Masters in Game Development
Overview
A Master of Science in Game Development (MSc in Game Development) is a postgraduate degree program that provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to develop video games. The program typically includes various topics, including game design, programming, art, and animation.
Why Study a Masters in Game Development abroad?
There are many benefits to studying a Master’s in Game Development abroad. Some of the most popular countries for international students include the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand. These countries have some of the best universities in the world for game development, and they also offer students the opportunity to work in a thriving game industry.
Course Structure
The course structure of a Masters in Game Development program will vary depending on the university. However, most programs typically last for one or two years and include a combination of coursework and practical projects.
Course Subjects
Some of the common course subjects in a Masters in Game Development program include:
- Game design
- Game programming
- Game art
- Game animation
- Game physics
- Game AI
- Game production
- Game testing
Top Specializations
Some of the most popular specializations in a Masters in Game Development program include:
- Console game development
- Mobile game development
- PC game development
- VR/AR game development
- Indie game development
Admission Process in detail
The admission process for a Masters in Game Development program will vary depending on the university. However, most programs typically require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science, fine art, or design. Some programs may also ask applicants to submit a portfolio of their work.
Document Requirements
The following documents are typically applicable for admission to a Masters in Game Development program:
- Official transcripts from all previous universities attended
- CV or resume
- Statement of purpose
- Letters of recommendation
- Portfolio of work (for some programs)
English Language Proficiency Exams Score Requirements
International students applying to a Masters in Game Development program in an English-speaking country have to submit proof of an English language proficiency exam score such as IELTS, TOEFL or Duolingo. Some of the most common English language proficiency tests include:
- IELTS: 6.5 overall, with no band below 6.0
- TOEFL: 90 overall, with no section score below 20
- PTE: 65 overall, with no score below 54
- Duolingo: 110 Overall
Cost of Studying
The cost of studying a Masters in Game Development program will vary depending on the university and the country where the program is located. However, the average tuition fee for a Masters in Game Development program in the United States is around $30,000 per year.
Cost of living and other expenses
The cost of living and other expenses for international students studying in a foreign country will vary depending on the country and the city where they live. However, the monthly cost of living expenses comes to around $1,000 to $1,500 per month.
Top Scholarships
There are a number of scholarships available to international students studying a Masters in Game Development program abroad. Some of the most popular scholarships include:
- Chevening Scholarship: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
- Fulbright Scholarship: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
- Erasmus Mundus Scholarship: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel costs
- Commonwealth Scholarship: Full tuition fees, living expenses, and travel Costs
Popular jobs
Graduates of a Masters in Game Development program can find jobs in various industries, such as the video game industry, the film industry, and the software industry. Some of the most popular jobs for graduates of a Masters in Game Development program include:
- Game developer: $70,000
- Game designer: $80,000
- Technical artist: $75,000
- Game programmer: $85,000
- Game producer: $90,000
FAQs
Q1) What are the prerequisites for admission to a Masters in Game Development program?
A1) The prerequisites for admission to a Masters in Game Development program will vary depending on the university. However, most programs typically require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as computer science, fine art, or design. Some programs may also ask applicants to submit a portfolio of their work.
Q2) What is the best language to learn for game development?
A2) The best language to learn for game development is C++. It is the most popular language used to develop video games, and it is also a very powerful and versatile language. However, there are other languages that are also used for game development, such as Java, C#, and Python.
Q3) What kind of portfolio should I put together for a Masters in Game Development program?
A3) Your portfolio should showcase your skills and experience in game development. It should include a variety of projects, such as games, demos, and prototypes. Present your portfolio in a well-organized and easy-to-navigate manner.
Q4) What are some of the best universities for a Masters in Game Development?
- Carnegie Mellon University
- Stanford University
- University of Southern California
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, Los Angeles
Q5) What are some tips for getting accepted into a Masters in Game Development program?
A5) Here are some tips for getting accepted into a Masters in Game Development program:
- Get good grades in your undergraduate studies.
- Gain experience in game development by working on personal projects or internships.
- Put together a strong portfolio.
- Write a compelling statement of purpose.
- Get good letters of recommendation.
Q6) What is the job market like for game developers?
A6) The job market for game developers is very good. The video game industry is growing rapidly, and the high demand for skilled game developers is booming.