Looking to study game design in Louisiana? This guide covers top game design schools in Louisiana, detailing the programs they offer and what you can expect from each. Whether you’re interested in digital media, animation, or game development, you’ll find options to suit your interests and career goals.
- LSU’s Digital Media Arts & Engineering program offers extensive resources and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing graduates for various roles in the digital media and game development industry.
- ULL’s Game Design Program emphasizes practical experience through building complete games and is supported by a faculty of experienced professionals, aligning with real-world game development conditions.
- Southern University provides hands-on experience and industry connections through its Digital Media Arts concentration, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in the digital media industry.
LSU Digital Media Arts & Engineering
The LSU Digital Media Arts & Engineering (DMAE) program is a powerhouse of creativity and technology, offering minors and a master’s degree with focuses such as visual effects, animation, UX design, web development, and game development. LSU’s DMAE program supports Louisiana’s digital media and software development industry, equipping students with crucial skills for success.
Cutting-Edge Tools
Students at LSU have access to advanced tools and facilities, including:
- Industry-standard software like Autodesk Maya and Adobe Creative Suite
- A 4K theater with a 90-speaker Meyer Constellation system
- Fabrication labs
- Audio recording studios
The Digital Media Center provides these resources to enhance the learning experience.
With 24-hour access to these resources, students can work on their projects at any time, simulating real-world job conditions and enhancing their skills.
Interdisciplinary Teams
At LSU, the DMAE program promotes interdisciplinary learning by encouraging students to take classes across disciplines such as electronic music, computer science, and performance studies. This approach fosters collaboration with students from various colleges, allowing them to work on complex projects that mimic real-world industry teamwork.
The mix of diverse skills and perspectives helps students create innovative media projects, readying them for professional environments.
Career Preparation
LSU DMAE graduates are well-prepared for careers in roles such as animator, modeler, character designer, and lighting artist.
Student organizations like the Digital Art and Design Association (DADA) provide platforms for creative expression and professional networking, further enhancing career opportunities and design skills.
University of Louisiana at Lafayette – Game Design Program
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Video Game Design & Development, requiring 120 credit hours. This program emphasizes creativity and storytelling, catering to both hobbyists and professionals.
Students learn new ways to approach video game design and development, including artificial intelligence, making it an ideal program for aspiring game developers and game programmers in the exciting field. By becoming a skilled game developer, students can create innovative video games that captivate audiences worldwide.
Degree Features
ULL’s curriculum covers programming languages, mathematics skills, game asset creation, and modern real-time game engines. Students build three complete games: a 3D arcade game, a first-person adventure, and a custom game. The program, designed by a Unity Authorized Academic Training Partner, requires students to earn a grade of ‘C’ or better in all relevant courses to graduate.
Faculty Expertise
The faculty at ULL includes experienced professionals from video game design and software engineering. Their role is pivotal in mentoring students, offering guidance and support throughout their educational journey, fostering skills and knowledge for a successful career.
Real-World Projects
ULL students partake in practical projects that mirror real-world game development conditions. Throughout their course, students build three complete games, allowing them to apply their skills in practical settings and gain valuable experience that prepares them for the gaming industry.
Southern University and A&M College – Digital Media Arts Concentration
Southern University offers a Digital Media Arts concentration within its Department of Mass Communication, part of the College of Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies. This program prepares students for dynamic careers in the digital media industry, providing technical support to faculty and students using digital media technologies.
Course Offerings
The Digital Media Arts concentration includes courses covering various aspects of digital media, such as graphic design, animation, and multimedia production. Students gain practical experience in installing, configuring hardware and software, and troubleshooting network issues, readying them for careers in the digital media field.
Hands-On Experience
The Digital Media Arts concentration allows students to acquire practical skills by working directly with digital fabrication tools like 3D printers and laser cutters. The program emphasizes project-based learning, allowing students to work on simulation systems and modeling projects that mimic real-world scenarios in the art and graphic design industries.
Industry Connections
Southern University’s Digital Media Arts program offers valuable industry connections through internship opportunities. These internships provide students with real-world experience and professional skills, helping them establish a foothold in the digital media industry.
