Looking for the best game design schools in Ohio? This guide highlights top programs across the state, detailing what makes each unique in preparing students for a career in game design.
- Ohio State University offers a rigorous Computer Science and Engineering program with a focus on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, supported by pioneering research in the gaming industry.
- Columbus College of Art & Design emphasizes artistic talent and technical skills in its game design programs, fostering creativity and providing hands-on learning opportunities with real-world projects.
- Kent State University, Ohio University, Shawnee State University, and Miami University offer specialized programs in game design and animation, each with unique features like small class sizes, industry connections, and comprehensive curriculums ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in the gaming industry.
Ohio State University: A Leader in Game Development Education
Ohio State University is a highly regarded institution for game development education. With a variety of degree programs, including the notable Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) program, Ohio State University offers a robust curriculum that covers both the software and hardware aspects of computing.
The university further enriches its curriculum with pioneering research in procedural content generation for video games, keeping students abreast of the latest technological advancements in the gaming industry.
Program Overview
The Computer Science and Engineering program at Ohio State University is designed to equip students with a broad range of skills necessary for computing careers. The program covers topics such as:
- Algorithms
- Data structures
- Programming languages
- Computer architecture
- Graphics
- Artificial intelligence
This ensures that students receive a well-rounded education.
Students can also choose to focus on areas like computer graphics and game design, providing a tailored educational path that aligns with their career path aspirations.
Key Courses
Ohio State University offers a series of foundational and advanced courses that build a solid foundation in game design and development. Courses such as “Introduction to Game Design” and “Introduction to Video Games” provide essential skills in game mechanics and 2D game creation.
For more in-depth knowledge, advanced courses tackle:
- 3D modeling
- virtual reality
- interactive storytelling
- game production
These courses adequately prepare students for the ever-evolving field of game development, including digital games.
Career Opportunities
Graduates of Ohio State University’s CSE program with a focus on game design have a plethora of career opportunities awaiting them. Top employers such as:
- Amazon
- Apple
- IBM
- Microsoft
are known to hire Ohio State alumni, thanks to the program’s strong emphasis on both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
This opens up a wide range of roles in the tech industry, from game development and software engineering to artificial intelligence and systems analysis.
Columbus College of Art & Design: Fostering Creativity in Game Design
Columbus College of Art & Design (CCAD) is committed to nurturing creativity within the sphere of game design. With a focus on nurturing artistic talent alongside technical skills, CCAD offers a variety of program options that prepare students for creative roles in the game industry. The college’s commitment to creativity is evident in its minors in Creative Writing, Animation, and Cinematic Arts, which provide a well-rounded education that emphasizes both the artistic and narrative aspects of game design.
Program Options
CCAD provides a variety of undergraduate majors, such as:
- Fine Arts
- Illustration
- Industrial Design
- Advertising & Graphic Design
- Animation
- Cinematic Arts
These programs offer students a range of creative and artistic opportunities to explore and develop their skills. Each program is designed to develop students’ personal styles and professional skills.
The Animation program, for instance, emphasizes storytelling and character development, preparing students for various roles in the animation industry. Similarly, the Illustration program focuses on visual storytelling, equipping students with both traditional and digital illustration skills.
Hands-On Learning
At CCAD, hands-on learning is a cornerstone of the educational experience. Students often work on projects with external partners, providing real-world experience that prepares them for their future careers. This practical approach extends to research projects aimed at optimizing game levels to enhance the fun-factor.
Participation in these projects helps students build a comprehensive portfolio to showcase their skills and creativity, enhancing their appeal to potential employers upon graduation.
Alumni Success Stories
Alumni from CCAD have made significant contributions to the game design industry, reflecting the high caliber of the college’s programs. Graduates have gone on to work on high-profile projects and have even founded their own production companies. These success stories highlight the strong industry connections and the practical skill set that CCAD instills in its students, paving the way for successful careers in game design and related fields.
Kent State University: Diverse Concentrations in Digital Media
Kent State University provides a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Technology, offering specialized concentrations in computer design, animation, and game design. This diverse range of concentrations allows students to tailor their education to their specific interests within the digital media landscape.
The program is available at multiple campuses, including Kent, Stark, and Tuscarawas, making it accessible to a broad range of students across Ohio.
Available Concentrations
Kent State’s B.S. in Engineering Technology and B.S. in Animation and Game Design offer concentrations in computer design, animation, and game design. These programs provide a comprehensive education that covers both the artistic and technical aspects of digital media.
Students have the flexibility to select a concentration that best matches their career aspirations, promoting a tailored and focused learning experience.
Student Projects
The Animation and Game Design program at Kent State University features a cutting-edge curriculum that incorporates state-of-the-art technology. Students have the opportunity to work on projects using advanced game engines like Unreal or Torque, and courses like CS 48102 Game Development Practicum and CS 38101 Game Engine Scripting provide practical experience in game design.
