[Jeanox]

I'm into the visual development side of things. I've done a bit to help shape my university's undergrad program and my professors are all looking forward to me being a masters student.

My big question is how relevant do you think they actually are? I know several industry professionals and all of them have told me to forego additional education and focus on portfolio work. Has anyone in here started a masters degree with video game development in mind? How did it help you? How was it a waste of time/money?

I'd love additional perspective on this. Thanks in advance for any replies.

[nikonu]

I think it depends on the school that you're applying for the Master. If the game development course is famous, I think its better to apply for it. I've read in some articles that companies rarely take in students or people with no experience because it wastes a lot of money to teach them in the current game industry.

I was in the same situation as you this year, truth to be told I wasn't sure if going is the right choice and I've decided to withdrawn my application in the end. I thought concentrating on the quality of my portfolio and learning from online tutorials is more of a safer move.

[Firenzes]

It's like Nikonu said, it depends on the school you are going for. I know several students that are working towards their masters in Game Design, and they are brilliant, and the work they are doing is a good indication of where they could end up in the industry. However, you have to remember, if a kid with a bachelor's or no degree comes up against the same guy with a degree, and the kid has a better portfolio, they will probably take the kid. It all depends on what you want to do, and what you think will make you a better artist