Higher education in game development and where to study to become a game developer

Contents:

• What do you need to master to get into game development?
• Do many educational institutions train specialists for game development?
• Who should you study with?
• Can universities cover all specialties in game development?
• And still: where should you go to study?
• Is there a difference between studying at universities and colleges?
• Is it possible not to go anywhere and learn everything using the Internet?
• Let's assume that studying at a university It will come in handy. But I'll waste three years, or even more, on this!
• Results

Summer has opened the doors for college admissions, and tens of thousands of Russians are preparing to apply to universities in hopes of becoming sought-after specialists. Many applicants aspire to build a career in the video game industry. According to a VK study, one in three schoolchildren dreams of game development. However, 19% of respondents admitted to having limited knowledge of game development. This highlights the need to raise awareness of game development professions and educational pathways leading to a successful career in this dynamic and exciting field.

If you want to gain knowledge in a specific field, one of the most obvious places to do so is university. However, the question arises: do modern higher and secondary specialized educational institutions prepare specialists for the game development industry? We typically associate universities with professions like lawyers or builders, but is it possible to obtain an education that will lead to becoming a game programmer, artist, designer, or other specialist in demand in game development? We discussed this question with experts from the game development and educational fields to determine the relevance of the programs offered and how they meet industry requirements.

What do you need to master to get into game development?

The question of the demand for specialists in the gaming industry remains relevant. Everything depends on the desired position and specific specialization. In one of our previous articles, we mentioned that programmers are among the most in-demand specialists in game development. Therefore, in this article, we will focus on this profession and its importance in game development. Programmers play a key role in the creation of games, ensuring the functionality and technical implementation of projects. With the industry growing, the demand for skilled programmers continues to increase, making this profession especially attractive to both beginners and professionals.

Graduates and undergraduate students looking to begin a career in game development as programmers need to master several key skills. First and foremost, mastery of programming languages ​​such as C++, C#, and Python is essential, as they are widely used in the gaming industry. Knowledge of game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine is also a significant advantage.

In addition to technical skills, graduates should focus on algorithms and data structures, which will help solve complex problems and optimize game performance. Understanding the basics of computer graphics and physics will also be beneficial, as this allows for the creation of more realistic and engaging games.

Developing teamwork and communication skills is equally important, as game development often requires collaboration with other specialists, such as designers and artists. Participating in gaming projects, hackathons, and creating your own games will help you gain practice and build a portfolio, which will increase your chances of finding a successful job in game development.

Thus, for a successful career in game development programming, it is necessary to combine technical knowledge with practical experience and teamwork skills.

HR manager at Targem Games, known for its projects such as Crossout, Star Conflict and Ex Machina plays a key role in human resources management. The HR specialist is responsible for recruiting and onboarding employees, as well as creating an effective corporate culture. Key responsibilities of the HR manager include team development, organizing training and professional development, and ensuring a favorable climate for creativity and productivity. Targem Games is actively seeking talented professionals who can contribute to the development of gaming projects and help the company reach new heights in the industry.

At our company, where most of the founders have a technical background, we especially value game designers with a higher education in mathematics. If you aspire to become a designer specializing in physics, knowledge of physics will be a significant advantage. For the role of analyst, knowledge of statistics and mathematical analysis is essential. The necessary disciplines depend on your specialization, and we are ready to support you in developing the necessary skills.

The game development industry offers many specializations, each requiring specific skills and knowledge. For example, a junior programmer with Unity experience needs to have knowledge of physics, optimization fundamentals, vector algebra, user interface design principles, and a number of other key areas. A comprehensive approach to training and skill development in these areas will help young professionals successfully integrate into the team and make a significant contribution to game development.

The game development industry offers a wide range of competencies necessary for a successful career. However, we will focus on the key requirements for applicants. For newly graduated programmers, it is important to master programming languages ​​such as C# or C++. An anonymous Unity game developer, Cyberaslan, explains that knowledge of these languages ​​is fundamental for creating high-quality game content and working with game engines. Mastering these languages ​​allows not only for game development but also for effective problem-solving, a key aspect in game development.

C# is the primary programming language used in the Unity game engine. If you already have experience with C#, learning Unity will be much easier for you. Likewise, knowledge of C++ makes mastering the Unreal Engine much easier. However, it's important to note that proficiency in programming languages ​​is only one aspect necessary for successful mastery of engines. Understanding the fundamentals of game development, familiarity with the tools and techniques used in the engine, are also key. When choosing a university, pay special attention to the curriculum. It's important that it includes courses in programming languages ​​such as C# and C++. This knowledge is fundamental for most programmers seeking a career in the gaming industry. It's also important to consider that there are front-end and back-end developers who use HTML, Java, PHP, Go, Python, and other programming languages. More detailed information on various development tools and technologies can be found in other Skillbox Media materials.

