Game Art Degree
Bachelor of Fine Arts
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
As a student in the Game Art Degree Program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of concept art for games from character design and development to motion studies and animated storytelling. You’ll work in an intimate environment of limited students for a more individualized experience in your bachelor’s degree in Game Art Program. You’ll also interact with students from different programs to acquire a broader perspective that fosters greater creativity.
Students graduate with a robust game art portfolio, a unique vision of game environment art design, and the confidence and ability to adapt and apply their skills across many spectrums.
SKILLS YOU'LL LEARN
3D Modeling
Visual Storytelling
Environment Design
Lighting
Character Rigging
Texture Mapping
Animation
Observational Drawing
STEPS TO ADMISSION
1
Complete your artist meeting with an admissions counselor.
2
Submit an admissions application.
3
Create and submit your portfolio, to be considered for a scholarship.
4
Submit official high school and college transcripts (for transfer students).
5
Submit the current year’s FAFSA and other financial aid documentation.
ACCREDITATION
TUITION + FINANCIAL AID
At RMCAD, we understand that investing in a college education is a major decision and a major investment. That’s why we offer competitive, affordable tuition when compared to other art and design colleges. Students’ tuition rates are locked in at the time of their initial start date and will not increase as long as they remain enrolled in their program.
COURSE DETAILS
RMCAD’s game art degree curriculum is a merger of technical and artistic coursework that covers the computer, analytical, and technical skills necessary to understand the mechanics of game art – from animation in game design to 3D modeling for games and more. This comprehensive approach to your game art degree will inform and inspire your work as a game artist!
* RMCAD offers classes year-round in both on-campus and online delivery formats. At RMCAD, we believe that online learning is an important part of the overall college learning experience. To provide students multiple scheduling options, diverse learning modalities, and experience in the virtual environment, all on-campus students are required to take part in some online education.
* This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
Game Art Courses (48 Credits)*
AAG 1070
Digital Painting for Film + Games
(3 Credits)
AN 3D 1210
3D Computer Fundamentals
(3 Credits)
GA 2710
Strategy + Psychology in Games
(3 Credits)
GA 3120
3D Modeling
(3 Credits)
GA 3330
Character + Level Design
(3 Credits)
GA 3860
Digital Sculpting
(3 Credits)
Liberal Arts Courses (45 Credits)*
AH 1110
Art Historical Methods + Theories
(3 Credits)
EN 1110
Composition I
(3 Credits)
CCT 2000
Introduction to Speech Communication
(3 Credits)
NS 2030
Biology
(3 Credits)
The Liberal Arts curriculum is an exciting part of every student’s academic and creative journey at RMCAD. These courses provide the opportunity for students to engage with complex questions and ideas to develop critical thinking skills, a global consciousness, and awareness of art historical foundations that are essential for their intellectual, creative, and personal growth.
Foundations Courses (24 Credits)*
FD 1020
2D Design: Elements + Principles
(3 Credits)
FD 1120
Topics in Color
(3 Credits)
FD 1370
Life Drawing I
(3 Credits)
FD 2200
Time-based Media
(3 Credits)
Foundation Studies educates students in the development of creative studio practice by fostering individualized and collaborative learning that emphasizes cultural engagement, process, critical thinking, and visual literacy.
Studio Electives (6 Credits)*
AG 3840
Experimental Animation
(3 Credits)
AN 2320
Worldbuilding
(3 Credits)
GA 4110
Game Animation + Motion Capture
(3 Credits)
GA 4350
Character Rigging
(3 Credits)
TECH + TOOLS
A game artist’s tools are an imagination and a good grasp of computer technology. You’ll spend a lot of your time working on a laptop or in front of a desktop; a tablet and stylus will become a part of your routine.
To ensure our students have what they need to be successful we also offer:
- Small class sizes for more individualized support
- An enthralling speaker-series featuring game art professionals
- The opportunity to apply for a Spivak student Studio space
All game art degree students also receive software licensing, a LinkedIn Learning subscription, LMS access, electronic library resources, cybersecurity, mental health counseling, and tutoring services through semester fees
GET TO KNOW OUR GRADS
Game Art Stories
Game Art and Animation Unveiled: Navigating Game Art Creation
Modern video games are true works of art. Featuring a variety of styles and concepts, these games are not merely aesthetically pleasing; they actively leverage artistic techniques and advanced software to create distinct moods or
Crafting Virtual Worlds: The Role of Game Artists
Did you know that a career in special effects and animation is growing at a rate of 8% a year? These roles are in high demand at game art studios, in movies, and television, and
Game Art Critique: Analyzing Visual Styles of Award-Winning Games
Modern gaming represents a true artistic spectacle. Yes, level design and mechanics are crucial, but these mean little if games lack visual splendor. Thankfully, we live in a golden era for video game art, with
GAME ART CAREERS
RMCAD Game Art graduates have taken on the world of art and design, and have pursued careers across several disciplines.
