Earn a Game Development Degree Online
- $330/credit (120 credits)
- Learn computer programming languages C++, C# and Java
- Use Unreal Engine to construct games for various platforms
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Apply 3D modeling and texturing with game art software
- No application fee or SAT/ACT scores required
Online Game Development Degree Program Overview
Become a master game developer and programmer with a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Game Programming and Development online from Southern New Hampshire University.
SNHU's game development degree goes beyond traditional software development training to give you the technical expertise you need in a competitive field.
You'll be prepared beyond gaming, too. Industries everywhere are creating meaningful experiences with game development tools and technologies. Autonomous vehicle simulations, for example, provide faster and more cost-effective alternatives to developing and testing physical vehicle prototypes. Similarly, virtual reality simulations can be used in any number of settings, from rehearsing complex procedures in med school to synthetic training environments (STEs) for military training.
That's just scratching the surface. In between is a host of other opportunities for those who can master the tools behind these incredible virtual environments.
Explore the Art of Gaming
Looking for a degree that emphasizes game art over programming? Our game art degree will give you the skills you need to bring your front-end character designs and virtual environments to life.
What You'll Learn
- Programming languages
- Game design
- Production and testing techniques
- Game development standards
- Game programming trends
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Career Outlook
With numbers rivaling the film industry and dwarfing the music industry, a professional game development degree could be your gold coin to a rewarding, dynamic career. Your game programming skills could also score you a career in a number of industries that use gaming technology.
The online BS in Game Programming and Development helps you position yourself for jobs like:
Game Developer
Create the back-end coding for video games, making characters and game play come alive.
Tools Programmer
Work on internal software that helps programmers, artists and game designers create games more efficiently.
Simulations Programmer
Develop models to help predict and prepare for real-world scenarios in areas like the military or medical field.
Job Growth
According to Newzoo, the global video game industry is projected to grow to more than $218.7 billion by 2024.1 The software development field, in particular, will see job growth of up to 25% through 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – far faster than the national average for all occupations.2
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Game Programming & Development Degree
Why SNHU for Your Online Game Programming Degree
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
Prior coursework could also help you save time and money. SNHU’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. You could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience, or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report named SNHU the 2021 Most Innovative University in the North and one of the nation's "Best Regional Universities"
- Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology by The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
93.6% of online students would recommend SNHU (according to a 2022 survey with 17,000+ respondents). Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:
- Completed free undergraduate application
- Prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you
- Test scores are not required as part of your application
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
- Complete a free undergraduate application
- Submit any additional documents required
- Work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through the application process
If you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email enroll@snhu.edu.
See Your Vision Come to Life
Max Callahan, associate dean at SNHU
"The game programming and development program prepares students to partner with game artists to realize the creative and narrative vision of game designers in the industry, from the concept to design and then production to marketing."
Courses & Curriculum
The curriculum is designed to help you tackle game genres and platforms, interface design, game theory and game development production pipelines. You'll also learn how virtual game environments create experiences through rule design, play mechanics and social interaction.
"The game development curriculum at SNHU touches on everything from interface design to cybernetics, and from algebra to gameplay mechanics, so that students learn about the math, engineering and coding that combine to make today’s 2D and 3D games possible on a variety of platforms," Callahan said.
And with experienced instructors and subject matter experts at the helm, the program is constantly improved to keep up with a fast-evolving industry.
"Game programming and development courses were developed to reflect, and are regularly updated to keep pace with, the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the technology utilized in game development and related industries," Callahan said. "Instructors bring real-world experience to the classroom that provide students with current production processes and methodologies."
Curriculum Requirements & Resources
Degree-Specific Courses
You'll have room to play with hands-on courses like Design of Virtual Game Environments and Gameplay Systems Development, where you'll master the tools pros use. You’ll learn how to create interactive 3D applications with Unreal, one of the leading game engines in the industry.
General Education
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Technology Resources
We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments.
Earn Math Credits
Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Depending on your scores, you could earn up to 12 math credits – the equivalent of 4 courses – toward your degree for less than $50 per assessment. For additional information, or to register for a Pathways to Math Success assessment, contact your admission counselor or academic advisor today.
