As video games mature, more and more people
are realizing the impact of the industry founded by Pong. Earlier today we mentioned how video games are being used in
the classroom, and a few weeks ago we brought news of
Michigan State's new Specialization in Game Design minor
program. Now, 1up has a nice write-up on how many schools are trying to teach video games design and development to get
students prepared for a possible future in this notoriously hard to get into industry.
What I found interesting was the Guildhall program at SMU as well as EA's contribution to USC, both of which seem to
have some industry backing. The important part of these programs, to me, except for the already-established DigiPen, is
that they are taught as graduate degrees, meaning a student will already have had an undergraduate degree in a related
field, such as Computer Science or Graphic Design. I think it's important to learn more than just the trade of video
games, much as a lawyer has to get a degree before law school in fields such as Economics, Political Science, History,
or French. It's that outside knowledge that would help students thrive. Of course, that's what my dreams are
banking on.
Are there any Joystiq readers out there seriously considering looking for a job in the games industry? Are there any
Joystiq readers that are currently in the games industry and have some advice for the rest (such as myself)?
Engadget
TUAW