Searching for top game design schools in Washington? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll examine key programs at schools like the Academy of Interactive Entertainment, DigiPen Institute of Technology, and the University of Washington. We’ll cover their courses, teaching methods, and what makes each program unique. Find out which school suits your game design career goals.
- Washington hosts several top game design schools like Academy of Interactive Entertainment, DigiPen Institute of Technology, and the University of Washington, each offering specialized programs to prepare students for various facets of game development.
- Institutions such as the Academy of Interactive Entertainment and DigiPen provide hands-on, industry-focused education, with strong alumni networks and connections to major companies in the game industry, while the University of Washington offers a fast-track game design certificate program.
- Admission to these programs typically requires portfolios, essays, and academic credentials, with career opportunities extending to roles such as game designers, UX designers, and technical designers at notable companies like Bungie, Nintendo, and Microsoft.
Top Game Design Schools in Washington: Your Guide to Kickstart a Gaming Career
Washington is a hub for aspiring game designers. With institutions like the Academy of Interactive Entertainment, DigiPen Institute of Technology, and the University of Washington, there’s no shortage of top-tier programs designed to prepare students for the dynamic world of game development. These schools offer a variety of degrees and certificates, each with a unique focus, whether it’s game art, programming, or interactive media.
The Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) provides a hands-on, industry-focused education in a studio environment. At DigiPen, students can dive deep into computer science and game design, while the University of Washington offers a fast-track game design certificate program. Lake Washington Institute of Technology, Seattle Central College, Bellevue College, and Edmonds College also offer robust programs that cover everything from game mechanics to virtual reality. Read on to discover what each of these schools has to offer and how they can help you achieve your dream of creating video games.
Introduction
Selecting the appropriate school is a significant part of your path to becoming a game designer. Each institution in Washington offers unique programs tailored to different aspects of game design and development. Whether you’re interested in level design, animation, or programming, there’s a school that can help you hone your skills. This guide will provide an overview of what to expect from each school, including course offerings, educational approaches, and the types of projects you’ll work on.
Prepare for an exciting educational journey that will test your abilities, hone your skills, and equip you for a prosperous career in the game industry.
Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE)
Located in the vibrant Seattle Center, the Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE) is renowned for its hands-on, industry-focused education. AIE is equipped with the latest 3D animation and game design technology, ensuring that students are always working with up-to-date tools and techniques. The studio environment at AIE mimics the professional world, giving students a real taste of what it’s like to work in the game industry.
AIE alumni have gone on to work at some of the most notable companies in the industry, including:
- DreamWorks
- LucasArts
- Jim Henson’s Creature Shop
- Sega
- EA Games
- Ubisoft
- Konami
This rich network of alumni and industry connections provides valuable opportunities for current students to learn from and connect with professionals. If you’re looking to create video games and gain practical, hands-on experience, AIE is an excellent choice.
DigiPen Institute of Technology
DigiPen Institute of Technology stands out with its diverse range of Bachelor’s degree programs, including a BS in Computer Science & Game Design, a BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation, and a BA in Game Design. These programs are designed to give students a robust education in both the technical and artistic aspects of game development. The BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation has received accreditation from the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET. This ensures that the program meets a high standard of education.
Students at DigiPen don’t just learn theory; they apply their knowledge in practical settings. The BA in Game Design, for example, helps students create compelling interactive systems, including user interfaces and applications. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from game mechanics and history to scripting and 2D/3D level design. This comprehensive approach ensures that graduates are well-rounded and prepared for various roles in the game industry.
DigiPen’s impressive track record speaks for itself. Alumni have contributed to over 2,000 commercial game titles and have won numerous awards, including 57 IGF awards. Companies like Epic Games, Electronic Arts, Sony Interactive Entertainment, and Nintendo have hired DigiPen graduates, underscoring the quality of education and industry readiness that DigiPen provides.
University of Washington
The University of Washington offers an intensive eight-month game design certificate program that is perfect for those looking to fast-track their entry into the video game industry. This program is designed for game designers, developers, and anyone passionate about the gaming world. The curriculum includes three comprehensive courses that cover:
- Focus groups
- Balancing
- Playtesting
- Understanding what keeps players engaged
Held on weekends in a blended learning format, combining in-person and online study, the UW program is both flexible and thorough. This setup allows students to gain in-depth knowledge while managing other commitments. Whether you’re looking to break into the industry or sharpen your existing skills, the University of Washington’s game design certificate program offers a solid foundation for success.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Lake Washington Institute of Technology (LWTech) offers both an associate degree and an applied bachelor’s degree in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media. The program is comprehensive, covering a wide range of skills including:
- Traditional art
- 3D modeling
- Programming
- Level design
- Technical art
- Animation
- User interface
This makes LWTech an excellent choice for students who want a well-rounded education that prepares them for various roles in the gaming industry.
The curriculum includes classes such as 3D Game Design, Designing for Interactive Technology, and Principles of Game Mechanics. These courses are designed to prepare students for careers not just in game development, but also in interactive media, marketing, advertising, education, industrial simulation, and virtual reality. LWTech offers a broad educational experience that equips students with the skills needed to thrive in multiple fields.
