Looking for game design schools in Nebraska? This guide covers the best institutions, including the University of Nebraska-Omaha, Western Nebraska Community College, and Bellevue University. From undergraduate degrees to specialized courses, discover what each program has to offer and find the right fit for your game design career.
- The University of Nebraska-Omaha offers robust undergraduate programs in Game Programming and Media Arts that allow customizable learning through electives focusing on game design, player interaction, and game programming.
- The University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts provides introductory courses in game design and 3D game engines, emphasizing practical, hands-on learning and NASAD-accredited curricula.
- Bellevue University and Creighton University each offer comprehensive and flexible game design and computer science programs, respectively, preparing students for diverse careers through hands-on projects, interdisciplinary learning, and strong industry connections.
Leading Game Design Programs in Nebraska
Nebraska is home to several institutions offering robust game design programs, catering to various interests and skill levels. The University of Nebraska-Omaha (UNO) stands out with its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Concentration in Game Programming. Additionally, UNO offers a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art with a Concentration in Media Arts, including a Game Design Option, providing a multidisciplinary approach to game development.
UNO allows students to customize their learning experience by selecting electives from areas such as:
- game design
- game/player interaction
- game programming
- graphics
This flexibility allows students to focus on their areas of interest while gaining a broad foundation in game development. Western Nebraska Community College also contributes to the landscape with a game design course designed for those with no prior training or experience, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
These programs collectively cover the essentials of game development, from the technical aspects of game programming to the creative elements of designing games. With such varied options, students in Nebraska are well-positioned to embark on exciting careers in the gaming industry.
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts, located at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL), provides an ‘Intro to Game Design’ course specifically designed for individuals with little to no programming or design experience. This course provides a solid foundation, ensuring that beginners can confidently step into the world of game design. For those with some experience, the ‘Intro to 3D Game Engines: Epic Unreal 5’ course is available, requiring sophomore standing or above.
These educational offerings empower students to take on diverse roles in game development, encompassing areas like gameplay programming, artificial intelligence, and comprehensive game design. This hands-on approach ensures that students are not only learning the theoretical aspects but are also applying their knowledge in practical, real-world scenarios. The school’s NASAD accreditation further underscores the quality and rigor of its programs.
The School of Art, Art History & Design at UNL is dedicated to fostering creativity and technical skills in fine arts, graphic design, and preparing students to tackle the multifaceted challenges of the gaming industry. With a focus on emerging media arts, UNL students are equipped to lead and innovate in the rapidly evolving landscape of game design.
Bellevue University
Bellevue University presents a holistic game design program, carefully designed to equip students for introductory roles in the game design field. The curriculum includes courses such as:
- Game Design Fundamentals
- Digital 3D Design
- Digital Prototyping
- Advanced Digital Game Design
This ensures a well-rounded education with introductory knowledge.
Students at Bellevue gain invaluable hands-on experience by creating games using digital tools and engines, which forms a critical part of their learning journey. This practical approach ensures that graduates are not only theoretically sound but also possess the technical skills required to excel in the industry.
Renee Nejo, a seasoned video game designer and 3D Environment Artist, leads the program as the Sitting Program Chair. Her active involvement in the industry, including virtual reality, brings a wealth of real-world insights to the classroom, bridging the gap between academic learning and professional practice.
Creighton University
Creighton University presents flexible Computer Science degree programs, accommodating a wide spectrum of student interests and career aspirations. Students can pursue either a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) or a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Computer Science, each with its unique focus.
The B.S. degree emphasizes:
- software engineering
- problem-solving
- aligning with national curricular standards
- preparing students for technical careers
On the other hand, the B.A. degree is designed for those who wish to combine computer science with another field of study, providing greater flexibility in choosing electives and tailoring their education.
This flexibility allows students to explore interdisciplinary approaches, blending computer science with other areas such as business, art, or humanities. The holistic education provided by Creighton University ensures that graduates are well-rounded and adaptable, ready to meet the diverse demands of the modern job market.
Key Skills Developed in Nebraska Game Design Programs
The architecture of Nebraska’s game design programs is aimed at fostering a broad set of vital skills. Students are trained in 2D and 3D game programming, resource management, and general graphics theory, providing a solid technical foundation. Courses such as Game Design Fundamentals and Digital 3D Design ensure that students are well-versed in both the technical and creative aspects of game development.
