Online Schools with Gaming Art Programs: How to Choose

Online gaming art programs train students to become integral members of game design teams. These programs typically focus on the creation of graphic images for video games and can include courses in animation, 3D modeling and game characters. Students often learn how to work with a variety of video game genres and platforms, such as computers, game consoles, handheld game units and mobile phones.

How to Select an Online School That Offers Gaming Art Programs

Program Levels

When selecting an online school, students should first determine what level of education they want to achieve and how much time they wish to invest in their education. Most online gaming art programs are offered at the bachelor's degree level, with a few certificate programs available.
A bachelor's degree program typically takes four years to complete, although some schools offer accelerated programs. Coursework generally provides an in-depth study of subjects such as advanced animation techniques, gaming history and character creation. Certificate programs usually can be completed in under a year and often provide a more generalized overview of the gaming industry and graphics creation.

Technology & Software Requirements

Most schools have strict requirements on the computer systems, programs and accessories that will be used in the courses. Some schools offer discounts on these items through their bookstores or through affiliated vendors, while other schools may require students to buy these items on their own.
A high-speed Internet connection is typically needed to download and send large graphic files. Students will often be required to have a computer with a considerable amount of usable memory (RAM) and hard disk space to accommodate their gaming art projects.
Typically, newer computer operating systems are required, as well as updated browsers, to run the graphic art and animation software that will be used in the courses. Programs may also specify what type of graphic cards and input devices that will be needed for assignments.
Some programs require students to have prior experience in working with a specific brand or type of software. Most programs require a variety of software that typically includes animation, 3D graphic and photo enhancement programs.

Online Gaming Art Programs

Online Certificate in Gaming Art

Certificate programs generally provide the skills needed for entry-level positions in video game development. Topics ranging from game production to the business practices of leading game manufacturers provide students with an overview of the video game industry. A significant portion of most certificate programs focuses on game creation and the design elements that go into creating a realistic gaming environment.
Programs are typically a combination of study, examinations and projects. Coursework may include game critiques, characters, animation fundamentals and color theory. Students may be assigned to online teams to gain experience in working on collaborative gaming projects.

Online Bachelor's Degree in Gaming Art

In a distance learning bachelor's degree program, students learn the skills needed to create interactive gaming software and how to work as a member of a game design team. General gaming coursework may cover genres, legal issues, ethical issues and gaming fundamentals. Courses focused on the creation of characters and game settings can include color theory, animation principles, character design techniques and environment development.
Some online bachelor's programs also include an internship at a game design studio or participation in a collaborative final project, where students can gain experience working in the game production process. Design studio internships may require students to relocate to a different area for a few months, while collaborative projects are generally done entirely online with students from the school's other game design programs, such as audio and programming.