| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southern Arkansas University | Magnolia |
Our 2020 ranking of the top game design school program in Arkansas. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.
Southern Arkansas University (SAU) was established in 1909 as the Third District Agricultural School (TDAS). The school serves more than 3,500 students enrolled in more than 80 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies. Programs for aspiring game designers are offered though the College of Liberal & Performing Arts, Department of Art & Design, and the College of Science & Engineering, Department of Mathematics & Computer Science.
A BS in Computer Science: Computer Gaming and Animation Design Option, is jointly offered by the Mathematics & Computer Science Department and the Department of Art & Design. Consisting to 120 credit hours, the program teaches students “how to create innovative artistic narratives and how to translate those narratives into animated productions as mobile and desktop apps,” says the school. “Project-based industry-like experience is the focus of this training.”
Sample courses for the program include Game Development, Graphic Software Applications, Game Design Management, Two-Dimensional Design, Computerized Simulations, Programming Languages & Compilers, Artificial Intelligence, and Fundamentals of Game Programming. A Game Modification Workshop, Computer Science Internship, and Game Development Senior Project are also part of the program.
A Game, Animation, and Simulation BFA is offered through the Department of Art & Design. The 120 credit hour program covers 3D animation techniques as well as production and management of game environments. Students are “also trained for a broad variety of scenarios which require prototyping 3D designs for manufacturers of medical equipment, transportation and the military.”
Course highlights include Introduction to 3D Modeling Tools, Game Design Management, Two-Dimensional Design, Animation, Character Design and Sculpture, Graphic Software Applications, Simulation Development, Advanced Art Studio, Illustration, World Creation and Design, and 3D Rigging. A Game Development Senior Project, Senior Capstone, and optional internship are also part of the program.
