Online Game Programming Schools: How to Choose

Online game programming schools are differentiated primarily by the portfolios and quality of work that their graduates produce, as well as the real-world experience and resumes of their teachers. Many different types of programs are available through distance learning, including certificates, associate's degrees and bachelor's degrees.

How to Choose an Online Game Programming School

Program Effectiveness and Student Portfolios

When considering enrolling in an online game programming program, prospective students may want to consider the quality of graduates' portfolios. This may be determined by looking through the course descriptions for classes that include portfolio development or program projects. Since portfolios display experience in a variety of software and programming techniques, prospective students may also look for coursework in user interface design, level design, sound production and graphics that can be included in a portfolio.

Teachers' Experience and Resumes

Another possible quality indicator for prospective students is who the school employs as teachers. For example, teachers with work experience in the game programming industry, particularly those who have been part of teams that designed and created successful games, can provide real world knowledge and tips not found in a class textbook. Online game programming schools may provide brief work histories of their teachers for students to review on their website.

Online Education Program Options for Game Programming

Online Video Game Design and Development Certificate

An online game programming certificate program includes basic training in C++ programming, as well as user interface design, engine programming, sound, graphics, scripting and animation. Applicants are not required to have prior game programming experience, but a background in math and computers is helpful. These online certificate programs typically require students to have access to a computer that runs a Windows-based operating system and obtain specific software programs, such as DirectX; DirectX is available as a free online download.

Online Associate of Science in Game Programming

An online associate's degree program in game programming typically covers user interface, sound and video production and game engine coding, while still allowing students to choose a particular aspect of game programming to focus on. This online program is often presented through the use of an education portal system, which combines forum, e-mail, instant messaging and real-time testing capabilities into an application that students can access online through any Internet connection.

Online Bachelor of Science in Game Programming

Online bachelor's degree programs in game programming typically cover multiple areas in video game programming and design, including product development, testing techniques, game maintenance, artificial intelligence and theories of game design. This degree program also includes general education courses and classes in computer science. Game programming bachelor's degree programs may be available as either fully-online or hybrid programs. Distance learning students are often required to have DirectX and OpenGL programs, a web cam and a graphics card that supports those programs.