View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
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BS in Game Programming & Development |
Courses May Include | ||
---|---|---|
BS in Game Programming and Development Online | ||
COM 230 | Graphics and Layout in Print Media | This course is an introduction to the principles and practices of graphic design. Students are introduced through lecture, demonstration and hands-on computer work to the basic elements of graphic visual communication. Adobe Illustrator is used as a primary tool in exploring visual perception through a variety of creative exercises that familiarize the student with basic visual principles such as figure/ground manipulation, shape grouping, letterform shape creation, and grid and system creation. Formal elements of graphic design such as line, shape, color, texture, pattern, balance, symmetry, rhythm, space and unity are thoroughly explored by example and hands-on computer exercises; special topics included are: designing with type, layout strategies, logo design, symbol and pictogram development and stationery systems. |
GAM 207 | Information Technology and Digital Games | Introduction to digital games and information technology covers game genres and platforms, interface design, game implementation, artificial intelligence, business economics of the game industry, game marketing and design, e-collaboration, and e-commerce. Students learn how to use software packages to design and implement digital games and how to use the Internet to market and distribute digital games. The course includes a project which will culminate in the conception, design, and prototype of an original digital game. The course is designed for students who have an interest in IT and games, including original game concepts, design and implementation, and executive leadership in the game industry. Knowledge of computer programming is not required. |
GAM 303 | Design of Virtual Game Environments | This core topic addresses the fundamental ideas behind the design of electronic games as virtual environments. It touches on relevant formal fields such as systems theory, cybernetics, and game theory. Included are basics of interactive design, including interface design, information design and human-computer interaction. Emphasis is placed on how virtual game environments function to create experiences, including rule design, play mechanics, game balancing, social game interaction and the integration of visual, audio, tactile and textual elements into the total virtual game environment experience. Game documentation and play-testing are also covered. |
GAM 305 | Digital Game Development | To provide a technically well-founded introduction to game development using programming languages and various gaming editors. On completing this course, the student will have acquired a fundamental understanding of the Windows API, the use of sprites, animation and audio in an integrated game environment. This course is cross-listed with IT 305. |
GAM 312 | Gameplay Systems Development | This class builds on the programming fundamentals learned in previous courses, and covers topics relating to technical systems for video games. Students will learn how to create complex game systems using scripts and will learn advanced scripting techniques. The technical aspects of common gameplay systems will be explored and implemented in various projects. |
GAM 415 | Graphics Game Engine | Students get an introduction to advanced graphics topics including skeletal animation, ray tracing, particle integration, lighting, shaders and materials. Projects are introduced to implement these important visual effects. The knowledge obtained will be assimilated and applied to a wide range of usages and application. Linear Algebra algorithms will be refreshed and/or introduced specific to the topic at hand. Students will learn the basics of Direct X, Open GL, and Rendering solutions (forward and deferred). |
GAM 465 | Digital Multimedia Development | This course presents digital multimedia theory and develops skills that meet the design and technical requirements of professionally created multimedia for World Wide Web commercial applications on a variety of platforms and Internet applications. Each student develops a professional portfolio consisting of CD-ROM material. Students also develop working Web sites that display their multimedia projects. Topics include sound, animation, video, interactivity and multimedia distribution. |
GAM 495 | Game Programming Capstone | This course integrates previous coursework and practical experience with a focus on authentic demonstration of competencies outlined by the program. Rather than introducing new concepts, students will synthesize and integrate prior learning to develop a capstone project. The course will be structured around this critical task so that students have the appropriate support and resources required to be successful. |
GRA 202 | 3-D Modeling and Animation | In this course students will be introduced to 3DS max. It will give them an overview of what max does specifically for games. This course will be focused on modeling. Students will learn the basics of modeling low poly and high poly models. How they are unwrapped and used in conjunction with textures. It will also show a wide range of techniques used in the industry for modeling for mobile, PC and current generation consoles. |
GRA 211 | Interactive Animation | This course focuses on programming capabilities to enhance graphic animations and user interfaces to provide spectacular interactive results. Those benefiting from this course include students in game development, advertising, marketing, education, web development, art and other fields that can benefit from interactive animated graphics helping to convey concepts. The course is intended for those with no programming experience as well as those with some programming background. The use and creation of animations will be covered at a level of interest to both those new as well as experienced. The results can be displayed by a browser from the internet or as standalone results displayable on a range of operating systems. This is a hands on computer based course in which the students create a number of individual projects based on their interests and capabilities, focusing on creativity and programming aspects of interactive animation. The course utilizes emerging technologies in interactive animation. |
