Searching for a list of game design colleges? Well, search no more because we have compiled the ultimate list of 60 Game Design Colleges that are waiting for your application.
These colleges will help you grow and achieve your dreams of working in the game industry.
Full Sail University
Full Sail is one of the most well-known schools for game design, especially if you’re looking for something hands-on and fast-paced. Their Game Design and Game Development degrees focus on real-world projects, so you’ll spend a lot of time building actual games, not just studying theory.
What makes it stand out is the accelerated format. You can finish a bachelor’s degree in just 20 months, which means you can start your career sooner. They also offer online programs, so you don’t need to move to Florida if that’s not an option.
Plus, the campus is packed with industry-standard gear, and classes are taught by people who’ve worked at big-name studios. Alumni have gone on to work at places like EA, Epic Games, and Ubisoft.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Contact: admissions@fullsail.com
Website: Full Sail University
Game degrees:
- Game Art Bachelor’s Degree
- Game Design Bachelor’s Degree
- Game Design Master’s Degree
- Game Development Bachelor’s Degree
- Mobile Gaming Master’s Degree
University of Southern California
USC has one of the top-ranked game design programs in the world, and it’s easy to see why. Their USC Games program is a joint effort between the School of Cinematic Arts and the Viterbi School of Engineering. That means you get the best of both worlds—storytelling and creativity, plus technical game development skills.
Whether you’re into art, coding, narrative design, or production, they offer several degrees to match your interests. You’ll work in teams on real game projects, and there are tons of opportunities to showcase your work.
The school’s location in Los Angeles also puts you right in the heart of the entertainment and tech industry. Students have access to internships, events, and connections that can lead to jobs at major companies like Sony, Blizzard, and Riot Games.
Founding date: 1880.
State: California, Los Angeles
Contact: vpafa@usc.edu
Website: University of Southern California
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Interactive Entertainment
- BS in Computer Science (Games)
- Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Media with an emphasis in Games and Health
- M.F.A. in Interactive Media
- M.S. in Computer Science (Game Development)
- Master of Arts in Cinematic Arts with an emphasis in Media Arts, Games and Health
Minors:
- Game design
- Game animation
- Game audio
- Game entrepreneurism
- Game user research
- Themed entertainment
- Video game design and management
- Video game programming
- 3D computer modelling and graphics
- Computer science
University of Utah
Utah Games (part of the EAE program) is one of the first university game design programs in the U.S.—and still one of the best. It’s known for combining creativity, tech, and teamwork, giving students the experience of working in a real game studio.
You can study game art, design, production, or engineering, and undergrads actually build and publish their own games before graduating. That means you’ll leave with a strong portfolio and real-world experience.
They also offer a Master of Entertainment Arts and Engineering, where grad students run their own game studio. It’s one of the few programs where students have shipped games on platforms like Steam and consoles.
Graduates have gone on to work at Epic Games, Electronic Arts, and Bungie, or launch their own indie studios.
Founding date: 1850.
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
Contact: webmaster@utah.edu
Website: University of Utah
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Games
- Minor in Games
- Bachelor of Science in Computer science, entertainment arts and engineering emphasis
- Master of Entertainment Arts and Engineering
DigiPen Institute of Technology
DigiPen is a game design school first, not just a college that added game courses later. That focus makes a big difference.
Their programs are intense, but in a good way. You’ll learn by doing—building games from your first year, working in teams just like at real studios. DigiPen offers several degrees that cover game design, game art, sound design, and production, so there’s something for every interest.
The school is located just down the road from Nintendo of America and a bunch of top studios in the Seattle area. That’s helped a lot of grads land jobs at companies like Valve, Bungie, and Microsoft.
If you’re serious about making games and want a program that’s all-in from day one, DigiPen is one of the best out there.
Founding date: 1988
State: Washington, Redmond
Contact: info@digipen.edu
Website: DigiPen Institute of Technology
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Art and Animation
- Bachelor of Arts in Game Design
- Master of fine arts in Digital Arts
- BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation
- BS in Computer Science in Machine Learning
- BS in Computer Science and Digital Audio
- BS in Computer Science
- BS in Computer Science and Game Design
- Master of Science Computer Science
Rochester Institute of Technology
RIT is one of the best schools in the U.S. for game design, thanks to its mix of strong academics and real-world experience. The Game Design and Development program blends computing, design, and art, giving you the skills to build games from the ground up.
