How long does it take to get a gaming degree?

Typically, earning a bachelor’s degree in a gaming-related discipline, such as video game design or game development, takes four years of full-time study. Online degree programs for video game design usually require students to earn 120 credits for a bachelor’s degree, which can also take about four years to complete, although some accelerated programs or bootcamps can take less time.

FAQs About Gaming Degrees

General Information

1. Can you do a degree in gaming?: Yes, various gaming degrees are available, including Game Design, Game Development, and Esports Management, which equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the gaming industry.
2. How much money can you make with a gaming degree?: Entry-level game developers can earn around $60,000 to $80,000 per year, while mid-level game developers can earn between $80,000 and $120,000 per year, and senior game developers can earn upwards of $120,000 or more annually.

Education and Career Paths

3. Do gamers need a degree?: While a formal education isn’t required for all video game-related jobs, having a degree can open up more career opportunities and advancement possibilities.
4. What do gamers go to college for?: Gamers can pursue degrees in computer science, video game programming and development, interactive media design, sound production, or graphic design, depending on their interests and career goals.
5. Can you go to school to be a professional gamer?: Yes, various degree programs are available, including bachelor’s or master’s degrees in game development or computer science, which teach the essentials of designing and testing computer games and console games.

Career Development and Financial Aspects

6. How do I get paid to be a gamer?: You can get paid to play video games through Swagbucks, become a Twitch streamer, work as a video games tutor, compete in gaming tournaments, apply for an esports scholarship, work as a games tester, make money as a gamer on social media, or write video game reviews for money.
7. How do I start a gaming career?: To become a pro video gamer, choose a game, get active in the gaming community, find the right equipment, practice often, understand how to compete, start small, and improve your experience.
8. Can gaming get you a career?: Yes, gaming can lead to a career, with the video game industry expected to be worth $321 billion by 2026, offering various job opportunities for artists, programmers, testers, and more.

Industry Insights and Opportunities

9. Is it hard to get a job as a game developer?: Getting started in the video game industry can be challenging, but having advanced skills and a well-polished portfolio can help you get a job at a major game studio.
10. Can I become a game developer without a degree?: Yes, the gaming industry is diverse, and you don’t necessarily need a degree to find employment, but having one can be beneficial for career advancement.
11. What degree should I get if I want to be a video game designer?: A bachelor’s degree in software engineering is an ideal starting point for becoming a video game designer.

Financial and Professional Aspects

12. Does being a gamer pay well?: The salaries of Professional Gamers in the US range from $19,910 to $187,200, with a median salary of $44,680.
13. Can I become a pro gamer at 25?: There is no age limitation for becoming a pro gamer, and it’s never too late to start.
14. How old is the youngest professional gamer?: The youngest professional video gamer was signed at the age of six.

Industry and Job Opportunities

15. What job do most gamers have?: The top jobs for gamers include Game Developer, Game Designer, Marketing Analyst, Video Game Writer, Animator, Video Game Artist, Game Tester, and Professional Gamer, offering a range of career paths in the gaming industry.