Game Art (BFA)

The Game Art BFA gives students a well-rounded overview of professional game art tools and fundamentals. Students will be taught both traditional and digital techniques with the ability to specialize in modeling or concepting environments, characters, or both. Students will benefit from game industry professionals, group projects, and campus peer clubs while they learn the industry-standard game art pipelines. Students will be guided in the creation of a professional quality portfolio which they can use to apply to any creative field ranging from video games to movies and television.

Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) Degree
Core Classes

This program is available online and on campus

FND 108

Digital Drawing for Entertainment Core/3

Build essential drawing skills for entertainment design industries. Learn software tools and artistic foundations to create captivating digital artworks. Through a series of hands-on assignments, you will explore core drawing principles, including line work, shape design, form, perspective, and lighting, to quickly communicate concepts visually.

GAM 101

Playing Games in Game Development Core/3

Play an array of important game genres both from the tabletop and electronic gaming platforms. Platformers, shooters, deck builders, resource management, action points, combat styles, and more topics are covered. Students will record their gameplay and incorporate commentary and reflections on the overall experience and specific reactions to the game(s).

GAM 105

Introduction to Maya Core/3

Learn the fundamental concepts of 3D modeling for games. Using modeling tools and methods in a conventional 3D application, you will create a variety of polygonal objects and how to apply basic lighting and materials to your scenes.

GAM 110

Introduction to Game Development Core/3

Learn the fundamentals of game development focusing on the various disciplines and roles involved in professional video game production. You will be exposed to industry-standard tools, workflows, and best practices that drive successful studios.

GAM 111

2D Tools for Game Development Core/3

Learn the two-dimensional tools used in the game industry. You will gain fundamental composition, color, layout, and presentation skills to develop different pieces using contemporary methods of digital image creation.

GAM 150

Dice, Rulesets, and Theory Core/3

Effective game design is about creativity, communication, and determining fun through the creation and balance of systematic rules. In this class, you will learn fundamental, practical principles of game design through the creation of tabletop games and role-playing.

GAM 151

Visual Communication for Game Development Core/3

Learn how to be a more effective video game designer through the use of visual communication skills. You will create gameplay mechanic sketches, manuals, presentations, paper maps, and a first-pass portfolio. Even if you're not a great artist, this class will give you a set of skills you can use to define your own style.

GAM 190

Mobile UI and UX Core/3

To design an intuitive UI (user interface) and UX (user experience), you must know your audience and your medium. You will learn how to create wireframes and interface elements fitting for mobile games.

GAM 310

Portfolio for Games 1 Core/3

It's never too early to start planning for a portfolio and establishing a brand. In this midpoint class, you will learn the basics of creating a portfolio through a combination of professional techniques and feedback from your peers and instructors.

GAM 405

Games Portfolio Preparation Core/3

As a senior, you will organize and enhance your accumulated work to create a portfolio that showcases your skills and accomplishments. Plus, learn professional practices and how to apply for employment.

Degree Requirements

Unit RequirementsUnits
Core24
Sophomore Portfolio3
Senior Portfolio3
Major39
Liberal Arts42
Elective9
Total120

BFA GAME ART DEGREE REQUIREMENTS

  • Minimum grade of C- in all major coursework
  • Minimum 2.0 GPA and the following general education requirements:
    4 Art Historical Awareness courses
    1 Creative Communication course
    1 Written Communication: Critical Thinking course
    1 Historical Awareness course
    1 Quantitative Literacy course
    1 Cultural Ideas & Influences course
    1 Employment Communications and Practices course

After above general education requirements are met, take Liberal Arts electives as needed to fulfill the Liberal Arts unit requirement.

Additional Information

Program Learning Outcomes

Undergraduate students will meet the following student performance criteria:

Visual Communication

  • Integrate environments, characters, or props for a cohesive game experience
  • Visually demonstrate skills that meet game industry standards

Technology

  • Demonstrate proficiency with technology related to contemporary game production

Presentation Skills

  • Clearly and professionally present work and ideas

Critical Thinking and Problem Solving

  • Visually communicate research and ideas throughout the design process
  • Research and generate workable solutions under a deadline

Professional Readiness

  • Produce a professional portfolio which meets industry standards
  • Work cooperatively and effectively in a professional production environment
  • Identify strengths and develop a portfolio tailored to showcase them

Specialty Skills: 3D Art  

  • Model with appropriate use of form, proportion, & function
  • Create and apply textures consistent with the overall look of the project

Specialty Skills: Concept Art

  • Effectively utilize line, edge, value and design in all concept work 
  • Effectively apply the rules of perspective 
  • Demonstrate flexibility in illustrative style and the ability to accommodate style to project needs