3D Modeler
A 3D modeler uses specialized software to digitally create or sculpt three dimensional assets of characters, props, or environments, often working from concept art or reference. They may work in a wide variety of industries, such as software, film, gaming, architecture, manufacturing, or advertising agencies.
Animator
Animators make 3D characters, vehicles, and certain environmental components move in a game or film. These movements create realism, but they can also give a character personality and have a big influence on the style of a game or film.
3D Modeler
A 3D modeler uses specialized software to digitally create or sculpt three dimensional assets of characters, props, or environments, often working from concept art or reference. They may work in a wide variety of industries, such as software, film, gaming, architecture, manufacturing, or advertising agencies.
Environment Designer
An environment designer sets the style and scenery for a game or film. Landscapes can set the tone from fantasy, to horror, or comedy, and an environment designer uses software to create those places in fields where environment design is becoming increasingly complex. An environmental designer must also understand the technical side of games so they create assets that do not impact performance.
Texture Artist
Much like it sounds, a texture artist uses software to create textures on 3D modeled objects. From metals, skin, concrete, grass, and various types of cloth, a texture artist makes characters, objects, and scenery realistic.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is the focus of the Game Art Degree Program at RMCAD?
The program focuses on developing skills in 3D modeling, character modeling, environment modeling, animation, and visual storytelling for the gaming industry and ancillary industries.
What career opportunities are available for game art graduates?
Graduates will acquire the knowledge and skills to start careers as game artists, 3D modelers, character modelers, environment artists, and animators in the gaming or film industry.
What are the key components of the Game Art Program?
Key components include courses in 3D modeling, texture mapping, lighting, character rigging, animation, and observational drawing.
What skills will students learn in the Game Art Program?
Students will learn 3D modeling, character design, environment creation, animation principles, and visual storytelling.
How does RMCAD support game art students?
RMCAD offers small class sizes, industry-experienced faculty, well equipped facilities, and opportunities to showcase student work.
What are the admission requirements for the Game Art Degree Program?
Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent and completion of the college’s application process. To be considered for a scholarship, students will also need to create and submit a portfolio of artwork.
What kind of portfolio should students submit for the Game Art Program application?
A portfolio showcasing your best work, including examples of 3D models, character designs, any animation projects, and examples of your current traditional skills.
Are there any collaborative projects in the Game Art program?
Yes, students collaborate with peers from different programs to gain a broader perspective and foster greater creativity.
What software and tools are used in the Game Art Program?
Students use industry-standard software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, Maxon Zbrush, and other 3D modeling and animation tools. For more information on program materials, visit here.
Can students visit the campus to learn more about the Game Art Program?
Yes, prospective students can schedule campus tours or attend info sessions to learn more about RMCAD and the game art program.
What are the Liberal Arts requirements in the Game Art Program?
The curriculum includes courses that develop critical thinking, global consciousness, and information literacy.
What are the Foundations requirements in the Game Art Program?
Foundation courses enable students to refine essential skills, get comfortable with the tools they’ll use throughout their program, and study relevant basics— including composition and color theory. These courses facilitate ideation and collaboration.
What kind of student work is produced in the Game Art Program?
Students create 3D models, character designs, animations, and interactive environments for video games.
What is the importance of visual storytelling in the Game Art Program?
Visual storytelling is crucial for creating compelling narratives and immersive gaming experiences.
Are there opportunities for students to showcase their work?
Yes, students can participate in exhibitions and events to display their artwork and gain exposure.
What makes RMCAD's Game Art Program unique?
The program’s unique blend of technical and artistic coursework, individualized support, and focus on professional development sets it apart.
What is the difference between game art and game design?
The primary difference between game art and game design is aesthetic vs mechanic. To learn more, check out this blog – What’s the Difference Between Game Art vs. Game Design
