Best Game Development Associate Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

The Academy of Art University is a private school that offers an Associate Degree in Game Development. Founded in 1929, the academy is one of the biggest art universities in the United States and is home to 10,616 students.

Associate of Arts in Game Development

Students are equipped with valuable digital skills in game construction and game engine technology. The course focuses on hands-on training, and students work together in teams to produce their video games.

Graduates require a total of 66 credits, namely 12 major, 21 liberal arts, and 33 core credits. In these courses, students will learn visual communication, presentation skills, critical thinking and problem solving, and the comprehension of core technical concepts.

Associate of Arts in Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $1,072/unit (domestic students)
• Required Credits: 66 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 47%

Associate of Arts in Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Academy of Art University

1. Contact the school to receive a personal admissions representative
2. Book an interview
3. Complete the online application form
4. Schedule meeting with financial aid representative
5. Register for classes

Central Piedmont Community College is a public community college that offers a range of technical courses. Founded in 1963, the school is home to 18,824 students and offers more than 300 programs.

Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development

Central Piedmont Community College’s Associate Degree in Simulation and Game Development teaches game simulation, programming, 3D modeling, graphic design tools, animation, and game ethics. These skills prepare students for career paths such as designers, animators, and artists.

Students of this program can choose to specialize in three different tracks, namely design, programming, or 3D modeling and animation. Each program requires 65 credits for completion and prepares students for entry-level jobs in 3D modeling and animation.

Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $76/credit hour (in state); $268/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 65 credits
• Program Length: 4 semesters at 16-17 credits per semester
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 21%

Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: English and math placement tests

Applying to Central Piedmont Community College

1. Complete an online application
2. Contact student success navigator
3. Activate your Central Piedmont login
4. Submit transcripts
5. Determine your English and math placements

Hillsborough Community College | Hillsborough County, FL

Hillsborough Community College is a public community college offering more than 200 degrees in various technical and medical fields. The school was founded in 1968 and has a total enrollment of 23,183 students.

Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design

The school’s Associate Degree in Game Design is a 60-credit-hour program that teaches computer game creation using animation, graphics, and programming languages. Graduates are well equipped for software development, unity simulation programming, graphic design, and 3D animation upon graduation.

Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $104.39/credit (in state); $379.61/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 29%

Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $50 (international students)
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Hillsborough Community College

1. Complete online application
2. Submit transcript
3. Pay the application fee (if applicable)
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Wait for acceptance letter

Hillsborough Community College is a public community college offering more than 200 degrees in various technical and medical fields. The school was founded in 1968 and has a total enrollment of 23,183 students.

Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design

The school’s Associate Degree in Game Design is a 60-credit-hour program that teaches computer game creation using animation, graphics, and programming languages. Graduates are well equipped for software development, unity simulation programming, graphic design, and 3D animation upon graduation.

Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $104.39/credit (in state); $379.61/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 29%

Associate of Science in Digital Media Multimedia Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $50 (international students)
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Hillsborough Community College

1. Complete online application
2. Submit transcript
3. Pay the application fee (if applicable)
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Wait for acceptance letter

Joliet Junior College is a public community college offering more than 180 courses. Joliet Junior College was founded in 1901 and has an enrollment of 14,726 students.

Game Design and Development, AAS

The Associate of Applied Science in Game Design and Development teaches students skills and techniques in game creation using the Maya and Unreal engines. They learn to create animations and 3D models for their games.

Core courses include game production, game development, game design, advanced 3D modeling, and JavaScript. Students have a vast range of career options in design, animation, and programming.

Game Design and Development, AAS Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $425/credit hour (in state); $460/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 18%

Game Design and Development, AAS Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent (OR be 18 years of age)
• Other Requirements: Math placement score (highly recommended)

Applying to Joliet Junior College

1. Complete the online application
2. Submit transcripts
3. Set up JCC username
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Visit Admitted Students page

Keiser University is a private university offering an Associate Degree in Video Game Design. The school was established in 1977 and is home to over 16,000 students. Keiser University offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs.

Associate of Science in Video Game Design

This immersive program is available on the Pembroke Pines campus and focuses on the creative process of 3D modeling, game theory, animation, and game space construction. Students must complete classes in various categories such as their major courses, communications, behavioral sciences, computers, and mathematics.

The video game design program requires 60 credits and equips students for entry-level jobs in game modeling, animation, level design, texture mapping, and story development.