What really stands out is their co-op program, where you work full-time in the industry before graduating. Many students land internships or jobs at big-name studios like Rockstar, EA, and Microsoft.
You’ll also have access to MAGIC Spell Studios, a high-tech space where students can develop, publish, and even launch commercial games. If you’re aiming for both a bachelor’s and master’s degree, RIT offers an accelerated path to earn both faster.
Founding date: 1829
Location: Rochester, New York
Contact: disvks@rit.edu
Website: Rochester Institute of Technology
Game degrees:
- BS in Game Design and Development
- BS in New Media Interactive Development
- Master of Science in Game Design and Development
Savannah College of Art and Design
SCAD is a great choice if you want to focus on the art and design side of game development. The school is known for its creative programs, and the Interactive Design and Game Development degree is no exception.
You’ll study things like 3D modeling, animation, visual storytelling, and how to create immersive game worlds. SCAD also emphasizes working on real projects, so you’ll graduate with a solid portfolio and hands-on experience.
Their campuses in Savannah and Atlanta are packed with high-end tech and creative spaces, and the faculty includes industry professionals who’ve worked on major game titles. Graduates often go on to work in game studios, animation, VR/AR, and digital media.
If you’re an artist or designer at heart and want to bring game worlds to life, SCAD is one of the top schools to consider.
Founding date: 1978.
Location: Savannah, Georgia
Contact: contact@scad.edu
Website: Savannah College of Art and Design
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development
- Master of Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development
- Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development
Drexel University
Drexel’s Game Design and Production program blends art, design, and tech, giving you a well-rounded skill set to start a career in game development.
One of the biggest perks is their co-op program, where you’ll spend 6 months working full-time in the industry. It’s built right into the degree, so you’ll graduate with real job experience and a stronger resume.
You’ll learn how to create games from concept to completion—focusing on game mechanics, storytelling, user experience, and more. Plus, Drexel has strong ties to the industry, and students have interned or worked at places like NBCUniversal, Firaxis Games, and Sony.
If you’re looking for a program that balances creativity with technical skills and includes real-world experience, Drexel is a solid choice.
Founding date: 1891.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennyslvania
Contact: vb375@drexel.edu
Website: Drexel University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Production
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Rensselaer’s Games and Simulation Arts and Science program helps you acquire a comprehensive understanding of interactive digital media, a balance of disciplinary competencies, and the mastery of a self-defined set of interrelated disciplinary challenges. RPI is organized into six main schools which contain 37 departments, with emphasis on science and technology. It is well recognized for its degree programs in engineering, computing, business and management, information technology, the sciences, design, and liberal arts.
Founding date: 1824
State: Troy, New York
Contact: gamehub.rpi.edu
Website: Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Game degrees:
- B.S. in Critical Game Design
- M.S in Critical Game Design
- Ph.d in Critical Game Design
- B.S. in Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences
New York University
NYU’s Game Center, part of the Tisch School of the Arts, is one of the most respected game design programs in the country. It’s a great place if you want to explore game design as an art form and a career path.
The program covers everything from game development and programming to storytelling, visual design, and experimental games. You’ll work on real projects, collaborate with classmates across disciplines, and build a portfolio that stands out.
Being in New York City gives you access to game studios, networking events, internships, and tons of creative inspiration. Plus, the Game Center hosts events like playtests, lectures, and its own arcade showcase—so you’ll constantly be plugged into the game dev scene.
Founding date: 1831.
Location: New York, New York
Contact: gamecenter@nyu.edu
Website: New York University
Game degrees:
- Master of Fine Arts in Game Design
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design
- Minor in Game Design
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
MIT might be known for science and engineering, but it also offers a powerful game development path through its Comparative Media Studies / Writing program and the MIT Game Lab.
This isn’t your typical game design degree. At MIT, you’ll dive deep into game mechanics, interactive storytelling, player psychology, and experimental game development. The focus is on using games to explore new ideas, solve problems, and even drive social change.
