Game Art Bachelor's Degree
- BA
Ready to bring your game ideas to life? In the Game Art BA program at Columbia College Chicago, you’ll jump into the thrilling world of video game visuals. Imagine crafting stunning environments and unforgettable characters that pull gamers into immersive adventures. You'll create jaw-dropping 3D art and learn how to implement it in game engines, turning your creative visions into reality. Get ready to level up your skills and make your mark in the gaming industry.
Examples of Game Art Careers
The Student Experience
Start building games your first semester, using industry-standard software tools throughout your studies. The curriculum mirrors the collaborative environment of the gaming industry, equipping you with essential technical skills and team experience that make you a valuable candidate for employers.
Your first year includes an Intro to Game Development course that introduces various game genres and career paths. You'll learn the foundational theories of interaction and development, quickly applying your knowledge through practical assignments such as sketching and prototyping.
During your junior and senior years, you’ll focus on your area of interest, whether it’s character modeling or environment art. The Game Studio Capstone allows you to collaborate with peers from different disciplines to develop a complete game, managing every aspect from concept to delivery, resulting in portfolio-ready pieces.
Many of our professors bring to the classroom their experience working in the gaming industry.
Columbia offers opportunities to showcase your skills at events like the Game Developers Conference (GDC) and the Chicago Toy and Game Fair. You’ll also participate in Industry Night, where graduating seniors present their work to professionals from across the country.
Engage with clubs focused on your interests in gaming and art, where you can collaborate on projects and network with peers and industry leaders.
Career Readiness
From connecting you to internships to helping you develop door-opening bodies of work to making an important professional connection, Columbia helps students launch their careers.
Our alumni are employed at prestigious gaming firms, including Pixar and NetherRealm Studios, and are well-equipped for careers in various sectors. They often return to share insights and network with current students, enhancing your career opportunities.
The Career Center provides guidance in securing internships tailored to your interests and professional goals. With support from faculty, you’ll develop a robust portfolio and resume that stand out in the competitive job market.
Alumni Spotlight
Alex Damarjian MAT ‘06
Alum Alex Damarjian ’06, technical artist for Netflix and professional game developer with experience at Nickelodeon and Cartoon Network
of 2023 grads are employed, enrolled in continued education, or pursuing their creative practice.