers in the field.
Woodbury U. – Burbank
Woodbury University, a private nonprofit institution, has its main campus in Burbank and a satellite campus in San Diego. Established in 1884, the university has evolved to offer an array of graduate degree programs spanning disciplines such as Architecture, Business, Transdisciplinarity, Media, Culture & Design.
Within the School of Media, Culture, & Design, there is a compelling program called the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Design. This program aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge in all aspects of game development, including sound design, art, animation, computer technology, game design, and story development.
This program stands out as one of the top game programs in the state, as it offers students exposure to diverse areas of game development.
Students in this program can choose between two emphases. The first emphasis is game art, which focuses on the creation of 2D and 3D characters, animations, and environments.
The second emphasis is game design, which equips students with a solid understanding of storytelling, game rules, play mechanics, game conceptualization, program flow, prototyping, and scoring systems. The Game Art & Design degree shares several courses with the Animation and Media Technology programs, enabling students to collaborate in a cross-disciplinary environment and gain practical experience akin to a real game studio.
A notable strength of Woodbury’s game program is the Game Capstone Studio course requirement. This course challenges students to apply all they have learned in the creation of an original video game or other interactive media. This experience gives graduates a significant advantage, as they enter the job market with prior hands-on experience in game development, enhancing their resumes and increasing their appeal to game companies.
California Institute of the Arts, Valencia California
An exceptional educational institution worth considering is the California Institute of the Arts, widely known as CalArts. Established by the renowned animator Walt Disney himself, this private institution has earned the nickname “CalArts” and is often regarded as the Caltech of the Arts.
True to its name, CalArts is primarily focused on art and design disciplines. This specialization provides aspiring game designers with a unique advantage, allowing them to specialize in specific niches and distinguish themselves from the competition.
Rather than following a generic approach to game design found in some other institutions, CalArts offers Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees in specialized fields such as Graphic Design, Experimental Animation, and Character Animation. Additionally, the institution provides Master’s programs in Creative Writing, Art and Technology, and Sound Design.
Prospective students interested in attending CalArts are expected to have excelled academically, with a high ranking in their high school class, and possess an extensive portfolio showcasing their best work. The acceptance rate at the California Institute of the Arts is less than 30%, reflecting the institution’s selective admission process.
It is important to note that the tuition costs at CalArts are relatively high, amounting to approximately $43,000 per year for full-time students. Consequently, the total cost of attending the institution and completing a degree can reach close to $200,000 upon graduation.
Art Center College of Design, Pasadena California
Located in Pasadena, California, the Art Center College of Design, commonly known as the Art Center, has been operating as a fully accredited design school since the 1930s. Despite its relatively small student body, with just under 2,000 students, this exceptional college offers a substantial impact despite its size.
Similar to CalArts, the Art Center focuses solely on arts and design, allowing for comprehensive coverage of artistic subjects. While the institution offers various degree programs, individuals aspiring to work in the video game industry are likely to gravitate towards a degree in Entertainment Design.
Within this program, students acquire the essential knowledge required for entry-level positions in video game design. The curriculum emphasizes both concept design and character animation, and the official website proudly highlights how this degree prepares students for career opportunities at renowned companies like Sony, Blur, 343, and Riot Games.
The Art Center College boasts a relatively high acceptance rate of approximately 67%. However, it is important to note that tuition costs are still considerable, amounting to just over $30,000 per year for full-time students.
Otis College of Art and Design, Los Angeles California
Established in the early 1900s, Otis is widely recognized as Los Angeles’ first independent art school. Over the years, Otis has expanded its offerings to include degree programs in more than a dozen artistic disciplines, such as illustration, toy design, architecture, fashion design, and digital media. Aspiring game designers may be interested in the digital media program, which offers concentrations in Game Design, Animation, and Motion Design. Prospective students must submit past grades and a design portfolio, and while the school has an acceptance rate of over 50%, it is advised that applicants have a strong portfolio and background in art and design, as the school is located in downtown Los Angeles, a highly competitive location for video game students. However, as with many things in downtown LA, attending Otis is costly, with tuition fees just under $20,000 per semester, according to the official website.
Gnomon School of Visual Effects, Hollywood California
In contrast to the more conventional options listed, the Gnomon School of Visual Effects takes a unique approach to education. Rather than offering the standard four-year program, the school provides students with the choice of either a two-year or three-year program, both of which aim to equip students with the essential skills needed to join a real-world production team. In addition to foundational artistic and design skills, students can specialize in one of four areas: 3D animation, modeling and texturing, character animation, or visual effects animation. While the three-year program delves deeper into the subject matter, both options offer comprehensive training. With a 50% acceptance rate, the school has produced many successful graduates who have worked on major releases such as Call of Duty, StarCraft II, Uncharted 3, Diablo 3, Tony Hawk skateboarding games, and more. This track record of success is encouraging for prospective students.
California College of the Arts, San Francisco California
The California College of the Arts (CCA) is another notable institution to consider. This private school, established in the early 20th century, offers a distinct advantage in terms of its staff-to-student ratio, which is approximately 1 to 4.
While the college does not offer a specific degree program solely dedicated to game design, it provides a range of concentrations that other institutions may only cover with a few classes. Specialized areas such as graphic design, illustration, interaction design, animation, and writing are essential components for most game design scenarios.
