Game Art Design Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Getting a Game Art Design Degree in Tacoma, Washington

Considering a career in game art design? Tacoma, Washington, offers opportunities for aspiring game artists to gain the education and training needed to succeed in this innovative and fast-growing field. Game art design encompasses the creation of visual elements for video games, combining artistic skills with technical expertise. Whether you’re interested in creating characters, designing immersive environments, or developing interactive user interfaces, a Game Art Design Degree can help you build the foundation for a dynamic career.

There are various education paths to explore, including associate, bachelor’s, and even master’s degrees, as well as specialized certificates. In this guide, we will cover the educational options available in Tacoma, nearby schools, local employment opportunities, and the steps to meet program and industry requirements.

About Tacoma, Washington

Tacoma, located in Pierce County, Washington, is a vibrant city known for its thriving arts community and proximity to Seattle’s booming tech industry. As the third-largest city in the state, Tacoma boasts a unique blend of urban culture and natural beauty, with landmarks like the Museum of Glass and Point Defiance Park. The city’s official website, City of Tacoma, provides more information about local attractions and resources.

Tacoma’s growing creative community and access to technology hubs in neighboring cities make it an ideal place to start your journey into game art design.

Game Art Design Programs in Tacoma, Washington

Currently, Tacoma itself has limited options for Game Art Design programs. However, several schools in nearby cities provide excellent opportunities for aspiring game designers. Below is a list of institutions offering relevant programs, including the distance to Tacoma for your convenience:

  1. DigiPen Institute of Technology

    • Location: Redmond, WA (46 miles from Tacoma)
    • Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science & Game Design, Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Game Design, Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Digital Art
    • Details: DigiPen is renowned for its focus on game design and development. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on projects and industry-standard tools.
    • Visit DigiPen Institute of Technology

  2. Cornish College of the Arts

    • Location: Seattle, WA (35 miles from Tacoma)
    • Degrees Offered: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Game Art
    • Details: Cornish offers an interdisciplinary approach to game art, focusing on both artistic and technical aspects of design.
    • Visit Cornish College of the Arts

  3. Lake Washington Institute of Technology

    • Location: Kirkland, WA (50 miles from Tacoma)
    • Degrees Offered: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Digital Gaming & Interactive Media
    • Details: This program emphasizes practical, hands-on learning and prepares students for entry-level roles in game development.
    • Visit Lake Washington Institute of Technology

  4. University of Washington (UW)

    • Location: Seattle, WA (35 miles from Tacoma)
    • Programs Offered: Game Design Certificate
    • Details: UW’s certificate program is ideal for those looking to supplement their education with specialized training in game design.
    • Visit University of Washington

Game Art Design Employment Opportunities in Tacoma

Tacoma’s proximity to Seattle—a major tech hub—opens doors to numerous game development studios and related companies. While Tacoma itself does not have a large concentration of game studios, nearby opportunities include:

  1. Microsoft Studios

    • Location: Redmond, WA
    • Details: Known for iconic franchises like Halo and Minecraft, Microsoft Studios is one of the leading employers in the game industry.
    • Explore Careers at Microsoft Studios

  2. Valve Corporation

    • Location: Bellevue, WA
    • Details: The creators of Steam and popular games like Dota 2 and Half-Life, Valve offers unique opportunities for game artists.
    • Explore Careers at Valve Corporation

  3. Bungie

    • Location: Bellevue, WA
    • Details: Bungie is best known for the Destiny franchise and provides opportunities in game art, animation, and more.
    • Explore Careers at Bungie

Prerequisites for Game Art Design Programs

Admission requirements for Game Art Design programs vary by institution, but most schools expect applicants to meet the following criteria:

  • Educational Background: High school diploma or GED equivalent
  • Test Scores: SAT or ACT scores (varies by program)
  • Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing artistic and design skills is often required for art-focused programs.
  • Minimum GPA: Typically ranges from 2.5 to 3.0 depending on the school.

Additionally, some programs may require prerequisite coursework in art, design, or computer science. Check individual program requirements for specific details.

Game Art Design Degree Requirements in Washington

Washington state does not mandate specific licensing or certification for game art designers. However, earning a degree from an accredited institution is essential for building a competitive portfolio and gaining industry recognition. Relevant accrediting bodies include the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

Tacoma residents can also explore resources from city, county, and state-level organizations, such as:

Get Started Today

Pursuing a Game Art Design Degree in Tacoma is an exciting step toward a creative and rewarding career. Although local options may be limited, nearby schools provide excellent programs to help you develop the skills and experience needed to excel in the industry. Contact a school today to learn more about their programs and start building your future in game art design.