These hands-on projects are showcased in program exhibitions and competitions, giving students a platform to display their work and gain recognition.
Industry Connections
Kent State University’s Animation and Game Design program offers the following benefits:
- Strong industry connections that provide students with valuable real-world experience
- Delivery across multiple campuses, ensuring access to the best resources and opportunities
- Internships and collaborations with industry leaders, helping students build a professional network and enhance their career prospects
Ohio University: Excellence in Games & Animation
Ohio University’s nationally acclaimed Games & Animation program offers a comprehensive curriculum, equipping students for prosperous careers in the game and animation sectors. With a focus on both theoretical understanding and practical skills, the program covers essential game design principles and provides hands-on learning experiences.
Students have the opportunity to participate in unique events like the 48-Hour Shoot-Out and study abroad programs, further enriching their educational journey according to the world report.
Program Highlights
The Games & Animation emphasis at Ohio University is designed to prepare students for successful careers in the industry. The program is nationally recognized for its high quality of education, faculty expertise, and the success of its graduates.
Significant milestones include industry partnerships that provide students with real-world experience and opportunities to showcase their work at national and international festivals, further demonstrating the program’s strength.
Coursework and Projects
Ohio University’s curriculum covers essential game design principles, including storytelling, 3D modeling, and game mechanics. Students engage in multidisciplinary projects, working with peers from different fields to create complete game prototypes. These hands-on learning experiences are complemented by internships and project-based courses that provide real-world experience and industry connections, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for their careers.
Post-Graduation Paths
Graduates of Ohio University’s animation program have found success in a variety of job roles such as cinematic artist, motion graphics designer, and texture artist. The program’s comprehensive curriculum and hands-on learning opportunities equip students with the skills needed to excel in the entertainment industry and beyond, making them highly sought after by employers.
Shawnee State University: Focused on Simulation Development Arts
Shawnee State University provides a specialized program in Game and Simulation Development Arts, integrating both the artistic and technical facets of game development. This comprehensive program is designed to provide students with a well-rounded education that covers everything from art asset development to motion capture. The focus on simulation development arts ensures that graduates are well-equipped to tackle the challenges of the gaming industry.
Small Class Sizes
One of the standout features of Shawnee State University is its small class sizes, which allow for personalized learning experiences. Professors get to know students by name and provide individualized feedback, enhancing the educational experience. This close interaction fosters:
- Critical thinking
- Experiential learning
- Active participation in discussions and hands-on assignments
- Stronger connections with peers and instructors
Graduate Employment Rates
Shawnee State University boasts impressive graduate employment rates, reflecting the program’s effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce. Graduates are well-equipped with the skills needed to succeed in various roles within the game design industry, making them highly attractive to employers.
The university’s strong emphasis on practical experience and industry connections further enhances students’ employability.
Unique Program Features
Shawnee State’s program offers a unique blend of art and technology courses tailored to game development. This comprehensive approach ensures that students gain a deep understanding of both the creative and technical aspects of game design.
Additionally, the program includes electives that allow students to apply their development and visual design skills to areas they are passionate about, providing a personalized and enriching educational experience.
Miami University – Oxford: Comprehensive Digital Game Studies
Miami University provides a wide-ranging Digital Game Studies Minor, concentrating on game design, the cultural implications of games, and their contribution to education and literacy. This interdisciplinary program combines courses from the Department of Emerging Technology in Business + Design, Art, and Computer Science departments, providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for various roles in the gaming industry.
Program Structure
The Digital Game Studies Minor at Miami University is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of game design, game studies, and game development. The program includes tracks such as Game Art and Design, Game Studies, and Game Development for both Computer Science and non-Computer Science majors. Students must complete 19 semester hours, including foundational courses like ‘Introduction to Game Careers’, ‘Introduction to Game Studies’, and ‘Introduction to Game Design’, as well as electives that allow them to delve deeper into their specific interests.
Teaching Commitment
Miami University’s faculty is deeply committed to ensuring student success in the Digital Game Studies Minor. Core concepts like Intrinsic Motivation and Flow, which are integral to understanding fundamental design principles, are emphasized throughout the program. This dedication to core teaching principles supports student learning and ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in game design and related fields.
Graduate Outcomes
Graduates of Miami University’s Digital Game Studies Minor have achieved impressive outcomes. In Fall 2014, 97.6% of the 2013-2014 graduates were either employed or continuing their education. This indicates a high level of post-graduation success for that year’s cohort. Alumni have secured positions in major companies like 343 Industries, contributing to projects such as Halo Infinite.
Graduates can expect competitive starting salaries, particularly in high-growth career segments in states like California and Washington.
