Best Online Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Boasting 8,928 students, the Academy of Art University is one of the largest private art universities in the US and is also family-owned to boot. The school began to offer arts education programs online in 2002 and has since grown to have students across the globe in 112 countries.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Game Development

This degree walks you through every step of the game development cycle, from making concept art to optimizing virtual reality software. You’ll learn this foundational knowledge in classes on Maya, game engines, 3D graphics and modeling, art composition, scripting, art history, story development, and more.

As a senior, you’ll create a professional game developer portfolio and collaborative project and take an internship alongside a media production entrepreneurship course. In the end, you’ll have the skills necessary to work in developing technologies such as virtual or augmented reality, user interface or user experience design, animation, character rigging, and game design.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
• Tuition: $1,041/credit
• Required Credits: 132 units
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 to 17 units per semester
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES Graduation Rate: 47%

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High School Diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: Optional creative portfolio

Applying to Academy of Art University

1. Complete an online application.
2. Send in documents certifying high school completion.
3. Pay the application fee.
4. Meet with a financial advisor to discuss financial aid options.
5. Make a creative portfolio to help you stand out from other applicants.

Baker College was founded in 1985 after a merger between three different campuses and now offers 68 programs across its locations. It offers classes in person, online through pre-recorded lectures, and online through live lectures. Baker College strives to make its education easy to accommodate for each of its 6,000 students.

Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development

This program consists of 120 hours, 30 of which are spent on general education requirements, 15 on electives, and the other 75 on major classes. Students will learn Java, Unity, and Unreal game programming, project management, discrete math, database management, and operating systems maintenance in their major courses. Additionally, to graduate, students need to spend 150 hours in a work experience course and complete a senior project.

Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $435/credit
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 19%

Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: Not specified
• Standardized Tests: Not required, though encouraged to send for scholarship consideration
• Application Fee: $30 (fee waived for transfer, re-entry, military, and RunningStart students)
• Minimum Education: High School Diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Baker College

1. Fill out the digital application.
2. Pay the $30 application fee.
3. Submit your official transcripts (online preferred over mail).
4. Send in your SAT or ACT scores for scholarship consideration.
5. File your FAFSA form for financial assistance.

Kennesaw State University is a public university with more than 41,000 students learning online and has 154 buildings spread across two different campuses. Since 1963, Kennesaw has cemented itself as a research institution, having the status of being Carnegie-designated, a title only the top six percent of US schools have achieved.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design and Development

This program consists of 42 credits in general education classes, 18 credits in basic major courses such as programming, discrete math, structures for computing, and data analysis, and 43 credits in upper-level major classes like artificial intelligence, algorithm analysis, and data structures.

After completing these credits, you’ll choose one of seven elective tracks, either media production, educational, planning, and management, simulations informatics, creative content, computer science , or a custom track. This degree is great for anyone that wants to work in a technology-driven creative field as an art director, computer programmer, multimedia artist, game developer, or graphic designer.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design and Development Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $185/credit
• Required Credits: 120
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design and Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.5
• Standardized Tests: Not required if have a GPA of 3.2 or above, otherwise required
• Application Fee: $40
• Minimum Education: High school
• Other Requirements: If homeschooled, submit curriculum packet

Applying to Kennesaw State University

1. Fill out the online application.
2. Pay the $40 application fee.
3. Submit your high school transcript.
4. If you have a GPA below 3.2, submit standardized tests.
5. File your FAFSA form for financial assistance.

Boasting 139 degree programs across its nearly 17,000 students, Lamar University , is a research university that has grown considerably since its 1923 founding. Lamar strives to have students from varying backgrounds, with 48 percent of their students being BIPOC, 53 percent being first-generation college students and having students from 62 different countries.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Development

For those wanting to work on managing projects, developing video games, or managing creative teams, you’d do well taking this program, as it teaches you how to both design and program games. After completing your general education requirements, you’ll take 72 credits for your major, in which you’ll learn programming skills, discrete structures, operating systems, and software engineering skills .

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $5,293 total if you take 12 plus credits;  $441/credit if you take 12 credits
• Required Credits: 121
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: Online and in person, 100% online option possible
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum, though lower GPAs require an appeals process
• Standardized Tests: Optional if you meet academic criteria; required if in lower 50% of graduating class, homeschooled, or studied at a non-ranking school
• Application Fee: $25
• Minimum Education: High school
• Other Requirements: Submit freshman appeal form if you don’t meet academic criteria

Applying to Lamar University

1. Create a profile through ApplyTexas and fill out the online application.
2. Send in your official transcripts.
3. Optionally send in your standardized test scores.
4. Submit our SAT or ACT scores if in the bottom 50th percentile of your graduating class.
5. If you are in the top 50 percent of your high school graduating class, or you have completed 18 college credits with a 2.0 GPA, you are guaranteed admission.

