2021

What is the top game design program in Arkansas for 2021?

Top Arkansas Game Design Schools - 2021 College Rankings
RankingSchoolCity
1Southern Arkansas UniversityMagnolia

Our 2021 ranking of the top game design school program in Arkansas. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.

1. Southern Arkansas University, Magnolia, Arkansas
Southern Arkansas University

Southern Arkansas University (SAU) was Established in 1909, Southern Arkansas University (SAU) is home to the only Arkansas Engineering program south of Little Rock. In 2013, a year before establishing the Engineering program, SAU launched the Computer Game And Animation programs, which are the first and most affordable complete degree programs of its kind in Arkansas.

SAU school serves more than 3,500 students enrolled in more than 80 degrees in four distinct colleges and the School of Graduate Studies. The Computer Game and Animation programs 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 with a Computer Gaming and Animation Design Option is jointly offered by the Mathematics & Computer Science Department and the Department of Art & Design. Consisting of 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.”

Course highlights include Artificial Intelligence, Computerized Simulations, Fundamentals of Game Programming, Game Design Management, Game Development, Graphic Software Applications, Programming Languages & Compilers, and Two-Dimensional Design. Also part of the program: Game Modification Workshops, a Game Development Senior Project, and a Computer Science Internship.

A Game, Animation, and Simulation BFA is offered through the Department of Art & Design. This 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, 3D Rigging, Advanced Art Studio, Animation, Character Design and Sculpture, Game Design Management, Graphic Software Applications, Illustration, Simulation Development, Two-Dimensional Design, and World Creation and Design. A Game Development Senior Project, Senior Capstone, and optional internship are also part of the program.  

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