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Game DesignSchools

Editorial selection · alphabetical · not a numbered ranking

Top Game Design Schools in the USA

Colleges and universities whose own game design or game development degrees — not their general reputation — meet our published criteria: a documented game-specific curriculum, studio, team or capstone project work, published tuition and a clear admissions or portfolio policy, all verified on official pages. Campus and online programs are both eligible. Listed alphabetically; an editorial selection, not a numbered ranking.

Methodology v1.0 · criteria and evidence rules · reviewed October 12, 2026 · 24 schools selected of 53 with eligible programs (103 programs considered)

About this selection

Eligible degrees
Bachelor's, master's and doctoral degrees in our directory whose official title or officially named concentration is game design or game development (including combined “game design and development” degrees). Game art, game programming and interactive media programs at a selected school are shown for context but do not by themselves qualify a school.
Programs considered
103 published programs at 53 schools in our directory. Coverage is partial: schools and programs not yet in the directory could not be considered.
Required for a supporting degree
  • Game-specific curriculum. The degree itself (or an officially named concentration) is about games, and its official pages document game-specific coursework — design, programming, art or production — beyond a general description.
  • Studio, team or capstone project work. The school documents project-based game work: team or studio production courses, collaborative game projects, or a culminating capstone game or thesis project.
  • Clear admissions and portfolio policy. The program publishes its portfolio policy (required, optional, pathway-specific or explicitly not required), or at least two other admission requirements.
  • Tuition transparency. Tuition for this program is published on an official page with its basis (per credit, per term, per year or whole program). For online programs the rate must apply to the online program.
  • Source quality and freshness. Eligibility evidence and the facts above come from the school's own pages and were verified within the last 12 months.
  • Documented depth. At least 2 of: capstone, thesis or portfolio project; published facilities and resources; internship or co-op arrangements; published scholarships or assistantships.
Order
Alphabetical by school. Not numbered: we do not have a reproducible scoring model with comparable evidence that would justify ordering.
Not used
Reputation, rankings by other publishers, acceptance or placement rates, salaries, alumni game credits, studio partnerships — none are verified, comparable facts.
Sponsorship
Paid placements never affect inclusion, order or assessment, and are never shown inside this list. Sponsorship disclosure
Evidence limitations
Desk research from official pages only — we did not visit or interview programs. Faculty quality, studio culture and graduate outcomes are not assessed.
  1. American University logo

    American University

    Washington, DC · Game Center (Game Lab), American University

    For working students (part-time option)For graduates building a game design portfolio

    American University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Arts in Game Design (master's, game design; on campus, 2 years, 36 credits, full-time and part-time). The school's other eligible program (Games and Interactive Media) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Master of Arts in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Optional
      Tuition:
      $2,163 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Both full-time and part-time study are offered.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    None identified in the official information we checked.

    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    1 published award: School of Communication merit-based and need-based aid.
    Published facilities and resources
    Game Studio.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Students work with Game Studio clients and on scholarly research alongside faculty.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, specialization, production).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $2,163 per credit.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio optional; 4 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at American University (not assessed for this selection): Games and Interactive Media.

  2. Carnegie Mellon University logo

    Carnegie Mellon University

    Pittsburgh, PA · Entertainment Technology Center (ETC)

    For graduates building a game-focused interactive media portfolio

    Carnegie Mellon University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Entertainment Technology (master's, game-focused interactive media; on campus, two-year program; four full-time semesters; cannot be completed in less than two years, full-time).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame-focused Interactive MediaGame Development

      Entertainment Technology

      Master of Entertainment Technology

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Some pathways
      Tuition:
      $61,628 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Names the tools it teaches: Student PCs are preloaded with software including Maya, 3ds Max, zBrush, Houdini, Adobe Creative Cloud, Unity 6, Unreal Engine 5, Reaper, WW.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    None identified in the official information we checked.

    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    2 published awards: ETC merit scholarships, ETC Fellowship Fund.
    Published facilities and resources
    Assigned student workstation; CAVE; CAVERN.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Integrated Co-Op: students can apply for a semester academic co-op with a company in the second year.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Three semesters of 14-week team project courses producing a product or prototype.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 5 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, game design, production, tools); tracks: Transformational Play.
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $61,628 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required for some pathways; 6 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  3. Champlain College

    Burlington, VT · Game Studio Experience

    For first-year applicantsFor applicants without a portfolio yetFor students who need to study remotelyFor applicants who want to program games

