Game Art Design Programs in San Bernardino, California

Getting a Game Art Design Degree in San Bernardino, California

If you’re passionate about the world of video games and dream of creating stunning characters, immersive environments, or captivating animations, pursuing a Game Art Design degree could be your first step toward an exciting career. San Bernardino, California, offers opportunities for aspiring game artists to gain the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the game development industry. Whether you’re looking for a full degree program or specialized courses, this guide will help you navigate your options.

About San Bernardino

San Bernardino, located in the heart of Southern California, is known for its rich cultural history and proximity to stunning natural landmarks like the San Bernardino National Forest. As part of the Inland Empire region, the city offers a growing creative scene, making it a promising location for those interested in game art and design. To learn more about the city and its vibrant local community, visit the City of San Bernardino website.

Game Art Design Programs in San Bernardino, California

Finding the right Game Art Design program in or near San Bernardino is essential to building a strong foundation in the field. While the city itself has limited options for dedicated Game Art Design degrees, there are excellent programs available nearby. Here are some local and nearby schools offering relevant programs:

  1. California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB)
    Location: San Bernardino, CA
    CSUSB offers a Bachelor of Arts in Art with a concentration in Graphic Design and Visual Arts. While not strictly a Game Art Design program, the curriculum includes courses in digital modeling, animation, and design principles, which are foundational skills for game design careers. Learn more about their programs on the CSUSB Department of Art and Design page.

  2. Laguna College of Art + Design (LCAD)
    Location: Laguna Beach, CA (Approximately 60 miles southwest of San Bernardino)
    LCAD offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art, focusing on character design, environment design, and asset creation for video games. The college maintains strong industry connections, providing students with internship and job opportunities. Learn more about the program on the LCAD Game Art page.

  3. The Los Angeles Film School
    Location: Hollywood, CA (Approximately 65 miles west of San Bernardino)
    The Los Angeles Film School offers an Associate of Science in Game Art that covers 3D modeling, character animation, and game design fundamentals. This program is ideal for students seeking a shorter, specialized pathway into the industry. Explore more on the Los Angeles Film School Game Art page.

If you’re willing to commute or relocate, these programs offer a range of options to match your career goals.

Game Art Design Employment Opportunities in San Bernardino

San Bernardino and the surrounding areas are home to several game developers and creative studios, offering employment opportunities for graduates in Game Art Design. Here are some companies to consider:

  1. Imangi Studios
    Location: Riverside, CA (Approximately 15 miles southwest of San Bernardino)
    Imangi Studios is known for creating popular mobile games like Temple Run. The company often hires artists with skills in character design and animation. Visit the Imangi Studios Careers page for current opportunities.

  2. Obsidian Entertainment
    Location: Irvine, CA (Approximately 55 miles southwest of San Bernardino)
    Obsidian Entertainment is a renowned game development studio specializing in role-playing games (RPGs) such as The Outer Worlds and Pillars of Eternity. They frequently seek talented game artists to join their team. Learn more about their opportunities on the Obsidian Entertainment Careers page.

  3. Infinity Ward
    Location: Woodland Hills, CA (Approximately 70 miles west of San Bernardino)
    Infinity Ward, part of Activision, is the studio behind the Call of Duty franchise. They employ a wide range of creative professionals, including 3D artists and animators. Check their Infinity Ward Careers page for openings.

Proximity to these established studios provides excellent networking and career opportunities for aspiring game artists living in San Bernardino.

Prerequisites for Game Art Design Programs

Before enrolling in a Game Art Design program, it’s important to meet the typical prerequisites, which may include:

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is generally required.
  • Portfolio Submission: Many programs require applicants to submit a portfolio showcasing their artistic skills. This may include drawings, 3D models, or digital artwork.
  • Age Requirements: Most schools require students to be at least 18 years old or have parental consent if younger.
  • Entrance Exams: Some programs may require standardized test scores or specialized exams, though this varies by institution.

Be sure to review the specific requirements of your chosen program to ensure you meet all criteria.

Game Art Design Degree Requirements in California

California does not have specific state-mandated requirements for Game Art Design degrees. However, institutions offering these programs are typically accredited by organizations such as the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC). Accreditation ensures that the programs meet high academic and industry standards, which is crucial for future employment prospects.

In addition, programs often align with industry standards set by organizations like the Entertainment Software Association (ESA). You can learn more about the industry landscape by visiting the ESA website.

Standard requirements for earning a Game Art Design degree may include completing coursework in:

  • 3D Modeling and Animation
  • Game Design Principles
  • Digital Sculpting
  • Environment and Character Design

Programs may also require internships or capstone projects to provide hands-on experience.

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Game Art Design degree in or near San Bernardino, California, can open doors to a rewarding career in the gaming industry. Whether you choose a local program or commute to a nearby school, you’ll gain the skills needed to bring imaginative worlds to life. Take the first step by exploring the schools and programs mentioned above. Contact a school today and start your journey toward becoming a game art professional.