When When discussing soft skills, employers typically expect candidates to be stress-resistant and able to work in a team. Cyberaslan emphasizes the importance of these qualities. Stress resistance allows employees to effectively cope with pressure and unexpected situations, which is especially important in a dynamic work environment. Teamwork promotes harmonious interaction with colleagues, which in turn increases productivity and the quality of task completion. These skills are crucial factors when selecting a candidate for a vacancy, as they directly impact the overall team atmosphere and the success of the company as a whole. The gaming industry often encounters situations requiring overtime and crunch, and it is important to be able to cope with them. A key aspect of successful performance is the ability to effectively collaborate in a team, accept constructive criticism, and give it back. This should contribute to an improved workflow and higher quality of the final product. The ability to adapt to change and maintain a positive team atmosphere are essential skills for success in game development.

All of these skills can be acquired at higher education institutions, especially those that have implemented project-based learning. This approach involves grouping students together to work on real-world projects, which helps solve real-world problems. Through project-based learning, students can apply theoretical knowledge in practice and gain the experience that young professionals need to succeed in their careers. Project-based learning fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills, making graduates more competitive in the job market.

It is recommended to consider institutions that have integrated project-based learning into their educational programs. Such universities include HSE, Moscow Polytechnic University, Far Eastern Federal University, Ural Federal University, Southern Federal University, and Lobachevsky University. Project-based learning helps develop practical skills and critical thinking in students, making them more competitive in the job market. Choosing an educational institution with such a program can significantly impact the quality of education and career prospects.

Project-based learning develops skills that allow you to think not only from a developer's perspective, but also from a user's perspective. This unique quality is worth developing, emphasizes Ivan Domashnikh, head of project-based learning in the Fundamental Informatics and Information Technology program at UrFU. This approach promotes a deeper understanding of user needs and allows us to create more effective and convenient solutions in the field of information technology.

Responsible for project-based learning in the direction of the Faculty of Information Technology and Management (FIIT) at the Ural Federal University (UrFU) plays a key role in organizing and coordinating the educational process. It integrates theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling students to develop the competencies necessary for successful professional careers in information technology. An important goal is to create conditions for working on real projects, which contributes to the quality of education and graduates' readiness for the challenges of the modern labor market. Software development requires a deep understanding of user needs. Otherwise, you risk developing high-quality applications that are difficult to use. The design process should be based on user experience, which is especially important when creating game levels or hints. It's crucial to consider how players interact with the product to ensure a comfortable learning experience and immersion. This approach not only improves the quality of the final product but also contributes to its popularity in the market.

How many educational institutions train specialists in game development?

Many higher education institutions and secondary vocational schools are actively implementing project-based learning in their educational programs. However, only a few of them delve into software development, creating full-fledged game development programs. Maria Kochakova, director of the Narratorika school of game writing, notes the presence of 19 undergraduate programs, 12 graduate programs, and six colleges specializing in gaming. Most of them are located in Moscow, but there are also educational institutions in St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Kaliningrad, Krasnoyarsk, Magnitogorsk, Chelyabinsk, Kazan, Rostov-on-Don, Tomsk, Novosibirsk, and Ivanovo. The development of such programs contributes to the training of qualified specialists in the gaming industry and strengthens Russia's position in the international game development arena.

Researchers Far Eastern Federal University has identified even more educational institutions. In addition to the universities already mentioned, the study included institutions from Yekaterinburg, Arkhangelsk, and Voronezh. This broadens the understanding of higher education in Russia and highlights the diversity of educational opportunities across the country.

The difference in the lists of specializations is explained by the specifics of education in the game development field. Some educational institutions do not offer separate programs dedicated to the gaming industry, but allow students to choose game development as one of their areas of study. Ivan Domashnikh explained this process using the example of the Faculty of Information Technology and Programming (FIIT) at Ural Federal University.

The Faculty of Information Technology and Information Systems (FIIT) at UrFU does not have specialized programs for the gaming industry, but we successfully train programmers with the necessary skills for work in this field. During the first two years, students master the basic curriculum, studying programming languages ​​such as Python and C#, as well as important mathematical disciplines. In their third or fourth year, they have the opportunity to choose specialized courses, for example, from Targem Games, which deepens their knowledge and prepares them for a career in the gaming industry.

Who will you study with?

