Online Game Art Degree
Online Bachelor of Fine Arts
Online Game art Degree PROGRAM OVERVIEW
As a student in RMCAD’s Online Game Art Degree Program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of game art from character design and development to motion studies and animated storytelling. Online game art courses are taught by instructors who are practicing industry professionals and will teach you the essential technical skills to bring your creations to life.
You’ll graduate with a professional portfolio, ready to take on the exciting gaming industry with confidence and have the ability to deliver exceptional visual narratives that will set you apart from other game artists.
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.
Online Game Art Degree COURSE DETAILS
To ensure our online game art students get a well-rounded education, RMCAD has designed an online curriculum that expertly merges artistic and technical courses to teach the true artistry and analysis of video games, while ensuring students are also introduced to everything from the graphics of games to creative and narrative writing. A great video game tells a great story, so learning to construct narratives to build game assets is essential.
With our student-oriented game art degree online, you’ll also receive collaboration with RMCAD’s online faculty, who are also practicing industry professionals.
* This section does not include the full list of courses for this program.
Game Art Courses (48 Credits)*
AG 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 2335
Worldbuilding
(3 Credits)
GA 4110
Game Animation + Motion Capture
(3 Credits)
GA 4350
Character Rigging
(3 Credits)
TECH + TOOLS
Our proprietary online learning management system gives students a structured yet flexible learning environment. Essential classroom tools for game art course online topics teach students how to combine a solid grasp of computer technology with their vivid imaginations. Your stylus will become an extension of your hand as you learn to explore the depths of your creativity.
GET TO KNOW OUR GRADS
Game Art Stories
Game Art and Virtual Reality: Creating Immersive Experiences
Virtual reality (VR) brings a whole new dynamic to the already immersive gaming experience. Today’s innovative developers and artists draw on cutting-edge VR technologies to make games feel more engaging and exciting. Another benefit is that
The Art of Character Design: Bringing Game Characters to Life
Video games deserve credit for introducing us to some of pop culture’s most iconic characters. From familiar faces like Super Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog to newer characters such as Kratos and Cuphead, there is
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
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.
Lighting Artist
A lighting artist helps create the mood of a scene, with light. Lighting can make a scene or level spooky or cartoony. Lighting and texturing are interdependent. You cannot have a reflection without light.
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 Online 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 online 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.
How are online courses delivered in the Online Game Art Program?
Courses are delivered through an interactive online platform, featuring video lectures, assignments, discussion boards, peer reviews, and opportunities to communicate and collaborate with your peers and instructors.
What skills will students learn in the Online Game Art Program?
Students will learn 3D modeling, character design, environment creation, animation principles, and visual storytelling.
What are the technical requirements for the Online Game Art Program?
Students need a computer that meets RMCAD’s specifications, reliable internet access, and relevant software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, and Maxon Zbrush. For more information on program materials, visit here.
What support services are available for online game art students?
All students receive software licensing, a LinkedIn Learning subscription, LMS access, electronic library resources, cybersecurity, mental health counseling, and tutoring services through their semester fees.
What are the admission requirements for the Online 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 Online 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.
How does RMCAD ensure the quality of online education?
RMCAD ensures quality through experienced faculty, regularly updated curriculum, and interactive, hands-on coursework designed for online delivery.
Are there any opportunities for online students to collaborate on projects?
Yes, online students can collaborate on projects through virtual classrooms, group assignments, and online forums.
What are the advantages of studying game art online at RMCAD?
Advantages include flexible scheduling, access to industry-standard tools, feedback from instructors, and the ability to study from anywhere.
What software and tools are used in the Online Game Art Program?
Students use software such as Autodesk Maya, Adobe Creative Suite, and other industry-standard tools for game art design. For more information on program materials, visit here.
Can online students participate in RMCAD's campus events?
Yes, online students are welcome to participate in campus events, exhibitions, and graduation ceremonies. Visit the events calendar here.
What are the Liberal Arts requirements in the Online Game Art Program?
The curriculum includes courses that develop critical thinking, global consciousness, and information literacy.
What are the Foundations requirements in the Online 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.
How do online students showcase their work?
Online students can showcase their work through virtual galleries, online exhibitions, and by creating professional portfolios.
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