GRA 220 | Introduction to Digital Imaging | Using Photoshop and Illustrator software, this course is an introduction to professional computer graphics creation and to the software and hardware typically used in the graphic design, video, photography and interactive Web/multimedia industries. Emphasis will be placed on the professional use of image-capturing devices, such as scanners, digital still cameras and video cameras. Image editing and color management systems will be discussed and demonstrated. The important differences between vector and bitmap graphics will be defined, as will the significant differences in preparing images for print, broadcast and Web distribution. Students will be encouraged to experiment with their own and pre-existing images using sophisticated digital editing techniques such as layering, channel masking, filtering, cloning and montaging. Special attention will be paid to copyright awareness in the age of digital image. |
GRA 310 | Digital Graphic Design for the Web | This course focuses on digital graphic design theory and its application to web design. Students will learn about the technical requirements of professionally created web-related elements. Students will be focused on designing websites while considering functionality. Differences in designing for the desktop computer and mobile devices will be a topic for discussion and incorporated in exercises and projects. |
IT 140 | Introduction to Scripting | Students will learn the fundamentals of programming concepts including data types, variables, decision statements, loops, functions and file handling. By developing simple scripts, students will understand how to use common scripting language constructs including lists, literals, and regular expressions to build useful applications. |
IT 145 | Foundation in Application Development | Students will use programming as a problem-solving technique in business and engineering applications. In writing computer code in a logical, structured, and organized manner, students will learn how to incorporate the key concepts of object orientation into their programming. Additionally, students will learn to write, review, and document interactive applications and work with Software Development Kits and Integrated Development Environment tools. |
IT 230 | Software Development with C#.NET | This course is designed to introduce C#, an event-driven, fully object-oriented, visual programming language. The course covers the Visual Studio.NET integrated development environment (IDE) while covering the basics of the C# language. Topics include input / output statements, arithmetic and logical operations, control structures, program modules (methods and classes) and arrays. Students will be involved in writing programs of increasing complexity throughout the course. This is a programming course. |
IT 312 | Software Development with C++.NET | This course teaches students how to design, implement and test applications in the C++ programming language. Topics include C++ data types, operators, functions, classes and inheritance. The course introduces students to issues associated with developing real-world applications by presenting several case studies. The concepts of object-oriented design and programming are covered. This is a programming course. |
IT 328 | Project Management in Information Technology | Employ project management strategies specific to IT projects. Examine responsibilities of key stakeholders. Explain project planning with key considerations related to risk management and project tracking. |
IT 450 | Artificial Intelligence | This course explores contemporary tools and principles of artificial intelligence that focus on Web commerce applications and business intelligence in particular. Topics include mining data for business intelligence and collaborative software agents that utilize resources on the Web to carry out tasks for individuals and organizations. |
MAT 225 | Calculus I: Single-Variable Calculus | Calculus is the mathematical study of change that has widespread applications in science, engineering, economics and business. This course provides a rigorous introduction to single-variable calculus. Topics include limits, continuity, differentiation and integration of algebraic, trigonometric, exponential, and logarithmic functions, applications of derivatives, and integration, including the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. This course will encourage students to think beyond memorizing formulas and to work towards understanding concepts. |
MAT 350 | Applied Linear Algebra | This is a first course in linear algebra and matrices. Topics include systems of linear equations, linear independence, matrices of linear transformations, matrix algebra, determinants, vector spaces, eigenvalues and eigenvectors. After mastering the basic concepts and skills, students will use their knowledge of linear algebra to model a selection of applied mathematics problems in business, science, computer science and economics. |
Total Credits: 120 |
Game Programming and Development Minimum Hardware and Software Required Specifications
Component Type |
Minimum Requirement |
Recommendation |
---|---|---|
Operating System |
Windows 10, 64 Bit |
Windows 10, 64 Bit |
Processor |
Intel 8th Gen i5 or i7 |
Intel 9th Gen i7 |
Memory (RAM) |
8 GB RAM |
16 GB RAM |
Hard Drive |
250+ GB |
500+ GB Solid State Drive (SSD) |
Graphics Card |
Built-in (Intel) |
Discrete/dedicated (such as NVIDIA or AMD) |
Wireless |
802.11 a/c dual band |
802.11 a/c dual band |
Office Suite |
Office 2013 Professional or newer |
Office 2013 Professional or newer |
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Optional Accessories |
CD/DVD drive, external hard drive, extra power cord and headphones/earbuds |
CD/DVD drive, external hard drive, extra power cord and headphones/earbuds |
SNHU Purchase Programs |
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
Online Undergraduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 30 credits |
---|---|---|---|
Degree/Certificates | $990 | $330 | $9,900 |
Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* | $693 | $231 | $6,930 |
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you become a game developer?
