Essential Information
Colorado game programming students can find programs at the associate's and bachelor's degree levels. There are some graduate courses available as well. Courses typically cover computer programming, animation and graphic design; some programs may also include instruction in storytelling skills like character and plot development. Many programs culminate in a capstone project, a few have internships, and one school lets each student design an individualized program.
Arapahoe Community College
Arapahoe Community College, located in Littleton, offers students a program leading to an Associate of Applied Science in Game Design and Development. The program trains students in multimedia, graphic design and computer programming. Some required courses include game programming, computer science and three-dimensional animation. In addition to coursework, students complete a capstone experience.
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Metropolitan State University of Denver is located in the large city of Denver. The school offers individualized programs, and students may pursue an individualized program to earn a bachelor's degree in computer game development. With administrative approval, students may design their own program by choosing courses in a particular area. Some program courses may include interactive three-dimensional production, computer animation and game programming.
Red Rocks Community College
Another school choice for students interested in pursuing game programming degree programs is Red Rocks Community College located in Lakewood. Coursework includes computer science, game design and development, mobile application development and programming, as well as an internship. A certificate program in game development is also available. The game development AAS program is available through the computer technology division, which offers students access to six faculty members.
University of Colorado - Colorado Springs
University of Colorado - Colorado Springs, located in Colorado Springs, offers a Bachelor of Innovation in Game Design and Development through the College of Engineering and Applied Science. Courses include programming for game developers, game design concepts and data structures for game developers. The program allows students to explore additional graduate-level courses in the field of game design and development.
University of Denver
At this Denver school, students can earn a Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Game Development. Within the Department of Computer Science, students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts program will major in game development and choose a second major in studio art, digital media studies or electronic media art design. The Bachelor of Science program combines computer science studies and two minors. Some required courses for both programs include systems programming and discrete structures in computer science. In addition to computer programming classes, students complete game capstone courses.
School Comparison: At a Glance
| School Name | School Type & Setting | Game Programming Degrees Offered | Undergraduate Tuition & Fees (2018-2019) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arapahoe Community College | Two-year, public; large suburb | Associate of Applied Science in Game Design and Development | $3,918 (in-state); $15,006 (out-of-state)* |
| Metropolitan State University of Denver | Four-year, public; large city | Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Individualized Studies: Computer Game Development | $7,666 (in-state); $20,847 (out-of-state)* |
| Red Rocks Community College | Two-year, public; midsize city | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Systems: Game Development | $4,158 (in-state); $15,246 (out-of-state)* |
| University of Colorado - Colorado Springs | Four-year, public; large city | Bachelor of Innovation in Game Design and Development | $8,523 (in-state); $20,067 (out-of-state)* |
| University of Denver | Four-year, private not-for-profit; large city | Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Science in Game Development | $50,556* |
Source: *NCES College Navigator