You’ll collaborate across departments—working with students in computer science, art, and media—to build games that are both fun and innovative. Many student projects here push boundaries, from VR experiences to educational games and research-backed prototypes.
If you’re looking for a place where creativity meets cutting-edge tech, MIT offers a unique and challenging environment for future game developers.
Founding date: 1861.
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts
Contact: gamelab-request@mit.edu
Website: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
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Bachelor of Science in Comparative Media Studies
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Minor in Comparative Media Studies (with game design electives)
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Master of Science in Comparative Media Studies
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Graduate studies in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (with game dev–related tracks)
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Graduate programs at the MIT Media Lab (focus on interactive media and game tech)
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Professional Certificate in Game Design (MIT xPRO – online, part-time)
Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon is one of the best schools for students who want to combine creativity with serious tech skills. Their Entertainment Technology Center (ETC) offers a master’s program that focuses on teamwork, innovation, and building real interactive experiences—games included.
For undergrads, there are options through programs like Computer Science, Art, Design, and Human-Computer Interaction, with opportunities to specialize in game-related coursework.
At CMU, you’ll work on hands-on projects from day one, often in teams, just like a real studio. The ETC is especially known for its project-based curriculum, where students create games, VR experiences, and interactive installations that get noticed by top companies.
If you want a program that’s both highly technical and wildly creative, CMU should be on your list.
Founding date: 1900
Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Contact: help@ideate.cmu.edu
Website: Carnegie Mellon University
Game degrees:
- Game Design
- Animation and Special Effects
- Media Design
- Sonic Arts
- Design for Learning
- Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Intelligent Environments
- Physical Computing
Michigan State University
MSU’s Game Design and Development program is part of its Media and Information department and is ranked among the top in the U.S. It offers a solid mix of design, programming, and storytelling, with hands-on courses that let you build real games.
Students also gain experience through GameDev@MSU, a community that hosts game jams, showcases, and networking events.
Founding date: 1855
Location: East Lansing, Michigan
Contact: gamedev@msu.edu
Website: Michigan State University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Media and Information
- Minor in Game Design and Development
- Masters of Arts in Media and Information
- PhD in Information and Media
- Online GameDev Specialization
Northeastern University
Northeastern offers a Game Design major that blends art, design, and technology, with a focus on both creativity and user experience. You’ll learn how to design meaningful, playable games while also exploring topics like narrative design and player psychology.
The school’s co-op program gives you real-world experience at game studios before you even graduate.
Founding date: 1898.
Location: Boston, Massachusetts
Contact: b.sichling@northeastern.edu
Website: Northeastern University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Games
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art and Animation
- Bachelor of Science in Game Development and Computer Science
- Minor in Game Art
- Minor in Game Design
- Master of Science in Game Science and Design
- Game Analytics, Graduate Certificate
University of California, Santa Cruz
UCSC offers both B.A. and B.S. degrees in Game Design, giving you the choice to focus more on creative storytelling or technical programming. You’ll work on team-based projects and can even publish your games while still in school.
The program is part of a strong computer science department, with a growing reputation in both indie and academic game development.
Founding date: 2015.
Location: Santa Cruz, California
Contact: rhunicke@ucsc.edu
Website: University of California
Game degrees:
- The Art & Design: Games & Playable Media
Champlain College
Champlain offers a Game Design major that’s all about learning by doing. From your first semester, you’ll start building games and collaborating with classmates in game art, programming, and production.
The school’s small class sizes and industry-focused curriculum help grads land jobs at studios like Ubisoft, Insomniac, and Vicarious Visions.
Founding date: 1878.
Location: Burlington, Vermont
Contact: manley@champlain.edu
Website: Champlain College
Game degrees:
- Game Art Courses
- Game Design Courses
- Game Programming Courses
- Game Production Management Courses
University of Central Florida
UCF’s Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy (FIEA) offers a top-ranked Master’s in Interactive Entertainment, focused on game design, development, art, and production.
Undergrads can also explore game-related courses through Digital Media and Computer Science programs. Being in Orlando, you’re close to major studios like EA and Iron Galaxy, making internships and networking easier.
Founding date: 1963.