Practical skills are a key focus, with students learning custom game engine development and gameplay programming. Elective courses in game/player interaction and graphics allow students to delve deeper into specialized topics, enhancing their ability to design engaging and visually compelling games.
Storytelling is another critical component, with students encouraged to challenge assumptions and create captivating narratives. The basic concepts involved, as well as advanced courses, cover topics like artificial intelligence and gameplay programming, enabling students to develop sophisticated and dynamic games.
Collaborative Learning and Project-Based Courses
Nebraska’s game design programs deeply emphasize collaborative work. Students often work in teams to design and develop 2D and 3D video games from scratch, simulating a professional studio environment. These real-world projects ensure that students gain practical experience and learn to navigate the complexities of game development.
The UNL Game Development Club offers additional opportunities for students to work together, organizing game jams where teams create games within a limited time frame. These events not only showcase students’ skills but also foster a sense of community and collaboration.
Project courses offer the following benefits to students:
- Collaboration with peers from other disciplines, enhancing cross-functional teamwork and problem-solving abilities
- Preparation to tackle the challenges of the game design pipeline
- Equipping students with the skills needed to succeed in the industry
This multidisciplinary approach, focusing on a particular aspect, is valuable for students in their future careers.
Career Opportunities for Graduates
Nebraska’s game design programs equip graduates to undertake diverse roles in the gaming industry, including video game design. Game designers are responsible for creating the overall concept, gameplay mechanics, and storylines of video games, blending creativity with technical expertise. Level designers focus on crafting individual levels, missions, and environments, ensuring that each part of the game is engaging and cohesive.
Game artists play a crucial role in the video game development process, specifically in creating the visual elements of games, from characters and environments to animations and special effects. Meanwhile, game programmers write the code that brings these elements to life, implementing game mechanics, AI behavior, and physics simulations.
Although the gaming industry is highly competitive, with fewer than 10% of graduates securing jobs in the field, the skills acquired through these programs also open doors to careers in academia, research, and other technology-driven industries. The diverse skill set developed through game design education ensures that graduates are versatile and adaptable.
Student Resources and Support Systems
A variety of support services are available at Nebraska’s game design schools to facilitate student success. Creighton University provides various internship opportunities and student research experiences, preparing students for graduate studies and professional careers. These practical experiences are invaluable in building a strong resume and gaining real-world insights.
Bellevue University offers online library instruction sessions and virtual reference help, ensuring that students have access to the resources they need to succeed in their studies. These services are designed to help students navigate the vast amount of information available and make the most of their educational resources.
Moreover, Bellevue University alumni have access to career services, program opportunities, and an alumni network that supports their professional growth and success. This network provides ongoing support and connections, helping graduates achieve their career goals.
Accreditation and Industry Recognition
The quality of game design programs is often reflected in their accreditation and recognition within the industry. The University of Advancing Technology (UAT) boasts a fully accredited game design program in Nebraska, ensuring that students receive a top-tier education. UAT’s game design program is part of a continuum of game studies degrees, including Game Design, Game Art and Animation, and Game Programming, providing a comprehensive educational experience.
Students in UAT’s game design program collaborate with faculty and peers across the game studies family, building and completing game projects that showcase their skills and creativity. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and ensures that graduates are well-prepared for the demands of the industry.
Alumni Success Stories
The achievements of alumni affirm the high quality of Nebraska’s game design programs. At the UNL School of Computing, the Senior Design program has produced notable projects such as the Emotional Regulation Training App, led by Ava Lyons. These projects highlight the practical application of students’ skills and their ability to address real-world challenges.
The Farm Credit Services of America FieldFolio project, managed by Elijah Smith, was recognized as a Gold Team Award winner, demonstrating the high level of excellence achieved by UNL students. Similarly, the Crete Carrier Customer Freight Tracking project, led by Jack Svoboda, received an Honorable Mention, further showcasing the innovative work being done by Nebraska’s game design students.
Individual alumni like Justin Ahlers have also been acknowledged as Rockstar Award winners for their outstanding contributions to the field. These success stories illustrate the impact of a Nebraska game design education and the promising futures awaiting its graduates.