Game Development Master’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Game development is a growing field with lots of career opportunities for professionals. Experts in this field can work as game developers, game producers, game testers, and game artists. To enter this field, most employers require a bachelor’s degree. However, with a master’s degree, you can advance in your career.

Game developer master’s degrees can also increase your potential earnings. If you want to pursue this advanced degree, this article will help you make an informed decision. It will highlight some of the best master’s degree programs in game design both online and in-person along with potential career options after you graduate.

What is Game Development?

Game development is a technical field that involves game design and production. It also involves the entire process of creating a game from ideation to deployment. This process may also include the stages that follow creation and development.

What is a Game Development Master’s Degree?

A game development master’s degree focuses on different aspects of game development.  The coursework may cover production methodologies, practical application, team leadership, and project management. An advanced degree allows you to gain a more in-depth understanding of the hard skills and theoretical concepts you need to thrive in the game industry.

Some game development master’s degree programs are available online. Others are held on campus. Institutions often provide high-tech software for game design courses. Most game development master’s degrees last for one year. Some take as long as two years depending on the environment.

Game Development Master’s Degree Requirements

The requirements for this degree may vary from school to school. However, most institutions require a bachelor’s degree from related programs, a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, transcripts from previous degrees, and a professional game portfolio.

Other institutions may require an interview to check that you meet the education requirements for the academic program. Students who do not have bachelor’s degrees in similar programs may be required to take extra classes.

How Much Does a Game Development Master’s Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics,

the average tuition in a public university for graduate studies

is $12,410. The cost is a lot higher for graduate programs in private institutions where students pay an average of $26,597 per year.

Game Development Master’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Game Development Degree

Schools allow you to pay for tuition in many ways. You can pay for tuition through student loans, financial aid, and grants. Some students may also qualify for scholarships depending on their skills and education.

Best Game Development Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Game Development: Top Game Development Master’s Degree Programs

If you’re looking to thrive in the video game industry, you can advance your level of education. We’ve included some of the best schools to enroll in for your master’s degree in game development. The list below provides details for the individual programs offered by these schools.

Master of Arts in Game Development | Academy of Art University

This program emphasizes UI/UX design, game design, and 3D character modeling. The coursework covers specialized practices for gameplay mechanics, complex 3D software usage, and other useful tools in the field. The program offers hands-on experience. Students also work in groups on real-world projects.

Master of Arts in Game Design | American University Washington

The main focus of this program is game engagement mechanics and game design. It offers several concentrations and students can customize the program to suit their career aspirations. Some of the courses in the curriculum include games and society, and games and rhetoric. Students also need to complete nine credit hours of electives.

Master Of Science In Game Design And Development | Bradley University

Students in this graduate degree program can earn their master’s degree within a calendar year. The program has a game programming concentration for students, however, this concentration requires additional credits to complete. Students in this concentration master professional skills in software design and development and build a professional portfolio.

Master of Fine Arts in Game Design | DePaul University

This program focuses on interactive design and game development. It prepares students for the field of game design. It features a design lab and game center for virtual and augmented reality, study trips, exhibitions, and symposiums. The projects they create are exhibited by the faculty. This program also includes a thesis project.

Master of Science In Game Design | Full Sail University

This program focuses on production, user experience research, and design. Students are also allowed to customize their programs to fit different roles in the field. The roles include producer, user experience researcher, game publisher, or game designer. Some of the main courses in the program include game design, project and team management, game production tools, and user experience.

Master of Arts in Computer Game Design | George Mason University

This program at George Mason University requires 36 credits to complete. The coursework covers topics like game design, interactive design, creative writing, game production, and electives to ensure students achieve a mastery of game development.

The curriculum is a balance of gaming science and craft to prepare students for a career in computer game design. Some of the courses in this program include advanced game art, interactive game systems design, game studio management, and game business and practice.

Master of Fine Arts in Game Design  | Laguna College of Art and Design

This program in game design focuses on game creation and development. It can be completed in two years and students are trained in player interaction and design fundamentals. Some courses in the curriculum include game production, game programming, prototyping, engine technology, and mechanics-based game analysis.

Master of Fine Arts in Game Design | New York University

This program focuses on game design and development. Most students can complete this program within two years. It also includes cultural and critical literacy. The coursework covers game studies, game production, game design, game history, and studio courses.

Students also write a thesis during their second year. You will work on individual and group projects to develop engaging game experiences. The program structure is also quite flexible as classes can be taken from any department.

Master of Science in Game Design and Development | Rochester Institute of Technology

This game development program focuses on game design and development. Some main courses in the curriculum include game world design, computer graphics, interactive narratives, and game engines. Students ia this two-year program re required to take core courses and electives as well as participate in a capstone project.

