Game Design, M.A.

College of Creative Arts and Media

Become a Professional Game Designer

The MA in Game Design blends creativity, technology, and strategy to prepare students for the dynamic gaming industry. Designed for aspiring game designers, developers, and storytellers, this program provides hands-on experience in game design, game theory, interface design, user experience (UX), and usability testing.

• Capstone: The program culminates in a capstone project that challenges students to design and develop a functional, playable game prototype, demonstrating their ability to bring a game concept to life.
• Build an Impressive Portfolio: Enter the workforce with an impressive portfolio of work thanks to courses with a focus in production.
• Flexible Online Format: All courses are delivered online asynchronously, giving you the freedom to balance work, life and school.

The curriculum includes a 3-course foundational sequence that addresses game design, game theory and game production. In addition, a capstone project is conceived and planned out for which the student designs and develops a functional and playable game prototype, in order to complete the degree. All courses are only available online.

Learning Outcomes

• You will be able to analyze the structure of a game to address theory, narrative, character, environment, and sound elements.
• You will be able to produce functional game prototypes based on theoretical insight, factual observation, iterative processes, and a game design document.
• You will be able to develop executive leadership, project management, and team management abilities to organize and manage a production pipeline in a remote team-based environment.
• You will develop competence in usability testing for game quality control.

Step 1

To apply to West Virginia University as a graduate applicant:

• Review the requirements for the program and learn what materials are needed to apply.
• Create an account, start your application and follow the instructions.
• Pay the application fee.
• Submit your application.

Step 2

The University provides a comprehensive approach to helping you finance your education. Learn more on the WVU Financial Aid Website.

Game designers are responsible for creating the gameplay mechanics, levels, characters, and storylines that make a game engaging and fun to play. As games become more advanced and sophisticated, there is a growing need for skilled designers who can create innovative and immersive experiences for players. 

Typically, game designers work in the video game industry, which includes game development studios, publishers, and other related companies. Many game designers work on a project basis, moving from one project to another as they are completed. Some may also work as freelancers or start their own independent game development companies.