Associate of Science in Video Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: Approx. $20,800 for the program
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Associate of Science in Video Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Visit the school (highly recommended)

Applying to Keiser University

1. Contact an admissions advisor
2. Attend an open house or plan a visit
3. Submit an online application
4. Submit transcript
5. Wait for acceptance

Kent State University was founded in 1910 and offers 340 programs. The school is home to 28,122 students. Six of Kent State University’s programs rank among the top 100 in the US News & World Report 2023 list of Best Graduate Schools.

General Associate of Science for BS Game Design transfer

Kent State University offers a general Associate of Science degree that you can earn to transfer to the university’s Bachelor of Science in Game Design program. This associate degree provides students with a well-rounded education in topics such as mathematics, critical reasoning, basic sciences, and social sciences.

After completing this program, Kent’s BS in Game Design is the next step, where you will learn the key principles, tools, and concepts of animation, game design, and modeling. Students will spend the program building a professional portfolio to find work in the field after graduation.

General Associate of Science for BS Game Design transfer Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): Approx. $13,300/program (in state); $14,000/program (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credit hours
• Program Length: 2+ years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 65%

General Associate of Science for BS Game Design transfer Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: ACT/SAT (optional)
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Kent State University

1. Complete the online application (Common Application or Kent State Application)
2. Pay the application fee
3. Submit transcript
4. Submit test scores (if applicable)
5. Enroll for classes

Lake Washington Institute of Technology is a publicly operated technical institute located in Kirkland, Washington. It is the only educational facility in the Northwest area to offer an Associate Degree in Game Development. Founded in 1949, Lake Washington Institute of Technology offers associate, bachelor’s, and certificate programs to its 3,670 students.

Associate of Applied Science-Transfer in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media

Students are taught basic technical skills, including programming, animation, level design, 3D modeling, virtual reality, and building a user interface. Additionally, the school prepares students for a career in game design by covering marketing, advertising, and other key aspects of the game design industry.

Students are prepped for careers in virtual reality, marketing, advertising, educational media, and film and television. Students must complete 105 to 109 credits to graduate from this program.

Associate of Applied Science-Transfer in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media Overview

• Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Tuition (and Fees): $580.25/5-credit course (in state)
• Required Credits: 105 - 109 credits
• Program Length: 6 quarters at 18 credits per quarter
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 39%

Associate of Applied Science-Transfer in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent (recommended)
• Other Requirements: Placement tests

Applying to Lake Washington Institute of Technology

1. Connect with an admissions coach
2. Complete online admissions application
3. Take placement test
4. Submit materials
5. Enroll for classes

Founded in 1992, the New York Film Academy offers an Associate in Fine Arts in Game Design at its Los Angeles campus. This fast-paced school offers undergraduate and graduate programs to its 1,389 students. It has been named one of the top film schools for five consecutive years by Variety’s Entertainment Education Impact Report.

AFA in Game Design

This 16-month program focuses on the fundamentals of game design, playcentric design, programming, agile development, and storytelling. Students must complete 28 courses to graduate, such as 3D animation, the history of video games, level design, and storyboarding.

AFA in Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation
• Tuition: $17,727/semester
• Required Credits: 28 classes
• Program Length: 16 months
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 56%

AFA in Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $65
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Narrative statement, creative portfolio, letters of recommendation, proof of English proficiency, interview (optional)

Applying to New York Film Academy

1. Complete undergraduate AFA program application
2. Pay the application fee
3. Submit transcript
4. Submit additional materials
5. Wait for admission

Northwest Vista College is a community college that offers an associate degree and certificate course in game development. After opening its doors in 1995, there are now over 18,000 students enrolled in the college across 24 different fields.

Associate of Applied Science, in Game Development - Specialization in Game Programming

In this 61-credit course, students learn software development skills using C++, Python, and Java. They also learn about game design, level scripting, and game software testing. Using these skills, graduates will be well-equipped for positions such as animator, graphic designer, game programmer, and game tester.

