Rant: Game Development Schools

#21 Getting a degree in CS is important in most cases, but getting a cert or degree in GAME DEVEVOPMENT isn't. I doubt most major game studios, and even most indies, look at game dev degree and say 'wow, this guy is good'. They probably think the same thing we think about those schools and opt for the CS degree over it.

#22 Thanks all for reply, it really helped me a lot =)

This bootcamps are only about Torque? Or is there bootcamps about game dev in general?
I'm already a CS Bacharelour and i want to get into the game industry, but i can't pay for a gamedev program in Digipen, FullSail, etc. My focus is programming, i intend to work in industry like a graphics programmer and not an indie developer.

Thanks all for the great help.

Gustavo

#23 Working on a game would be a good first step, even if the end result is simply to show the code you did and not the end result of that code.

Interning is also a good option to break into the industry I heard, but I'm not in nor have been in it so couldn't tell you for sure.

#24 Ah, I see, sorry about that. I guess I misunderstood what you were wanting. Yes the boot camps are specifically for Torque. Since you have a CS Bachelor's already then take a look at the Guildhall, I believe their program was a graduate one anyway, though I guess that may fall into the affordability problem again.

Still though, you have a CS Bachelor's so the technical knowledge that you're going to gain you most likely already have. Theories of design and things of that nature could be learned on the job or from any book on the subject. So you may want to look for books on game design and look for internships or entry level jobs.

#25 I am a student of Game and simulation programming at Devry university in Phoenix Arizona(a regionally accredited institution, same accreditation as the state universities) and I can tell you that it is an extremely rigorous program. The classes are not easy, but they seem to impart the knowledge needed to survive in the industry. The work load is extreme, and the teachers are very knowledgeable. I think that a blanket statement with the message "These schools are worthless because anybody who would be good at it are already working in the industry" is false. Like I said, I can say from personal experience that these people know the industry, and seem to enjoy it. And it is important to note that 86% percent of graduates from this program have a job before they walk out the door. However, I do agree that many of the commercials put out are extremely embarrassing and weak. But they do not reflect the quality of the programs or the schools. I believe the one in question was Collins College, and while they are not a regionally accredited institution, I know several people from that program who say that it is worthwhile. Also, The program there is considered one of the best in the state.
I guess the point of this post is to say that I've done my research, and programs like Collins or DeVry's, or SMU guildhall are worth looking into. And for those that are looking into commercial game development, a degree is almost completely necessary. People I've talked to from EA, and Midway hold degrees from the above institutions in very high regard. And while some may not consider those to be places they would want to work, they represent huge influences on the industry. Anyways, have a great night guys.

Chris

P.S. Much of the information from ANY degree program can be learned from a book, or from self study, but that doesn't mean the degree is unnecessary.