State: Orlando, Florida
Contact: fieainfo@ucf.edu
Website: University of Central Florida
Game degrees:
- Game design
- Game development
- Video Game Art
- Video Game Programming
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Tech offers a Computational Media degree that blends computer science with game design, storytelling, and digital art. You’ll learn both the tech and creative sides of game development.
Grad students can also join the Digital Media master’s program, which explores games, interactive design, and emerging tech like AR/VR.
Founding date: 1885.
Location: Atlanta, Georgia
Contact: graduate@cc.gatech.edu
Website: Georgia Institute of Technology
Game degrees:
- Minor in Computing & Media
- Masters in Digital Media
Shawnee State University
Shawnee State offers affordable, hands-on programs in both Game Design and Game Programming. You’ll build real projects from early on and learn everything from 3D modeling to coding.
It’s a smaller school, which means more one-on-one support and a tight-knit game dev community.
Founding date: 1986
Location: Portsmouth, Ohio
Contact: communications@shawnee.edu
Website: Shawnee State University
Game degrees:
- Game & Simulations Arts Bachelor’s Degree
- Game Programming Bachelor’s Degree
Columbia College Chicago
Columbia’s Game Design program focuses on storytelling, mechanics, and player experience. You can choose a path in design, development, or programming, and start building games right away.
Located in downtown Chicago, it also gives you access to local studios, events, and internships.
Founding date: 1890
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Contact: newsoffice@colum.edu
Website: Columbia College Chicago
Game degrees:
- Game Design (BA) & Game Development
- Game Design (BA) & Sound Design
- Minor in Game Design
Parsons The New School for Design
Parsons offers a BFA in Design and Technology, where you can focus on game design, interactive media, and creative coding. The program encourages experimental and socially conscious games, blending art and tech.
You’ll study in the heart of NYC, surrounded by a thriving creative and game dev scene.
Founding date: 1896.
Location: New York City
Contact: communications@newschool.edu
Website: Parsons The New School for Design
Game degrees:
- BFA in Design and Technology
- MFA in Design and Technology
DePaul University
DePaul offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees in Game Design and Game Programming. You’ll learn everything from level design to AI scripting, with access to motion capture labs and a game development studio on campus.
Founding date: 1898.
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Contact: admission@cdm.depaul.edu
Website: DePaul University
Game degrees:
- BS in Game Design
- BA in Animation
- BFA in Animation
- BS in Game Programming
Ringling College of Art and Design
Ringling offers a BFA in Game Art that focuses on the visual side of game development—think 3D modeling, environments, characters, and animation. You’ll work with industry-standard tools and build a strong portfolio from day one.
Graduates have gone on to work at studios like Blizzard, Rockstar Games, and Bungie.
Founding date: 1931
Location: Sarasota, Florida
Contact: info@ringling.edu
Website: Ringling College
Game degrees:
- Game Art BFA Degree
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
WPI offers a BS in Interactive Media & Game Development, combining art, design, and programming in a highly collaborative, project-based setting. You’ll work on real games every year, often with industry partners.
Founding date: 1865.
Location: Worcester, Massachusetts
Contact: imgd@wpi.edu
Website: WPI
Game degrees:
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Minor in Interactive Media and Game Development
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BS, Interactive Media and Game Development—Technical Game Development
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BA, Interactive Media and Game Development—Artistic Game Development
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MS, Interactive Media and Game Development with concentrations in Technical Game Development, Serious Games, and Production Management
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MFA, Interactive Media and Game Design
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PhD, Computational Media
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania offers a Digital Media Design (DMD) program that blends computer graphics, animation, and game technology. It’s run by the School of Engineering and ideal for students who want a more technical path into game development.
Founding date: 1740.
Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Contact: mfelker@cis.upenn.edu
Website: University of Pennsylvania
Game degrees:
- Computer Graphics and Game Technology Program
University of California, Irvine
UC Irvine offers a Game Design and Interactive Media B.S. that blends design, programming, and storytelling. It’s part of the Informatics department and emphasizes building real games in team settings.
Founding date: 1965
Location: Irvine, California
Contact: mmazmani@ics.uci.edu
Website: UCI
Game degrees:
- BS Computer Game Science
University of California, Los Angeles
UCLA offers game design courses through its Design Media Arts program, focusing on experimental games, interactivity, and visual design. It’s a great fit for students interested in the artistic side of game development.
