This 4 year public university offers over 200 degree programs at its eight schools and colleges. While the university does not yet provide a specific degree in game design, it does offer several relevant electives through its computer science bachelor's degree program. The required courses under this program are useful for students who would like to further their studies in game design. Electives include both basic and advanced computer graphics, artificial intelligence and game design, digital media, software development and interactive games. One particular course of interest is artificial intelligence and game design, which teaches the basics of game design for computer scientists and emphasizes the role that artificial intelligence (AI) plays in game design and development.
Portland State University
PO Box 751
Portland, OR 97207-0751
503-725-3000
pdx.edu
Founded in 1961 and touted as the largest community college in Oregon, this school offers several game design courses as part of its 2 year computer science associate's degree program. Relevant classes include introductory computer gaming, game programming, programming systems and data structures. As a beginner, you'll have the chance to focus on basic game development and simple video game design. Later on you'll learn animation and stimulation techniques and will eventually have the opportunity to design your own games. Additional subjects include animation techniques, physics simulation, user controls, graphical methods and artificial intelligence. A course in C++ is recommended before registering for any game design classes.
Portland Community College
PO Box 19000
Portland, OR 97280-0990
503-244-6111
pcc.edu
You've probably heard of the ITT Technical Institute, or maybe you've seen one of their ads on TV. The schools are, after all, located all over the country. There are only a few, however, that offer specialized degrees in digital entertainment and game design. The game design program in Portland is offered under the institute's school of drafting and design, and helps graduates prepare for a variety of entry-level positions in digital games and multimedia applications. Courses in this program explore topics like gaming technology, game design process, animation and level design. After completing the game design program at Portland's ITT Technical Institute, graduates can seek jobs in team design, game development, video game production and 3D animation.
ITT Technical Institute of Portland
9500 NE Cascades Parkway
Portland, OR 97220
503-255-6500
itt-tech.edu
Much like the ITT Technical Institute, The Art Institute also has several locations all over the nation. The Art Institute of Portland offers a game art and design degree, tailored to meet the needs of those pursuing a career in the industry. Students of this program use industry-related software and technology while combining their artistic and digital skills. Before jumping into the heavy stuff, you'll explore basics like drawing, color theory and 2D design. Once you've mastered modeling and animation, you'll move onto advanced coursework in game design including scriptwriting, storyboarding, character animation and production. Before graduation, students must develop a complete portfolio highlighting their work.
The Art Institute of Portland
1122 NW David St.
Portland, OR 97209
503-228-6528
artinstitutes.edu