Why ODU for game studies?

Prepare for industry careers in game-based entertainment, education, and training.

In this bachelor's program, you will learn the core theory and methods of game design and development. You will also learn how to adapt these principles in response to changes in technology, culture or the market.

You can choose to major in game programming concepts or game writing and design. Our faculty put a premium on experiential learning, and your coursework will include hands-on, real-world experience. 

Our game studies program has a close relationship with the Virginia Modeling, Analysis, and Simulation Center (VMASC), a multidisciplinary applied and enterprise research facility.

When you graduate, you will earn a Bachelor of Science in interdisciplinary studies with a major in game studies and design - design and criticism or game studies and design - development and criticism.

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Focus Your Studies

You will choose to major in Game Development and Criticism or Game Design and Criticism.

Game Development and Criticism is a good match for students interested in computer science, computer engineering, information technology and cybersecurity.

Game Design and Criticism will appeal to students interested in art, music, theater, graphic design or creative writing.

Kevin Moberly demonstrates a video fishing game designed by former ODU game design students. (Photo by Sam McDonald)

Program Information

Minimum
30 Credit Hours
Total
120 Credit Hours

To earn a bachelor's degree from ODU, you must complete at least 30 credit hours with us. This bachelor’s program requires 120 total credit hours. Your exact course of study will depend partly on your choice of major.

Talk with our enrollment team to determine if you have credits that will transfer or to start an application.

Explore Game Major Courses in the Catalog

Access course materials online from any location. Some classes will have live, regular online meeting times, while others will not. Instructors may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. This program requires a practicum or internship. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Minimum
30 Credit Hours
Total
120 Credit Hours

To earn a bachelor's degree from ODU, you must complete at least 30 credit hours with us. This bachelor’s program requires 120 total credit hours. Your exact course of study will depend partly on your choice of major.

Talk with our enrollment team to determine if you have credits that will transfer or to start an application.

Explore Game Major Courses in the Catalog

Access course materials online from any location. Some classes will have live, regular online meeting times, while others will not. Instructors may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. This program requires a practicum or internship. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Cost & Aid

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Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$408 per credit hour*
Out-of-State Students
$439 per credit hour

Active duty military students may qualify for a discounted undergraduate tuition rate.

These tuition rates are effective Fall 2024 and subject to change. 

Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid
Military Cost & Aid

* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarship & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 

Learn more about our scholarships

Careers

When you graduate, you will be prepared for careers in:

  • mainstream and independent gaming industry
  • serious gaming, such as training and education
  • modeling and simulation
  • the growing academic field of game studies
  • and other related fields

Possible job titles include:

  • Game Designer, Developer, Programmer or Tester
  • Game, Technical or FX Artist
  • Game Journalist or Writer
  • Level Designer
  • Game Producer
  • Character or Environmental Designer
  • Mobile App Developer
  • Gameplay Engineer
Video Game Designers
Growth
7.9%
Median Salary
$98,540
Producers and Directors
Growth
8.0%
Median Salary
$82,510
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Growth
4.3%
Median Salary
$99,060

Arts & Letters Enrollment Team

Our dedicated enrollment team will guide your transition to ODUGlobal.

Shawana Ward
Shawana Ward
Enrollment Coordinator
1-800-968-2638
artsandlettersonline@odu.edu
Kayla Baker
Kayla Baker
Enrollment Coordinator
1-800-968-2638
artsandlettersonline@odu.edu

Ready to Apply?

Finish your degree with us. We offer the upper division (300 and 400 level) courses for this degree program. Work with an enrollment coordinator to review your credits from other higher education institutions. Then you can apply toward a degree from ODU.

Get guaranteed admission at Old Dominion University

We've partnered with the Virginia Community College System and select educational institutions to make transferring easy. By applying, you will be assured admission at ODU for the completion of your degree.

Learn more about Guaranteed Admission to ODU

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