Certificate in Game Design

About This Program

If you grew up passionate about gaming, becoming a professional game designer might be your dream job. But being an avid gamer isn’t enough of a credential to break into the industry. You’ll need to show that you have specific knowledge of game systems and game design, as well as an understanding of the development process and how major game studios operate.

In this three-course certificate program, we’ll examine the key principles of modern game design. You’ll learn about focus groups, balance and playtest different types of games, and explore the factors that engage players and keep them coming back for more. You’ll also explore industry best practices for using AI in the workplace as you prepare to play an important role in this exciting, rapidly expanding field.

▸ Related Article: What Is It Like to Be a Game Designer? 

Designed For

Designers, developers, entrepreneurs and anyone looking to enter or advance in the game industry.

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What You’ll Learn

• How to analyze the dynamic elements of game systems

• Different genres of video games and the history of games

• Game element costing and balancing

• Social and psychological dimensions of games

• Project management techniques to build tabletop and digital games

Get Hands-On Experience

• Pitch all aspects of games to industry professionals including concept, final design and prototypes

• Create multiple game design documents for your professional portfolio

• Produce a shipped, playable game prototype

How It Works & Next Steps

To earn the certificate, complete the courses in the order below. To get started, visit the first course page to see upcoming offerings and apply.  

• Fundamentals of Game Design

• Game Mechanics & Systems Design

• Game Studio Roles & Development

Apply for a Scholarship

You may be eligible to apply for a UW Certificate Scholarship or Rotary Scholarship to cover most of the costs of this program. Scholarships are awarded based on financial need and the potential of the program to positively impact your career. For more information, see the Scholarships page.

Career-Ready Credentials

When you complete this program, you’ll earn a certificate and a digital achievement badge you can use to showcase your professional development. You’ll also earn achievement badges for each course you complete.

Our Enrollment Coaches Are Here to Help

Connect with an enrollment coach to learn more about this offering. Or if you need help finding the right certificate, specialization or course for you, reach out to explore your options.

This program is intended for professional development and is not designed to meet educational requirements for professional licensure or certification.