More than 227 million Americans engage with video games, highlighting the massive industry behind their creation. If you’re passionate about gaming and seeking a fulfilling and well-compensated career, the video game industry offers numerous opportunities. Game designers and developers are in high demand, and a focused education can be your entry point.
According to Payscale, video game designers in April 2024 earned an average annual salary of $69,452, while game programmers averaged around $67,397 per year. These figures demonstrate the solid earning potential in this creative field, with salaries often increasing significantly as professionals gain experience and expertise.
Coding bootcamps focused on video games are emerging as a powerful pathway to break into this exciting industry. Similar to traditional coding bootcamps, these intensive programs deliver focused, skills-based training in a condensed timeframe. For career switchers or individuals just starting their professional journey, a gaming bootcamp can provide the precise skills and portfolio needed to impress potential employers.
Finding the ideal gaming bootcamp requires careful consideration. This guide explores some of the top game design and development bootcamps available, providing essential insights into salaries, necessary skills, and career paths within the video game sector.
Top Video Game Coding Bootcamps to Jumpstart Your Career
Video game bootcamps are designed to equip students with the crucial coding and game engine skills demanded by the industry. These immersive programs often incorporate substantial project work, allowing students to build a portfolio that showcases their abilities. Unlike shorter coding courses, these bootcamps offer comprehensive training, typically ranging from four weeks to twenty months in duration.
A key focus for many video game bootcamps is mastering industry-standard game development software, specifically Unreal Engine and Unity. Programs that offer training in both engines can significantly enhance a graduate’s job prospects by broadening their skillset and making them adaptable to various development environments.
Below is an alphabetical list of some of the most recognized and effective game development and game design bootcamps to consider.
1. Deep Dive – Intro to Game Design & Development
Alt text: A group of diverse students collaborating on computers during a Deep Dive bootcamp session, highlighting the program’s focus on teamwork and practical skills in game design and development.
CNM Ingenuity’s Deep Dive, established in 2013, is committed to making technology education accessible through its bootcamp model. With a strong emphasis on community building, hands-on skill development, and professional networking, Deep Dive aims to empower its students for successful tech careers.
Deep Dive Intro to Game Design & Development is an intensive, four-week bootcamp designed to immerse students in game development using the Unity engine. The program starts with prototyping exercises, progressing to in-depth explorations of game psychology, mechanics, and design principles to enable students to create functional and engaging games.
Prospective students must complete preliminary coursework before the bootcamp begins. Individuals without prior coding experience are encouraged to utilize provided online tutorials to prepare. Throughout the program, students benefit from personalized instruction, dedicated career coaching, and insights from industry guest speakers. Deep Dive also provides unique opportunities for students to present their completed projects to professionals working in the gaming industry, offering invaluable feedback and networking potential.
Key Program Details:
- Cost: $2,995
- Format: 100% online (synchronous), full-time
- Length: 4 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Additional Courses Offered by Deep Dive:
Deep Dive offers a range of bootcamps in other tech fields, including:
- Data Science
- Digital Media
- Full-Stack Web Development
- Internet of Things
- Video Production
- Cybersecurity
- Java + Android
- Business Animation
- Blockchain
- IT Professional
- UX/UI Design
Career Support Services at Deep Dive:
Deep Dive is committed to student success beyond the bootcamp. Their career support resources include workshops focused on resume building and enhancing public speaking skills. Students also gain access to valuable networking events and exclusive job listings curated for Deep Dive graduates.
2. Holberton Tulsa – Computer Science and Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality
Alt text: A diverse group of students actively participating in a peer learning session at Holberton Tulsa, showcasing the school’s emphasis on collaborative education and hands-on projects in computer science and immersive technologies.
Holberton Tulsa is a recent expansion of the Holberton network, a global software engineering school renowned for its innovative approach to tech education. Holberton’s educational philosophy centers on peer learning and project-based education, fostering a collaborative and practical learning environment.
