course catalog video game design

Don't let the word "game" fool you. The gaming industry is not child's play—it is the largest, fastest-growing media industry in the world. It's bigger than Hollywood, and it dwarves the music business, making more than $100 billion a year.

As a student in the School of Game Development, you'll experience the entire game development cycle—from creating concept art and UI & UX for games, to coding for artificial intelligence (non-player character behavior) and virtual reality gaming experiences. Develop specialized skills that prepare you for cutting-edge careers in one of the most vibrant, multifaceted, and expansive industries ever.

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Game Development Degrees

At Academy of Art University, you will receive a well-rounded education in the arts and sciences, with courses that cover techniques in game design, game programming, concept art, 3D modeling, and animation, among others.

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Your dream is within reach. Follow your heart and get started on the career of your dreams.

Facilities & Technology

The latest in software and equipment is essential to preparing you to enter the game development work force, which is why we keep up with current advancements in game development technology and industry practices. Whatever the pros are doing and whatever the pros are using is what you will find in our classrooms and studios.

Faculty

Our instructors don't just teach you about the gaming industry, they are the gaming industry.

Student Work

Juan Angel

Game Development

Ayhan Aydogan

Game Development

Ricardo Caria

Game Development

Corey Hill

Game Development

Jin Whan Kim

Game Development

Marius Millar

Game Development

Pei Zhang

Game Development

Alumni Success

Featured Alumni

Kelsey Martin

BFA Game Development

Concept Artist,

Telltale Games

I knew what I wanted to do pretty early. The big plus from the school was that because I learned a little bit about all aspects of game art in my first year, I ended up being qualified for a job I didn't even aim for, which ended up being a really nice foot in the door.

Industry Partnership

Blizzard Entertainment

Blizzard Entertainment partners with the School of Game Development at Academy of Art University to provide lectures and student portfolio reviews. Many of our students have entered and won the annual Blizzard Student Art Contest, earning mentoring, internships and employment with Blizzard.

Careers in Game Development

As one of the top art and design schools in the country, Academy of Art University game development graduates have a range of opportunities to choose from. Our facilities, faculty, and hands-on learning approach are designed to provide you with the tools you need to succeed in this exciting industry. VIEW ALL CAREERS

3D Character Artist

Bring characters to life as a 3D character modeler. You'll build complex character models, organic meshes, and work across teams to rig, light, texture, and animate your creations.

Animation VFX

Animation and Visual Effects gives a game it's personality. The most well-designed and crafted character doesn't come to life until someone makes them move and give them some personality. Visual Effects, such as fire, laser blasts, and warp gates, grab the player and transport them to another world altogether.

Environment Concept Artist

Combine a playful imagination with a high degree of artistic skill. Concept and flush out all aspects of environmental design, from small props to full culture kits.

Game/Level Designer

Balance gameplay elements to keep games engaging. You will also improve systems, contribute to features, and participate in testing to create immersive worlds and evoke emotions.

Gameplay Programmer

Gameplay programmers are the heart of any game. Your job will be to bring the game to life by implementing the core gameplay mechanics. You'll work very close with designers to build the game itself.

UX/UI Designer

Use your knowledge of game features, design, motion graphics, and user paths to create an immersive experience.

COMPANIES THAT HAVE HIRED OUR GRADUATES