Over the past three years, Russian education has seen a steady trend toward the ability to independently choose additional courses. Individual educational trajectories allow students to take courses outside the core curriculum, often taught by practicing specialists. Involving professionals in the educational process is key, as only they can provide students with relevant knowledge and help them build a successful career. Ivan Domashnikh emphasizes the importance of this approach.

By participating in developer projects, you establish valuable connections with company employees. If you present your best side, they will remember you, which can play a positive role in interviews – even without experience, you may be considered for a position. In addition, you build a portfolio, which will significantly simplify your job search. During interviews, you will have the opportunity to talk about your involvement in the project, the challenges you faced, and how you successfully overcame them. This will demonstrate your competence and preparedness, which is important for potential employers.

Not every educational The institution is capable of attracting professionals from the gaming industry. Firstly, many specialists are unwilling to work for the salaries offered by municipal institutions. "This requires true dedication, as the pay terms are often inadequate," notes Maria Kochakova. Secondly, not every expert can explain the material clearly and patiently. Such professionals are extremely rare, and they are clearly insufficient for all educational institutions. To ensure high-quality education in game development, it is necessary to find new approaches to attracting and retaining qualified personnel.

One possible solution to the first problem is to have the teaching staff paid by the development company rather than by the educational institution. Ivan Domashnikh explains that this scheme is similar to the practice at Google, where employees can dedicate 20% of their work time to personal projects—in this case, teaching—while still receiving a salary as for their regular job. There is also the option for employees to study in their free time for additional compensation.

Can universities cover all game development specialties?

In Russia, there are numerous educational institutions that train specialists for the gaming industry. However, most of them focus on technical specialties such as programming and software development. However, only a few educational institutions offer programs covering important areas such as game design and other unique professions specific to the gaming industry. This creates a shortage of qualified personnel in areas that play a key role in the creation of successful games.

Computer hardware and automated systems software are studied at 54 universities, while game design and virtual reality are offered at only four educational institutions, according to the aggregator Postupi Online. This disproportion is due to historical factors, according to Ivan Domashnykh. The development of educational programs in programming and information technology occurred earlier, leading to a larger number of universities offering such specialties. At the same time, game design and virtual reality remain relatively new fields, limiting their adoption in the educational system. Programmer training began in the early 1990s due to the growing demand for software by businesses. This created the foundation for training specialists in game development. The game designer profession emerged later, and teaching this discipline became possible only later. Furthermore, the predominance of technical specialists in educational institutions is explained by the fact that universities train personnel not only for the gaming industry but also for other sectors, such as the defense industry. As a result, there is a greater demand for automation specialists, leading to a larger number of students in this field.

In Russia, there is a shortage of educational institutions offering game design programs. This is due not only to a shortage of qualified instructors but also to the difficulties in developing curricula for such specialized professions. The main problem is the inflexibility of the traditional education system, which is not always able to adapt to the rapidly changing demands of the gaming industry. Many educational institutions fail to offer relevant and modern programs, resulting in students receiving knowledge that quickly becomes outdated. Until this situation changes, universities and colleges will not be able to prepare a sufficient number of game designers and other specialists necessary for the successful development of the gaming industry in Russia.

According to surveys among game developers, Russian universities produce a significant number of programmers. However, the proportion of graduates in 2D and 3D design is significantly lower, and the number of game designers remains extremely limited. This indicates the need to improve educational programs in the field of art and game design to meet the needs of the gaming industry in Russia.

The organization of project-based learning at the UrFU Radio Faculty is an important aspect of the educational process. Project-based learning allows students to apply theoretical knowledge in practice, developing teamwork and critical thinking skills. At UrFU's Radio Faculty, students participate in various projects that deepen their understanding of radio engineering and related fields. This not only improves the quality of education but also prepares students for future professional activities, providing them with a competitive advantage in the labor market. Project-based learning also strengthens the connection between theory and practice, which is a key element in the development of qualified specialists in the field of radio engineering.

In my opinion, game designer training is currently carried out primarily through online schools and other forms of additional education, while traditional higher and secondary education does not provide the necessary skills and knowledge for this profession.

And yet: where to study?

Your choice of profession determines the path you will take. For those who aspire to become a programmer, the best option is to study at prestigious technical universities. As practice shows, large public educational institutions offer the highest quality education, which is confirmed by recommendations from experienced developers. Among such universities, the following stand out:

• Bauman Moscow State Technical University;
• ITMO National Research University of St. Petersburg;
• Ural Federal University in Yekaterinburg, or more precisely, its Institute of Natural Sciences and Mathematics (INEM) and the Institute of Radioelectronics and Information Technology (IRIT-RTF).

