2 answers
Emma
Student
Bradenton, Florida
1
Question
Asked
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What do I need to do to become a video game programmer?
What do I need to major and minor in for a bachelor’s degree so I can become a video game programmer? Are there multiple subjects I should major/minor in to become a video game programmer?
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2 answers
Annaleigh Niedzielski
Videographer, Producer, Assistant Director
65
Answers
Phoenix, Arizona
Updated
Annaleigh’s Answer
Hi Emma! To become a video game programmer, a solid educational foundation is key. Typically, you should major in Computer Science or Software Engineering, as these programs provide essential programming skills and knowledge of algorithms, data structures, and software development principles. Additionally, consider minoring in Game Design or Interactive Media, which can give you insight into the creative aspects of game development.
Other valuable subjects to consider include Mathematics (especially courses in calculus and linear algebra) and Art or Animation, depending on your interests. Combining technical skills with an understanding of game design principles can set you apart in the industry. Internships and personal projects are also crucial, as they provide hands-on experience and help build your portfolio.
I know someone who works in video game development who studied animation in school, so it is really all about what interests you! Good luck!
Other valuable subjects to consider include Mathematics (especially courses in calculus and linear algebra) and Art or Animation, depending on your interests. Combining technical skills with an understanding of game design principles can set you apart in the industry. Internships and personal projects are also crucial, as they provide hands-on experience and help build your portfolio.
I know someone who works in video game development who studied animation in school, so it is really all about what interests you! Good luck!
I appreciate your support, Annaleigh
Emma
Michelle M.
Entertainment Industry
1913
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Emma !
In order to become a Video Game Programmer, you can consider Computer Science or Game Development as a major or any major that focuses on Game Development. You do not need a minor unless you really want one. You would obtain a Bachelors Degree and I would recommend any certifications that are available for this.
You're going to need to learn C++, Java, Python, or HTML5 because those are mostly used in programming. You can see if they have classes in high school for this or seek out courses for it in colleges if you don't already know them. Explore this field and consider specializing in one area of it, such as development or graphics. Also know that it is a very competitive market. For now, see if there is a computer extracurricular that you can join at school and, when you are ready, also participate in online projects which you can find by doing a search online.
You may want to become familiar with colleges that offer the major you are interested in. Find out more about Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy at the University of Central Florida in Orlando and Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota. I left a link to a website that provides information about possible additional colleges you may be interested in.
You will not have to major and minor in multiple subjects. That's not how it works. One Major would be sufficient to obtain a Bachelors Degree. When you Major in a subject, there are required courses in that subject that you would have to take and they are all indicated clearly in the college course schedule and program requirements. You can read them on their websites. While in college, you will have general education requirements also that you will be taking. Those are courses that most times do not pertain to your major if it is Game Development. You need the general ed courses (as well as your Major courses) to obtain your Bachelors Degree.
While you are in college and after, you are going to need to network with industry professionals at game development events and on the internet. You will also need to go through job recruiters when you are ready to start applying for jobs after college. I left a link for you below of some recruiters for after you graduate college and want to take the first step for your career. There are many more recruitment agencies that you can find by doing a search online.
If you have any other specific questions, do feel free to come back and ask. Best wishes to you with exploring this career !
LIST OF FLORIDA COLLEGES WITH GAME ART, GAME DESIGN AND GAME DEVELOPMENT DEGREE PROGRAMS https://www.animationcareerreview.com/articles/list-florida-schools-game-art-game-design-and-game-development-degree-programs
GAME AND DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT RECRUITERS FOR WHEN YOU GRADUATE COLLEGE https://gamerecruiter.com/
In order to become a Video Game Programmer, you can consider Computer Science or Game Development as a major or any major that focuses on Game Development. You do not need a minor unless you really want one. You would obtain a Bachelors Degree and I would recommend any certifications that are available for this.
You're going to need to learn C++, Java, Python, or HTML5 because those are mostly used in programming. You can see if they have classes in high school for this or seek out courses for it in colleges if you don't already know them. Explore this field and consider specializing in one area of it, such as development or graphics. Also know that it is a very competitive market. For now, see if there is a computer extracurricular that you can join at school and, when you are ready, also participate in online projects which you can find by doing a search online.
You may want to become familiar with colleges that offer the major you are interested in. Find out more about Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy at the University of Central Florida in Orlando and Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota. I left a link to a website that provides information about possible additional colleges you may be interested in.
You will not have to major and minor in multiple subjects. That's not how it works. One Major would be sufficient to obtain a Bachelors Degree. When you Major in a subject, there are required courses in that subject that you would have to take and they are all indicated clearly in the college course schedule and program requirements. You can read them on their websites. While in college, you will have general education requirements also that you will be taking. Those are courses that most times do not pertain to your major if it is Game Development. You need the general ed courses (as well as your Major courses) to obtain your Bachelors Degree.
While you are in college and after, you are going to need to network with industry professionals at game development events and on the internet. You will also need to go through job recruiters when you are ready to start applying for jobs after college. I left a link for you below of some recruiters for after you graduate college and want to take the first step for your career. There are many more recruitment agencies that you can find by doing a search online.
If you have any other specific questions, do feel free to come back and ask. Best wishes to you with exploring this career !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Emma