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

Princess Ogono-Dimaro - June 26, 2022

Video games have become extremely popular, and the industry is growing as technology advances. Working in the game development field can be both rewarding and exciting. To join this competitive field, you need specific skills and technological know-how. You can gain this by enrolling in game development bachelor’s degree programs.

The best Bachelor’s Degrees in Game Development prepare you for a number of potential careers in this dynamic field. This guide will highlight some of the best game development bachelor’s degrees to help you make an informed decision. Learn about the admissions requirements and tuition costs for Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development below.

What Is Game Development?

Game development is the creation of video games through conceptualization, design, testing, and releasing. When you become a game developer , you will need to consider factors such as game rewards, mechanics, level design, and player engagement throughout all of the different phases of game creation. Video game developers need to be well-versed in different coding languages and often have creative talent.

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Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development from many different institutions including Southern New Hampshire University, Champlain College, Drexel University, and DePaul University. These schools can help students get real-world experience and eventually become video game designers and developers.

In addition, there are also two-year schools that offer Associate Degrees in Game Development . These programs allow you to start at a smaller institution and then transfer to a university to finish your bachelor’s degree after you graduate. You’ll learn game mechanics, software development, and interactive design.

What Schools Offer the Best Game Development Bachelor’s Degrees?

Southern New Hampshire University
Drexel University
Kent State University
Dakota State University
University of Baltimore

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development include having a high school diploma or any equivalent credential. However, the Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development requirements are different for each school. For example, some institutions may require standardized test scores and a minimum GPA.

Prospective students may also need to submit a personal essay or letter of recommendation. To be sure what is mandatory for a particular school, game design students should research each institution’s application process and requirements before applying.

Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Completed online application form
Minimum 2.5 GPA (only at some schools)
SAT or ACT test scores (optional at some schools)
Letter of recommendation and personal essay (optional at some schools)

How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development

You can get a game development bachelor’s degree by enrolling in a four-year game development program. However, in order to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development, you will need to meet specific graduation criteria, such as maintaining and 2.5 GPA and passing all of your core classes.

The best way to get a game development bachelor’s degree is to take full-time courses for eight consecutive semesters. This way, your education is uninterrupted and you will be able to graduate with a degree in four years. After that, you can quickly enter the field of game design and development with a strong portfolio.

How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

You need at least 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development. Though some of these credits will go towards general education courses, a large portion of the 120 credits will be focused on game development topics. It will vary depending on whether you get a Bachelor of Science Degree or a Bachelor of Arts Degree.

In addition, some game development bachelor’s degree programs may require more than 120 credits. Once you choose a degree in video game topics, you should look into the specific program requirements to understand the exact amount of credits required for graduation.

Game Development Degree Requirements

A minimum of 120 total credit hours
Maintain at least a 2.5 GPA
Complete all core classes
Fulfill all general education requirements
Stay in good academic standing with your institution

Best Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

School	Program	Accreditation
Champlain College	Bachelor of Science in Game Programming	New England Commission of Higher Education
Dakota State University	Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design	Higher Learning Commission
DePaul University	Bachelor of Science in Game Design	Higher Learning Commission
Drexel University	Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Production	Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Grand View University	Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Analytics	Higher Learning Commission
Indiana University	Bachelor of Science in Game Design	Higher Learning Commission
Kent State University	Bachelor of Science in Animation Game Design	Higher Learning Commission
Southern New Hampshire University	Bachelor of Science in Game and Simulation Programming	New England Commission of Higher Education
University of Baltimore	Bachelor of Science in Simulation and Game Design	Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Webster University	Bachelor of Arts in Games and Game Design	Higher Learning Commission

Best Colleges for Game Development: Top Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The best schools for game development bachelor’s degrees offer both Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees . Some top game development bachelor’s programs are part of the computer science department while others are standalone programs.

With courses on artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and building a virtual environment, these degrees can help you to reach your career goal of working as a video game designer. Learn more about the best schools for a Bachelor’s degree in Game Development below.

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Champlain College

Burlington, VT

Champlain College is a private university that was founded in 1887. The college hosts 2,100 undergraduate students on its 27-acre campus. Students can choose from 111 areas of study and enjoy an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1. Many game artists choose to study here.

Bachelor of Science in Game Programming

Champlain College’s game programming degree focuses on the entire process of game building. Students collaborate to create playable games. The coursework includes 120 credits and covers level design, system design, and narrative design. This college offers a game studio for undergraduate students in game programming to collaborate with peers and students in related programs.