A well-known university does not always guarantee a high-quality education in game development. It is important that the educational institution offers a variety of development paths. This will allow you to deepen your knowledge and decide on a direction in the programming profession. It is also necessary to find out whether the university attracts practicing specialists who can provide relevant knowledge and help you enter the gaming industry. In addition, find out which programming languages ​​​​are taught at the educational institution. Languages ​​such as C#, C++, Python, and Java are preferred, while Windows Forms and Pascal can be used only as a basis for learning programming.

Future artists and composers can acquire the necessary knowledge and skills in specialized schools, academies, and conservatories. According to Anna Elkina of Targem Games, these educational institutions play a key role in the training of professionals in the fields of art and music. Studying at such institutions allows students not only to master the theoretical foundations but also to gain practical experience, which significantly increases their competitiveness in the job market.

To successfully enter the video game industry and become a sought-after specialist, it is important to obtain a specialized education. Knowledge of key terms and current trends in game development will allow you to confidently participate in professional discussions. For artists, basic academic drawing skills are especially important, as they form the basis for further development. Graduates of specialized educational institutions are more likely to find work thanks to the knowledge and connections they have acquired. We actively collaborate with the city's universities, including the conservatory, where we were looking for a sound engineer, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in game development.

Game writers and scriptwriters can also benefit significantly from a philological or journalism education. Maria Kochakova, director of Narratorika and creator of the game Message Quest, asserts that such knowledge helps them better understand narrative structure and create engaging stories. A degree in literature and journalism develops writing skills, critical thinking, and text analysis, which are essential for developing high-quality game scripts. In the increasingly competitive gaming industry, professional skills are becoming key to a successful career in this field.

Studying at the faculty of philology or journalism provides valuable training that many newcomers to the industry need. I've met many screenwriters and aspiring screenwriters, but they often lack reading comprehension and grammar skills. To illustrate, I can share my own experience: I got my first job by writing a game news story without errors and using the correct commas. There are also people in our industry who don't understand mythology, which is important, as myths and archetypes are at the heart of storytelling. A classical education provides the universal skills necessary for a successful writing career. Professions related to the creation of texts require high writing skills, and such specialists are always in demand.

Creating a detailed plan for someone wanting to master a profession in game development is virtually impossible. There's no single path in the gaming industry, as there are numerous specializations, each offering unique opportunities for beginners. Mikhail Shesterov advises starting your job search in game development while still studying. This will allow you to quickly gain the necessary experience and create a high-quality portfolio, which in turn will significantly increase your chances of successful employment in this dynamic and in-demand field.

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Becoming a Game Developer: Five First Steps to a Career in Game Development

If you dream of a career in the video game industry, it’s important to know where to start. Here are five essential steps to help you become a game developer.

The first step is identifying your role in game development. The industry offers a variety of professions, including programmers, designers, artists, and writers. Research each of these roles to understand which one is best for you.

The second step is learning the necessary skills. Depending on the role you choose, you may need knowledge of programming languages ​​such as C++ or C#, as well as experience with game engines such as Unity or Unreal Engine. Online courses and learning materials can help you master these skills.

The third step is creating a portfolio. Start with small projects to showcase your abilities. These can be simple games or modifications of existing projects. Your portfolio should reflect your style and skill level.

Step four: participate in game jams and hackathons. These events provide a great opportunity to practice, network with other developers, and get feedback on your projects. This will also help expand your network of contacts in the industry.

Step five: search for internships and job openings. Start by searching for internships or junior positions at game studios. This will give you the opportunity to gain real-world experience and understand the industry from the inside.

By following these steps, you can build a career in game development and become a successful game developer.

Is there a difference between studying at universities and colleges?

Choosing between a good secondary vocational school and a mediocre higher education institution is important for your future career. Higher education does not always guarantee high-quality knowledge and skills, as entrepreneur and indie game developer Maxim emphasizes. He shares his experience, comparing studies at the Ural Radio Engineering College named after A.S. Popov (UREC) and the Ural State University of Economics (USUE). Importantly, specialized colleges can offer a practice-oriented approach, which is often more valuable in the labor market.

At UREC, teachers take an active interest in student success, offering advice on participating in competitions and finding a job. For example, if professors notice that a student is successful in web development, they recommend relevant companies and offer job search assistance. In contrast, at SINH, professors focus exclusively on the student's work. For example, I put a lot of effort into my coursework, creating high-quality code, but the professor focused on the errors in the explanation. Furthermore, at SINH, the curriculum is almost identical to what I studied in college, which doesn't encourage the development of new skills and knowledge.