Tulane University – Digital Design Program
Tulane University’s Digital Design program offers students:
- A comprehensive education in creative problem-solving and visual thinking
- A bridge between art and technology
- A B.A. degree upon completion of 120 credits, including 42 credits in the major.
Students gain experiences beyond the classroom through conferences and community networking events.
Program Curriculum
Students in Tulane’s Digital Design program take core courses in design foundations. After completing these courses, they can specialize in either Graphic Design or Interactive UX/UI Design, with the latter preparing them for creating customized online user experiences.
State-of-the-Art Facilities
Tulane provides students with state-of-the-art facilities and advanced technology essential for creating digital art. These facilities, laden with industry-relevant technology, foster student learning and project work.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Tulane’s Digital Design program have various career opportunities, including roles such as Video Game Designer, Simulation Systems Engineer, and Software Developer.
While UX designers prioritize the design, function, and usability of online products, interactive designers concentrate on improving user experiences with digital products.
Nicholls State University – Art and Graphic Design
Nicholls State University offers a comprehensive art and graphic design program that provides foundational training in both traditional and digital media. The program prepares students for various art-related careers through a robust curriculum focusing on design fundamentals, color theory, and computer graphics.
Visual Effects and Animation
Courses in visual effects and animation at Nicholls State cover key areas such as 3D modeling, animation principles, and special effects techniques.
Advanced courses like 3D Motion Graphics III focus on compositing and color correction, enhancing 3D renders.
Collaboration with Computer Science
The art and graphic design program at Nicholls State collaborates with the computer science department to integrate game programming and development into the curriculum. This blended approach facilitates students to work on projects that merge art, graphic design, and computer science, strengthening their employability.
Portfolio Development
Nicholls State underscores the importance of portfolio development, making sure students graduate with a professional portfolio that highlights their best work. Courses and workshops are designed to help students refine their portfolios and prepare for job applications in the industry.
Southeastern Louisiana University – Interactive Media and Game Development
Southeastern Louisiana University’s program focuses on providing students with both technical skills and creative expertise to excel in the gaming industry. The program covers both theoretical and practical aspects of game development, allowing students to explore immersive experiences, interactive installations, and captivating animations.
Game Engines and Software
Students at SLU learn to use industry-standard game engines like Unity and Unreal Engine, as well as software like Autodesk Maya for 3D modeling and animation. Such training guarantees their readiness for careers in game development.
Student Projects
Student projects at SLU cover a wide range of genres, from action and adventure games to educational simulations. These projects are displayed in annual exhibitions, during which industry professionals give feedback, aiding students in honing their skills.
Alumni Success Stories
Several alumni from SLU have entered the gaming industry, securing positions at notable companies like Electronic Arts and Activision. Some have started their own independent game studios, achieving success in the indie game market.
McNeese State University – Creative and Performing Arts
McNeese State University’s Creative and Performing Arts program includes elements specifically tailored for game design.
The visual arts undergraduate degree culminates in a senior portfolio exhibition, showcasing students’ skills and creativity.
Digital Art and Animation
McNeese offers an online Digital Game Artist Certificate focusing on:
- digital art
- 3D art
- modeling
- character design
- environmental art design
Students work with popular game development platforms like Unreal Engine 4 and Unity 5+, developing core competencies in digital art across multiple platforms.
Professional Skills
Students at McNeese State University develop essential professional skills for game art careers, including modeling game props and characters, importing elements into game-specific software, and animating game assets. The program also covers broader topics like general design principles and concept art, ensuring students have a well-rounded skill set for career advancement. Working with visiting professional artists through lectures, workshops, and exhibitions provides additional opportunities for their professional development.
Capstone Projects
Capstone projects at McNeese State University are a vital component of the curriculum, serving as a culmination of a student’s coursework. The Senior Art Studio Capstone requires students to complete a senior campaign or studio project and exhibition, which demonstrates their acquired skills and knowledge. This inclusive project guarantees that students are ready for their professional careers, presenting their best work to potential employers.