With a strong foundation in Evangelical Christianity, Liberty University has grown since 1971 to an enrollment of nearly 100,000 “Champions for Christ.” Taking classes on the Old and New Testament , Christian life, theology, and a biblical worldview are foundational requirements across their 700 programs, 450 of which are online.

BS in Information Technology—Gaming Design

The US News & World Report states that online game design bachelor’s degrees teach students the technical skills needed for a successful career in video game development, and this program at Liberty University is no different. In this gaming design cognate, you’ll take 39 to 42 general education credits, three to nine credits in foundational courses like statistics, computer applications, and organizational behavior, and six to 15 credits in electives.

Afterward, you’ll take your 48 credits of information technology core courses, which include object oriented and integrative programming, computer science, and system administration. Finally, your gaming design cognate will involve taking C# programming, graphic design, digital imaging, 3D graphics, and interactive game development.

With this interdisciplinary degree, you’ll be ready to take on the professional world as a video game designer or programmer, graphics or creative director, or user interface designer.

BS in Information Technology—Gaming Design Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Tuition: $390/credit for full-time students; $455/credit for part-time students
• Required Credits: 120
• Program Length: 3.5 years taking 8-week courses
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 54%

BS in Information Technology—Gaming Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.0
• Standardized Tests: Not stated as a requirement though students’ scores are on average higher than 1020 on the SAT, and 20 on the ACT
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High school
• Other Requirements: High school self-certification form or official transcripts

Applying to Liberty University

1. Fill out an online application.
2. Pay the $50 application fee.
3. Submit your high school self-certification form or official transcripts.
4. Send in your SAT or ACT scores.
5. Begin your FAFSA application.

Founded in 1827, Lindenwood University is a private university closely tied to its Judeo-Christian philosophy, having a long-established relationship with the Presbyterian Church. For their 7,382 students, they offer 80 bachelor’s and 30 master’s degrees , and for students that are working professionals, the school provides 50 degrees between its undergraduate and graduate programs.

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

You’ll only need to have a basic foundational knowledge of programming in this degree, so it is a great option if you’d rather work in the artistic side of game development. In this program, you’ll take 45 credits in general education courses and 54 major credits in classes such as programming logic, design, 3D graphics, and game development.

For your 21 hours of major electives, you’ll choose from courses like concept design, scripting, level design, and game testing. In order to graduate, you’ll also need to complete a senior capstone project.

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $475/credit
• Required Credits: 120
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement, but if lower than 2.0, need to submit a resume and personal statement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school
• Other Requirements: Submit resume and personal statement if you have a high school GPA under 2.0

Applying to Lindenwood University

1. Complete an online application.
2. Send in your high school transcript or prior college transcripts.
3. If your GPA is below 2.0, send in a personal statement and resume.
4. Complete your FAFSA for financial assistance.

A part of the Purdue University system, Purdue University Global was founded in 2017 after the university acquired Kaplan University, and since then, it has grown to have an enrollment of more than 43,000 students. To ensure that their school is welcoming for everyone, they have an open admission process nixing many acceptance requirements and also provide a three-week trial period for their undergraduate programs.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Game Development Concentration

With a concentration in game development through an information technology bachelor’s degree , you'll have the interdisciplinary knowledge to succeed at jobs in both fields, like as a game development specialist or general software developer. You’ll take 180 credits total in this degree, with 45 core, 93 major, and 42 elective credits. Through your concentration, you’ll take classes in game animation and art, game design and programming, and software development.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Game Development Concentration Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $371/credit
• Required Credits: 180 quarter credits; 120 typical semester credits
• Program Length: 12 quarters at 15 to 18 credits per quarter. Students take three quarters a year as opposed to the typical two semesters, both totaling four years of study
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 22%

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, Game Development Concentration Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement; open admission
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school
• Other Requirements: Be 18, be fluent in English, and prove technological competency

Applying to Purdue University Global

1. Make an online account and fill out an application.
2. Speak with an admissions advisor to go over the enrollment agreement.
3. Prove technological competency (be able to send emails, use Microsoft office, and the internet).
4. Complete your interview.
5. If all requirements are met, then you are automatically enrolled through the university’s open admissions process.

Savannah College of Art and Design , also called SCAD, consistently receives mentions in publications across the country, such as the Forbes and The Hollywood Reporter , and accolades from the prestigious Red Dot design awards. Its 14,265 students will leave SCAD with the connections and knowledge to succeed in fields related to the school’s 100-plus programs.

Interactive Design and Game Development BA in Digital Media

This program consists of a Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Media with a concentration in game development, with 25 credits in foundational studies, 90 credits in general education, 45 credits within the concentration, and 20 elective credits. Foundational courses are more general and teach color theory, drawing composition, and design, while concentration classes specifically include game art, design, and development, popular programming languages , design aesthetics, and interactive design.

