If you’re an avid gamer who loves computers, you may be thinking about pursuing a career as a game developer. Game development is a specialized, comparatively small, and lucrative industry.
In 2024, consumer spending on video games in the US reached $59.3 billion in total. Specifically, this includes $51.3 billion for content, $4.9 billion for hardware and $3.2 billion for accessories. From these figures, you can tell that graduates who work on video games are well rewarded. In terms of annual salary, entry-level positions earn around $50,000 to $80,000, while senior and lead game developers easily get over $120,000.
A degree in computer science is a great way to receive formal training and get your foot in the door. In this post, we’ll discuss how computer science in games is relevant, the types of degrees you can get, its professional benefits, and more. By the end of this guide, you will understand how it shapes video games and gaming careers today.
What Is Computer Science?
Commonly referred to as CS, a computer science degree is a broad field that studies computer systems as a whole, including networks. A CS curriculum entails learning programming languages, data science, software development, information security, and network architecture.
Studying CS gives you the flexibility to work in many technologically focused fields, including gaming. Studying this high-demand and high-reward degree is an excellent idea if you aspire to join the gaming industry.
Moreover, computer science and video games go hand in hand. That means the degree does not simply teach technical skills but also develops analytical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Accordingly, these skills are essential when applying CS concepts to game development. You can leverage these when designing game engines, optimizing performance, or creating AI systems for immersive gameplay.
What Are the Types of Computer Science Degrees?
There are four types of computer science degrees that you can pursue based on the field and job you’re looking for. As always, the degree with the shortest duration will help you get beginner-level jobs, while those that are longer will help you win higher-paying roles.
Some of the computer science degrees you can pursue include:
Associate Degree
This degree requires students to achieve 60 credits over two years. It can help you get entry-level jobs as a computer programmer, web developer, or computer systems administrator. At the same time, it provides a foundational understanding of computer science in games, which can help aspiring game developers begin building basic projects or even indie games.
Bachelor’s Degree
A Bachelor’s degree involves about 120 to 128 credits and usually takes four years. By pursuing this degree, you can get an entry-level job in software design, computer engineering, and computer science. If you decides to take a bachelor’s program, you will have courses that touch on game development, such as graphics programming, algorithms, and data structures.
Master’s Degree
Pursuing a Master’s degree is an excellent way to get a more specialized role and thus a higher-paying job. Usually, it takes 45 to 50 credits and is two years long. This is a recommended course for aspiring computer scientists and information research scientists. Most educational institutions require a computer science or a STEM degree as a prerequisite.
Doctoral Degree
Easily the toughest and most challenging of all, a doctoral degree takes about 4 to 5 years to complete. It involves a lot of studying and researching. Most doctoral degrees require a thesis. A doctoral degree is best suited for people pursuing high-level jobs in teaching, research, and computer science. Master’s and doctoral degrees aren’t necessary for a career in gaming. However, it can be an advantage in computer science and video games as it can influence AI, graphics, and simulation technologies.
Benefits of Computer Science in Gaming
How does computer science play a role in games? How has computer science impacted games? Well, a computer science degree opens up opportunities in tech-focused fields and equips you with skills directly applicable to gaming.
Here are the main benefits of pursuing a degree in computer science:
Solid Foundation
A computer science degree teaches programming languages, which are essential when designing games. Game designers and programmers must know various coding languages to create levels, interactions, progression systems, and more.
Head Start
Computer science familiarizes you with various operating systems, computer graphics, and languages. Knowledge in these aspects delivers a strong foundation for programming roles in gaming. It will also give you a thorough understanding of the back-end tasks to help you work creatively and efficiently.
Versatile Career Paths
Once you understand the technical aspects, you can specialize in game architecture, design, testing, quality assurance, or other areas. A computer science degree will allow you to hone more skills and pursue the niche that interests you.
How is Computer Science Used in Video Games?