Bachelor of Science in Game Programming Overview

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition (and Fees): $43,800/year (for full-time students)
Required Credits: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: In person
NCES School Graduation Rate: 66%

Bachelor of Science in Game Programming Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: None
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: Two letters of recommendation, at least one must be from a high school counselor

Applying to Champlain College

Apply online through either the official Champlain College Application or the Common Application
Send in your official high school transcript
Submit two letters of recommendation
Provide your official test scores (optional)

Dakota State University

Madison, SD

Established in 1881, Dakota State University offers 23 different bachelor’s degree programs. There are currently 3,219 students studying a variety of in-person and online programs offered by Dakota State University.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design

This 120-credit degree in game design offers a project-based approach to help students build teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. The focus of the program is on mobile video game applications, digital games, simulations, and websites. Students learn about processes and tools for game creation like 2D graphics, 3D modeling, and how to integrate game aesthetics.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design Overview

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition (and Fees): $294.50 /credit (in state); $397.90/ credit (out of state)
Required Credits: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 49%

Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design Admission Requirements

GPA: 2.6
Standardized Tests: SAT score of 950 or ACT score of 18
Application Fee: $20
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: If you do not meet either the minimum GPA or test score requirements, you must have graduated high school in the top 60 percent of your class

Applying to Dakota State University

Fill out the online application by providing your personal details
Pay the $20 application fee
Provide your high school transcripts
Submit your standardized test scores

DePaul University

Chicago, IL

DePaul University was founded in 1898 and now offers over 300 diverse undergraduate majors. There are currently 14,294 undergraduate students and 7,376 graduate students enrolled in the university. It offers financial aid packages to help students learn essential skills without worrying about cost.

Bachelor of Science in Game Design

This program consists of 192 credits and covers the fundamentals of game design. Undergraduate students learn to work as critical thinkers, storytellers, and entrepreneurs in interactive entertainment fields. The coursework emphasizes gaming labs including the gameplay lab, development and search lab, usability lab and augmented reality lab.

Bachelor of Science in Game Design Overview

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition (and Fees): $722/credit
Required Credits: 192 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: In person
NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Bachelor of Science in Game Design Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: None
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: None

Applying to DePaul University

Apply online using the Common Application
Submit your high school transcript
Submit standardized test scores (optional)
Have your high school counselor complete the Common Application School Report

Drexel University

Philadelphia, PA

Founded in 1891, Drexel University is an R-1 level research university. Today, the university has 23,217 students and offers more than 200 different degree options. Drexel University has always led technology innovation, and in 2021, it had the first university app to be offered on all major mobile device platforms.

Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Production

This game development program consists of 191 credit hours, based on the quarter calendar system. This program focuses on team-oriented projects to help students learn the ins and outs of both small and large-scale game development. Students will learn how to use different 3D modeling tools and gain hands-on experience creating game assets, even in their freshman year.

Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Production Overview

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition (and Fees): $18,405/term
Required Credits: 191 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%

Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Production Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: $50
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: A portfolio containing 8-12 pieces of work, a short essay, letters of recommendation

Applying to Drexel University

Complete either Common Application of the Coalition Application online
Pay the application fee
Submit a short, personal essay
Send your official high school transcript
Submit two letters of recommendation
Submit any test scores (optional)
Provide a portfolio of your past work

Grand View University

Des Moines, IA

Grand View University was founded in 1896 and now has 1,875 students enrolled. This private institution offers 40 undergraduate degrees and five master’s degrees. The university has a great student-to-faculty ratio of just 12:1 and the average class size is a comfortable 17 students.

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Analytics

This degree focuses on clear communication, design, writing, and effective research to help students understand the video game industry. The coursework encompasses topics for audio designers, artists, programmers, and writers. The program offers both onsite and online training. Students attending in-person can also attend classes on the weekends.

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Analytics Overview

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition (and Fees): $31,418/year
Required Credits: 124 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 56%

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Analytics Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: None
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: None

Applying to Grand View University

Begin an online application form
Fill out your personal details
Send your official high school transcript
Submit your application

Indiana University

Bloomington, IN

Indiana University , founded in 1825, has more than 71,000 undergraduate students. The university now offers over 930 various academic programs. In addition, 76 percent of the school’s undergraduate students receive financial aid. Many graduates from this university enter the field of game programming.

