Research conducted by the ESA has indicated that American universities, art and trade schools are increasingly offering degrees in video game design, development and programming. The degrees offered at these institutions represent an almost 20% increase over last year.
Educational programs increasing this school year is a positive indicator for the health of the industry, noted Rich Taylor, senior vice president for communications and industry affairs at the ESA. “The steady increase in higher education programs is an important indicator about the expanding role computer and video games play in today’s world,” he said. “While computer and video games have been a source of entertainment for decades, our society is increasingly recognizing the broader uses of games and their positive impact. Whether it is in healthcare, education, business or government, schools across the country see the value of games and are training their students to meet the demand.”
Students interested in game design now have a wider ranger of options than before. The 2008-2009 school year showed that 220 accredited universities offered programs that focused on game design, with 2009-2010 showing 250 programs offered. The 2010-2011 year will see 300 schools offering game design programs.
The ESA states that the continued growth of the entertainment software industry coincides with the growth of video game programs offered. With growing utilization of entertainment software by industries such as healthcare, education and business, the growing demand for interactive software by major employers is expected to grow for another three to five years.
Schools offering game design can be found in 42 states and the District of Columbia. California remains at the forefront of game design programs offered, with 50 schools offering degrees. New York, Texas, Illinois, Florida, Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Washington and Georgia are all noteworthy for increased numbers of schools offering degrees as well.
