Video game designers: Get paid for creating fun!

You're a dedicated gamer who believes you've got better "game" than the video games you're playing. Earning a college degree in video game design provides a career path toward doing what you love.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics notes that the software publishing industry is expected to increase by about 30 percent between 2008 and 2018. Job opportunities for graphic designers are best for those trained in web design and animation.

Growing markets for video software applications are positioning job candidates with a traditional or online degree from a video game design program for career success. As of May, 2010 the national average salary for graphic artists was $48,140 for graphic designers and $56,000 for computer systems designers.

Accredited video game design degrees: What you'll learn

Video game designers combine artistic and graphic design skills with technological training. You'll likely study design concepts and gain studio experience, as well as learn computerized design applications. Creating computerized video games requires knowledge of computer software applications and systems design.

Video game design programs may also include courses in liberal arts, marketing and business. Depending on your design interests, you may also study games of chance. Interactive gaming technology is increasingly popular in casinos and resorts.