Game Development Degrees and Alternatives in 2024

The video game industry is part of the global entertainment and media industry, a sector the experts at PwC anticipate will be worth $2.9 trillion by 2027 [1]. With an industry so valuable comes job opportunities and competitive salaries. The gaming industry's landscape is changing as new technologies like virtual reality (VR) and artificial intelligence (AI) emerge. Companies creating games constantly search for people with the skills to keep up with the evolving gaming landscape. 

If you're considering a career the gaming industry, consider becoming a game developer. To succeed in this role, you must learn coding and programming to turn your idea into a playable reality. A bachelor's degree may also make you more appealing to potential employers.

Explore game development degrees, what’s involved in video game development, and educational alternatives to help you weigh your options below.  

Read more: What Is a Game Developer (and How Do I Become One)?

Game development degrees

While it's not always necessary, some employers require game developers to hold a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or a relevant field. Employers in this industry also value experience and a demonstrated skill set. You may accomplish this through practical aspects of your degree course, internships, entry-level positions, or personal projects. 

Read more: Is Computer Science Hard?

Popular majors for aspiring game developers

As an aspiring game developer, you may choose from several majors, including game development or game design. Some other common options include software engineering, computer science, computer engineering, and graphic design. Getting your degree is an excellent starting point for this career path because it gives you opportunities to gain experience and knowledge. 

In addition to your major, you'll need excellent math and physics skills, which are important in game development. Relevant degree programs typically cover these subjects.

Game development degree coursework

Game development degree coursework varies depending on your program. It’s essential to look at all options to ensure the coursework covers your area of interest. Generally, a gaming degree covers:

• Programming including C#, C++, and Perl

• 3D graphics

• Algorithms

• Networks

• Testing 

• Gaming trends

• Artificial intelligence (AI)

Is a game development degree worth it?

To determine if pursuing a game development degree is worth it, examine the benefits of having one.

1. Game developers are in demand.

The industry is expanding due to the increase in gaming, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Game developers are in high demand. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts job growth of 25 percent between now and 2032, a figure considerably higher than the average across all jobs [2]. However, even with the high demand, it’s essential to keep in mind that gaming is highly competitive.

2. The gaming industry is developing.

The gaming industry is growing but also changing and evolving with emerging technologies. Trends such as mobile gaming, the metaverse, and monetization are contributing to the ever-changing gaming concepts. It’s important that game developers' skills and knowledge are fresh and current, and a degree is a great way to cover the latest technology. 

Game developer salary

According to Glassdoor, the average annual salary for a game developer in the US is $87,929, a figure that may grow with industry experience [3]. The BLS suggests that software developers, which includes game developers, earn a median pay of $130,160 per year [2]. 

Degree cost

Degrees are a significant investment. Depending on your program and whether you attend full- or part-time, you may only be able to work part-time while studying. The average cost of a four-year, on-campus degree course is $153,080, including books and living expenses, according to data from the Education Initiative [4]. 

A degree may result in higher salaries and opportunities to advance, helping you stand out against the competition. Data from Zippia shows that the average salary by education level as follows [5]:

• Associate: $76,281

• Bachelor's degree: $89,013

• Master's degree: $97,928

• Doctorate: $107,042

Read more: Is a Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?

Do I need a degree to work in game development?

While some employers may require a degree to start a career in game development, it is not a universal requirement for all employers in all positions. Game development is a competitive industry, and this is just one of the ways you can help raise your profile and stand out among other applicants. 

You may need more than a degree to secure your place in the game design industry. It’s also essential to continue to learn and develop new skills in line with recent trends and build a solid portfolio of experience to be in the running for many jobs. 

Alternative routes and additions to your resume

If a degree isn’t for you, consider alternative routes to enter the game development field. These can be helpful, even if you have a degree, to prove your skills and gain an edge in the job market. 

1. Hone your skills.

Having the right skills and being able to use them is essential in this role. With technology evolving, certain skills are in demand. Showing that you have these skills and building on them is vital. Here are some skills to be familiar with:

• Unity

• Programming languages such as C++, C#, and Java

• Animation and 3D modeling skills

• AI and virtual reality 

Specific workplace skills are also crucial, so building on your communication, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills will also help you get a good role. 

2. Build a portfolio.

A portfolio is the ideal tool to highlight your abilities. Use it to demonstrate your experience and knowledge on personal projects, such as designing and building your own game, projects you’ve completed through courses, games you’ve developed through jobs, internships, and even any awards you’ve received. 

Read more: How to Make a Portfolio to Land Your Next Job

3. Get experience. 

Experience is essential if you want to be a game developer, but paid experience is only one of your options. You can build your professional experience by practicing your developing skills by creating games, either with an internship or an entry-level job as a game tester. 

Read more: What Is a Game Tester and How Do You Become One?

4. Network

Networking at game events, joining forums, and meeting other industry professionals is a good way to learn about jobs before employers advertise them. It’s also an opportunity to connect with people who can help you learn about the industry. You may even find a mentor in the field.

Read more: 9 Networking Tips to Expand and Strengthen Your Network

5. Get a certificate. 

If you choose not to pursue a degree, or if you have a degree and want to hone additional skills in a particular area, a specialization or Professional Certificate may help. You have various options, from learning coding to working on your workplace skills, such as communication and problem-solving. Here are some certificates on Coursera to consider:

6. Keep learning. 

Game developers must have a passion for lifelong learning, whether that means getting a certificate, attending an event or seminar, reading a book, or playing games. The more experience and knowledge you accumulate, the better your game development skills may be and the easier it is to stay on top of current trends.  

Next steps

Earning a game development degree is one way to become a game developer. While it can help you gain invaluable skills and stand out to potential employers, you may seek other routes to help make your dream of becoming a game developer or designer a reality.

Gaining knowledge and skills from online courses is another excellent starting point. For example, you may learn the basics with Game Design: Art and Concepts Specialization offered by CalArts on Coursera. This program is designed for beginners and covers topics like narrative development for video games, game design, character design, and more. Upon completion, gain a Professional Certificate to share on your resume, CV, or LinkedIn profile