Games reflect advancements in technology and computer science. Though we started with 2D animation, we have progressed by leaps and bounds. Modern gaming engines are more realistic, immersive, and playable because of:
Upgraded Graphics
Technology has allowed developers to create better graphics. The days of pixelated graphics are long gone, as we now see highly detailed, cinematic-quality images. In line with this, modern consoles like the PlayStation 5 offer 8K graphics at a 60Hz or 4K output with a 120 Hz refresh rate, compared to the 256×224 resolution and 8×8-pixel graphics of the Super Nintendo Entertainment System.
Multi-Player Gaming
In the past, only players in the same room could play with each other on the same device. Nowadays, computer science and games enable players to connect with each other and play games from computers, laptops, tablets, VR headsets, and smartphones. In other words, geographical boundaries are no longer limitations.
Accessible Gaming
Video games are available across multiple platforms and at different price points. On the other hand, some are free and do not even need Wi-Fi. Furthermore, computer science in games ensures smooth performance, compatibility, and scalability across devices.
Augmented and Virtual Reality
Computer science has also given birth to new ways we can experience games, such as augmented and virtual reality. AR combines game elements into the real world, as seen in Pokémon Go. In contrast, VR immerses players into the game using headsets and sensors. Both VR and AR rely heavily on computer science concepts.
Computer Science Graduates and Gaming Careers
You might be thinking that a computer science degree will help you get a job as a programmer and while that’s certainly true, it isn’t the only job you can get. Game development requires several types of technology professionals.
Once you have a job in the gaming industry, you might notice similar or more specialized roles that you feel inclined to pursue. Game designer, programmer, and tester are just three of the possibilities.
Check out their specific roles below.
Game Designer
Develops concepts, prototypes, and game mechanics while shaping gameplay systems and storylines. Simply put, a game designer is someone who oversees the foundation, function, and execution of the game.
Game Programmer
Writes and translates code to implement game designs across platforms. They turn the designer’s vision into a reality. Also, programmers work closely with game designers or developers to deliver the final product.
Game Tester
Tests games for bugs, glitches, and playability. The results of game testing are relayed to the game developers and programmers who then work on the iterations.
Other Degrees That Can Help You in Gaming
If a computer science degree doesn’t interest you, you can still consider other degrees that are considered valuable in the industry. Let’s take a look at some of them.
Video Game Programming and Development
Focused programs that teach game theory, interface design, and production. If you’ve decided on a career in game development, this is an excellent starting point.
Computer Animation
Prepares students to create 2D and 3D graphics and storytelling for games. If you want to do artwork for computer games, learning computer animation is a great way to prepare for a career in creating computer-generated imagery (CGI).
Software Engineering
Covers software development and programming. Next to computer science, it’s the next best degree after computer science if you want to pursue a career in the gaming industry.
Graphic Designing
Develops skills in 2D and 3D design and animation, which work well with game development. Graphic designing is versatile as well. Almost all industries need creative minds, so if you’re a naturally talented individual, your options may be just as endless.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is computer science in games?
A: This refers to the use of programming, algorithms, and system design to make and enhance video games.
Q: How has computer science impacted games?
A: It transformed video games by enabling multiple advancements for a better gaming experience.
Q: Do I need a computer science degree to work in gaming?
A: Not necessarily. However, it makes entering the industry a lot easier, since it provides you with a solid foundation.
Final Thoughts
Computer science is a versatile degree that encompasses a broad field of studies. It covers programming, networks, and system design. Pursuing this degree provides aspiring game developers with the necessary foundation. Likewise, it allows you to work in many technologically focused fields, including gaming. Particularly, computer science opens up careers in game design, programming, and testing, while offering the flexibility to switch to other fields.
So, how has computer science impacted games? To cut it short, computer science in games is at the core of modern gaming, with cutting-edge graphics, multiplayer modes, improved accessibility, and immersive technologies at the forefront. Overall, a computer science degree is still one of the most practical and valuable pathways for aspiring gaming professionals, considering that the gaming sector shows no signs of stopping.