Bachelor of Science in Game Design

Indiana University’s game design program covers 120 credit units, with courses like information infrastructure, game production, game art, game technology, and sound designs. Students take part in workshops and learn about demos, publishing, and game prototypes.

The program uses a project-based learning approach where students complete and publish their own games. It also features an intensive project over a three-semester sequence to mimic the inner workings of game studios. You can graduate from this program with an amazing portfolio of virtual games.

Bachelor of Science in Game Design Overview

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition (and Fees): $11,220/year (in state); $37,600/year (out of state)
Required Credits: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 80%

Bachelor of Science in Game Design Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: $65
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: A short essay

Applying to Indiana University

Complete either the Apply UI application or the Common Application
Submit an essay
Pay the application fee
Provide your high school transcript
Submit your standardized test scores (optional)

Kent State University

Kent, OH

Established in 1910, Kent State University has a highly experienced faculty and offers renowned programs of study. In fact, 70 percent of the faculty members at Kent State University have obtained the highest degree in their field of expertise.

Bachelor of Science in Animation Game Design

This 120-credit program offers two concentrations for students: animation and theories of game design. The coursework includes motion capture, digital imaging, and multimedia computer animation. Students use prototyping tools to learn to create 2D and 3D models while applying design thinking to problems in technology. There are also supervised research opportunities.

Bachelor of Science in Animation Game Design Overview

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition (and Fees): $11,923/year (in state); $20,799/year (out of state)
Required Credits: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: In person
NCES School Graduation Rate: 65%

Bachelor of Science in Animation Game Design Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: $50
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: None

Applying to Kent State University

Apply through the Kent State University Application or the Common Application
Pay the $50 application fee
Submit your high school transcript
Provide your official test scores (optional)

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH

Southern New Hampshire University was established in 1932 and currently has over 3,000 on-campus students and an impressive 135,000 online students attending its programs. The university offers over 200 different programs of study and has been widely recognized for offering quality education.

Bachelor of Science in Game and Simulation Programming

In this 120-credit program, students will not only gain foundation IT skills but will also master the advanced concepts and tools common in game design and development. Students will learn everything from how to code to how to create realistic in-game movements.

Bachelor of Science in Game and Simulation Programming Overview

Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
Tuition (and Fees): $15,000/year
Required Credits: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%

Bachelor of Science in Game and Simulation Programming Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: None
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: Students must meet minimum technical requirements, one letter of recommendation

Applying to Southern New Hampshire University

Complete the Common Application
Provide your official high school transcript
Submit standardized test scores (optional)
Submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher or school counselor

University of Baltimore

Baltimore, MD

University of Baltimore started in 1925, and there are currently 3,279 students enrolled. Though originally founded as a private school, the University of Baltimore is now a public university. The school has expert faculty, as 84 percent of faculty members hold the highest degree in their field.

Bachelor of Science in Simulation and Game Design

This game design degree program is the largest of its kind in Maryland. The 122-credit program focuses on computer programming fundamentals, theory of game design, usability design, 3D animation, and modeling. Students also learn to create multiplayer games. It offers two different concentrations in coding/development and technical art.

Students in this program can opt to study for an accelerated degree and take nine credits towards a BS in Game Design and an MS in Interaction Design. Game design majors will learn everything from artificial intelligence to game balancing.

Bachelor of Science in Simulation and Game Design Overview

Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Tuition (and Fees): $3,648/semester (in state); $10,373/semester (out of state)
Required Credits: 122 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 34%

Bachelor of Science in Simulation and Game Design Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: $35
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: Personal essay, letter of recommendation

Applying to University of Baltimore

Fill out an online application form
Submit the form and pay the application fee
Provide a personal essay and letter of recommendation
Send your official high school transcript
Submit your standardized test scores (optional)
Send your resume or summary of extracurricular activities (optional)

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO

Webster University was founded in 1915 and has more than 160 different academic programs for students to choose from. This university has a student-to-faculty ratio of just 9:1. Today, the university has more than 10,000 students that come from 138 different countries.

Bachelor of Arts in Games and Game Design

This 120-credit bachelor’s degree program includes coursework on topics like video game art, world design, animation, level design, and rigging. Undergraduate students learn to make games for specific purposes and ensure that they meet the specification. The program also covers the development of video games in an era of advancing technology.

