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Digital Animation Game Design Program Earns National Ranking, Collaborates with Michigan Industry

Digital Animation and Game DesignThe Digital Animation and Game Design Bachelor of Applied Science program at Ferris State University was ranked 18th nationally by Animation Career Review, in their eighth annual report on game design programs.

The Digital Animation and Game Design program offered on Ferris State University’s Grand Rapids and Big Rapids campuses fared well in the eighth annual rankings of game design programs by Animation Career Review, an online clearinghouse for information about this career field.

The ACR 2020 Game Design School Rankings lists Ferris as 18th nationally among schools that offer a Game Design B.A., since the DAGD four-year program provides a Bachelor of Applied Science degree. Other ACR rankings for Ferris’ DAGD include a mention in the Top 40 Nationally, Among Publicly-Funded Schools and Colleges roster and designation as a Top 50 program among all U.S. schools.

DAGD Program Coordinator David Baker, an assistant professor in the School of Digital Media, said several publications solicit a response and assess colleges and universities across the U.S., along with programs in Canada and other countries. Baker was pleased that ACR, in its survey of more than 125 schools across the country, found that Ferris had solid rankings compared to peer institutions.

“I feel the results of our program alumni, who have succeeded as professionals with leading game manufacturers, speaks for itself,” Baker said. “Game design and eSports are attractive terms for young people, but we strive to help our students understand how their training is crucial in many industries.”

Baker said Digital Animation and Game Design students collaborate with industry in Hastings and Benton Harbor, to develop the virtual reality training these businesses desire for their workforce.

“As instructors, the onus is ours to be resourceful and develop new markets,” Baker said. “Our students are finding many avenues through which they can apply their learning, including opportunities in game design.”

Animation Career Review was launched in 2011 to be the most comprehensive source of information for aspiring animation and game design professionals. The online publication receives approximately 100,000 unique visitors per month.