Their Computer Science and Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality program is a comprehensive 20-month bootcamp covering foundational programming principles and specialized game development skills. Students with existing experience in Unix systems and programming may opt for an accelerated 12-month curriculum. Both program lengths emphasize essential professional skills, including whiteboarding, technical writing, and career development. Students utilize C# and Unity to complete a variety of projects, including 360° video experiences and virtual reality applications. Holberton’s focus is on hands-on learning, preparing graduates for roles as immersive experience designers, mobile game developers, and gameplay programmers.
Key Program Details:
- Cost: $50,000
- Format: 100% online or hybrid options, full-time
- Length: 20 months (or 12-month accelerated option)
- CIRR Member: No
Additional Courses Offered by Holberton:
Holberton’s network offers a wide array of tech-focused bootcamps, including:
- Computer Science and Front-End Web Development
- Computer Science and Back-End Web Development
- Computer Science and DevOps Engineering
- Full-Stack Web Development
- Linux Programming, Advanced Algorithms, and Blockchain
- Machine Learning
Career Placement Assistance at Holberton:
Holberton is dedicated to supporting its graduates in their job search. Their career development office actively connects graduates with potential employers within their network. Students also receive personalized assistance with resume crafting, interview skills enhancement, and effective job hunting strategies.
3. Playcrafting – Online Unity Course
Alt text: Students at Playcrafting collaboratively working on game development projects, highlighting the bootcamp’s community-focused approach and hands-on training in Unity game engine.
Founded by CEO Dan Butchko, Playcrafting was established to build a thriving network within the game development community. Beyond education, Playcrafting actively develops games and hosts industry events, creating a comprehensive ecosystem for aspiring and established developers.
Their Online Unity Course is a game development bootcamp specifically focused on C# coding within the Unity engine. Since launching this course in 2015, Playcrafting has successfully trained over 200 developers, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in the gaming industry.
The curriculum is structured into four sections, each lasting two weeks. Students begin by creating a pachinko game using the Unity editor, progressing to develop a 2D platformer game. The subsequent section delves into creating a 3D horror game, utilizing the Unity Asset store, and tackling more complex programming challenges. In the final two weeks, students are empowered to create their own “dream game,” applying all the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the bootcamp.
Key Program Details:
- Cost: $2,000
- Format: 100% online (synchronous)
- Length: 8 weeks
- CIRR Member: No
Additional Courses Offered by Playcrafting:
Playcrafting expands its educational offerings with courses focusing on broader aspects of the gaming industry:
- Designing Video Games for Social Impact
- Business of Indie Games
4. The Tech Academy – Game Developer Bootcamp
Alt text: Students at The Tech Academy participating in a game development bootcamp class, showcasing the institution’s hands-on approach and classroom-based learning environment.
The Tech Academy, originally Prosper I.T. Academy, began in 2013 with a small cohort of four students and has grown significantly since. Now offering programs both online and at physical campuses in Oregon and Utah, The Tech Academy provides flexible learning options to a wider student base.
Their Game Developer Bootcamp starts with foundational courses covering essential software development principles, algorithms, and network concepts. Students then move into learning HTML, JavaScript, SQL, and database fundamentals, providing a well-rounded base for game development.
The core of the bootcamp focuses on C++ and C#, the most prevalent programming languages in the game development industry. Students dedicate approximately 180 hours to learning, coding, and building projects with each language. The curriculum includes two extensive live projects, each spanning two weeks, allowing students to apply their C++ skills using Unreal Engine and their C# skills with Unity.
Key Program Details:
- Cost: $11,660 (full-time); $14,000 (part-time)
- Format: On-campus, hybrid, or online (self-paced) options
- Length: 22 weeks (full-time); 40 weeks (part-time)
- CIRR Member: Yes
Additional Courses Offered by The Tech Academy:
The Tech Academy offers a diverse range of tech bootcamps, including:
- Mobile App Developer
- Data Science
- Software Developer
- UI/UX Designer
- Python Developer
- Javascript Developer
- Java and Android Developer
- C# and .Net Framework
- Front-End Web Developer
- Cybersecurity
Job Placement Assistance at The Tech Academy:
The Tech Academy’s Game Developer Bootcamp includes a dedicated final course focused on career readiness. Students learn how to create effective resumes and cover letters and develop strong interview skills. Graduates also work directly with the academy’s job placement team to identify and secure relevant tech industry positions.