Bachelor of Arts in Games and Game Design Overview

Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
Tuition (and Fees): $29,640/year
Required Credits: 120 credits
Program Length: 4 years
Learning Format: Hybrid
NCES School Graduation Rate: 55%

Bachelor of Arts in Games and Game Design Admission Requirements

GPA: None
Standardized Tests: None
Application Fee: None
Minimum Education: High school diploma, GED, or equivalent
Other Requirements: None

Applying to Webster University

Complete either the Webster University Application or the Common Application
Send in your official high school transcript
Submit your SAT or ACT test scores (optional)
Supply additional material as requested by the admissions office

What Is a Game Development Bachelor’s Degree?

A game development bachelor’s degree is a four-year academic degree offered by colleges and universities. The curriculum often covers programming languages for game development, graphic design, and the creation of dynamic gameplay experiences. A Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development gives students the skills they need to enter the workforce after completing the program.

After completion, students have career options in different fields and industries as programmers, art directors, and game designers. The design skills learned in such programs can also be applied to industries like advertising and marketing. A Bachelor of Arts in Game Design or a Bachelor of Science in Game Development can help game design students enter the field.

How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

A Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development is very important if you want to pursue a professional career in game development or a similar field. The main reason getting a game development bachelor’s degree is important is that the four-year program will equip you with all of the technical skills and knowledge you need to work as a game developer and designer.

What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Game Development?

You can get two types of Bachelor’s Degrees in Game Development, which are either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts degree . Though both of these game development bachelor’s degree types will provide you with a comprehensive foundation in game development, they are not entirely equal.

A Bachelor of Arts degree will include coursework in humanities in addition to game development courses. This is to say that Bachelor of Arts students can expect to take additional classes in areas such as art, writing, and history. On the other hand, a Bachelor of Science program will include supplemental math and science courses rather than humanities.

Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Game Development?

It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in game development because this type of program will focus more on the technical coding and math skills needed in the development process. However, when choosing which is better, a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Game Development, you should also consider which aspect of the game development process you would like to work on.

For example, if you are most interested in game design, then a Bachelor of Arts in Game Development would be perfectly suited to your needs. This type of program will allow you to take more classes in arts. Overall, the difference between a Bachelor of Science and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Game Development is that the former includes more science and math courses whereas the latter focuses on humanities.

What Is the Difference Between a Game Development Bachelor’s Degree and a Game Development Certificate?

The main difference between a game development bachelor’s degree and a certificate in game development is that the former is much more recognized and respected by employers. Though both educational programs may offer students a well-rounded game development curriculum, a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development program will be much more robust.

Another key difference between a game development certificate vs a bachelor’s degree is that students need to meet much more stringent requirements to earn a bachelor’s degree. In a degree program, students need to maintain a minimum GPA, master certain concepts, and complete capstone projects. With this, a game development bachelor’s degree is better than a certificate.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development will cost about $16,647 per year. This figure is based on the average cost of a four-year institution in the 2019 to 2020 academic year. However, the average game development bachelor’s degree cost depends on the type of institution and the method of delivery.

While private universities have an average tuition of $32,769 per year, the average tuition for public schools is just $9,349. In addition, the cost of a program can also change depending on whether you are an in-state or out-of-state student. To learn more about the game development bachelor’s degree cost for your specific program of choice, contact the school’s admissions office and ask for more information.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Game Development Bachelor’s Degree?

It takes four years to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development. By taking at least 15 credits a semester for eight consecutive semesters, you will be able to graduate with a game development bachelor’s degree in four academic calendar years. Online game design colleges might take less time.

However, there are various factors that can influence a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development program’s length. For example, if you choose to attend school part-time or fail classes and need to retake them, it may take you longer to complete the program.

How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

A Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development is hard to get because it requires four years of studying. In addition, students in a game development program will need to master complex and technical topics. That being said, a game development bachelor’s degree is not necessarily harder to get than other technology or science-based bachelor’s degrees.

Why Should You Get a Game Development Bachelor’s Degree?

You should get a game development bachelor’s degree because it will fully prepare you to enter the workforce. The benefits of getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development include networking opportunities, internship opportunities, hands-on experience, and critical professional knowledge.

One of the main benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development is that you will learn everything you need to know to work as a game developer, from coding to 3D modeling. In addition, getting a second Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development or a similar field, such as game design, can also be helpful. Studying for a second degree can help you further expand your knowledge and allows you to pursue more areas of interest.

