To work as a video game designer, you typically need to:

• have a high school diploma or equivalent;
• have a bachelor's degree in computer graphics or a related field; and
• have work experience in a related occupation.

Education after high school

Many designers have a bachelor's degree in computer graphics or a related field. A degree in English or journalism may be helpful. A background in art, graphic design, computer programming, or computer science can also be good preparation.

A small number of colleges and universities offer gaming minors as part of a computer science program. Many training programs are also available on the Internet. A list of college, university, and online training programs worldwide is available at Game Career Guide.

Note that this is not a complete list of schools. Exercise caution when enrolling in online programs in this area. Because this is an emerging area of study, the industry does not yet have training requirements. As a result, the quality and depth of information provided by programs vary widely. You should investigate the schools you are interested in.

Work experience

This is not an entry-level position. You must work for years in other positions in the industry, such as artist or programmer, and move your way up. Most game designers do not start by working on high-profile games that cost hundreds of thousands of dollars to create. Instead, less-experienced designers start by working on low-profile games with smaller budgets.