Master of Science in Interactive Entertainment | University of Central Florida

This program focuses on game programming, video game design, 3D artistry, technical design, level design, creative collaboration, modeling, motion capture, rapid prototyping, technical art, and software engineering. Students also learn the ethical and legal issues that accompany mobile game design. They also learn about pre-production. and the initial concept phase The

Best Online Game Development Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Game Development: Top Online Game Development Master’s Degree Programs

If you’re interested in alternatives to in-person education, you have the option of getting a degree remotely. This option is ideal for working professionals who want to advance their careers without committing to full-time study. Here are some of the best online schools to learn essential skills for game development.

Master of Science in Software Development (MSSD) | Boston University

This program focuses on the software creation process as well as industry standards. Students learn to create reliable and robust software in this program. To get this degree, students must complete 32 credits and it offers both full-time and part-time options. However, most students complete the program in 16 months to two years.

Master of Software Engineering | Brandeis University

This program can be completed in two years. Students take six core courses detailing software development, object-oriented design, software testing, and other topics that align with the software development process. This program also offers four elective courses including responsive web design, cloud computing, and mobile applications.

Master of Science in Software Engineering | East Carolina University

This program focuses on general software engineering which includes game design. Students learn to design, build, test, and maintain software systems. Some of the programs in the coursework include project management, software engineering foundations, data functions, and programming.

Master of Science in Software Engineering | Kennesaw State University

This program focuses on fundamental concepts in cloud computing, user interactive engineering, modeling, mobile app development, and simulation. Students learn software design, analysis, system verification, architecture, data storage, and data retrieval. This makes it possible for them to develop useful software services and products.

Master Of Science In IT: Software Design Management | Liberty University

This online program follows an eight-week session model and focuses on systems analysis, data mining, data analytics, computer security, database design, and ethical and legal issues. The curriculum covers courses like software development engineering and secure software engineering to teach students professional development best practices.

Master of Arts in Game Design | Lindenwood University

This program focuses on game aesthetics, usability, immersion, and economics. Students also master the art of storytelling and character development. The online degree offers two completion plans for students. They can choose a project plan or thesis track. Courses teach students about human-computer interaction, game logic, visual communication, and more.

Master of Science in Game Science and Design | Northeastern University

This program from Northeastern University requires 34 credit hours to complete. Students learn the design and technical skills needed to develop an interactive experience. The program also focuses on game playability and game analytics. Students are assigned advisors to help them choose their electives to match their career goals. The program can be completed within 18 months.

Master of Science in Software Development and Engineering | Pace University

Students in this program can customize the courses to fit their career goals. The main focus of the program is on the entire software development process from design to programming and development. The core areas of the program include software management and evolution, system and software design, and human resources management in software development.

Master of Science in Games and Playable Media | University of California Santa Cruz

This program focuses on game design as well as social responsibility in game design. The program requires a capstone project for completion. Some of the main courses in the curriculum include game design systems, game engineering, and playable media studio.

Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Media | University of Miami

This program requires 45 credits to complete and students can finish in two years. Some tracks in the program include game design, interaction design, user experience, interactive storytelling, visualization, and information graphics. Students take elective courses with help from department advisors.

They learn about emerging technologies in game design like data visualization, web design, and interaction design. Before they graduate, students learn to produce game prototypes, research, build, and design projects that fit into different contexts.

What’s the Average Game Development Master’s Degree Salary?

According to PayScale, professionals with a master’s degree in

game development can earn an average salary

of $88,000. However, this figure largely depends on the role and location. Some professionals earn higher.

Top Game Development Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Game Development Master’s Degree Jobs Explained

Game Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $112,320
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, New York, Massachusetts

Game engineers produce digital games as they work with other professionals like designers, engineers, and programmers. They are also responsible for artificial intelligence and other programs that control character movement, action, and appearance.

Game Developer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $101,644
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  22%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  New York, New Hampshire, California, Vermont

Game developers

specialize in creating video or computer games. They may work on one or several platforms and have an in-depth understanding of digital media and the video gaming industry. These experts may also be responsible for artificial intelligence and virtual landscape programming in games.

Lead Quality Assurance

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $99,982
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  -12%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  557,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Alaska, Washington DC, North Dakota, Washington

Lead quality assurance professionals oversee product testing to ensure that it meets the standards of the organization. They also take part in developing testing plans, liaising with members of the product team, and creating strategies for risk mitigation. These experts also suggest process improvements to ensure the highest possible quality game.