    Champlain College is selected for 6 degrees that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Science in Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus); Bachelor of Science in Game Production Management (bachelor's, game development; on campus); Bachelor of Science in Game Sound Design (bachelor's, game development; on campus); Bachelor of Science in Interactive Narrative for Games & Digital Media (bachelor's, game design; on campus); Bachelor of Science in Interactive Game Design (bachelor's, game design; fully online (verified), 3 years, 4 months (With 2 courses per term), 120 credits, flexible pace); Bachelor of Science in Game Development (bachelor's, game development; online (on-site requirements not stated), 3 years, 4 months (With 2 courses per term), 120 credits, flexible pace). Its programs in other game fields (Game Art; Game Programming) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Bachelor of Science in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Optional
      Tuition:
      $49,500 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame Development

      Game Production Management

      Bachelor of Science in Game Production Management

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not required
      Tuition:
      $49,500 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame Development

      Game Sound Design

      Bachelor of Science in Game Sound Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not required
      Tuition:
      $49,500 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame DesignGame-focused Interactive Media

      Interactive Narrative for Games & Digital Media

      Bachelor of Science in Interactive Narrative for Games & Digital Media

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $49,500 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Interactive Game Design (online)

      Bachelor of Science in Interactive Game Design

      Delivery:
      Fully online (verified)All coursework is online and the institution states that no on-site attendance is required.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $342 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame DevelopmentGame Programming

      Game Development (online)

      Bachelor of Science in Game Development

      Delivery:
      Online (on-site requirements not stated)The institution offers the degree online but its pages do not say whether any on-site activity is required.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $342 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Game Design: Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Game Design: A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Game Design: Names the tools it teaches: 3D game engine work in Game Technology II.
    • Game Production Management: Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Game Production Management: A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Game Production Management: States that no portfolio is required for admission.
    • Game Production Management: An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • Game Design: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Game Production Management: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Game Sound Design: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Interactive Narrative for Games & Digital Media: No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • Interactive Narrative for Games & Digital Media: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Interactive Game Design (online): No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    Game Design: 1 published award: Merit scholarships.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Game Design: Capstone: Annual Game Studio Senior Show presentation of team games
    Published facilities and resources
    Game Design: Recording studio (Game Sound Design).
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Game Production Management: Advanced Business Internship course
    Published hardware and software requirements (online)
    Interactive Game Design (online): Technical programs require higher computer specifications (e.g., Nvidia RTX 50 series graphics, 32GB DDR5 memory); students in game programs should plan on Windows 11.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Game Design: Classes with students from all other game majors in the Game Studio Experience in years 2-4
    Source quality and freshness
    Game Design: Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Game Design: Dedicated game degree; 5 documented curriculum elements (specialization, game design, production, tools).
    Stated attendance model (online)
    Interactive Game Design (online): The school states the program requires no on-site attendance.
    Tuition transparency
    Game Design: Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $49,500 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Game Design: Portfolio optional; 3 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Champlain College (not assessed for this selection): Game Art; Game Programming.

  4. DePaul University

    Chicago, IL · Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media, School of Design

    For graduates building a game design portfolio

    DePaul University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Fine Arts in Game Design (master's, game design; on campus, designed to be completed in 2.5 years, taking place over eight 10-week quarters, 64 credits). The school's other eligible program (Game Design) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection. Its programs in other game fields (Game Programming; Animation (BFA), Game Art Concentration; Computer Science (BS), Game Systems Concentration; Computer Science + Animation (BS), Game Art Technical Director Concentration; Game Programming) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Master of Fine Arts in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $1,003 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating thesis is published.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    4 published awards: CDM Graduate Presidential Scholarship / CDM Graduate Dean's Scholarship, Funded research assistantships, CDM Graduate Dean's Scholarship (U.S. Citizens and Residents Only).
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Thesis: Thesis Studio taken three times over three consecutive quarters (12 credit hours), with a thesis committee of 2-3 members.
    Published facilities and resources
    DePaul Originals Game Studio; Software Observation and Usability Lab (SOUL); DePaul Instructional Game and Innovation Lab (DIGI).
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Required courses include Game Studies, Game Development Practicum and Incubation Studio.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (game design, curriculum, specialization).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $1,003 per credit.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 6 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at DePaul University (not assessed for this selection): Game Design; Game Programming; Animation (BFA), Game Art Concentration; Computer Science (BS), Game Systems Concentration; Computer Science + Animation (BS), Game Art Technical Director Concentration; Game Programming.

