Video game design is a fast growing career
field. Individuals can study computer programming, art design, game
design or a variety of related subjects in order to professionally
produce video games for today's market. Many distance-learning courses
and certificate programs exist, but there are a limited number of
complete degree programs in this subject area offered via the Internet.
Online Certificate Programs in Game Art and Design Overview
Several institutions offer online certificate programs in game art and design. These can be taken by individuals with no background or training in this subject, or by those who already hold a bachelor's degree in related subjects. Programs may be housed in an art school or a computer science department--but most involve computer art, graphic design and program scripting in addition to computer programming itself.A full curriculum commonly includes classes in computer language, basic math, artificial intelligence and physics--in addition to computer art and animation courses. Although less ubiquitous, options are beginning to become available for those who are only interested in the art and design side of video game development.
Program Information and Requirements
The length of time for these certificates varies depending on the topics covered. A program designed for complete training would require more courses than one focusing on digital art and design. Each course can range 4-6 weeks or last for a complete semester. Some classes may be offered through the continuing education department of a school, while others might be part of a degree program that is also campus-based. In that case, distance-learning programs cover the same material, but do not generally require any in-person attendance.For a design-specific program, students may need to install various animation software packages, and purchasing costs may fall outside of tuition. Running such software may also require more computer processing strength and memory than comes standard.
List of Common Game Art and Design Courses
Whether built into a more expansive computer programming certificate program or part of a more concise option focusing on art and design, the following courses are typically completed by those seeking formal training in video game art and design. These classes may also be used in graphic arts fields such as marketing and website design.Animation Course
Through the practice of computer modeling (often practiced through school-specific software programs), students learn to move objects around on a canvas. Animation programs form the basis for designing effective characters with interesting landscapes, motion graphics and expressive facial features.3D Simulation Course
This class teaches the creation and animation of effective 3D characters and objects. Since the character is often the driving factor of the game, design and movement can be critical. Some courses might use computers with live models wearing sensors to more accurately portray facial expressions and character movement, especially with props.Digital Media Course
Learning to design and manipulate visuals and information onscreen is a central component a game art and design certificate program. This training can also be used in other industries, such as for online business training or artistic purposes.Career Information for Graduates
Most companies look favorably upon job candidates with a certificate from an accredited school. However, in this industry, it is often more helpful to showcase the art has been designed as part of a resume or portfolio than to focus on specific educational accomplishments. The average annual salary for an artist-animator was $71,071 as of the April 2010 issue of Game Developer. However, many artist-animators work as contract artists, and their remuneration is probably significantly less than that figure.Continuing Education Information
Once a certificate-holding game designer gains entry-level employment and begins to collect experience, there is little or no need for further formal studies. However, an animator might wish to enroll in continuing education classes to learn new (or newer version) software.Bachelor's Degree Program with Game Art and Design Classes - Overview
A bachelor's degree specifically for video game design is not common, especially online. Currently, most programs tend to include art and design classes along with computer programming curricula to provide a bachelor-level degree related to video games. Some art schools are beginning to consider game art and design as a separate entity, but very few currently host distance-learning options.Program Information and Requirements
Most bachelor's degree programs relative to video game design are regular 4-year degree programs which may result in a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. There are some for-profit programs that are designed to finish sooner when taken year-round. In general, these are intensive information technology programs designed to produce effective game developers, not just designers. A designer might be a graphic artist or someone who conceptualizes the entire video game from start to finish; however, though specialization may ultimately give job candidates a competitive edge, the more well-rounded a person's base talents in this field, the easier it will be for them to advance and succeed.Some online programs do exist, but most tend to be offered through for-profit companies that have higher costs than public or non-profit collegiate programs. Courses can be completed at the convenience of the student. Class materials are usually acquired online and projects may also be uploaded and submitted through the Internet, but some distance-learning programs may also incorporate other delivery means, such as phone, video and mail.
List of Common Game Art and Design Courses
The following descriptions cover just a few of the elements central to game design that are traditionally built into more comprehensive computer programming bachelor's degree programs. A few might be included in the core curriculum, while others are offered as electives.Game Theory Course
Students learn the basics for constructing of a video game from concept to post-production. They are typically expected to demonstrate an understanding of theory while completing an individual or group project.Game Character Development Course
An effective video game must have strong characters to drive the action. As part of the design process, this class teaches students how to design and develop strong characters that can hold the interest of the players as well as motivate sales for the game.Artificial Intelligence for Video Game Design Course
Today's video game development is more than a simple design process. Successful video games include greater levels of player interaction which can be accomplished through the use of artificial intelligence. This includes an understanding of player motivation and ability to predict and program best responses.Game Testing and Debugging Course
One essential part of game design is the ability to test and correct errors. Debugging and quality control for video games is a job field by itself, but these tools are useful for any artist, animator, programmer or designer.Career Information for Graduates
More and more computer-related industries are requiring bachelor's degrees as prerequisites for employment. Formerly, many people who designed video games would be involved in every part of the process. As the industry matures, specialization is more prominent. The production of a video game can involve programmers, artists, animators, game designers and producers. In addition, specialized sound consultants and quality testers might have separate job titles.The average annual salary for a programmer was $80,320 according to the April 2010 issue of Game Developer. The salary for a game designer, in the same publication, averaged $69,266. A quality tester had an average salary of $37,905. One way to begin in this field is to volunteer to be a beta tester for software.
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