Game Development Degree Online BS in Video Game Programming

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 needed 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."

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 47% of professional occupations in 2023, they contributed to only 27% of professional computing and mathematical occupations.² That number was even lower for software developers, where women represent a scant 20% of workers.²

At SNHU, our goal is to even the playing field by providing an accessible, affordable education for all.

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.

Joe Primo '22 is one such student. "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."

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 military tuition discounts for active-duty U.S. 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.

A game development degree can help prepare you for any number of jobs – both in and outside of the gaming industry. Several promising occupations with a game development degree include:

• Game programmer or game developer
• Tools programmer
• Simulations programmer
• Software applications developer

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.

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.

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.

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 studios 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.

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.