The path to becoming a game developer often starts with earning a degree in programming or a related field, like computer science or software engineering. You'll need to learn technical skills, including programming languages like C++ and C#, which help you build the mechanics behind a functional video game.
A game programming degree will also explore more advanced topics like Artificial Intelligence for games, game engines, multiplayer video game development and game engine development.
The ability to work as part of a team is another essential skill to become a successful game programmer. Much like a movie set, many video games require a large collaborative team. This typically means programmers or developers will specialize in a specific area – such as audio, AI or simulation.
But having these skills is not enough – you'll need to apply them. Make something that will impress industry insiders and employers, then network. Attending industry conventions, for example, is a great way to make connections. Come armed with a strong portfolio, and you could be one step closer to finding work in your field.
"We tell our students they should always be working on projects outside of what they are working on in class," said Ed Brillant, a game artist and instructor at SNHU. "This work can become published titles for students before graduation, helping them build an amazing portfolio and resume."
"Most definitely have something in your portfolio that is above and beyond everything else," he said. "You should be able to specialize in one area and be able to confidently navigate other areas in your field. You don't want to be a jack of all trades and master of none. Work hard and always create new art, projects and games."
Do you need a degree to become a game developer?
While there are many pathways you can take to become a game developer, earning a degree could be a good place to start. Many opt to study game programming or a related field, like computer science or software engineering. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, typical entry-level education for a software developer is a bachelor's.2
The right degree not only helps you build skills, a portfolio and even networking connections in the field, it could help you gain the confidence you need to stand out in a highly competitive industry.
This can be especially valuable to populations that are underrepresented in tech industries. The BLS reported that, while women made up 57% of professional occupations in 2021, they contributed to only 26.2% of professional computing and mathematical occupations.2 That number was even lower for software developers, where women represent a scant 19.7% of all occupations.2
At SNHU, our goal is to even the playing field by providing an accessible, affordable education for all.
What degree is best for game programming?
The best game programming degree is the one that works best for you. That means taking several factors into consideration, such as cost, credibility, format (online versus in-person), staff and faculty and a whole host of other criteria.
At SNHU, a private, nonprofit, accredited institution, our #1 goal is student success. In fact, it's a big reason why 96.5% of our students would recommend us.3
Despite his initial fears about how he'd fare in an online environment, Primo quickly fell in love with the program.
"The BS in Game Programming and Development had it all," he said. "I was introduced to the more popular coding languages, and learned about the art of developing levels, landscapes and objects. This list goes on and on."
Beyond the curriculum, Primo had a community of supporters at SNHU – even as an online student.
"Without the instructors here I truly feel I would not have had such an amazing experience," he said. "The faculty here is above and beyond any Ivy league school, in my opinion."
And the best part? Even before graduating, doors started to open.
"I was in the restaurant business for almost 20 years and knew my time was over," Primo said. "I needed a change and I wanted to do something I was passionate about. So here I am. This degree has helped me land a job working for an amazing company creating whole home automation smart systems."
Beyond support and course curriculum developed by industry experts, SNHU offers:
- Affordability. Take advantage of some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation. We also offer a number of scholarships and grants, along with up to 30% tuition discounts for military service members and their families.
- Credibility. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
- Flexibility. With 24/7 access to online courses, and no set class times, you'll have the tools you need to balance schoolwork and other commitments.