Founding date: 2010.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Contact: webcontent@it.ucla.edu
Website: UCLA Game Lab
Game degrees:
- Game Design Media Arts
Cornell University
At Cornell, you can add a Game Design minor to majors like computer science, digital media, or information science. It’s a great option if you want to build games while getting a broader degree.
You’ll learn about game mechanics, user experience, and programming, and have access to research labs and creative projects on campus.
Founding date: 1865
Location: Ithaca, New York
Contact: as_communication@cornell.edu
Website: Cornell University
Game degrees:
- Game Design Minor
University of Texas
UT Austin offers a Game Development and Design program through a partnership between Arts and Entertainment Technologies, Computer Science, and Radio-Television-Film.
You’ll team up with students from different backgrounds to build games from scratch, with access to Austin’s growing game industry right outside campus.
Founding date: 1883
Location: Austin, Texas
Contact: ds.cohen@austin.utexas.edu
Website: University of Texas
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Arts and Entertainment Technologies – Game Design
Academy of Art University
If you’re focused on the visual side of games, the Academy of Art offers a BFA in Game Development with tracks in game design, 3D modeling, animation, and concept art.
You’ll build a portfolio while learning from instructors who’ve worked at top studios like Blizzard and Riot.
Founding date: 1929.
Location: San Francisco, California
Contact: info@academyart.edu
Website: Academy of Art
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Game Programming
- Associate of Arts in Game Development
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development
- Master of Arts in Game Development
- Master of Fine Arts in Game Development
Gnomon School of Visual Effects
Gnomon specializes in 3D art, modeling, and visual effects for games and film. It’s a great pick if you’re aiming for a career in game art or environment design.
You’ll learn using industry tools, and grads often land roles at studios like Naughty Dog, Blizzard, and Activision.
Founding date: 1997.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Contact: info@gnomon.edu
Website: School of Visual Effects
Game Degrees:
- BFA in Digital Production
- Certficate in Digital Production
- Foundation in Art & Design
- Individual courses on campus & online
Miami University
Miami University offers a Games + Simulation major that blends game design, programming, and storytelling. You’ll build games in teams and explore areas like VR, AR, and serious games.
Founding date: 1809.
Location: Oxford, Ohio
Contact: etbd@miamioh.edu
Website: Miami University
Game degrees:
- Games & Simulations Minor
- Bachelor of Science in Games + Simulation
- Graduate Certificate in Interactive Media Studies
Bradley University
Bradley offers a Game Design major that covers everything from level design and programming to storytelling and sound. You’ll start building games early and collaborate with students across art and tech.
Founding date: 1897.
Location: Peoria, Illinois
Contact: cfadean@bradley.edu
Website: Bradley University
Game degrees:
- Major in Game Art
- Majors in Animation
- Major/Minor in Computer Information Systems – Game Technology
- Major/Minor in Computer Science – Game Technology
- Major/Minor in User Experience Design
- Major/Minor in Game Design
- Graduate in Computer Science and Information Systems
Laguna College of Art and Design
LCAD offers a BFA in Game Art focused on character design, environments, and 3D modeling. You’ll learn from industry pros and build a portfolio that’s ready for studios.
It’s a great pick if you’re all about the art side of game development.
Founding date: 1961.
Location: Laguna Beach, California
Contact: mstice@lcad.edu
Website: College of Art and Design
Game degrees:
- BFA in Game Art
- MFA in Game Design
George Mason University
GMU offers a Computer Game Design degree that mixes programming, art, design, and business. You’ll work on real projects and can specialize in areas like audio, narrative, or tech.
Plus, it’s close to D.C., with access to local studios and game events.
Founding date: 1957.
Location: Fairfax, Virginia
Contact: mbean3@gmu.edu
Website: George Mason University
Game degrees:
- B.F.A. in Computer Game Design
- Master of Arts (M.A.) degree in Computer Game Design
The Art Center College of Design
ArtCenter’s Entertainment Design program lets you focus on concept art, worldbuilding, and character design for games. It’s highly visual and perfect if you want to create the look and feel of game worlds.
Founding date: 1930.
