Game Art Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona
Getting a Game Art Design Degree in Glendale, Arizona
Are you considering a career in Game Art Design? Earning a Game Art Design degree in Glendale, Arizona, can be your first step towards a rewarding career in the video game industry. This guide will walk you through the available educational programs, employment opportunities, and key requirements for pursuing this exciting field in Glendale and the surrounding areas.
Game Art Design combines creativity, technical skills, and storytelling to create the visual elements of video games. From character development to environment creation, Game Art Design programs provide the tools and training needed to turn your passion for gaming into a professional career. Whether you’re looking for an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree, or advanced training, Glendale offers a variety of options to get started.
About Glendale, Arizona
Glendale, located in Maricopa County, is a thriving city known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and proximity to the greater Phoenix metropolitan area. Home to attractions like State Farm Stadium and the Westgate Entertainment District, Glendale serves as a hub for education and innovation in Arizona. For more about the city, visit the official Glendale website.
Game Art Design Programs in Glendale, Arizona
If you’re interested in pursuing a Game Art Design degree, several schools in and around Glendale offer relevant programs. Below is a list of options available locally and nearby:
Maricopa Community Colleges (Glendale Community College)
- Program: Video Game Production Certificate and Associate Degrees
- Location: Glendale, Arizona
- Overview: Maricopa Community Colleges, including Glendale Community College, offer programs in video game production that focus on game design, programming, and digital art. These affordable programs are designed for students looking to enter the field quickly or transfer to a four-year institution.
- Website: Maricopa Community Colleges Video Game Production
University of Advancing Technology (UAT)
- Program: AA and BA in Digital Media, Game Art and Animation, Game Design
- Location: Tempe, Arizona (approximately 30 miles from Glendale)
- Overview: UAT is a premier institution for game design and digital media degrees. Students gain hands-on experience in creating games while learning about interactive storytelling, 3D modeling, and game production.
- Website: University of Advancing Technology
Grand Canyon University (GCU)
- Program: BS in Computer Science with an emphasis on Game and Simulation Development
- Location: Phoenix, Arizona (approximately 10 miles from Glendale)
- Overview: GCU’s program combines technical expertise in computer science with creative elements of game development, preparing students for careers in software engineering and game design.
- Website: Grand Canyon University
If you’re open to traveling slightly farther, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, Arizona, offers a BS in Simulation, Games, and Animation.
Game Art Design Employment Opportunities in Glendale
Glendale and the surrounding Phoenix metropolitan area host several companies and organizations offering opportunities for Game Art Design graduates. Below are a few notable employers:
Electronic Arts (EA)
- Location: Phoenix, Arizona (near North Tempe)
- Overview: EA is a global leader in video game publishing, known for titles like FIFA and Madden NFL. The Phoenix office supports various aspects of game development, including design and user experience.
- Website: EA Careers
Riot Games
- Location: Scottsdale, Arizona (approximately 25 miles from Glendale)
- Overview: Riot Games, the creator of League of Legends, has a strong presence in Arizona. Their Scottsdale location focuses on game development, publishing, and community engagement.
- Website: Riot Games Careers
Pixel and Poly
- Location: Phoenix, Arizona
- Overview: Pixel and Poly is a boutique studio specializing in 3D modeling, animation, and game design services. They often collaborate on indie game projects and visual effects for larger productions.
- Website: Pixel and Poly
Prerequisites for Game Art Design Programs
To enroll in a Game Art Design program, you’ll typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.
- Portfolio: Many programs require a portfolio showcasing your artistic skills, such as sketches, 3D models, or animation projects.
- Standardized Tests: Some institutions may require SAT or ACT scores.
- Minimum GPA: Admission requirements often include a minimum GPA, which varies by school.
Game Art Design Degree Requirements in Arizona
In Arizona, programs in Game Art Design adhere to both state and national educational standards. Here are some key resources and requirements:
- City-Level Oversight: Programs in Glendale are overseen by the City of Glendale Department of Education.
- County-Level Oversight: The Maricopa County Department of Education supports local educational initiatives.
- State-Level Oversight: The Arizona Department of Education regulates educational standards and accredits programs statewide.
- Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) or the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Accreditation ensures program quality and eligibility for financial aid.
- Professional Organizations: The International Game Developers Association (IGDA) offers networking, resources, and professional development opportunities for students and professionals.
Get Started Today
Pursuing a Game Art Design degree in Glendale, Arizona, is an excellent way to combine creativity with cutting-edge technology. Whether you’re designing immersive worlds or programming interactive gameplay, the opportunities in this field are vast. Take the first step by exploring local programs and contacting schools to learn more about their offerings. Your journey in Game Art Design starts today!