Seattle Central College
Seattle Central College’s game design course offers:
- Developed by a Unity Authorized Academic Training Partner with over 20 years of professional experience
- Focuses on essential skills such as programming languages, mathematics, and game asset creation
- Students will learn to create textured and lit real-time 3D scenes
- Gain practical experience that is crucial for a career in game design
One of the highlights of this program is the opportunity to build three complete games: a 3D arcade game, a first-person adventure, and a custom game of the student’s own design. This hands-on approach ensures that students not only learn the theoretical aspects of game development but also apply their knowledge in real-world game programming projects. By the end of the course, students will have a solid portfolio of completed games that showcase their skills and creativity.
Bellevue College
Bellevue College offers a Game Design certificate that emphasizes the principles of game design and their application across various platforms. The curriculum includes creating board and card games as well as games using digital tools and engines. This broad approach helps students understand the fundamentals of game design, regardless of the medium.
Students at Bellevue College learn:
- Advanced scripting and node-based programming languages
- Rapid prototyping methodologies specifically for game design
- Problem-solving skills, with exercises designed to address common issues in the game design pipeline
By the end of the program, game design students will have a strong grasp of game design principles and the ability to apply them in various contexts.
Edmonds College
Edmonds College offers an interactive media program that focuses on game art, interactive media production, user interface design, and virtual reality. This program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience in a studio environment, preparing them for careers in the gaming and digital media industries.
The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in virtual reality, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the latest trends and technologies in the industry. With a focus on both the artistic and technical aspects of game design, Edmonds College equips students with the skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving field.
Admission Requirements for Top Schools
Grasping the admission requirements for top game design schools in Washington is vital for aspiring students. Each school has its own set of criteria, ranging from portfolios and personal essays to specific academic qualifications.
In the following subsections, we will delve into the detailed admission requirements for AIE, DigiPen, the University of Washington, and Lake Washington Institute of Technology.
AIE Admission Requirements
To apply to AIE, applicants must:
- Provide proof of high school graduation or equivalent
- Submit an art or programming portfolio
- Write a 250-word essay
- Demonstrate English language proficiency with an IELTS score of 5.5 overall
- Participate in an interview with a faculty member
- Submit letters of recommendation.
DigiPen Admission Requirements
DigiPen requires applicants to:
- Have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Submit official transcripts from all previously attended schools
- Provide SAT or ACT scores
- Submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher, counselor, or principal.
DigiPen’s application fee is waived for admissions applications started between November 1 and November 30.
UW Admission Requirements
Applicants to the University of Washington’s game design certificate program must meet the following requirements:
- Have a bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Submit a statement of purpose outlining their goals and interests in game design
- Provide a portfolio showcasing relevant work
Scholarships are available based on financial need.
LWTech Admission Requirements
To apply for LWTech’s applied bachelor’s degree in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media, students must:
- Complete the general online application
- Have an associate degree in Digital Gaming and Interactive Media or equivalent
- Complete general education courses with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
Career Opportunities in Game Design
The game design sector provides a multitude of career possibilities for graduates. Common roles include:
- Game designer
- Level designer
- UX designer
- Technical designer
Junior game designers often start by helping to design game mechanics and storylines, gradually taking on more responsibilities as they gain experience. As a game developer, game programmers play a crucial role by writing the code that powers the game’s functionality and graphics.
Systems designers focus on creating and balancing the game’s systems, such as scoring, progression, and in-game economies. Graduates from these programs have found employment at top companies like Bungie, Nintendo, Microsoft, Amazon, EA Pop Cap, Oculus, and Cartoon Network. The certificate programs are designed to equip designers, developers, and entrepreneurs with the skills needed to succeed in the game industry.
Building a Professional Portfolio
An impressive game design portfolio is indispensable in displaying your skills and finished game projects to potential employers. Here are some tips to create an effective portfolio:
- Ensure your portfolio is easy to navigate, with download or store links for your games and a copy of your resume in both text and PDF format.
- Focus on game design work to avoid distractions.
- Include 1-3 well-documented projects where you had a significant role.
Document the design process with snapshots of early designs, pitch documents, and playtesting results. A demo video of your finished game can convey the gameplay experience better than static images or text. Students are encouraged to self-publish their projects and retain the rights to their work. The University of Washington’s program, for instance, includes creating a game design document for a professional portfolio.
Networking and Industry Connections
Networking is a pivotal element to achieving success in the game development field. Building genuine and respectful relationships with industry professionals can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable feedback, and help you learn new skills. Being proactive and prepared with a clear goal and concise pitch can enhance the effectiveness of your networking efforts.
Networking should be strategic and selective, focusing on quality relationships over quantity. Consistency and persistence are key to maintaining and nurturing these connections. Some ways to network effectively include:
- Attending industry events and conferences
- Joining professional organizations and online communities
- Reaching out to industry veterans for mentorship or advice
- Participating in interdisciplinary collaboration
Programs often provide opportunities to network with industry executives and showcase projects at events like PAX West. Engaging with industry veterans and participating in interdisciplinary collaboration can significantly boost your career prospects.