Video Game Art & Design Degree

ideo game production companies are currently generating massive revenues. As a result, these companies are constantly seeking trained and skilled professionals to work as video game designers. Video games are popular with many different types of people, including adults and teenagers. One popular video sold more than 3 million copies on the day of its release. A great way to begin a career in the video game industry is to earn a college degree in video game design.

Many people interested in video game design often do not know the first step to take to begin a career in this field. However, many accredited colleges and universities offer degree programs in video game design, where students will learn about every aspect of the video game design process, including storyboard development, graphic design, and marketing. Additionally, students not interested in completing a college degree program can earn a professional certification in video game design.

Video Game Design: Relevant Coursework and Skill Development

Each degree program is different, but students in most programs will be required to complete courses in the following subjects:

• Level design
• Preproduction
• Interactive programming design
• Problem solving
• Animation for video games
• Computer programming

Career Opportunities for Designing Video Games

Obtaining formal training is one way to become qualified for an entry-level position in the video game development industry. Many graduates of video game design college degree and professional certification programs eventually find jobs as video game analysts, developers, and programmers. Those not interested in these positions can work as software testers, specialists responsible for ensuring games function properly. Support and level design specialists are responsible for making sure video games are exciting and meeting the demands of consumers. Those demonstrating exceptional talent often get promoted to management positions, where they get the opportunity oversee the entire production process.

Since video game technology is constantly evolving, those desiring to work in this industry should be prepared to continuously take steps to learn about new technology. People entering this field should be prepared to work hard since video game designers frequently work overtime, and it's not uncommon for them to work 70 plus hour weeks when developing a new game.

Video Game Design Salary and Earnings Information

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the software publishing industry is one of the top industries in terms of job growth in the United States. Job growth in this industry is projected to increase by more than 30 percent until 2016. Working in video game development can be very lucrative. The median salary for video game designers exceeds $70,000 a year.

Video game aficionados can begin the journey to their dream career by earning a college degree in video game design. However, working in this high paced industry can be stressful, so those aspiring to work as designers should be prepared to work hard.