What do I need to know to become a Game Designer?

I want to design First Person Shooters, I've already played them all. Call of Duty, Bioshock, Medal of Honor, Battlefield, etc. Basically, is there anything specific I have to know? Do I have to know programming, because as of know I do not know any. What classes should I take in college? I'm 17 right now, so I'm starting to pick out colleges. Any suggestions you have would be greatly appreciated, thankyou.What do I need to know to become a Game Designer?
Here are some colleges

http://archives.igda.org/breakingin/reso鈥?/a>

Go look at their game design programs.

I have seen the program at Expressions college and like it. They are in San Francisco.



Google Game Design Jobs and look at the job posts.

See if there is anything else you need to get to a point where you can apply for a position.

Realize that when you are applying there is another 300 people applying too

so you will need to beat those requirements to get to the top of the pile.



Start networking in the games industry.



Game Testing is a good summer job for a student studying game design.

Here is a course in Game Testing.

http://www.gameinstitute.com/PowerUp_Gam鈥?/a>

Helps you build industry contacts and industry experience too.



GDC is coming to SF soon. I would go if I had the money. Just go to the expo and talk to the recruiters, etc. You don't have to do the tech talks or anything too expensive...What do I need to know to become a Game Designer?
Computer programming is a must, but don't think it's easy, it will months, or years to be good at it. But if you have passion for it, you will have no problem. Good luck pursuing your goal.

http://www.google.com/search?client=oper鈥?/a>

http://www.google.com/search?hl=en%26amp;clien鈥?/a>