At CCA, students have the opportunity to focus on one of these areas and truly excel, as opposed to merely skimming over the material and quickly moving on to another topic, which is a common occurrence in other colleges. Though highly respected and boasting a faculty composed of accomplished and successful designers from various disciplines, CCA maintains an exceptionally high acceptance rate of 76%.
University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles California
UCLA, a well-known public university, offers top-rated programs across various fields, including its Design Media Arts program. This program provides students with the opportunity to explore game design topics such as motion, drawing, typography, interactivity, and more. After four years of rigorous coursework and dedication, graduates will earn a Bachelor of Arts degree from one of the most prestigious universities in the world. With this degree and a strong portfolio, graduates can expect numerous callbacks and job interview opportunities.
However, the biggest challenge for prospective students is gaining admission, as UCLA has an acceptance rate of less than 20%. To secure a spot, applicants must have a strong academic record, a keen interest in game design, and a robust amateur portfolio. It is worth noting that UCLA does not offer a degree solely focused on game design but offers various concentrations that supplement other programs. Another factor to consider is the high cost of tuition, which can exceed $60,000 per year for non-California residents.
The University of California Berkley, Berkley California
The University of California Berkeley is part of the same public university system as UCLA and other UC schools, but it stands out due to its unique curriculum. While video game designers typically focus on design and leave programming to developers, individuals with a solid understanding of both are highly sought after in the industry. If you are a designer with an interest in the technical side of game development, you may consider pursuing computer science alongside game design.
Unlike the other schools on this list, which concentrate solely on game design, studying computer science allows you to approach game design from a different perspective. However, pursuing this path requires more effort than obtaining a game design degree. To be successful, you must supplement your computer science knowledge with a minor in a design field or pursue a master’s degree in game design. The reward for such accomplishments is a highly sought-after skill set in the job market.
Similar to UCLA, UC Berkeley has a low acceptance rate of just over 15%. Additionally, non-California residents must pay a steep tuition fee of $58,000 per year. Nonetheless, UC Berkeley’s unique curriculum provides a diverse option for individuals interested in pursuing a career in game design.
Laguna College of Art & Design
Laguna College of Art and Design provides an intriguing opportunity for aspiring game designers through their Game Design MFA program. This two-year online program aims to equip students with a solid foundation in game design, covering various aspects such as gaming philosophy, economics, culture, and art.
By taking a comprehensive approach to games and game development, the program offers students a unique avenue to explore the subtle nuances of the game design process and foster the development of their own award-winning games.
Spanning two years and consisting of 60 credits, the program begins with developmental classes focusing on design and video game production. As students progress, they have the opportunity to apply the valuable knowledge they’ve acquired through the program to their thesis project, culminating in a presentation that showcases their skills and understanding of game design.
In addition to the Game Design MFA, Laguna College of Art and Design also offers other programs such as undergraduate degrees in Game Art and Graphic Design + Digital Media. Moreover, minors in Animation and Graphic Design + Digital Media provide further opportunities for students to explore their passions and develop skills in these respective fields.
Platt College
Platt College is a renowned private institution that offers a wide range of degree programs and certifications across various subjects, with a particular focus on design-based fields. With a smaller staff compared to many other schools, students can enjoy the advantage of personalized attention and support.
At Platt College, students have the opportunity to pursue both associate and bachelor’s degrees in their chosen fields of study. Let’s explore two notable programs offered:
Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design:
This program equips students with a solid foundation in graphic design, covering essential aspects such as color theory and advanced graphic design techniques. Taught by industry professionals, students have access to the latest graphic design software and receive comprehensive training to prepare them for diverse careers in the field.
Bachelor of Science in Media Arts 3D Modeling and Design:
In just 2 ½ years, students can delve into the intricacies of 3D modeling and design. The program explores the creation, functioning, and application of models in various environments. By incorporating advanced graphic design techniques, students engage in a challenging and rewarding curriculum that prepares them for exciting opportunities in the industry.
Whether pursuing an associate or bachelor’s degree at Platt College, students can expect a hands-on, immersive learning experience led by experienced professionals. By staying up-to-date with industry trends and utilizing cutting-edge software, Platt College ensures that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in their chosen careers.
Ramapo College of New Jersey
Ramapo College offers an exciting major in Electronic Art & Animation, catering to those passionate about animation, typography, and their impact on the world. This program encourages exploration of deeper themes and their influence on our surroundings.
While pursuing this major, students are required to take a variety of courses, including humanities and seminars. However, the core focus lies in engaging classes such as American photography & visual culture, apocalyptic visions in anime, film & media, and beyond the editing room: history and aesthetics of film editing. These courses provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject matter and its broader context.
Additionally, students can benefit from a range of software-based classes that enhance their technical skills. Intermediate 3D animation courses are also available, allowing students to delve into the captivating world of three-dimensional animation. Ramapo College’s Electronic Art & Animation program provides a well-rounded curriculum that combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Students can explore their creative potential while gaining the necessary expertise to excel in the dynamic field of electronic art and animation.
Conclusion
Video game design is a highly lucrative career option with an average salary exceeding $60,000 and predicted growth for the future. Major studios in California and worldwide are constantly on the lookout for talented game designers, making colleges specializing in game design, such as those listed here, highly sought after. To stand out from the crowd, strive to achieve the best possible grades while building a strong and diverse portfolio.