  5. DigiPen Institute of Technology logo

    DigiPen Institute of Technology

    Redmond, WA · Game Design and Development Degrees

    For first-year applicantsFor students who need to study remotelyFor working students (part-time option)For graduates building a game development portfolio

    DigiPen Institute of Technology is selected for 2 degrees that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Arts in Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus, eight semesters of 15 weeks each, or four academic years, 129 credits); Master of Science in Game Development (master's, game development; fully online (verified), five semesters part-time, 30 credits, part-time). The school's other eligible program (BS in Computer Science and Game Design) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      BA in Game Design

      Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $20,410 per semester (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Master'sGame Development

      MS in Game Development (Online)

      Master of Science in Game Development

      Delivery:
      Fully online (verified)All coursework is online and the institution states that no on-site attendance is required.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $1,666 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • BA in Game Design: Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • MS in Game Development (Online): The school states the program can be completed without coming to campus.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • BA in Game Design: A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • MS in Game Development (Online): No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • MS in Game Development (Online): No hardware or software requirements are published for online students.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    BA in Game Design: 2 published awards: DigiPen Undergraduate Merit Scholarship, Dragon Opportunity Scholarship.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    BA in Game Design: Capstone: Design capstone courses by track (system, narrative, level, technical, UX, user research)
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    BA in Game Design: Yearly game projects on multidisciplinary teams with programmers, artists and audio specialists
    Source quality and freshness
    BA in Game Design: Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    BA in Game Design: Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (game design, production, programming); tracks: Level Design, Narrative Design, Systems Design, Technical Design, UX Design, User Research (two chosen in the junior year).
    Stated attendance model (online)
    MS in Game Development (Online): The school states the program requires no on-site attendance.
    Tuition transparency
    BA in Game Design: Tuition published (2 verified rates, 2 with an academic year): $20,410 per semester.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    BA in Game Design: Portfolio required; 2 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at DigiPen Institute of Technology (not assessed for this selection): BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation; BS in Computer Science and Game Design.

  6. Drexel University logo

    Drexel University

    Philadelphia, PA · Antoinette Westphal College of Media Arts & Design

    For first-year applicants

    Drexel University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Production (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 4 or 5 years (same 12 terms of study; 4-year plan with one co-op, 5-year plan with three co-ops), 191 credits).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DesignGame Development

      Game Design & Production

      Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Production

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $21,026 per term (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Names the tools it teaches: Software named by the program as freely available or installed on Westphal computers: Unity, Unreal, Game Maker, Godot, Twine, GitHub, GIMP,.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Senior-year multidisciplinary team capstone project, exhibited at the Digital Media Senior Showcase & Expo.
    Published facilities and resources
    Animation Capture & Effects Lab (ACE-Lab); Immersive Research Lab (IRL); Entrepreneurial Game Studio.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    At least one six-month co-op (full-time work experience); five-year plan includes three co-ops.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Game Development Foundations, Game Development Workshop I and II, and Advanced Game Design and Production.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 5 documented curriculum elements (game design, production, programming, art animation, tools).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $21,026 per term.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 2 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  7. Ferris State University logo

    Ferris State University

    Big Rapids, MI · Digital Animation and Game Design program

    For first-year applicantsFor visual artists

    Ferris State University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Animation and Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 120 credits).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DesignGame Art

      Digital Animation and Game Design

      Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Animation and Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $24,416 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Offers 3 named tracks or concentrations (Game Development Concentration (GMDV), 3D Animation Concentration (AN3D), General Concentration (GDAG)).
    • Names the tools it teaches: Students build content in game engines (engines not named)..
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Junior Project, Seminar and Capstone.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Applied Internship (3 credits) is a major course.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Culminating project — Junior Project, Seminar and Capstone.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, game design, art animation, tools); tracks: Game Development Concentration (GMDV), 3D Animation Concentration (AN3D), General Concentration (GDAG).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (3 verified rates, 3 with an academic year): $14,952 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    2 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  8. Fitchburg State University logo

    Fitchburg State University

    Fitchburg, MA · Communications Media Department

    For first-year applicants

    Fitchburg State University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Science in Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 4-Year Plan of Study, 120 credits). Its programs in other game fields (Game Programming Concentration, Computer Science) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Bachelor of Science in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $970 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Full-time, semester-long capstone: Game Studio (team game project) or Communications Media Internship
    Published facilities and resources
    Game Studio capstone studio space.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Communications Media Internship as a capstone option
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Full-time, semester-long capstone: Game Studio (team game project) or Communications Media Internship
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, art animation, game design).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (3 verified rates, 3 with an academic year): $970 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    3 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Fitchburg State University (not assessed for this selection): Game Programming Concentration, Computer Science.

