Video Game Design
Video Game Design is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Pembroke Pines, FL. The program takes 20 months to complete.
Program Overview
Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Video Game Design covers the full range of skills required to produce polished, playable video games. Coursework spans character development, 3D modeling and animation, level design, game prototyping, game assembly, and programming fundamentals. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard game engines and the same tools used across professional game development studios. The program blends technical design training with creative coursework across computer graphics, interactive design, narrative design, and digital image editing, giving graduates a well-rounded foundation for careers as video game designers, game artists, and animators in the gaming industry and beyond.
Request More Info Program MissionThe Video Game Design Program at Keiser University mission is ensuring students gain knowledge in the processes and skills required to produce assets and levels for games. Through immersing students in a hands-on curriculum, the program promotes creative and conceptual areas such as character development, 3D modeling and animation, game theory.
Program Goals- Educational Excellence. Students will apply knowledge of computer-based 3D modeling, animation theory and techniques, level and environmental design, texturing, and lighting for a variety of game genres.
- Professional Development. Students will demonstrate the ability to master industry-standard 2D and 3D software and game engines.
- Creative Problem Solving. Students will apply critical thinking skills and communicate effectively while demonstrating creative problem solving.
- Career Readiness. Students will demonstrate preparedness for successful careers in entry-level positions as game modelers, animators, level designers, texture mappers and story developers.
Prerequisites
No prerequisites required for major courses.
Program Highlights- Students in the Video Game Design program gain hands-on experience across the full game development pipeline. The curriculum covers 3D animation, 3D modeling, texturing, level design, game prototyping, and programming fundamentals.
- Small class sizes at Keiser University mean students receive individual attention from faculty with real-world experience in video game development and interactive media.
- Graduates leave with a strong portfolio of completed projects and the technical skills and creative knowledge needed for entry-level roles as game designers, animators, and interactive media professionals.
- Students who want to continue their education can build directly toward the Bachelor of Science in Animation and Game Design.
Estimated Student Costs
Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the university’s catalog or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of Keiser University’s video game design program enter the workforce prepared for entry-level roles across the gaming industry and interactive media field. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, labor statistics show continued demand for multimedia artists and animators, a category that includes many video game designers, driven by growth in video games, interactive design, and digital content creation. This program supports aspiring game designers by building practical knowledge across 3D modeling, animation, game programming, and level design, the same core skills that video game designers work with every day on professional game development teams.
Career Pathways in Video Game Design- Game Designer
- 3D Modeler
- Character Animator
- Game Programmer
- UI Designer for Games
- Interactive Media Designer
- Visual Effects Artist
- Game Story Developer
- Game Asset Creator
- Digital Media Designer
Why Choose Keiser University
Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Video Game Design Career:
- Technical skills in 3D modeling and animation
- Game programming and game engine development fundamentals
- Level design and world building techniques
- Character development and character animation
- Interactive design and narrative design
- Computer graphics and digital image editing
- Creative problem-solving and design thinking
- Project management and time management in game production
Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.
Request More InfoFrequently Asked Questions
Can I earn a video game design degree online at Keiser University?
No. The Associate of Science in Video Game Design is offered on-campus at Keiser University in Pembroke Pines.
What is the difference between the associate and bachelor's degree in video game design?
The Associate of Science in Video Game Design covers foundational skills across 3D modeling, animation, level design, and game programming, preparing graduates for entry-level positions in the gaming industry. The Bachelor of Science in Animation and Game Design builds on that foundation with advanced coursework in character modeling, character rigging, environmental modeling, and full-scale digital media production. The bachelor’s program also includes upper division elective courses in areas such as project management, data management, and software design for students pursuing more advanced career goals.
What careers can I pursue with a Video Game Design Associate Degree?
Graduates of the video game design program can pursue entry-level careers as game designers, level designers, 3D modelers, character animators, game artists, texture artists, and game QA testers. Many also move into roles across interactive media, digital media production, and related creative fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook, labor statistics reflect continued demand for multimedia artists and animators across the video game industry and beyond.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Is financial aid available for online students?
Yes. Students in this program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Do video game designers need a degree to break into the gaming industry?
A formal degree in video game design or a related field gives aspiring game designers a competitive edge with potential employers. Many gaming companies prefer candidates who bring documented technical skills, a strong portfolio, and hands-on experience in game development, game engines, and programming fundamentals. Keiser’s program provides all three.
How long does it take to complete the Video Game Design Associate Degree?
The Associate of Science in Video Game Design at Keiser University takes approximately 20 months to complete. Time to degree completion is an estimate, not intended as a guarantee, and can vary based on many case-by-case factors.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What courses are required in the Video Game Design associate program?
Courses in the AS in Video Game Design include foundational and technical training across:
3D Animation, 3D Modeling 3D, Texturing Game Development, Level Design, Game Prototyping, Game Assembly, Game Execution, Digital Image Editing, and Programming Fundamentals.
General education courses in English, mathematics, natural science, and behavioral science complete the 60-credit-hour program. An academic advisor can guide course selection based on individual goals and any transfer credits.
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Location
Accreditation
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. While this program doesn’t require programmatic accreditation, the SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.
Required Courses
| Name | Credits |
|---|---|
| Video Game Design Major Courses (36.0 credit hours) | |
| 3D Animation | 3 |
| 3D Modeling | 3 |
| 3D Texturing | 3 |
| Game Development | 3 |
| 3D Modeling Techniques | 3 |
| 3D Animation Techniques | 3 |
| Level Design | 3 |
| Game Prototyping | 3 |
| Game Assembly | 3 |
| Game Execution | 3 |
| Digital Image Editing | 3 |
| Programming Fundamentals | 3 |
| Subtotal | 36 |
| Behavioral/Social Science (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American History Pre 1876 | 3 |
| American History Since 1876 | 3 |
| Strategies for Success | 3 |
| Political Science | 3 |
| Introduction to Psychology | 3 |
| Sociology | 3 |
| Subtotal | 18 |
| Communications (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Speech Communications | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| Computers (3.0 credit hours) | |
| Introduction to Computers | 3 |
| Subtotal | 3 |
| English (3.0 credit hours) | |
| English Composition I | 3 |
| English Composition II | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Humanities/Fine Arts (3.0 credit hours) | |
| American Literature | 3 |
| English Literature | 3 |
| Subtotal | 6 |
| Mathematics (3.0 credit hours) | |
| College Algebra | 3 |
| Intermediate Algebra | 3 |
| College Mathematics | 3 |
| Applications of Mathematics | 3 |
| Statistics | 3 |
| Subtotal | 15 |
| Natural Science (6.0 credit hours) | |
| General Biology | 3 |
| General Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| Advanced Biology | 3 |
| Advanced Biology Laboratory | 1 |
| Environmental Science | 3 |
| Subtotal | 11 |
| Program Total | 98 |