What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Game Development?

The required courses in a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development program are a combination of general education and game development-specific courses. Students can expect Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development courses to include topics such as 3D modeling, coding, level building, and interface design. To learn more about the topics covered in this degree, read through the Bachelor’s in Game Development course list below.

Introduction to Game Production

In this course, students will learn about the process of game production. This will include the steps of the production process, the organizational systems that are used, and the common methods of production. Students will learn how to use industry-standard software tools, including those for collaboration, management, and scheduling.

Advanced Game Development

In this course, students will gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills in game development. Students will learn the art of storytelling and character development and work on both 2D and 3D game designs. This course will also allow students to try out different game engine software. In addition, students will learn about game theory.

3D Design and Modeling

Students will learn the various components of 3D design. Through computer models, students will be able to create characters, buildings, and objects. Students will learn how to design proportionally as well as how to create shadows and textures within a design.

Level Design

This is an advanced video game design course that will expand on topics covered in lower-level courses. Students will learn through projects in which they emulate a real-world work setting. Students will use various professional tools while working in a team to fully build out a game level.

Design of Multiplayer Games

This course teaches students the important elements and considerations for building complex, multiplayer games. Students will learn how to design a game that responds to simultaneous actions from a wide range of players. Projects in this course include level building and creating minigames. This course may cover sound design and other technical aspects of highly interactive games.

Continuing Education Paths for Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

When it comes to continuing education, the best path to take with a game development bachelor’s degree is to pursue a Master’s Degree in Game Development . After graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development program, a master’s degree program will allow you to further expand and enhance your knowledge and expertise in the field. Getting a master’s degree also allows you to gain access to higher-paying roles.

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What to Look For in the Best Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Programs

When looking for the best Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development programs, you should consider various factors such as cost, barriers to admission, and the program’s content. Each individual program will have its benefits and drawbacks, but some qualities are essential. Learn how to choose a game development bachelor’s degree program through the five key elements below.

Cost

Unfortunately, bachelor’s degrees can be quite expensive. You will want to carefully review all of the associated tuition and fees for any program you consider so that you know what to expect. With this, you can also look into what financial support, if any, the institution offers to students. Online tuition rates might also be lower than in-person ones.

Accreditation

Accreditation is an essential evaluation that verifies a school is offering quality education. Without accreditation, programs do not receive the same level of respect and trust. As such, it is important to make sure that your school and program are duly accredited by a third party.

Employment Outcomes

The aim of obtaining a bachelor’s degree is to gain the necessary skills to enter the workforce. As such, it is important to know your program’s employment outcomes. If the majority of students struggle to find relevant jobs after graduating from a program, that is a red flag. This could mean that the program did not properly prepare them for the professional world.

Curricular Content

A program’s curriculum is likely one of the most important factors to consider. Though every degree program will contain at least some general education requirements, you should make sure that the program focuses on the key components of game development. For example, if your program does not cover 3D modeling, it may limit the types of game development jobs you can get in the future.

Barriers to Admission

Some schools and programs are very competitive. As such, they may require specific GPAs, test scores, prerequisite courses, and more. You should look carefully into your desired program’s admission criteria to determine if you are likely to be accepted or not.

What Is the Most Affordable Game Development Bachelor’s Degree?

The most affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development is the program offered by the University of Baltimore. At just $3,648 per semester for in-state students, this is the lowest cost program on our list. Other affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development programs include those from Dakota State University, Indiana University, and Kent State University.

Salary and Job Outlook for Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Graduates

A man outside wearing virtual reality goggles and holding a controller in each hand. — Game development students learn to build and test out different 3D worlds.

After graduating from a program, there are a variety of game development bachelor’s degree jobs that you can apply for. The average Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development salary will vary with the specific job role you get. The list below will help you learn more about the highest-paying Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development jobs.

How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Game Development Bachelor’s Degree?

It is not hard to get a job with a game development bachelor’s degree. In fact, as game development is a rapidly growing field, it is easy to get a job with a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development and the proper skills. During your bachelor’s degree program, you will have learned everything you need to know in order to succeed in a professional game developer role.

What’s the Average Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

The average salary for a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development holder is $69,000 per year, according to PayScale. However, with a bit of experience and a solid resume, game developers with a bachelor’s degree can earn up to six figures per year.