  9. Full Sail University

    Winter Park, FL

    For first-year applicantsFor students who need to study remotelyFor applicants without a portfolio yetFor applicants who want to program games

    Full Sail University is selected for 2 degrees that met every required criterion: Game Development Bachelor of Science (bachelor's, game development; online (on-site requirements not stated), 27 months online; 20 months on campus, 120 credits); Game Design Master of Science (master's, game design; online (on-site requirements not stated), 48 weeks, 41 credits). The school's other eligible program (Interactive Technology Bachelor of Science Completion Program - Game Design Concentration) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection. Its programs in other game fields (Game Art; Visual Arts Bachelor of Science Completion Program with a Concentration in Game Art) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DevelopmentGame Programming

      Game Development

      Game Development Bachelor of Science

      Delivery:
      Online (on-site requirements not stated)The institution offers the degree online but its pages do not say whether any on-site activity is required.
      Portfolio:
      Not required
      Tuition:
      $67,000 entire program
      View Program
    • Master'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Game Design Master of Science

      Delivery:
      Online (on-site requirements not stated)The institution offers the degree online but its pages do not say whether any on-site activity is required.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $35,000 entire program
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Game Development: Names the tools it teaches: Microsoft Visual Studio, Unreal Engine, C++, Vulkan, DirectX and Blender; AI-assisted tools such as Unity Muse.
    • Game Development: States that no portfolio is required for admission.
    • Hardware or software requirements for online students are published.
    • Game Development: Publishes a whole-program tuition figure ($67,000).
    • Game Design: Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Game Design: Names the tools it teaches: Unreal Engine and Unity; Maya, Blender, 3D Max and Zbrush; Audacity and Cakewalk; Jira, Confluence, Asana and Monday; AI-assisted tools such.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • Published tuition does not print its academic year.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • The pages we checked do not say whether any campus visit, residency or exhibition is required.
    • Game Design: No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    Game Development: 1 published award: Creative Minds Scholarship.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Game Development: Capstone: Students architect, develop and produce a complete and playable game.
    Published hardware and software requirements (online)
    Game Development: Project LaunchBox for Game Development includes an MSI laptop with a three-year warranty, Microsoft Office 365 and MATLAB, included in tuition.; Online applicants need a reliable computer or tablet and a reliable high-speed Internet connection.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Game Development: Culminating project — Students architect, develop and produce a complete and playable game.
    Source quality and freshness
    Game Development: Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Game Development: Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (tools, programming, curriculum).
    Remote feedback and student support (online)
    Game Development: 2 published student services (tech support, orientation).
    Tuition transparency
    Game Development: Tuition published (2 verified rates, academic year not printed): $67,000 entire program.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Game Development: Portfolio not required (stated); 5 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Full Sail University (not assessed for this selection): Interactive Technology Bachelor of Science Completion Program With a Concentration in Game Development; Game Art; Interactive Technology Bachelor of Science Completion Program - Game Design Concentration; Visual Arts Bachelor of Science Completion Program with a Concentration in Game Art.

  10. Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

    Harrisburg, PA

    For first-year applicants

    Harrisburg University of Science and Technology is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Science in Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 120 credits).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Bachelor of Science in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $1,050 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    1 published award: Undergraduate merit scholarship.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Game Studio 2: Prototype to Release (4 semester hours) results in a complete game for the student's portfolio.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Courses in design fundamentals, prototyping, game art and animation, level design, and world and narrative design, followed by two capstone Game Studio courses.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (game design, programming, art animation, curriculum).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (2 verified rates, 2 with an academic year): $12,755 per semester.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    4 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  11. High Point University

    High Point, NC · Game Design, Nido R. Qubein School of Communication

    For first-year applicants

    High Point University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Arts in Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 128 credits).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $50,628 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    1 published award: Funded summer research.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Collaborative senior capstone; capstone games have been exhibited publicly at PAX East.
    Published facilities and resources
    Game design lab and Maker Space; Miriam and Steve Kimsey Game and Interactive Media Lab (Esports Arena).
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    GAM 4492 Collaborative Game Design and Development.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, production, art animation, game design).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $50,628 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    3 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  12. Laguna College of Art and Design

    Laguna Beach, CA · Game Development program

    For first-year applicantsFor visual artists

    Laguna College of Art and Design is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development (bachelor's, game development; on campus, four-year curriculum, 120 credits).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DevelopmentGame Art

      Game Development

      Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $1,775 per credit (2027-2028)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Offers 2 named tracks or concentrations (Game Art, Game Design).
    • Names the tools it teaches: Unity and Unreal Engine AI tools; ZBrush for digital sculpting.; ZBrush used in Introduction to Digital Sculpting..