What to Expect from a Video Game Coding Bootcamp
Gaming bootcamps are designed to provide participants with a comprehensive introduction to the tools, techniques, and core principles of video game architecture. Bootcamps offer a concentrated, hands-on, career-focused educational experience, contrasting with the broader and more theoretical approach of associate’s or bachelor’s degrees in computer science.
It’s important to note that bootcamps vary in their specialization. Game design bootcamps often emphasize the creative aspects of game creation, such as storytelling, visual design, and animation. Conversely, game development bootcamps typically focus more intensely on the coding and programming skills essential for bringing games to life.
Bootcamp durations can range from as short as one week to over six months, with the average program lasting around 16.5 weeks. Students can choose from online, in-person, or hybrid learning formats, providing flexibility to suit different learning preferences and schedules.
Learning schedules also vary, with options for self-paced study, full-time, or part-time enrollment. Self-directed learners may find the flexibility of online programs appealing, while those who thrive in structured environments might prefer the immersive experience of in-person, full-time programs.
Core Skills You’ll Learn in Game Design Bootcamps
The video game development lifecycle is multifaceted, requiring a diverse set of skills, including coding, 3D art, animation, and programming expertise. Gaming bootcamps are structured to cover many of these essential skills, introducing students to new computer languages, advanced techniques, and essential programming tools. These programs are designed to empower students to write, design, and develop programs for original video games.
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Coding
Coding is fundamental for video game programmers. Key programming languages in the gaming industry include C++, C#, Java, and Python. Often, C# or C++ is the foundational language taught in video game programming. Gaming bootcamps offer targeted courses in these and other languages relevant to specific game development engines.
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Animation
Animation brings characters and environments to life in interactive games through realistic on-screen movements. This complex skill involves choreography, keyframing, and managing interactions between multiple characters. Game design bootcamps often include modules on animation art, design principles, and the technology behind creating compelling in-game animations.
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Audio Development
The immersive experience of video games is significantly enhanced by music composition, sound design, and audio mixing. Creating unique and effective audio involves designing and integrating music, voice-overs, and sound effects. Gaming bootcamps provide students with the tools and techniques needed to master audio development within the context of video game creation.
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Game Development Engine Management
A game development engine serves as the foundational framework for building video games. It encompasses a suite of tools, features, libraries, and support programs. Popular engines like CryEngine and Unity are industry standards. Gaming bootcamps focus on teaching students how to effectively use these engines, including managing physics, tool sets, and character controllers within the best game development software available.
Understanding the Costs of Gaming Bootcamps
Research from RTI in 2019 indicated that the median cost for a full-time bootcamp was $13,500, while part-time programs had a median cost of $7,500. However, it’s crucial to understand that bootcamp costs can vary significantly based on factors such as program length, course intensity, format (online vs. in-person), and the specific technologies covered.
Beyond tuition fees, some game design bootcamps may include additional charges for software licenses, hardware requirements, and learning materials like textbooks. Prospective students should also inquire about application fees or costs for any required preparatory courses.
To make bootcamps more accessible, video game bootcamps offer a range of payment options. RTI’s research notes that a significant 89% of bootcamps advertise financial aid programs. These may include student loans, deferred tuition plans, income share agreements (ISAs), and discounts for upfront payments. Some bootcamps even offer job guarantees or programs that require no upfront tuition payment, reducing the financial barrier to entry.
Career Opportunities After a Video Game Coding Bootcamp
Gaming bootcamps can be the launchpad for exciting tech careers in the dynamic video game industry. Graduates can pursue roles in various settings, from independent game studios and mobile game developers to major game publishing houses. The roles of video game developers, designers, and testers often offer flexibility, with opportunities for both remote work and traditional office environments.
