BFA in Video Game Design

Explore the gaming industry by building worlds and bringing games to life. Houston christian university’s (hcu) bachelor of fine arts (bfa) in video game design degree program is a deep dive into the fusion of art, storytelling, and technology, preparing students for dynamic careers in game design and development and interactive media. 

This program is built on the principle that great games emerge from a rich blend of narrative depth, artistic innovation, and cutting-edge technology. From mastering animation and programming to exploring game theory, Video Game Design majors transform their passion for gaming into a fulfilling profession.

Dive into creating captivating game environments and narratives, learn the art of character development, and engage in hands-on projects that bring your virtual worlds to life. With HCU’s BFA in Video Game Design, you’re crafting your path to becoming a visionary game designer with creativity, technical prowess, and a portfolio that speaks volumes of your talent and dedication.

Video Game Design Program Overview and Requirements

• The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Video Game Design curriculum promotes the nuts and bolts of game development and animation, underscored by narrative and game theory. You’ll start with a solid foundation in fine arts, design, and media studies and take professional courses that sharpen your skills in building, networking, and pitching an impressive portfolio. Advanced animation classes alongside general education classes fine-tune your critical thinking and technical skills, all enriched with perspectives on faith and culture.
• An integral part of your journey involves hands-on experiences through internships and portfolio creation. These real-world exposures to designing and developing games and interactive digital media ensure you’re not just ready to enter the game industry; you’re set to lead it.

Video Game Design Courses

• The BFA in Video Game Design program offers courses that seamlessly blend practical application with thoughtful reflection, from studying narrative theory to finding the through line between classical fine arts and advanced animation.

Courses include:

• Advanced Game Development I and II
• Animation Production I and II
• Art Foundations for Digital Artists
• Gameplay Implementation
• Principles of Game Theory

What Can I Do With a BFA in Video Game Design From HCU?

• With a BFA in Video Game Design, you’ll be ready to join creative and technical settings related to video game design and development across entertainment companies, multimedia studios, and even PR and marketing industries that support the game industry.
• Apply your knowledge in dynamic environments, from designing compelling game experiences to managing teams and game launches. Additionally, pursuing graduate studies becomes a viable next step, with options ranging from audio engineering and video game scoring to animation programming, editing, and business management.

Career and Salary Outcomes

• The Video Game Design major opens the door to careers in game design and development, where you fuse your artistic abilities with the tools to create captivating interactive experiences. Specializing in lighting or texture animation, designing background environments, or refining character appearances are just a few paths available. The program also prepares you to work with teams to bring visionary games and interactive media to life—whether designing immersive levels for a first-person RPG or capturing the charm of a retro-inspired scrolling game.

Potential careers include:

• 3D Modeler
• Character Designer
• Environment Designer
• Game Designer
• Game Programmer
• Game Tester
• Game Writer
• Storyboard Artist

The video game industry’s dynamic nature means salaries can vary, with factors such as your role, experience, and the size and location of the company playing a part. As your career progresses, opportunities to move into senior positions like lead game designer or art director become achievable.

Opportunities for Video Game Design Majors

• Explore Technical and Aesthetics Aspects of Game Design
• As a Video Game Design major, you can perfect your drawing and animation style while also mastering the intricacies of game development and implementation through projects in computer labs and direct design assignments. You’ll work on your own, with teams of other students, and under faculty mentorship. This comprehensive approach ensures you’re not just learning about game design; you’re actively participating in creating real games.

Work a Video Game Industry Internship

• This program transcends classroom learning, including experiences pitching game concepts and participation in a semester-long internship. Completing an internship in game development and interactive media sharpens skills across design, professional communication, and animation techniques and immerses you in the day-to-day of video game careers. Access to a broad range of intern locations and employers in the vast metropolitan area of Houston ensures preparedness for the professional world of game design.

Continue to Top Graduate Programs in the Arts

• After building the foundation as a Video Game Design major, take on high levels of creative practice and advance your career in video game development and interactive media with HCU’s specialized graduate programs. Our Master of Arts (MA) in Cinematic Arts, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Screenwriting, and Creative Writing programs (Master of Arts in Creative Writing or MFA in Creative Writing) build on your video game design foundation, offering expert guidance and practical experience to propel you into leadership roles.