Before applying to a secondary vocational school, it's important to consider that after graduating from college, you won't be able to immediately transfer to senior years of university. Mikhail Shesterov emphasizes that it's essential to enroll in the first year and receive a full education. In rare cases, a university may offer a graduate the opportunity to transfer to a higher year, but this will require proof of readiness. If you intend to continue your education, it's best to focus on higher education. Anna Elkina of Targem Games notes that only a few of their employees have secondary vocational education diplomas, and most of them are already striving to obtain higher education. This confirms that many people recognize the value of higher education and are actively striving for professional growth.

Is it possible to go anywhere Avoid applying and learn everything online?

Yes, self-study is possible: there are plenty of materials and videos available online, especially for those who speak English. The game development industry has many examples of self-taught individuals who have successfully found jobs through self-study. However, as their careers progress, employees without a degree may face challenges, such as being denied promotions or underpaid. This depends on the policies of the individual company, and in some cases, a lack of formal education can be a barrier.

When choosing self-study, it's important to consider its disadvantages. First, by studying the material on your own, you miss out on the opportunity to network and interact in a university environment. This opinion is shared by an anonymous senior developer. The lack of group discussions, teamwork, and mentoring can negatively impact the depth of knowledge acquisition and practical skills. Furthermore, self-study requires a high level of self-organization and motivation, which is not always easy to achieve. Despite these shortcomings, self-education can be an effective way to gain knowledge if approached with an understanding of all its features and challenges.

When applying to an educational institution, a key factor is not only the chosen university but also the environment. Networking with different people and sharing experiences and knowledge play a significant role in the educational process. Universities such as Baumanka and ITMO stand out precisely because of their atmosphere, which is conducive to development and learning. Here, not only the quality of teaching is important, but also the opportunities for communication and interaction that the educational institution provides.

Secondly, despite the abundance of information online, no one will create a curriculum specifically for you. Mikhail Shesterov notes that online, it is important to organize the data yourself, whereas a university offers a wide range of professions and qualifications from which you can choose a direction for further study. Self-education and university study complement each other. Usually, the information received in classes is insufficient, so students, especially distance learners, are often forced to seek out additional sources to deepen their knowledge.

The university provides students with additional motivation for studying. It sets specific times, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., for students to complete assignments and attend classes. This schedule promotes discipline and helps them focus on the learning process, which is especially important for achieving academic goals. Mikhail Shesterov notes that this time structure allows students to organize their studies more effectively and increases their productivity in their studies.

Let's say studying at the university will be useful. But I'll be wasting three years, or even more, on this!

If you're an adult with a family, pursuing a degree in game development can be challenging. Distance learning is a rare option, as most programs in this field require full-time study. Research conducted by My.Games and the Far Eastern Federal University (FEFU) identified approximately 60 full-time game development programs and fewer than ten part-time programs. Similar data is presented in a table prepared by Maria Kochakova, where the number of full-time programs is approximately 30, while the number of part-time programs is no more than ten. This highlights the limited opportunities for obtaining a game development education in a format suitable for busy individuals. For those unable to study full-time, opportunities are limited, especially when it comes to high-quality departments and universities. However, such options do exist. If you're young or a recent high school graduate, university can be an excellent place to study your future profession. As Anna Elkina notes, "Game development, although attractive, isn't for everyone. Some prefer fintech, and that's perfectly normal." Studying at a university provides the opportunity to explore a wide range of professional fields and choose whether you want to create games or pursue something else without wasting time after graduation.

Bottom Line

Despite common biases, universities and secondary specialized educational institutions provide fundamental knowledge that can be useful in the field of game development. Moreover, such educational institutions create a creative atmosphere conducive to the rapid professional growth of students. By participating in practical projects or university initiatives, students have the opportunity to demonstrate their skills and, as a result, get their first job in the gaming industry.

Not all universities are equally effective in preparing game development specialists. When choosing a university, it is important to pay attention to the availability of faculty who are practicing developers, as well as the presence of clear development paths. It's recommended to talk to graduates to find out what skills they acquired during their studies and how successfully they applied their knowledge in practice. This will help you make an informed choice and find the school that best suits your career goals in the video game industry.

When choosing a study path, programmers have significant advantages. For those aspiring to become game designers, the educational process can be more challenging. Unlike artists, sound designers, and scriptwriters, who have more opportunities to enroll in suitable schools, game designers must carefully select programs and courses. This is because the knowledge and skill requirements in this field are often higher, and competition at universities is significantly higher.

Choosing a major is an important step, and it's worth considering that the quality of education at universities can vary. Some colleges can provide an even higher level of knowledge than universities. However, the largest federal educational institutions usually provide a decent education. Don't underestimate the importance of a degree: most professionals in the gaming industry agree that getting an education is a necessary step on the path to a successful career.