Online Colleges with Video Game Design Degrees: How to Choose

There are a number of online programs that offer training for prospective video game designers. Online bachelor's degree programs in graphics design or digital media and master's degree programs in animation or digital effects can prepare students for a career in video game design.

How to Choose an Online Program in Video Game Design

Award Levels

Professional in the field of video game design use advanced animation and website design programs to create interactive, digital animation. They also provide art direction throughout the duration of a project. The most popular degree for professionals interested in video game design and animation fields is a bachelor's degree in video game design or animation. Students interested in gaining additional training, such as familiarizing with the latest software while developing a strong portfolio of creative work, should consider enrolling in a related master's degree program.

Technical Requirements

Online video game design programs generally don't require on-campus attendance. Distance-learning students interact using Web-based platforms that include live-streaming content, virtual classrooms, online conferencing and pre-recorded lectures.
In order to participate in online programs, candidates need regular access to a PC or Mac computer with a current Internet browser. It's recommended that students have a strong Internet connection, DVD-ROM and enough memory to support the transmission of large media files like the 3-D animation content necessary to their field of study. Some graphic design programs require students to purchase additional design software such as Adobe Photoshop, Maya and Illustrator.

List of Common Online Video Game Design Programs

Online Bachelor's Degree in Game Art and Design

This 4-year program prepares students to work in the field of interactive media and video game design. Participants begin training by taking core courses in fine arts, theory and post-production design as well as online courses in the humanities, such as American literature, sociology and history. During their second year of study, students learn to master the software and tools used in video game design by taking on-campus courses in 2D computer graphics and 3D modeling. They focus on essential skills such as developing computer animation techniques and modifying lighting and texture through assignments and final projects. Graduates are fluent in design software and walk away with a portfolio of work that showcases their range of abilities.

Online Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media with a concentration in Interactive Design

This baccalaureate program provides a liberal arts core in the humanities, communication and design. It also covers the basics of any fine art degree such as art history, theory and methods. Students undertake guided studio time and learn to master media design and animation software and tools.
During the studio courses, which can be taken online or on-campus, students learn valuable skills such as animating for the Web, motion in animation, 3D modeling, lighting and texturizing. A significant amount of class time is devoted to improving the individual technique through close student-teacher interaction. Successful completion of the program includes course completion, demonstrable proficiency with design programs and a strong portfolio of work.

Online Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Animation & Visual Effects

An MFA program focuses on creative development and professional studio practice. Over the 2-year course of study, students develop a strong portfolio of work while experimenting with new techniques and software. They review and expand on principles and techniques learned in an undergraduate degree program by working on creative projects in a supportive and creatively challenging environment.
Graduate students master advanced animation techniques such as creating expressions, optimizing rendering techniques, mastering storyboards, making animatics and learning to use sound. They may study traditional animation techniques by working with software to master lighting and the effective use of a green screen. Graduates gain a professional portfolio of work and an advanced working knowledge of modern, professional tools and computer programs.