Stark State College: Affordable and Well-Rounded Education
Stark State College presents an affordable yet thorough Video Game Design and Development program, proving to be an ideal choice for students aiming for a comprehensive education in game design. The program offers a variety of courses, including:
- C++ Programming
- Flash Animation and Design
- 2D Game Design and Development
- Advanced Gaming and Simulation Topics
Despite its affordability, the program provides a solid foundation in game design and development, although it lacks a specific focus on the art side of gaming, which may be a drawback for some students.
Program Overview
The Video Game Design and Development program at Stark State College focuses on developing core skills in game design, programming, and interactive storytelling. Key courses such as ‘Introduction to Game Design’, ‘Advanced Programming for Games’, and ‘Interactive Storytelling’ equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed for a successful career in the gaming industry.
The program emphasizes hands-on learning through projects and practical experiences that simulate real-world game development scenarios.
Course Highlights
Stark State College offers a range of programming and animation courses that are essential for game design. Programming courses such as Computer Programming I and II cover fundamental programming concepts and languages, providing students with the technical skills necessary to develop and implement game mechanics.
Animation courses like Introduction to Animation and Advanced Animation Techniques help students create visually appealing game graphics, enhancing the overall gaming experience.
Value Proposition
Stark State College’s Video Game Design and Development program offers exceptional value due to its affordability. With an annual tuition cost of $4,608 for 30 credits per year, the total cost of earning the degree is approximately $9,216. This makes it an attractive option for students seeking a cost-effective yet comprehensive education in game design.
However, students should be aware of the additional costs associated with exceeding general technology requirements and purchasing advanced hardware or software.
Franklin University: Interactive Media Design Degree
Franklin University’s Interactive Media Design Degree is designed as a completion program for students who already possess an associate degree in interactive media or related disciplines. Unlike traditional 2-year or 4-year game design programs, Franklin focuses on degree completion, emphasizing interactive development across:
- mobile
- graphics
- web
- interaction design
This approach ensures that students develop a well-rounded skill set in media arts, applicable to various high-growth career segments in interactive media.
Degree Completion Program
Franklin University’s degree completion program is designed specifically for transfer students with at least 24 semester credits in courses like interactive media, web design, or animation. Students can transfer up to 90 credits, including 24 technical credits, toward the Interactive Media Design degree.
The program helps students develop interactive solutions throughout the development lifecycle, encompassing both technical and non-technical aspects, and equips them to design and develop solutions for practical, real-world problems.
Interdisciplinary Approach
Franklin University’s Interactive Media Design program takes an interdisciplinary approach, covering various fields of interactive media. The curriculum includes both technical and non-technical aspects, preparing students comprehensively for their careers. Fields covered include:
- Mobile design
- Graphic design
- Rich media design
- Web design
- Interaction design
Students gain skills in Adobe software, HTML, CSS, and Javascript, which prepares them for roles in high-growth career segments such as mobile apps development and web design.
Career Prospects
Graduates of Franklin University’s Interactive Media Design program can pursue a variety of career paths, including roles in gaming, mobile app development, web design, training, advertising, and entertainment. They can work in settings such as advertising agencies, educational organizations, media groups, corporate design departments, and web design firms.
The program’s combination of design, technology, and project management ensures that graduates are well-prepared to develop interactive training, advertising, and entertainment tools.
Cleveland Institute of Art: Industry Connections and Expertise
The Cleveland Institute of Art (CIA) provides a Game Design major, focusing on skills in virtual reality, augmented reality, and interactive storytelling. The curriculum integrates visual, audio, tactile, and textual elements to create comprehensive gaming experiences, enhancing students’ ability to produce well-rounded and immersive games. CIA’s program connects students with working professionals, ensuring that they gain practical insights and industry connections that are essential for their careers in game design.
Meet Your Professors
CIA’s faculty includes experienced professionals like Robert Lauer and Harrison Walsh, who bring a wealth of industry knowledge to their teaching. Robert Lauer, an adjunct faculty member, completed his BFA in game design at CIA and has freelanced for various companies, providing practical insights to students.
Harrison Walsh:
- Has been teaching game design for 13 years
- Has worked at three different colleges
- Has contributed to the richness of the curriculum
- Has enhanced the educational experience for students.
Networking Opportunities
CIA offers numerous networking opportunities for students through industry conferences and events. These events are crucial for students as they provide valuable opportunities to network with industry leaders and prospective employers.
Additionally, Shawnee State University hosts the annual Art & Technology Game Conference, which attracts industry leaders and offers students further networking opportunities, helping them build professional connections that can lead to career advancements.
Curriculum Highlights
The Game Design curriculum at CIA includes mastering 2D and 3D technical tools to create sophisticated rigged models and optimized computer graphics. Courses like Game Media Production allow students to team up and develop a working prototype of a computer game, while the Game Testing and Level Design course focuses on creating game content for commercial game engines. This comprehensive curriculum ensures that students gain the skills needed to excel in the game design industry.