Video Game Development and Programming Associate's Degree

Have you come up with a new concept for a video game? Do you like working with programming applications? If so, you might want to earn an associate's degree in video game development and programming. Schools offering Game Production degrees can also be found in these popular choices.

What Does a Video Game Development and Programming Associate's Degree Program Involve?

Earning an associate's degree can give you the skills necessary to pursue an entry-level position in video game development, design or programming or to pursue further education on the bachelor's level. An associate's program can help you understand the basics of video game programming and development, while teaching you different aspects of game design and simulation. Many associate's degree programs also incorporate software applications and studies into their curricula.

What Might I Study?

An associate's degree program in this field typically incorporates general education courses, such as English and math, with courses specific to video game development and programming. You'll likely begin by learning programming languages like Java, C++ and Visual Basic. You'll also learn about other programming and development tools, such as scripting, online support and game play.

Some programs will teach you the fundamentals of 3-D video game art development. You also might gain critical skills in business and technology that could help you advance in your career. Potential courses at the associate's level include:

  • Photo editing and manipulation
  • Game modeling and animation
  • Game texture mapping
  • Applied game design
  • Game development
  • Advanced 3-D design
  • Interface development

How Much Could I Earn?

According to a game developer salary survey published by Game Developer magazine in August 2011, programmers who have worked in the field for three years or less earned an annual average salary of $55,426, while artists and animators with the same level of experience made a mean of $45,714 per year (www.gamecareerguide.com). The same survey showed that salaries increased significantly with experience. For example, programmers with greater than six years of experience earned an average of $107,888 per year, while artists and animators at that experience point made a mean of $91,723 annually.

To continue researching, browse degree options below for course curriculum, prerequisites and financial aid information. Or, learn more about the subject by reading the related articles below:

  • 1. Degree Options:

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  • Baker College Online

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  • Kaplan University

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  • Herzing University

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  • International Academy of Design and Technology

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  • ITT Technical Institute

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  • Bryant & Stratton College

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  • South University

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  • Everest

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  • Florida Tech University Online

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  • The Art Institutes

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