Associate of Applied Science, in Game Development - Specialization in Game Programming Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition: $1,172/semester hour (in state); $2,210/semester hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 61 credits
• Program Length: 2+ years
• Learning Format: In person
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 30%

Associate of Applied Science, in Game Development - Specialization in Game Programming Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: TSI or ACT/SAT, Go FAARR
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Bacterial meningitis shot for students under 22

Applying to Northwest Vista College

1. Create an account with ApplyTexas
2. Submit an online application
3. Submit transcripts
4. Log into your ACES account and activate AlamoNAVIGATE
5. Submit shot documentation and test scores

Pratt Institute is a privately-owned university that offers an Associate Degree in Game Design and Interactive Media. Founded in 1887, the school offers 25 undergraduate programs and 26 graduate programs. There is a total enrollment of 5,015 students.

Associates of Occupational Studies in Game Design and Interactive Media

The course covers programming, prototyping, aesthetics, and interactivity. By the end of the program, students will be competent with at least one programming language and design engine and will be able to produce professional-quality design and animation.

Some of the courses students of this program take are collaborative game design, immersive sound design, mobile gaming, and worldbuilding. After the 66-credit program, students will be equipped to thrive in the gaming, film, and tv industries.

Associates of Occupational Studies in Game Design and Interactive Media Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $1,728/credit
• Required Credits: 66 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Hybrid
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Associates of Occupational Studies in Game Design and Interactive Media Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $60
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Portfolio

Applying to Pratt Institute

1. Complete the Common App application
2. Submit transcript
3. Upload portfolio
4. Pay application fee
5. Wait for acceptance

Danville Community College is a public institution in Danville, Virginia. The school offers an Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology with a specialization in gaming and mobile applications. Founded in 1936, the school offers more than 100 programs to its 2,828 students.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Systems Technology - Gaming & Mobile Applications Specialization

This four-semester course consists of a minimum of 65 credits. It focuses on creating and designing video games and apps for popular mobile devices. You will learn to write code, design levels, and build applications for Google Play.

Students are required to take classes such as software design, survey of economics, Java programming, and communication in management. During this online program, graduates will acquire the skills needed to code, debug, write, and design.

AAS in Information Systems Technology - Gaming & Mobile Applications Specialization Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $154/credit (in state); $330.60/credit (out of state)
• Required Credits: 65 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 42%

AAS in Information Systems Technology - Gaming & Mobile Applications Specialization  Admission Requirements

• GPA: none
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: none

Applying to Danville Community College

1. Complete online application form
2. Receive student ID number and MyDCC username
3. Apply for FAFSA
4. Complete Direct Enrollment Survey for placement
5. Attend DCC ROCKS orientation

Genesee Community College is a public community college that offers a two-year digital art program that can be taken fully online. The school has a total enrollment of 5,530 students that can choose between any of their online, hybrid, or HyFlex programs. Genesee Community College was founded in 1966.

Associate of Applied Science in Digital Art

As an online student enrolled in this program, you will acquire essential skills in animation, graphics design, digital video creation, and web design. The 62-credit program offers core courses such as computer graphics, graphic design, web publishing, and two-dimensional design.

Associate of Applied Science in Digital Art Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $4,750/year
• Required Credits: 62 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 33%

Associate of Applied Science in Digital Art Admission Requirements

• GPA: none
• Standardized Tests: not required
• Application Fee: none
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: none

Applying to Genesee Community College

1. Create an account with the school
2. Complete the online application
3. Submit transcript
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Enroll for classes

Guilford Technical Community College is a public institution founded in 1958. The school has a total enrollment of 27,572 students and offers more than 80 programs both in person and online. These programs include a wide range of fields, such as accounting, aerospace manufacturing, hospitality, nursing, and supply chain management.

Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development

This course provides essential technical skills in game development such as programming, management, modeling, digital design, and audio and video technology. Students must complete 66 credits for graduation and are equipped for jobs in art direction, graphic design, and animation.

Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $76/credit hour (in state); $268/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 66 credits
• Program Length: 5 semesters
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 27%

Associate of Applied Science in Simulation and Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Placement test (waived if you have recent SAT/ACT scores)

Applying to Guilford Technical Community College

1. Complete NC residency determination
2. Complete online application
3. Apply for financial aid
4. Submit transcript
5. Complete placement test

Joliet Junior College offers an Associate in Applied Science in Computer Programming that can be completed online. Founded in 1901, the school offers more than 180 courses to its 14,726 students.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming

Through hands-on training, this course will help you develop a solid foundation in computer programming using Java, C++, and Virtual Basic, which are all valuable skills in game development.

Students graduating from this program are prepped for careers as programmers, mobile developers, software engineers, and systems analysts. Students must complete a total of 61 semester hours, of which 36 are core requirements.