To complete your studies, you’ll need to take either an internship or a SCADpro elective at the 500-level. Upon graduation, you’ll be ready to start your career as a game or app designer, web developer, texture or environment artist, or level designer.

Interactive Design and Game Development BA in Digital Media Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Tuition: $852/credit (in state); $852/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 180 credits
• Program Length: 12 quarters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 73%

Interactive Design and Game Development BA in Digital Media Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement, but if your score is below 3.0, it’s recommended to submit additional materials
• Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
• Application Fee: $100
• Minimum Education: High School Diploma
• Other Requirements: If GPA lower than 3.0, submit either a strong portfolio, letters of recommendation, SAT, or ACT

Applying to Savannah College of Art and Design

1. Submit an online application.
2. Pay the $100 application fee.
3. Submit your SAT or ACT scores.
4. If your GPA is below 3.0, submit additional materials.
5. File your FAFSA for financial assistance.

Initially founded in 1932 as an accounting and secretarial science university for a small student body, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) has since enrolled more than 134,000 students between its 200 online and in-person courses. This university is a great option for those that have prior credits from other degree programs, as SHNU allows students to transfer up to 90 credits toward their bachelor’s degrees.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Game Programming and Development

While proficiency in software development is crucial for making video games, this program will also teach students how to incorporate their creative visions into their programming. This program will prepare you for a career as an application software developer or game developer, or as a simulation programmer.  After taking your 42 general education credits, you’ll complete 18 elective credits and 60 major credits in classes covering graphics game engines and more.

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Game Programming and Development Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition: $320/credit
• Required Credits: 120 credits
• Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Game Programming and Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: No minimum requirement
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: No application fee
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or GED
• Other Requirements: Complete transcript release form and high school/GED graduate attestation form

Applying to Southern New Hampshire University

1. Get in contact with SNHU’s admissions counselors for help with the application process.
2. Submit the online application.
3. Send over your high school or GED transcripts.
4. Complete a graduate attestation form for your high school or GED documents.
5. File a FAFSA form for financial assistance.

While its first class comprised 67 students in 1960, Walsh University has since become approved as an independent Catholic University as of 2021 and now has an enrollment of 2,651 students. The school had originally focused on liberal arts studies and professional programs but now encompasses 60 plus bachelor’s degrees and seven graduate degrees.

Online BS in Game Development

If you already have an associate degree , then this accelerated program at Walsh might be the right fit for you, as those 60 credits are automatically applied to this Bachelor of Science degree. With general education requirements out of the way from your prior degree, you’ll learn game fundamentals and computer science through classes in the Unity game engine, web and user experience design, application development, and project management.

Online BS in Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: The Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition: $510/credit
• Required Credits: 48 credits in game development, but prior associate degree required (60 credits)
• Program Length: 2-3 years
• Learning Format: 100% online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 60%

Online BS in Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.0
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: Associate degree
• Other Requirements: Must be 21 or older

Applying to Walsh University

1. Be over the age of 21.
2. Submit the application fee.
3. Send in your associate degree transcript.
4. Talk to enrollment managers about any transferable credits.
5. Read the degree plan and enroll.

As a manager, you’d often work as the link between a business and its employees to ensure that tasks are completed on time and meet quality assurance requirements. If you worked in the gaming industry specifically, you’d likely be overlooking the game designers and developers to ensure they’re meeting project milestones.

• Average Salary: $159,010
• Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 442,200
• Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey, Washington, District of Columbia

Software developers in the gaming industry, also called game developers, use art designs to program games through different coding languages and software frameworks like Unity and Unreal game engines. After coding their software, they work alongside quality analysts to fine-tune their programs.

• Average Salary: $110,140
• Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
• Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island

Game programmers specialize in code development for gaming software, working with coding languages such as C++, C#, JavaScript, and Python. These programmers within the gaming industry can work with artificial intelligence, user interface, scripting, and more.

• Average Salary: $93,000
• Job Outlook: 10% decline from 2020 and 2030
• Number of Jobs: 185,700
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Virginia, District of Columbia, Massachusetts

If you want an artistic career within game development, being a designer would be a great option to pursue, as you’d be responsible for doing character design, writing story arcs, and creating the overall visual atmosphere and virtual environment of games. For this game artist career, you’d likely want to take an online Bachelor’s Degree in Game Design and Development to make sure you have all the skills required to successfully work in the field of game design.

• Average Salary: $78,790
• Job Outlook: 16% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 199,400
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, New York, Iowa, California, New Jersey

Whenever you launch a video game and see the title screen or try to buy items from virtual merchants, you’ve encountered user interface design in gaming. These designers program different aspects of a video game that give users information, point them in the right direction, and list objectives, taking the form of map overlays, health bars, checkpoint markers, and more.

• Average Salary: $77,200
• Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 17,900
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, New York, Iowa, California, New Jersey