Software Engineer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $99,729
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  22%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  New York, New Hampshire, California, Vermont

Software engineers design and develop software solutions for clients. These experts work on web apps, databases, content management systems, and operating systems. Software engineers apply mathematical analysis to design computer software.

VFX Artist

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $85,946
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  16%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  62,400
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Connecticut, California, North York, Oregon

VFX (visual effects) artists are responsible for adding effects to playable games. They are responsible for creating things that move in the game. Some examples include water, dust, explosions, and superpowers. These artists make use of digital art software to create stunning effects to make the game more realistic.

Gaming Programmer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $83,479
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  -10%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  185,700
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, Washington DC, California, Virginia

Gaming programmers develop software that is used to create video games. The role of mobile gaming programmers may include assembling game engines and platforms to power a game and writing codes for custom software that will support the requirements of the game.

Project Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $78,087
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  4%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  197,800
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Colorado, Texas, New Mexico

Gaming project managers create and meet target deadlines for different projects in a game studio. These professionals are experts in effective communication and are responsible for project organization for the studio to make sure objectives are met. They also design plans and introduce processes to make sure others in the team produce quality work.

Simulation Programmers

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $76,289
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  -10%**
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  185,700
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, Washington DC, California, Virginia

Simulation programmers are responsible for developing computer simulations that allow users to test, view, and manipulate real products, systems, services, issues, and conditions. All this can be done by the users without having to take risks or incur costs.

Game Animator

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $51,259
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  16%***
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  62,400
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Connecticut, California, North York, Oregon

Game animators bring 3D and 2D art to life by making these creations move. They often work with a storyboard and create movement for the vehicles and characters of a game. These experts are responsible for adding emotion, personality, and realism to a game.

Game Writer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $50,209
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  9%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  143,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington DC, California, Connecticut, New York

Game writers develop video game plots for various game genres. They are also responsible for writing the dialogue in the video game. These experts work during pre-production and create characters to further the game narrative. Their work is passed on to programmers and designers who give the game structure.

*Job outlook data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report on software developers.

**Job outlook data from the BLS report on computer programmers.

***Job outlook data from the BLS report on special effects artists and animators.

Game Development Bootcamp vs Game Development Master’s Degree: Which Is Better?

Both game development bootcamps and game development master’s degree programs can help you to advance your career in the field. The best option fpr you depends on your long-term career goals and resources. Here are some advantages of both options.

Benefits of a Game Development Master’s Degree

• 
  Develop advanced skills.
  
  A master’s degree in game development can help you to develop advanced skills. This means that more organizations will be willing to pay for your skills.
• 
  Diverse career options.
  
  This approach to education can give you a plethora of options to pursue in your career due to the interdisciplinary nature of many degree programs. You can choose to work as a game designer, software engineer, or VFX artist.
• 
  Opportunity to grow your network.
  
  A master’s degree program is an excellent way to connect with other professionals in the field. These connections can come in handy in the future.
• 
  Competitive salary.
  
  Professionals with a master’s degree often benefit from a competitive salary because they earn more than their counterparts with bachelor’s degrees.
• 
  Boost your confidence.
  
  A master’s degree will boost your confidence because you will have several useful skills that make you stand out in the game development industry.

Benefits of a Game Development Bootcamp

• 
  Affordable.
  
  Game development bootcamps are more affordable than master’s degrees and bachelor’s degrees. You can also use loans, scholarships, and installment payments to pay for your tuition.
• 
  Student support.
  
  Students in bootcamps receive support during and after their program. They also learn how to prepare for job interviews to ensure they become job offers.
• 
  Progresses quickly.
  
  Bootcamps make it easier to enter the field within a short period. The programs last for a few weeks to months and you can get a job in game development within a few months after graduating.
• 
  Promotes networking.
  
  Networking is also possible in
  
  the best game design bootcamps
  
  because graduate students work together and collaborate on cross-disciplinary projects. They can also interact with bootcamp alumni.
• 
  Teaches in-demand skills.
  
  Your educational experience in a bootcamp program will only focus on skills that employers are looking for and not general topics. Students gain experience in game development and build a professional game portfolio.

Should You Get a Master’s Degree in Game Development?

Yes, a master’s degree in game development can give you the critical thinking skills you need to thrive professionally. The degree also gives you options when it comes to choosing a career path once you have a goal in mind. If you are interested in game production and management, a

master’s degree

is worth it.

You can choose to work in different fields with your skills. A master’s degree in game development increases your earning potential. Employers are usually willing to pay candidates more if they have more skills and credentials.

Game Development Master’s Degree FAQ