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $425/credit hour (in state); $460/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 61 semester hours
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 18%

Associate of Applied Science in Computer Programming Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Math placement test (highly recommended)

Applying to Joliet Community College

1. Complete the online application
2. Submit transcripts
3. Set up JCC username
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Visit Admitted Students page

New England Institute of Technology in Rhode Island is a private technical university that offers courses in health, sciences, and information technology. Students can enroll in a game design associate degree online. The New England Institute of Technology was established in 1940 and offers over 50 programs. It has a total enrollment of 2,763 students.

Associate of Science in Video Game Design

This program prepares the student to enter the exciting field of electronic entertainment and game simulation. Students learn coding basics, 2D and 3D animation, game design, and visual communication. These skills equip graduates for careers as game testers, animators, and character designers.

Associate of Science in Video Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $32,100/academic year
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 18 months
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 48%

Associate of Science in Video Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: $50
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: 2 - 3 recommendation letters, a 300 - 500 word essay (not required, but highly recommended)

Applying to New England Institute of Technology

1. Apply through Common App or the NEIT portal
2. Submit transcripts
3. Submit recommendation letters and a short essay
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Enroll for classes

Ocean County College is home to 2,763 students. Founded in 1964, the school aims to be flexible, accessible, trustworthy, and student-centered. Ocean County College offers a wide range of courses and programs to prepare its students for fulfilling careers.

Associate of Science in Computer Science - Game Development and Design option

The curriculum has been modeled after that of the Association of Computing Machinery and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society. During this 60-credit program, students learn to build problem-solving algorithms and study the basics of game design.

Programming, calculus, computer game development, chemistry, and database management are all classes students will be required to take to graduate from the program. These skills open students up to many opportunities and jobs in the video game industry.

Associate of Science in Computer Science - Game Development and Design option Overview

• Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• Tuition (and Fees): $193/semester hour (in state); $270/semester hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 38%

Associate of Science in Computer Science - Game Development and Design option Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.0
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Ocean County College

1. Create an account with the school
2. Fill out the online application
3. Submit transcript
4. Apply for scholarships or financial aid
5. Enroll for classes

Palomar College is a public community college that offers a fully online Associate in Science in Computer Science with an emphasis on video gaming. The school has an enrollment of 23,917 students and offers over 200 programs. Palomar College was founded in 1946.

Associate of Science in Computer Science with Emphasis on Video Gaming

Students learn video game design and programming. The course also covers software and hardware computer systems and problem-solving skills. Students will become familiar with the design of algorithms, programming languages, and object-oriented programming.

Associate of Science in Computer Science with Emphasis on Video Gaming Overview

• Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges
• Tuition (and Fees): $674/unit
• Required Credits: 31 units
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 31%

Associate of Science in Computer Science with Emphasis on Video Gaming Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: 18 years old or more, passed CHSPE or GED

Applying to Palomar College

1. Create an OpenCCC account
2. Submit an online application
3. Activate your student email
4. Submit materials
5. Apply for financial aid

Rasmussen College is a private university with various campuses across the US. Founded in 1900, the school is home to 4,124 students and offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees across its 23 campuses.

Graphic Design Associate’s Degree

This 18-month fully online graphic design associate degree not only focuses on game development but also on essential skills students need for a career as a game developer. Adobe Creative Cloud, digital imaging, and web design are all part of the curriculum.

Graphic Design Associate’s Degree Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $28,785 for the full program
• Required Credits: 91 credits
• Program Length: 18 months
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 44%

Graphic Design Associate’s Degree Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.0
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Letters of recommendation, interview, short essay (all recommended)

Applying to Rasmussen College

1. Contact admissions advisor
2. Complete online application
3. Complete entrance placement exam
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Submit materials

Vincennes University is a public university in Vincennes, Indiana. Its Associate of Science in Programming and Game Development is fully online. Founded in 1801, the school offers 65 majors. Vincennes University has a total enrollment of 17,481 students.

Associate of Science in Information Technology-Programming and Game Development

This course teaches students to build and troubleshoot video game programs on different platforms. Students work with industry-standard tools such as Blender, 3ds Max, and GameMaker. Graduates will excel in job positions such as game developer, computer programmer, software developer, and mobile app developer.

