Introduction
The world of gaming is constantly evolving, and as it does, so do the needs of game developers. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced developer, there’s always something new to learn. That’s why pursuing a master’s degree in game development can be such an excellent choice. A master’s degree will not only provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in your career but also give you the opportunity to network with other professionals in the industry. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top game development masters programs in the USA for aspiring game developers.
1. Carnegie Mellon University – Troy Hill Game and Animation Center
Carnegie Mellon University’s Troy Hill Game and Animation Center is one of the most prestigious game development programs in the world. The program offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Video Games, which focuses on advanced game design, programming, and production techniques. Students have the opportunity to work on real-world projects with industry professionals, as well as access to state-of-the-art equipment and facilities.
One example of a successful graduate from this program is John Carmack, co-founder of id Software and creator of the Doom and Wolfenstein series. Carmack credits his time at CMU with helping him develop the skills he needed to create some of the most iconic games in video game history.
2. USC – School of Computer Science – Interactive Media Studies
The University of Southern California’s School of Computer Science offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Interactive Media Studies, which includes a specialization in game design and development. The program emphasizes hands-on experience and provides students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects with industry professionals.
One example of a successful graduate from this program is Kellee Santiago, co-founder of Thatgamecompany and creator of the critically acclaimed game Journey. Santiago credits her time at USC with helping her develop the skills she needed to create one of the most emotionally impactful games in recent memory.
3. University of Texas at Austin – Department of Computer Science
The University of Texas at Austin’s Department of Computer Science offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Game Design and Development, which focuses on advanced game design, programming, and production techniques. The program emphasizes both theory and practice, providing students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects with industry professionals while also learning about the latest trends and research in game development.
One example of a successful graduate from this program is Richard Devine, co-founder of indie game studio Playdead and creator of the critically acclaimed game Limbo. Devine credits his time at UT Austin with helping him develop the skills he needed to create one of the most visually stunning games in recent memory.
4. Georgia Institute of Technology – Scheller College of Business – Entertainment and Media
The Georgia Institute of Technology’s Scheller College of Business offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Entertainment and Media, which includes a specialization in game design and development. The program emphasizes both business and creative aspects of the gaming industry, providing students with the opportunity to learn about the latest trends and research in game development while also developing the skills they need to succeed in the business side of the industry.
One example of a successful graduate from this program is Jill Murray, co-founder of indie game studio LittleBigPlanet and creator of the critically acclaimed game Portal. Murray credits her time at Georgia Tech with helping her develop the skills she needed to create one of the most innovative and groundbreaking games in recent memory.
5. University of California – Santa Cruz – Department of Computer Science
The University of California, Santa Cruz’s Department of Computer Science offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Game Design and Development, which focuses on advanced game design, programming, and production techniques. The program emphasizes both theory and practice, providing students with the opportunity to work on real-world projects with industry professionals while also learning about the latest trends and research in game development.