Location: Pasadena, California
Contact: marcom@artcenter.edu
Website: College of Design
Game degrees:
- Entertainment – Game Design
- Graduate Media Design Practices
Lawrence Technological University
LTU offers a Game Art program that blends design, animation, and 3D modeling. You’ll get hands-on experience with industry tools and start building a portfolio right away.
It’s a solid choice if you want a creative program with a tech-driven approach.
Founding date: 1932.
Location: Southfield, Michigan
Contact: jmcbride@ltu.edu
Website: Lawrence Technological University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design
- Minor in Game Art
Cogswell College
Cogswell offers a Game Design & Development major where you’ll work on real game projects with a focus on teamwork, design, and production. You’ll also study near the heart of Silicon Valley, with access to studios and internships.
Founding date: 1887.
Location: San Jose, California
Contact: admission@cogswell.edu
Website: Cogswell College
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Fine Art in Game Design Art
- Bachelor of Science in Game Design Engineering
Marist College
Marist offers a Games and Emerging Media program that covers game design, storytelling, and interactive tech. It’s a good fit if you’re interested in both creative and tech sides of game development.
You’ll also get hands-on experience through internships and project-based courses.
Founding date: 1929.
Location: Poughkeepsie, New York
Contact: admission@marist.edu
Website: Marist College
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Games and Emerging Media
- Bachelor of Science in Digital Media
- Summer Pre-College: Game Design
- Bachelor of Arts in Media Studies and Production
Otis College of Art and Design
Otis offers a Digital Media major with a focus on Game and Entertainment Design. You’ll learn concept art, 3D modeling, and worldbuilding, all while building a strong portfolio for the game industry.
Being in LA also means easy access to studios, internships, and networking events.
Founding date: 1918.
Location: Los Angeles, California
Contact: communications@otis.edu
Website: College of Art and Design
Game degrees:
- Game & Entertainment Design
- Major in Animation
- MFA in Graphic Design
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis
IUPUI offers a B.S. in Media Arts and Science with a focus in Game Design and Development. You’ll study game mechanics, 3D graphics, and interactive storytelling while working on real projects.
Founding date: 1969.
Contact: soicindy@iupui.edu
Website: IUPUI
Game degrees:
- Media Arts and Science Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Science program for the full-stack developer
- Minor in 3D Graphics and Animation
- Minor in Game Design and Development
- Master of Science in Media Arts and Science
The Digital Animation & Visual Effects School
The DAVE School specializes in game production, 3D modeling, and animation, with programs focused on real-world skills and fast-track career prep. You’ll work with industry tools and graduate with a demo reel that’s ready for studios.
Located on the backlot of Universal Studios, it offers a unique and immersive learning environment.
Founding date: 2000.
Location: Orlando, Florida
Contact: admissions@daveschool.com
Website: DAVE School
Game degrees:
- Bachelor’s Degree In Motion Graphics
- Visual Effects Production Diploma Program
- Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Effects Production
- Game Production Diploma Program
- Bachelor’s Degree in Game Production
Woodbury University
Woodbury offers a Game Art & Design program focused on character design, worldbuilding, and interactive storytelling. You’ll work in small classes and build a strong portfolio for careers in games and entertainment.
Its location in Burbank gives you direct access to major studios and internships.
Founding date: 1884.
Location: Burbank, California
Contact: info@woodbury.edu
Website: Woodbury University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation
- Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Design
- Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
University of Denver
The University of Denver offers a Game Development major through its Computer Science department. You’ll study programming, game engines, AI, and graphics while working on projects in teams.
It’s a great fit if you want a strong tech foundation with creative flexibility.
Founding date: 1864.
Location: Denver, Colorado
Contact: ritchieschool@du.edu
Website: Denver University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Arts in Game Development
- Bachelor of Science in Game Development
Academy of Interactive Entertainment
AIE is all about hands-on training in game art, design, and programming. Their programs are focused and career-driven, with small class sizes and real-world projects from the start. It’s a great option if you want to jump straight into the game industry with practical skills.
Founding date: 1996.
Location: Seattle, Lafayette
Contact: uscampuses@aie.edu.au
Website: AIE
Game degrees:
- Game Art & Animation
- Game Programming
- Game Design & Production
Stony Brook University
Stony Brook offers a Game Programming specialization through its Computer Science program. You’ll learn coding, graphics, and game systems while working on interactive projects.