Video Game Designer
Video game designers are the creative visionaries behind games, conceptualizing storylines, characters, and artistic styles that programmers then bring to life. These professionals are responsible for crafting game plots, developing engaging characters, and designing immersive game worlds and challenges. They also define the reward systems and consequences within the game, shaping player experience. Game design bootcamps often cover essential aspects like digital media, world-building techniques, and various game design elements.
Average Annual Salary: $69,452 (April 2024)
Video Game Programmer
Video game programmers are the technical architects who translate the designer’s vision into functional, playable games. They write the code that transforms art and narrative into interactive experiences. This career path requires strong skills in coding, familiarity with game development technologies, understanding of development processes, and knowledge of relevant frameworks. Game development bootcamps typically provide training in C#, rendering techniques, physics engines, animation implementation, and audio integration.
Average Annual Salary: $67,397 (April 2024)
Software Quality Assurance Tester
Video game quality assurance (QA) testers play a critical role in ensuring game quality. They identify and document technical issues in pre-release versions of games. These detail-oriented professionals must meticulously report bugs and glitches to developers while adhering to strict corporate security protocols. In addition to bug reporting, QA testers may also suggest potential solutions to the problems they uncover. Typically, video game testers are employed directly by game development companies.
Average Annual Salary: $63,380 (April 2024)
Exploring Other Educational Paths in Computer Science
While game development bootcamps offer a focused and rapid route into the industry, there are other educational pathways to consider in computer science. A computer science degree provides a more comprehensive and theoretical foundation. Traditional college programs emphasize problem-solving skills alongside in-depth computer theory knowledge. Degrees can be advantageous for graduates seeking advanced tech roles or management positions within the gaming industry or broader tech sector.
Associate Degree in Computer Science: A two-year associate in computer science degree is a cost-effective and time-efficient way to begin exploring the field. Graduates may qualify for entry-level positions or use their associate degree credits as a stepping stone to a bachelor’s degree in computer science.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science: A four-year bachelor’s degree provides the fundamental knowledge base for many entry-level tech careers. Curricula typically blend general education courses with core computer theory subjects. Bachelor’s programs often incorporate practical learning experiences like internships and projects.
Master’s Degree in Computer Science: A master’s degree typically requires an additional two years of study beyond a bachelor’s. These programs offer advanced specialization in computer science and its sub-disciplines. A master’s degree can prepare graduates for leadership roles as technology managers or advanced technical specialists.
Ph.D. in Computer Science: A Ph.D. in computer science is a research-intensive degree where candidates conduct original research under the guidance of academic advisors. A doctoral degree is typically pursued by individuals aiming for careers in academia as computer science professors, researchers, or policy analysts.
Find the Right Bootcamp for Your Goals
If you’re ready to take the next step towards a career in video games, exploring coding bootcamps is a great starting point.
Find a Bootcamp That Matches Your Goals
Frequently Asked Questions About Video Game Design Bootcamps
What’s the difference between game design and game development?
Game design centers on the creative elements of a game. Game designers are responsible for storytelling, visual aesthetics, and overall game concept. Game development, on the other hand, focuses on the technical implementation, including coding and programming, to bring the design to life.
Can I learn game design on my own?
Self-learning game design is more accessible than ever thanks to online resources. However, structured learning environments like courses, gaming bootcamps, and degree programs often provide a more efficient and effective learning experience. Formal education can also significantly enhance credibility and job prospects.
What are the prerequisites for getting into game development?
A foundational understanding of game design principles is beneficial for aspiring game developers. Familiarity with game art, animation basics, and illustration concepts can also be helpful. For game programmers specifically, coding proficiency is essential.
Is coding always necessary for game development roles?
While not every role in game development requires coding, it is crucial for programmers. Roles such as artists, animators, producers, and project managers may not require coding skills. However, for programming-focused roles, proficiency in languages like C++, C#, Java, or Python is generally expected.
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