Looking for the best game design schools in Oregon? This article highlights top institutions offering game design programs, detailing their unique strengths and what you can expect from each.
- The University of Oregon offers comprehensive BA and BS degrees in Art & Technology with a strong focus on game design, supported by a student-run Game Development Club for practical experience.
- Chemeketa Community College provides an Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer degree in Computer Science with game development electives, emphasizing practical, experiential learning and strong support from dedicated faculty.
- Portland State University’s computer science program includes game design-focused electives and a minor in time arts, complemented by real-world experience through a two-term senior capstone course working with local software companies.
University of Oregon Programs
The University of Oregon, nestled in Oregon’s heart, boasts an exceptional program for budding game designers. Offering both Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees, the university’s Art & Technology program nurtures creative thinking, exploration, and visual communication skills. Students in this program complete a minimum of 180 credits, with at least 72 credits specific to their major, ensuring a deep dive into the world of technology and art.
The curriculum includes a variety of courses that cater to different aspects of game design, such as interactivity, game art, animation, and programming. Foundational courses like Surface, Space & Time, Core Interdisciplinary Laboratory, and Interactive Digital Arts provide a solid base for students to build upon. Led by internationally renowned faculty, the program offers a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing graduates for careers at top tech companies like Google, Apple, and HP.
The University of Oregon sets itself apart with its student-run Game Development Club. This club provides a platform for students to collaborate on game design projects, allowing them to apply what they’ve learned in a real-world context. The club not only enhances students’ practical skills but also fosters a sense of community and teamwork, essential qualities for any successful game developer.
Chemeketa Community College Opportunities
For those seeking a career in game design, Chemeketa Community College offers another impressive option. The college extends an Associate of Arts Oregon Transfer (A.A.O.T.) in Computer Science, mirroring the first two years of a bachelor’s degree. This program provides a strong foundation in programming, with instruction in languages like C++ and Java, as well as electives in game development.
Serving over 12,000 students across seven locations in Oregon, Chemeketa Community College is known for its accessibility and comprehensive support system. The college boasts six computer science faculty and 15 multimedia faculty, all dedicated to helping students succeed. This extensive support network ensures that students receive personalized instruction and guidance throughout their educational journey.
A highlight of Chemeketa’s program is its emphasis on practical, experiential learning. The game development electives allow students to apply their programming knowledge in creative ways, designing and developing their own games. This approach not only enhances technical skills but also encourages students to think critically and innovatively, essential traits for any game designer.
Clackamas Community College Curriculum
Clackamas Community College caters to those seeking a specialized game design education with its comprehensive Digital Media Communications program. This two-year program awards an Associate of Applied Science Degree and covers a wide range of digital media disciplines, including:
- motion graphics
- computer animation
- digital film
- video game design
This diverse curriculum ensures that students gain a comprehensive understanding of various aspects of digital media, preparing them for multiple roles in the industry.
Students in the Digital Media Communications program can choose to focus on specific areas like:
- Motion graphics
- Computer animation
- Video production
- Journalism
- Audio & sound engineering
This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals. Whether you aspire to be a post-production specialist, camera operator, director, or 3D modeler, Clackamas Community College provides the training needed to succeed.
Graduates of the program have gone on to find employment in various positions within the production pipeline, such as:
- editors
- production assistants
- multimedia specialists
- documentary crew members
The program’s emphasis on practical skills and real-world applications ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the industry. With a strong foundation in both the technical and creative aspects of game design, Clackamas graduates are well-equipped to make their mark in the digital media world.
Eastern Oregon University Specializations
Eastern Oregon University presents a distinct Computer Science program, celebrated for its unique electives and focused training. Students can choose between a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) and a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree, with the B.S. degree requiring 12 additional science credits. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests.
The core courses at Eastern Oregon University cover essential topics like software introductions, operating systems, database management, algorithms, and analysis. However, what truly sets this program apart is its range of unique electives. Students can delve into new media, computing theory, 3-D graphics and animation, network administration, user interfaces, and artificial intelligence. These electives provide a well-rounded education, equipping students with the skills needed to excel in various aspects of game design.
A standout feature of the program is the capstone project, providing students an opportunity to apply their learning in a practical environment. These projects often result in functional professional work, providing students with a portfolio piece that can be showcased to potential employers. This hands-on experience is invaluable, giving students a taste of what it’s like to work in the game design industry and helping them transition smoothly into their careers.
Portland State University Game Design Focus
Portland State University integrates game design focus within its computer science degrees. The program includes electives that cover game development, offering students practical experience in areas like:
- graphics and visualization
- game physics
- game design principles
- game programming
Courses such as Introduction to Robotics and Artificial Intelligence provide essential foundations for designing intelligent game characters.