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    1 published award: LCAD Institutional Grant (Merit Scholarship).
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Individual capstone project.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Development Team 1: interdisciplinary teams take a game concept from design through a playable prototype.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 5 documented curriculum elements (production, tools, art animation); tracks: Game Art, Game Design.
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (3 verified rates, 3 with an academic year): $40,560 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 2 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  13. Liberty University logo

    Liberty University

    Lynchburg, VA · School of Business

    For first-year applicantsFor students who need to study remotely

    Liberty University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (bachelor's, game design; online (on-site requirements not stated), 120 credits). The school's other eligible program (Information Technology (B.S.) - Gaming Design - Resident) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DesignNamed concentration

      Information Technology (B.S.) - Gaming Design - Online

      Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

      Delivery:
      Online (on-site requirements not stated)The institution offers the degree online but its pages do not say whether any on-site activity is required.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $410 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.
    • Hardware or software requirements for online students are published.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • The award is the Information Technology (B.S.); the game focus is a named concentration within it.
    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • The pages we checked do not say whether any campus visit, residency or exhibition is required.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Information Technology Capstone (CSIS 484)
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Internship (maximum 6 hours) strongly recommended; CSIS 499 Internship may replace C# Programming in the cognate.
    Published hardware and software requirements (online)
    Liberty publishes recommended hardware specifications for personal devices (e.g. Intel i5/i7 12th generation or newer, or equivalent) for on-campus and online students.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    ARTS 474 Interactive Game Development Lab surveys the creation of analog and digital games and roles in the production pipeline.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Named concentration (Gaming Design); 3 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, production, programming).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (3 verified rates, 3 with an academic year): $410 per credit.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    3 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Liberty University (not assessed for this selection): Information Technology (B.S.) - Gaming Design - Resident.

  14. Marist University logo

    Marist University

    Poughkeepsie, NY · Games and Emerging Media program (School of Communication and the Arts and School of Computer Science and Mathematics)

    For first-year applicants

    Marist University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Games and Emerging Media Degree (B.S.) (bachelor's, game-focused interactive media; on campus).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame-focused Interactive MediaGame Design

      Games and Emerging Media

      Games and Emerging Media Degree (B.S.)

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $50,760 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Offers 2 named tracks or concentrations (Technical Development and Programming, Design, Writing, and Culture).
    • Names the tools it teaches: Unity.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published facilities and resources
    Computer and game prototyping labs; Play Innovation Lab.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Internship opportunities such as the Marist in Manhattan Internship Program.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Collaborative studio teams take projects from concept through design, programming, art, testing and production.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 5 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, programming, game design, production, tools); tracks: Technical Development and Programming, Design, Writing, and Culture.
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $50,760 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    4 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  15. Northeastern University logo

    Northeastern University

    Boston, MA · College of Arts, Media and Design (Art + Design) with Khoury College of Computer Sciences

    For first-year applicantsFor applicants who want to program gamesFor graduates building a game design portfolio

    Northeastern University is selected for 4 degrees that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 130 credits); Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Game Development (bachelor's, game programming; on campus, 133 credits); Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Music (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 128 credits); Master of Science in Game Science and Design (master's, game design; on campus, two-year program, 34 credits). The school's other eligible program (Game Science and Design (Oakland)) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection. Its programs in other game fields (Game Art and Animation) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Game Design

      Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Optional
      Tuition:
      $35,525 per term (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame ProgrammingGame Development

      Computer Science and Game Development

      Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Game Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $35,525 per term (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame Design

      Game Design and Music with Concentration in Music Technology

      Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Music

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Optional
      Tuition:
      $35,525 per term (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Master'sGame DesignGame Studies & Research

      Game Science and Design (Boston)

      Master of Science in Game Science and Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $2,110 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Game Design: Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Game Design: A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Computer Science and Game Development: A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Game Design and Music with Concentration in Music Technology: Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Game Design and Music with Concentration in Music Technology: A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Game Science and Design (Boston): A culminating thesis is published.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • Game Design: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Computer Science and Game Development: No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • Computer Science and Game Development: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Game Design and Music with Concentration in Music Technology: Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Game Science and Design (Boston): A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    Game Science and Design (Boston): 1 published award: Scholarships and other funding (priority consideration).
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Game Design: Capstone: Game Design Capstone (grade of C or higher required)
    Published facilities and resources
    Game Design: CAMD Media Studios.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Game Design: At least four games courses shared with Computer Science and Game Development majors
    Source quality and freshness
    Game Design: Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Game Design: Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (game design, programming, production).
    Tuition transparency
    Game Design: Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $35,525 per term.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Game Design: Portfolio optional; 2 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Northeastern University (not assessed for this selection): Game Art and Animation; Game Science and Design (Oakland).

