Game Development Degrees and Alternatives in 2026

Written by Coursera Staff • Updated on

Explore the options you will have with a game development degree, such as video game development and design, by reviewing the educational requirements to start a career in the field.

[Featured Image] After earning game development degrees, two game designers work on a video game featuring virtual reality.

Key takeaways

A bachelor's degree in software engineering, computer science, digital design, or a relevant field can enhance your appeal to potential employers.

  • The video game industry is part of the global entertainment and media industry, a sector the experts at PwC anticipate will be worth $3.5 trillion by 2029 [1].

  • Trends in the gaming industry are always changing, and by following them, you can have a grasp on what’s popular. 

  • You can hone your skills as a game developer by learning Unity, C#, C++, animation, and 3D modeling. 

Explore game development degrees, what’s involved in video game development, and educational alternatives to help you weigh your options.

What degree do you need to be a game developer?

While it's not always necessary, some employers require game developers to hold a bachelor’s degree in software engineering, computer science, or a relevant field. Employers in this industry also value experience and a demonstrated skill set. You may accomplish this through practical aspects of your degree course, internships, entry-level positions, or personal projects. 

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Popular majors for aspiring game developers

As an aspiring game developer, you may choose from several majors, including game development or game design. Some other common options include software engineering, computer science, computer engineering, and graphic design. Getting your degree is an excellent starting point for this career path because it gives you opportunities to gain experience and knowledge. 

In addition to your major, you'll need excellent math and physics skills, which are important in game development. Relevant degree programs typically cover these subjects.

Game development degree coursework

Game development degree coursework varies depending on your program. It’s essential to look at all options to ensure the coursework covers your area of interest. Generally, a gaming degree covers:

Is Python or C++ better for games?

Both Python and C++ are capable of creating games, but C++ is generally considered better, as it allows developers to more directly control the hardware resources of the computer, allowing them to develop more complex games. C++ is also the basis for popular game engines Unity and Unreal. Python is gaining popularity in game development for its ease of use in prototyping and indie games, but C++ still beats it out because of how much faster it compiles complex game requirements. 

Is a game development degree worth it?

To determine if pursuing a game development degree is worth it, examine the benefits of having one.

1. Game developers are in demand.

The industry is expanding due to the increase in gaming, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Game developers are in high demand. The video game industry is part of the global entertainment and media industry, a sector the experts at PwC anticipate will be worth $3.5 trillion by 2029 [1]. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts job growth of 15 percent between 2024 and 2034, a figure considerably higher than the average across all jobs [2]. However, even with the high demand, it’s essential to keep in mind that gaming is highly competitive.

2. The gaming industry is developing.

The gaming industry is growing, but also changing and evolving with emerging technologies. Trends such as mobile gaming, the metaverse, and monetization are contributing to the ever-changing gaming concepts. It’s important that game developers' skills and knowledge are fresh and current, and a degree is a great way to cover the latest technology. 

Game developer salary

According to Glassdoor, the estimated median total pay for a game developer in the US is $97,000 per year [3]. This figure includes base salary and additional pay, which may represent profit-sharing, commissions, bonuses, or other compensation. The BLS suggests that software developers, which includes game developers, earn a median pay of $131,450 per year [2]. 

Degree cost

Degrees are a significant investment. Depending on your program and whether you attend full- or part-time, you may only be able to work part-time while studying. The average cost of a four-year, on-campus, in-state degree is $108,584, including books and living expenses, according to data from the Education Data Initiative [4]. 

A degree may result in higher salaries and opportunities to advance, helping you stand out against the competition. Data from Zippia shows that the average salary by education level is as follows [5]:

  • Associate degree: $76,281

  • Bachelor's degree: $89,013

  • Master's degree: $97,928

  • Doctorate: $107,042

Do I need a degree to work in game development?

While some employers may require a degree to start a career in game development, it is not a universal requirement for all employers in all positions. Game development is a competitive industry, and this is just one of the ways you can help raise your profile and stand out among other applicants. 

You may need more than a degree to secure your place in the game design industry. It’s also essential to continue to learn and develop new skills in line with recent trends and build a solid portfolio of experience to be in the running for many jobs. 

Alternative routes and additions to your resume

If a degree isn’t for you, consider alternative routes to enter the game development field. These can be helpful, even if you have a degree, to prove your skills and gain an edge in the job market. 

1. Hone your skills.

Having the right skills and being able to use them is essential in this role. With technology evolving, certain skills are in demand. Showing that you have these skills and building on them is vital. Here are some skills to be familiar with:

Specific workplace skills are also crucial, so building on your communication, teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving skills will also help you get a good role. 

2. Build a portfolio.

A portfolio is the ideal tool to highlight your abilities. Use it to demonstrate your experience and knowledge on personal projects, such as designing and building your own game, projects you’ve completed through courses, games you’ve developed through jobs, internships, and even any awards you’ve received. 

Read more: How to Make a Portfolio to Land Your Next Job

3. Get experience. 

Experience is essential if you want to be a game developer, but paid experience is only one of your options. You can build your professional experience by practicing your developing skills by creating games, either with an internship or an entry-level job as a game tester. 

4. Network

Networking at game events, joining forums, and meeting other industry professionals is a good way to learn about jobs before employers advertise them. It’s also an opportunity to connect with people who can help you learn about the industry. You may even find a mentor in the field.

5. Get a certificate. 

If you choose not to pursue a degree, or if you have a degree and want to hone additional skills in a particular area, a Specialization or Professional Certificate may help. You have various options, from learning coding to working on your workplace skills, such as communication and problem-solving. Here are some certificates on Coursera to consider:

6. Keep learning. 

Game developers must have a passion for lifelong learning, whether that means getting a certificate, attending an event or seminar, reading a book, or playing games. The more experience and knowledge you accumulate, the better your game development skills may be and the easier it is to stay on top of current trends.

Explore our free resources for game developers

Subscribe to our Career Chat newsletter for more career advice, to follow industry trends, and to find networking opportunities. Then, explore our free resources for game developers: 

Whether you want to develop a new skill, get comfortable with an in-demand technology, or advance your abilities, keep growing with a Coursera Plus subscription. You’ll get access to over 10,000 flexible courses.

Article sources

1. 

PwC. “US Edition: Global Entertainment & Media Outlook 2025-2029, https://www.pwc.com/us/en/industries/tmt/library/global-entertainment-media-outlook.html.” Accessed November 21, 2025.

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