The Way Forward in Game Design Education: Beyond Traditional Colleges
When it comes to choosing between traditional colleges for game design, Academy of Art University (AAU) and Full Sail University often come up in discussions. However, as I reflect on my experiences, I believe SCAD might even be a better choice, considering the unique qualities of each institution. While AAU offers a more structured and comprehensive experience compared to SCAD, both institutions can only take students so far in the competitive world of game design.
Comparing AAU, SCAD, and Full Sail
In my professional experience, both AAU and Full Sail have their merits. AAU's term structure is more traditional with ten-week terms, whereas Full Sail has even more intensive blocks. Despite similarities, both universities generate a mix of talented students who are genuinely interested in the field, but also those who are more dreamers than doers. The collaborative aspect of game design, involving pipelines and teamwork, means your peers can either help elevate your skills or hold you back. However, the truth is that neither institution fully prepares students for the realities of the industry, which is constantly evolving and demands a different approach.
The Declining Value of Traditional Higher Education
The value of college has decreased in the past few decades and currently stands at an all-time low. Art schools, like many other institutions, are extremely expensive. Unless a full-ride scholarship is available, students often graduate with substantial debt, with no guarantee that their potential earnings will cover the expense. Additionally, the knowledge transfer from professors is often outdated or insufficient, as many are not practicing professionals. In today’s world, online learning offers a powerful alternative, providing access to a wealth of resources and knowledge from the comfort of one's home.
Alternative Paths to Success
With the rise of online courses and mentorship opportunities, there are numerous alternative ways to achieve success in game design:
Mentorship
One compelling option is to partner with a professional artist. By dedicating a fraction of what you would spend on art school, you can offer to pay a mentor for one-on-one instruction. This setup provides a much more personalized and cost-effective educational experience, allowing you to build connections with real industry professionals.
Online Learning
Online courses offer immense flexibility and a wide range of options. Platforms like Schoolism, SVSlearn, and The Gnomon Workshop provide courses taught by industry experts. These programs are a fraction of the cost of a traditional degree and offer the latest and most up-to-date information directly from those working in the field.
Breaking Through the Industry's Stipulations
Many game studios may require a degree, but this requirement is often not as rigid as it appears. Studios are primarily interested in skills and demonstrated capability. Unless you have a portfolio that stands out or relevant projects that showcase your value, a degree might not be the key to breaking into the industry. Instead, creating projects that mimic real-world scenarios is a more compelling way to show your potential value to employers.
Success Stories and Industry Expertise
Many successful professionals in both film and gaming industries have navigated their careers without a traditional degree. Figures like Jake Parker, Will Terry, Bobby Chiu, and Arthur Suydam have thrived despite their educational backgrounds or without it entirely. Their experiences highlight the growing importance of practical skills over a piece of paper.
Ultimately, for those with a passion for game design, university can be a slow and expensive endeavor. It is vastly less effective than pursuing education and mentorship opportunities online. This approach not only saves time and money but also allows you to engage directly with the industry, gaining valuable insights and practical experience that traditional degrees often fail to provide.