What jobs can you get with a game development degree?
- Game programmer or game developer
- Tools programmer
- Simulations programmer
- Software applications developer
This helped him not only build upon his knowledge of simulated military training – but also introduce the technology to whole new demographics of clients as a trainer and consultant.
These partnerships, Derald said, are critical to his success – and wouldn't be possible without a degree.
"SNHU helped me achieve my career goals," he said. And with multiple promotions and another degree under his belt, he's continuing to advance his career forward.
How long does it take to be a game programmer?
The time it takes to break into the field of game programming depends on a variety of factors.
If you decide to earn your bachelor's, that will generally take about 4 years to complete. There are, however, several other factors that can help position you to earn your degree faster.
At SNHU, our programs are designed for optimal transferability. In fact, we accept up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's. That means, if you have enough previous college experience under your belt, you could already be 3/4 of the way to completing your program – saving you time and tuition.
Plus, in the online BS in Game Programming and Development, you'll get 18 free elective credits. That means more opportunity to apply college credit you've already earned.
Should I go to college for game development?
This all depends on your personal goals and priorities. If you're interested in the technical side of gaming, a game development degree from the right university could help you gain invaluable skills, experiences and connections.
At SNHU, our game programming and development program is taught and updated by experts who know firsthand how to play the field. We offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation and, with 24/7 access to coursework online, our programs are flexible, too.
How can I create a game?
Creating a game requires a mix of creativity and technical aptitude in areas like coding and software engineering. Collaboration is also key. Artists, developers, producers and designers are all essential to the process. Depending on the scope of each game, those roles can become even more specialized.
Think about all the elements that go into a successful game: 3D environment and character design, story, audio – and this is just what the user can detect. Programmers control the back-end of these often vast worlds, ensuring that game play and mechanics are up to snuff before they reach their audience. Everything, from the physics of your character's movements, to the point system that helps you reach the game objectives, needs to be carefully considered and executed.
The only way to really master the process is to learn by doing – and that starts with assembling your dream team.
What's it like to work for a large video game company vs. a smaller, independent video game company?
While every environment is unique, the difference between working for a large video game company versus a smaller, independent video game company can be vast.
AAA video game companies (in other words, mid-sized or major game publishers) are typically much larger than their indie counterparts. Oftentimes, these teams consist of hundreds of people, many of whom take the reins on a very specialized area of game development.
These companies tend to have access to larger budgets, with major "blockbuster" titles costing millions to make. Beyond paying employees, these costs will usually be allocated to marketing and research, ensuring that these big investments pay off.
Indie game companies may lack the spending power of giant publishers, but more than make up for it with an "all hands on deck" sense of camaraderie. These tight-knit teams may consist of about 30 people or less – all of whom must be resourceful to get their projects in front of consumers.
Smaller budgets mean less room for "big swing" financial risks. But, on the other hand, smaller companies may have a certain degree of creative freedom that would be impossible under the leadership of a "major player" game studio or publisher.
Can I work from home as a video game programmer or artist?
The short answer is yes. While the option to work from home was once dependent on factors like experience level and the needs of your employer, opportunities for remote work have climbed as the industry adapts to the global pandemic.
In fact, companies big and small have found several creative solutions to collaborate remotely in the wake of COVID-19. Apps like Slack and Zoom have become a regular part of many gaming companies’ lives.3 Game development kits (GDK), once limited to office settings, suddenly became widely distributed to employee's homes.
While it's uncertain if the industry will continue to trend toward a work-from-home format in the years to come, those seeking off-site opportunities may find what they're looking for.
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References
Sources & Citations (1, 2, 3)
1 Newzoo, Global Games Market Report 2021, on the internet at https://newzoo.com/insights/trend-reports/newzoo-global-games-market-report-2021-free-version/ (viewed Aug. 3, 2021)
2 Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm (viewed Oct. 24, 2022)
- https://www.bls.gov/cps/cpsaat11.htm (viewed Oct. 24, 2022)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.
3How the pandemic has transformed work in the game industry. VentureBeat, on the internet at https://venturebeat.com/2020/06/12/how-the-pandemic-has-transformed-work-in-the-game-industry/ (viewed July 22, 2021)