  16. Quinnipiac University logo

    Quinnipiac University

    Hamden, CT · Department of Visual and Performing Arts, College of Arts & Sciences

    For first-year applicants

    Quinnipiac University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Development (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 120 credits).

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DesignGame Development

      Game Design and Development

      Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $56,430 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Names the tools it teaches: Unreal Engine (GDD 310 Game Lab III: Team Projects, Introduction to Unreal Engine, in the Spatial Technology concentration)..
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Senior-year capstone: Senior Project and Seminar.
    Published facilities and resources
    Game Design and Development spaces in The SITE; Motion capture lab.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    All majors complete experiential learning: study abroad, an internship or an academic/professional product collaboration.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Multi-semester Game Lab sequence beginning in the sophomore year, in which interdisciplinary teams design and build original game prototypes.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, production, tools, programming); tracks: Programming; Spatial Technology; Game Design; Art; Performance; Management/Production; Writing.
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $56,430 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    3 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

  17. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute logo

    Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

    Troy, NY · Games and Experiential Media (GEM), School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

    For research-oriented applicants

    Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Ph.D. in Critical Game Design (doctoral, game studies & research; on campus). The school's other eligible program (Critical Game Design) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection. Its programs in other game fields (Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • PhDGame Studies & ResearchGame Design

      Critical Game Design

      Ph.D. in Critical Game Design

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $66,300 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    1 published award: Teaching and Research Assistantships.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Dissertation: Dissertation Proposal and Literature Review defended with a Doctoral Committee, followed by independent research on a self-defined topic.
    Published facilities and resources
    Interactive Media Archaeology Lab; Emergent Reality Lab; Games Grad Lounge.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Seminars in historical, political and cultural analyses of interactive and experiential media; games and interactive design studios; multidisciplinary resear…
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 2 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, research areas).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $66,300 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 6 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (not assessed for this selection): Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences; Critical Game Design.

  18. Rochester Institute of Technology logo

    Rochester Institute of Technology

    Rochester, NY · School of Interactive Games and Media (IGM), Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences

    For graduates building a game design portfolio

    Rochester Institute of Technology is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Science in Game Design and Development (master's, game design; on campus, two-year, on-campus, cohort-based program, 33 credits, full-time). The school's other eligible program (Game Design and Development BS) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection. Its programs in other game fields (3D Digital Design BFA – Game Arts Option) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame DesignGame Development

      Game Design and Development MS

      Master of Science in Game Design and Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $64,542 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Second-year teams build a working game engine and software title, ending in a defense, public presentation and demonstration
    Published facilities and resources
    MAGIC Spell Studios.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Cooperative education optional but encouraged
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Second-year teams build a working game engine and software title, ending in a defense, public presentation and demonstration
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 2 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, programming).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (2 verified rates, 1 with an academic year): $64,542 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 7 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Rochester Institute of Technology (not assessed for this selection): Game Design and Development BS; 3D Digital Design BFA – Game Arts Option.

  19. Savannah College of Art and Design

    Savannah, GA · School of Creative Technology – Interactive design and game development

    For students who need to study remotelyFor graduates building a game development portfolio

    Savannah College of Art and Design is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development (master's, game development; online (on-site requirements not stated), 90 credits). The school's other eligible programs (B.F.A. in game development; B.A. in game development; M.A. in interactive design and game development) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and do not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame DevelopmentGame-focused Interactive Media

      M.F.A. in interactive design and game development

      Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development

      Delivery:
      Online (on-site requirements not stated)The institution offers the degree online but its pages do not say whether any on-site activity is required.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $14,655 per term (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • A culminating thesis is published.
    • Offers 2 named tracks or concentrations (Game development, Interactive design).
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • The pages we checked do not say whether any campus visit, residency or exhibition is required.
    • No hardware or software requirements are published for online students.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Thesis: Thesis Studio I (research and ideation), II (production and prototyping), III (validation and documentation)
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    Practical experience requirement: SCADpro collaboration, graduate field internship or teaching practicum
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Culminating project — Thesis Studio I (research and ideation), II (production and prototyping), III (validation and documentation)
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 1 documented curriculum element (game design); tracks: Game development, Interactive design.
    Remote feedback and student support (online)
    1 published student service (tutoring).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $14,655 per term.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 6 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Savannah College of Art and Design (not assessed for this selection): B.F.A. in game development; B.A. in game development; M.A. in interactive design and game development.