Associate of Science in Information Technology-Programming and Game Development Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $6,450/semester (in state); $15,254/semester (out of state)
• Required Credits: 60 hours
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 28%

Associate of Science in Information Technology-Programming and Game Development Admission Requirements

• GPA: 2.5
• Standardized Tests: ACT, SAT
• Application Fee: $50 (international students)
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: Next Generation Accuplacer (if you do not have ACT or SAT scores), immunization and medical information

Applying to Vincennes University

1. Complete online application
2. Submit transcript
3. Submit test scores
4. Pay the application fee (if applicable)
5. Enroll for classes

Western Iowa Tech Community College is a public institution in the northwestern part of Iowa, with its main campus located in Sioux City. It has an Associate of Applied Science in Video Game Design. The school was established in 1966 and offers more than 170 programs. Western Iowa Tech Community College is home to 5,674 students.

Associate of Applied Science in Video Game Design

This program is delivered entirely online and consists of 67 credits. It covers game design as well as the entire game development life cycle. Students acquire skills in game engine development, artificial intelligence, physics for game design, animation for games, and scripting basics.

Associate of Applied Science in Video Game Design Overview

• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
• Tuition (and Fees): $168/credit hour (in state); $169/credit hour (out of state)
• Required Credits: 67 credits
• Program Length: 2 years
• Learning Format: Online
• NCES School Graduation Rate: 39%

Associate of Applied Science in Video Game Design Admission Requirements

• GPA: None
• Standardized Tests: Not required
• Application Fee: None
• Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
• Other Requirements: None

Applying to Western Tech Community College

1. Create an account username and password
2. Complete the online application
3. Submit transcripts
4. Apply for financial aid
5. Wait for acceptance

Software developers can work on games for mobile devices, gaming consoles, and PC. They write a game’s code based on the plans of a video game designer and work closely with programmers, who help them execute the game design. Software developers design the various elements of an application and also complete software maintenance, testing, and upgrades.

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

Quality assurance analysts and testers create test plans, identify project risks, and implement software testing. The role of a game tester is to play games to test for bugs before the games are released to the market. A game tester will have to go through every stage and level to check every feature, document errors in the code, and report glitches to make sure that the game will run smoothly.

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

Programmers take the designs made by software developers and write code to execute the program. In game development, these professionals are responsible for writing the code needed to bring the game to life.

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

Special effects artists and animators create 2D and 3D images and visual effects for video games and other forms of media. Animators often work in teams, each having their own assignments concerning different aspects of game design, such as background, animated objects, or characters.

• Average Salary: $78,790
• Job Outlook: 16% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 62,400
• Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, California, New York, Washington, District of Colombia

Digital designers are responsible for the usability, navigation, and functions of an interface, such as that of a website or video game. These professionals work closely with graphic designers to determine the layout, integrate graphics, and polish the overall look and usability of elements that will appear on different devices.

• Average Salary: $77,200
• Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 199,400
• Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Georgia, Virginia, Massachusetts

Video game writers do the creative job of writing scripts for video games. They give life to a storyline and pitch ideas to the design team. Video game writing is typically a freelancing job because they are only necessary during pre-production.

• Average Salary: $69,510
• Job Outlook: 9% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 143,200
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, California, Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts, Connecticut

Video editors use editing software to manipulate images and video content. Video editors usually specialize in one or two specific video editing software such as Adobe Premiere or Final Cut Pro. They work closely with a director and follow a script to string together video sequences and images.

• Average Salary: $62,680
• Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 63,300
• Highest-Paying States: California, New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, District of Colombia, Connecticut

Graphic designers come up with a visual concept and present it through hand-drawn or digital mockups. They design layouts, suggest color palettes, and choose text fonts. These are highly creative professionals that need to come up with designs that captivate and inspire.

• Average Salary: $50,710
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 254,100
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, Massachusetts, New York, California

Game level designers create the architecture and landscape for the different levels of a video game. They work with the game designer to determine the look of each level. They may also use their coding skills to insert different elements into the game.

• Average Salary: $50,710
• Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 254,100
• Highest-Paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, Massachusetts, New York, California

Sound engineering technicians or sound designers add audio elements to a video game, including background music and sound effects. They play a big role in making the player feel immersed in the game. With the right selection of sound effects and music, these professionals can make the player feel exactly what the game designer and director intended.

• Average Salary: $49,050
• Job Outlook: 21% job growth from 2020 to 2030
• Number of Jobs: 138,700
• Highest-Paying States: District of Colombia, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Georgia