Once you have worked on notable projects and built up your portfolio, you will be able to access higher-paying roles. For example, the average PayScale salary for game developers is $83,867 a year. You will earn more based on your education and experience level as well.

What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Game Development Bachelor’s Degree?

The jobs that you can get with a game development bachelor’s degree include game programmer, visual effects artist, and simulations programmer. Some of the highest-paying game development jobs for bachelor’s degree holders include a game engineer and a game developer.

Game Development Degree Jobs

Game engineer
Game developer
Visual effects artist
Gaming programmer
Simulations programmer

Potential Careers With a Game Development Degree

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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development?

You can make between $50,000 and $130,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development. If you want to access the higher end of the pay scale, you will need to gain experience in the industry and build your resume. The average amount of money game development majors make out of college will vary with what state they work in and the company that hires them.

Highest-Paying Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Game Development Bachelor’s Degree Jobs	Average Salary
Game Engineer	$112,320
Game Developer	$101,644
Gaming Programmer	$83,479
Visual Effects Artist	$78,790
Simulations Programmer	$76,289

Best Jobs for Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Grads

The best jobs for game development bachelor’s degree grads are those that pay well and provide career growth opportunities. Below, we will discuss the best jobs for a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development. Find out how much the best paying game development bachelor’s degree jobs pay and what the job outlook is for these positions.

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Game Engineer

Average Salary: $112,320

Game engineers produce video games. They also ensure that the game’s visual elements are compatible with different kinds of hardware. These experts often work alone and create games for smaller devices such as mobile phones.

Average Salary: $112,320
Job Outlook: 22%
Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island

Game Developer

Average Salary:$101,644

Game developers are responsible for taking concepts from designers and developing them into playable games. These experts may also be called videogame designers or video game programmers. Game developers may need to write code for PC, console, mobile, and web browser games.

Average Salary: $101,644
Job Outlook: 22%
Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island

Gaming Programmer

Average Salary: $83,479

Gaming programmers are responsible for writing the code that brings games to life. These experts translate the vision of the gaming project into a playable and functioning game. They often work with producers and other professionals to make this happen.

Average Salary: $83,479
Job Outlook: -10%
Number of Jobs: 185,700
Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Virginia District of Columbia, Massachusetts

Visual Effects Artist

Average Salary: $78,790

Visual effects (VFX) artists use computer software to create special effects and animation. They work in the film and game industries and try to enhance moving pictures with digital elements while maintaining a realistic look.

Average Salary: $78,790
Job Outlook: 16%
Number of Jobs: 62,400
Highest-Paying States: Connecticut, California, Washington, New York, District of Columbia

Simulations Programmer

Average Salary: $76,289

Simulation programmers are responsible for creating computer simulations. These simulations let you see, predict, test, think about, and manipulate real-world services, products, conditions, processes, and issues. With computer simulations, this can all be done without any of the risk that would come from doing so in real life.

Average Salary: $76,289
Job Outlook: -10%
Number of Jobs: 185,700
Highest-Paying States: Washington, California, Virginia District of Columbia, Massachusetts

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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development Worth It?

Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development is worth it if you want to pursue a career in the gaming industry. A game development bachelor’s degree is a good investment because you will gain all of the skills you need to begin working as a professional game developer. This means that you will be entering a stable and well-paying field.

In addition, having a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development makes it possible for you to take on higher positions such as art director, lead designer, and design director where you stand the chance of earning more. Overall, an online program in game development or an in-person Bachelor’s Degree in Game Design is a great investment.

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Game Development Bachelor’s Degree FAQ

What bachelor’s degree do you need to be a game developer?

To become a game developer, you need to have a Bachelor’s Degree in Game Development or a similar topic like digital media or computer programming. Also, some video game design degrees that also focus on software engineering and computer science may help you to become a game developer.

How much money does a game developer make?

PayScale reports that game developers have an average salary of $83,867. However, this amount can be even higher based on extensive experience in a similar role. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developers, the group to which game developers belong, make a median salary of $110,140.

How many years does it take to become a game developer?

It takes four years to complete a bachelor’s degree and enter the field of game development. However, game development bootcamps and online education courses make it possible to gain an education and join the field in as little as six months.

Do game designers need to know programming?

Game designers may not need knowledge of programming to create working games. However, it is ideal to have some programming skills in order to be versatile in the field. You should be able to think like programmers to make a functional mobile game.