A noteworthy aspect of PSU’s program is the minor in time arts, which complements the technical skills from the computer science program by adding a creative dimension. This combination of technical and artistic training, including visual arts, is crucial for aspiring game designers, as it allows them to create visually stunning and technically sound games.
Students at PSU also participate in a two-term senior capstone course, working directly with local software companies, including those involved in game development. This real-world experience is invaluable, providing students with industry connections and practical skills that are directly applicable to their future careers.
Additionally, specialized student organizations like the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) Student Chapter support students’ interests in game development, offering networking opportunities and additional resources.
University of Portland Electives
Offering a B.S. in Computer Science, the University of Portland incorporates a variety of electives specifically designed for budding game developers. One of the standout courses is CS 447 Computer Game Design, which introduces the philosophy, objectives, and history of game design, with a strong emphasis on practical applications. This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the game design process, from concept to completion.
Another important elective is CS 432 Computer Graphics, which covers topics such as graphical output devices, line-drawing algorithms, and three-dimensional rendering. These skills are essential for game development, allowing students to create visually appealing and realistic game environments. Additionally, the program includes courses like CS 421 Artificial Intelligence, further expanding the knowledge base students can build within the Computer Science program.
The University of Portland’s approach to game design education is holistic, ensuring that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for the diverse challenges of the game industry. With a combination of technical skills and creative training, graduates are well-equipped to pursue successful careers in game design.
Linn-Benton Community College Pathways
Linn-Benton Community College, one of the Oregon schools, provides an Associate of Science degree in Computer Science with a Computer Systems focus, specifically structured for students intending to transfer to Oregon State University. This program provides a solid foundation in computer science, with emphasis options such as Computer Systems and Applied Computer Science. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to their career goals and interests.
The curriculum includes training in applied computer science, game design, and software design skills, equipping students with the practical knowledge needed for the game industry. Courses cover a range of topics, from basic programming to advanced game design techniques, ensuring a comprehensive education.
One of the key benefits of the program is its transfer pathway to Oregon State University. This allows students to continue their education and pursue a bachelor’s degree, further enhancing their career prospects. With a strong foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of computer science and game design, graduates of Linn-Benton Community College are well-prepared to succeed in the competitive game industry.
Mt. Hood Community College Program
Mt. Hood Community College presents an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Computer Game Development, a curriculum that imparts industry-standard software and techniques to students. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
- 2D and 3D game asset creation
- Modeling
- Rigging and animation
- Texturing
- Design fundamentals
- Desktop and mobile app creation
- Programming
- Common game engines
This comprehensive training ensures that students gain the skills needed to succeed in various roles within the game industry.
One of the key features of the program is its focus on producing an entry-level portfolio. This portfolio showcases the students’ work and serves as a valuable tool when seeking employment in the game industry. The program also emphasizes the analysis of changing technology and its impact on the game design industry, ensuring that students stay current with the latest trends and developments.
Graduates of the program are well-prepared for entry-level jobs in the game industry, with skills in design, technical documentation, and collaborative game creation. They also have the option to pursue advanced learning at other schools or explore careers that require computer and 3D imaging skills. With a strong foundation in both the technical and creative aspects of game design, Mt. Hood Community College graduates are well-equipped to make their mark in the industry.
Lane Community College Facilities
Lane Community College provides an unparalleled hands-on experience in a professional studio setting equipped with state-of-the-art technology. The program emphasizes practical skills, including planning, shooting, and editing videos, creating sound effects, and integrating theme music. This approach ensures that students gain real-world experience that is directly applicable to the game design industry.
The curriculum covers a range of topics, including creating and editing video and audio, designing vector and raster graphics, and staging and photographing various subjects. This comprehensive training ensures that students are well-prepared for the diverse challenges of the game industry.
With a focus on hands-on learning and state-of-the-art equipment, Lane Community College provides students with the skills and experience needed to succeed in the competitive game design industry. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in game design, video production, and other related fields.
Portland Community College Resources
Portland Community College’s Multimedia program provides a cost-effective education, granting access to cutting-edge technology and industry-standard applications. The curriculum covers a wide array of topics, including:
- Video production
- Digital editing
- Cinematography
- Lighting
- Various emerging tech skills
This comprehensive training ensures that students gain the skills needed to succeed in the multimedia, game design, and graphic design industries.
One of the key features of the program is its cooperative education component, which allows students to intern with professionals in the industry. This real-world experience is invaluable, providing students with industry connections and practical skills that are directly applicable to their future careers. Additionally, PCC offers several open labs, including two with 50 state-of-the-art Apple workstations for multimedia students.
With a focus on affordability, cutting-edge technology, and practical experience, Portland Community College provides students with the resources needed to succeed in the competitive game design industry. Graduates are well-equipped to pursue careers in game design, multimedia production, and other related fields.