Founding date: 1957.
Location: Stony Brook, New York
Contact: enroll@stonybrook.edu
Website: Stony Brook University
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Science in Game Programming Specialization
Maryland Institute College of Art
MICA offers a Game Design major with a strong focus on art, storytelling, and experimental design. You’ll explore games as a creative medium while building a unique portfolio.
It’s a great fit if you want to push creative boundaries in indie or art-driven game projects.
Founding date: 1826.
Location: Maryland, Baltimore
Contact: communications@mica.edu
Website: Institute College of Art
Game degrees:
- Game Design Concentration
- Major in Animation
- Major in Illustration
- Major in Graphic Design
- Major in Game Design
Delaware College of Art and Design
DCAD offers an Associate of Fine Arts in Animation and Game Art, focusing on the visual side of game creation. You’ll learn 2D/3D art, character design, and animation basics to prepare for transfer or entry-level roles.
It’s a solid starting point if you’re looking to build a foundation in game art.
Founding date: 1997.
Location: Wilmington, Delaware
Contact: admissions@dcad.edu
Website: DCAD
Game degrees:
- 2D & 3D Animation program
- Graphic Design program
- Illustration program
Visual College of Art and Design of Vancouver
VCAD offers a Game Development and Design diploma that covers game art, level design, and programming. You’ll train with industry tools and graduate with a portfolio built through hands-on projects.
Founding date: 2009.
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Contact: info@vcad.ca
Website: VCAD
Game degrees:
- Game Development & Design
Vancouver Film School
VFS offers a one-year Game Design program that focuses on design, storytelling, and production. You’ll work in teams to build playable games and leave with a professional portfolio.
Located in downtown Vancouver, it’s a fast-track option in a city full of top game studios.
Founding date: 1987.
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Contact: community@vfs.com
Website: Vancouver Film School
Game degrees:
- Digital Design
- Game Design
- Programming for Games, Web & Mobile
- VR/AR Design & Development
- Game Design Entry Level
- Digital Design Entry Level
Sheridan College
Sheridan offers a Bachelor of Game Design that covers everything from gameplay mechanics to level design and narrative. You’ll build real games each year and graduate with a polished portfolio.
Founding date: 1967.
Location: Oakville, Ontario
Contact: info@sheridancollege.ca
Website: Sheridan College
Game degrees:
- Game Level Design
- Game Development – Advanced Programming
- Bachelor of Game Design
Capilano University
Capilano offers a 2-year diploma in 3D Animation for Film and Games, with training in modeling, texturing, and animation. It’s ideal if you want to focus on the art side of game development.
Founding date: 1968.
Location: North Vancouver, Canada
Contact: jenniferingham@capilanou.ca
Website: Capilano University
Game degrees:
- 3D Animation for Film and Games Diploma
Vancouver Institute of Media Arts (VanArts)
VanArts offers a 1-year diploma in Game Art & Design, focusing on 3D modeling, animation, and level design. You’ll train with industry tools and create a demo reel for jobs in games or animation.
It’s a fast and focused option for anyone aiming to break into game art.
Founding date: 1995.
Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
Contact: info@vanarts.com
Website: VanArts
Game degrees:
- Game Art & Design
- Web Development & Interactive Design
- 2D/3D Character Animation
Media Design School
Media Design School offers a Bachelor of Creative Technologies (Game Art or Game Programming). You’ll build games in teams, using industry tools from day one.
Founding date: 1998.
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Contact: info@mediadesignschool.com
Website: Media Design School
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Art and Design (3D Animation and Visual Effects)
- Bachelor of Creative Technologies (Game Art)
- Bachelor of Software Engineering (Game Programming)
Ferris State University
Ferris State offers a Digital Animation and Game Design program that combines 3D art, animation, and interactive media. You’ll work on games, simulations, and AR/VR projects using industry tools.
It’s a solid option if you want to blend creativity with tech skills in a practical setting.
Founding date: 1884.
Location: Big Rapids, Michigan
Contact: admissions@ferris.edu
Website: FSU
Game degrees:
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Animation and Game Design
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