  20. Southern Methodist University logo

    Southern Methodist University

    Dallas, TX · SMU Guildhall

    For graduates building a game development portfolio

    Southern Methodist University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Interactive Technology in Digital Game Development (master's, game development; on campus, Two years (five semesters), full-time). The school's other eligible program (Game Development B.A.) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame Development

      Master of Interactive Technology

      Master of Interactive Technology in Digital Game Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $14,992 per term (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating thesis is published.
    • Offers 4 named tracks or concentrations (Art Creation, Level Design, Production (Project Management)…).
    • Names the tools it teaches: Unity and Unreal Engine.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Thesis: Master's Thesis IV – Graduate Exhibition: students develop and defend a thesis project under faculty advisor oversight.
    Published facilities and resources
    Gerald J. Ford Hall game labs and studios; SMU Guildhall GameLab; Visualization Lab.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Team Game Production IV: students design, prototype, test and publish games in a studio-modeled environment; students graduate with at least three team games.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, production, tools); tracks: Art Creation, Level Design, Production (Project Management), Software Development (Programming).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (2 verified rates, 2 with an academic year): $22,487 per term.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 6 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Southern Methodist University (not assessed for this selection): Game Development B.A..

  21. University of Central Florida

    Orlando, FL · Nicholson School of Communication and Media – Games and Interactive Media / Florida Interactive Entertainment Academy

    For graduates building a game development portfolio

    University of Central Florida is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Master of Science in Interactive Entertainment (master's, game development; on campus, 16 months, full time over four semesters, 30 credits, full-time). The school's other eligible program (Digital Media (BA) – Game Design Track) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Master'sGame DevelopmentGame Design

      Interactive Entertainment (MS)

      Master of Science in Interactive Entertainment

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $32,940 entire program
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Offers 3 named tracks or concentrations (Art Specialization (3D Modeling, Technical Art, Animation), Production/Design Specialization (Project Management, Technical Design, Level Design), Programming Specialization).
    • Names the tools it teaches: C++.
    • An internship or co-op is part of the published program.
    • Publishes a whole-program tuition figure ($32,940).

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • Published tuition does not print its academic year.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    5 published awards: FIEA Director Fellowship, FIEA Director Technical Fellowship, UCF Character Animation Fellowship.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Capstone: a full game built over multiple semesters by a multidisciplinary team of about 15-20 students, through preproduction, production, alpha a…
    Published facilities and resources
    NSCM/GaIM Maker Space; FIEA motion capture studio; FIEA labs at UCF Downtown.
    Internship or co-op arrangements
    6-credit practicum: Game Design Practicum or Digital Venture Practicum (research team, on-site internship, start-up or faculty research).
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Rapid prototype rounds with over 20 teams making prototypes every few weeks.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, programming, tools, production); tracks: Art Specialization (3D Modeling, Technical Art, Animation), Production/Design Specialization (Project Management, Technical Design, Level Design), Programming Specialization.
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (2 verified rates, academic year not printed): $32,940 entire program.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 6 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at University of Central Florida (not assessed for this selection): Digital Media (BA) – Game Design Track.

  22. University of Wisconsin-Stout logo

    University of Wisconsin-Stout

    Menomonie, WI · School of Art & Design

    For first-year applicantsFor visual artists

    University of Wisconsin-Stout is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Game Design & Development (bachelor's, game design; on campus). The school's other eligible program (Computer Science (Game Design & Development Concentration)) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection. Its programs in other game fields (Game & Media Studies) are outside this selection and are not assessed here.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DesignGame Art

      Game Design & Development - Art

      Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.) in Game Design & Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Required
      Tuition:
      $11,767 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Names the tools it teaches: Maya, Z-Brush and the Adobe Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) available in the Game Lab..
    • Programmatic accreditation named for this program: NASAD.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • A portfolio is required — plan time to prepare one.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Three capstone advanced project courses in which students create games in a team environment.
    Published facilities and resources
    Animation and Game Design & Development Studio Lab; Motion Capture Studio; Game Design Studio.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    BFA students collaborate with B.S. Computer Science and B.S. Game & Media Studies majors to develop and exhibit multiple games.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 3 documented curriculum elements (art animation, production, tools).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (4 verified rates, 4 with an academic year): $11,767 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio required; 3 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at University of Wisconsin-Stout (not assessed for this selection): Computer Science (Game Design & Development Concentration); Game & Media Studies.

  23. West Virginia University logo

    West Virginia University

    Morgantown, WV · School of Art and Design, College of Creative Arts and Media

    For first-year applicantsFor applicants without a portfolio yet

    West Virginia University is selected for one degree that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media (bachelor's, game design; on campus, 120 credits). The school's other eligible program (Game Design) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame DesignGame-focused Interactive Media

      Game Design and Interactive Media

      Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not required
      Tuition:
      $11,064 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • States that no portfolio is required for admission.

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    1 published award: Ohio Tuition Reciprocity.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Capstone: Capstone choice: Advanced Interactive Design or Advanced Game Design (team games with the MonRiverGames studio).
    Published facilities and resources
    Media Innovation Center.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Community-based, not-for-profit game studio where student teams conceive, design, develop, playtest and publish games.
    Source quality and freshness
    Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Dedicated game degree; 5 documented curriculum elements (curriculum, programming, game design, art animation, production).
    Tuition transparency
    Tuition published (2 verified rates, 2 with an academic year): $11,064 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Portfolio not required (stated); 2 other published requirements.

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at West Virginia University (not assessed for this selection): Game Design.

  24. Worcester Polytechnic Institute logo

    Worcester Polytechnic Institute

    Worcester, MA · Interactive Media & Game Development (IMGD) department

    For first-year applicantsFor graduates building a game-focused interactive media portfolio

    Worcester Polytechnic Institute is selected for 3 degrees that met every required criterion: Bachelor of Science (bachelor's, game-focused interactive media; on campus); Bachelor of Arts (bachelor's, game-focused interactive media; on campus); Master of Science in Interactive Media & Game Development (master's, game-focused interactive media; on campus). The school's other eligible program (Interactive Media & Game Design) did not meet every criterion with verified evidence and does not support this selection.

    Degrees supporting this selection

    • Bachelor'sGame-focused Interactive MediaGame Development

      Interactive Media & Game Development Technology

      Bachelor of Science

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $63,936 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Bachelor'sGame-focused Interactive MediaGame Development

      Interactive Media & Game Development

      Bachelor of Arts

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Not published
      Tuition:
      $63,936 per academic year (2026-2027)
      View Program
    • Master'sGame-focused Interactive MediaGame Development

      Interactive Media & Game Development

      Master of Science in Interactive Media & Game Development

      Delivery:
      On campusClasses meet on campus.
      Portfolio:
      Optional
      Tuition:
      $1,775 per credit (2026-2027)
      View Program

    Strengths in the official information

    • Team or studio production work is documented in the curriculum.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: A culminating capstone or final project is published.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: Names the tools it teaches: Unity, Unreal Engine, Maya, Blender, Adobe Creative Cloud.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development: Offers 5 named tracks or concentrations (Visual Art, Design, Technical Art…).
    • Interactive Media & Game Development: A culminating thesis is published.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development: Offers 3 named tracks or concentrations (Technical, Serious games, Production and management).

    Limitations and tradeoffs to check

    • Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    • Program length is not published on the pages we checked.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development: No portfolio policy is published on the pages we checked.
    • Interactive Media & Game Development: No dated deadline for the current cycle is published on the pages we checked.
    Evidence for each criterion and sources
    Published scholarships or assistantships
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: 1 published award: Early decision scholarship.
    Capstone, thesis or portfolio project
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: Capstone: Major Qualifying Project requirement (3/3 units)
    Published facilities and resources
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: IMGD Lab, Digital Art Studio, AI & Intelligent Tutoring Lab, Sound Recording Studio; Motion Capture Studio.
    Studio, team or capstone project work
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: Multiterm studio teams of artists, designers, writers and programmers
    Source quality and freshness
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: Eligibility and facts verified on official pages; last checked 2026-10-12.
    Game-specific curriculum
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: Dedicated game degree; 4 documented curriculum elements (programming, production, tools, game design).
    Tuition transparency
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: Tuition published (1 verified rate, 1 with an academic year): $63,936 per academic year.
    Clear admissions and portfolio policy
    Interactive Media & Game Development Technology: 3 published admission requirements (portfolio policy not published).

    Sources

    Every fact also links to its official source on the program page. Reviewed October 12, 2026.

    Also listed at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (not assessed for this selection): Interactive Media & Game Design.

Schools considered but not selected

29 schools with eligible programs were considered and not selected because no degree had verified evidence for every criterion. The most common gaps among programs: clear admissions and portfolio policy (29), tuition transparency (13), studio, team or capstone project work (7), game-specific curriculum (6). Not selected does not mean worse: it can mean the school publishes less information on its own pages, or that we have not verified it yet. See every school in the directory.

Schools can send official sources through the correction form. Evidence is re-checked; inclusion cannot be bought.