The University of Texas at Dallas
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$
Richardson, TX
72%
43%
18%
University of Texas is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
UT Dallas offers a bachelor of arts, technology, and emerging communication with animation and games concentration. The program introduces students to game design and development through its games research lab, critical studies, and innovative research applications. The school also hosts talks and panels from major industry players for networking opportunities.
The 120-credit program offers coursework in animation, project management, digital audio, and computer animation. A senior seminar or capstone project completes the degree.
UT Dallas automatically admits first-year Texas applicants who graduate in the top 10% of their class from an accredited Texas high school and reach minimum SAT/ACT scores. Transfer students may apply credit to coursework.
Indiana University-Bloomington
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$$
Bloomington, IN
78%
33%
18%
Indiana University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Taught through its Media School, IU’s bachelor of science in game design looks at gaming through a social systems lens. The program emphasizes the creative connection that happens when designers combine the art of storytelling with cutting-edge animation and media platforms.
The curriculum includes a three-semester intensive where students develop and publish an original game. Students may select from six tracks and concentrations, including art, programming, sound, and games and the mind.
First-time students must submit official transcripts (3.6 minimum GPA) and show an ACT composite score of 27 or an SAT combined score of 1280. Transfer students must submit transcripts from previously attended institutions (minimum 2.3 GPA for Indiana residents, minimum 2.5 GPA for nonresidents).
Michigan State University
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$$$
East Lansing, MI
80%
42%
22%
Michigan State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Taught through MSU’s College of Communication Arts and Sciences, the serious game design and research graduate certificate offers a fully online or in-class hybrid curriculum. For undergraduates, the school also offers a bachelor’s with a concentration in game and interactive media design and a minor in game design and development.
The master’s certificate program gives designers, teachers, and other professionals insight into game theories, design, and development. Studies include foundations of serious games, theories of games and interaction design, and understanding users.
Certificate applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and apply as graduate certificate students. The program is available to students enrolled in an MSU graduate program and as a stand-alone, three-course graduate certificate program.
University of California-Irvine
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$$$
Irvine, CA
83%
35%
14%
University of California, Irvine is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
UCI’s bachelor of science in game design and interactive media prepares students as innovative designers, developers, and industry leaders of games. Internationally recognized faculty and experts teach programming, visual design, and interactive storytelling. The Silicon Beach location provides access to industry partners including Electronic Arts, Disney, Tencent, and the Cartoon Network.
Coursework includes multiplayer game systems, modeling and world-building, algorithms, and human-computer interactions. In-state first-year applicants must submit high school transcripts with a minimum 3.0 GPA minimum (3.4 out-of-state) and complete A-G course minimum. California transfer applicants must earn a 2.4 GPA in transferrable coursework (2.8 out-of-state).
Arkansas Tech University
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$$
Russellville, AR
40%
41%
47%
Arkansas Tech University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
ATU offers a bachelor of fine arts in game and interactive media design accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The program introduces students to the latest in visual communication arts interactive digital technology sciences.
Studies focus on game development, design theory, digital art, and animation techniques. It also covers general education courses in English, math, and social sciences.
First-year students must submit high school transcripts (2.0 GPA minimum) and ACT (minimum 19 composite) or SAT (minimum 1010 composite) scores. Transfer submission requirements include transcripts from previously attended institutions (2.0 GPA minimum).
University of Wisconsin-Stout
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$$
Menomonie, WI
58%
59%
48%
University of Wisconsin Stout is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
The bachelor of fine arts in game design and development offered through UW-Stout teaches core skills in art and design, such as drawing, 3D modeling, and animation. Students learn about concept art, characters, and level design.
Required classes for the 120-credit program come from the game design core (games design and development), studio requirements (drawing and graphic design), and studio “selectives” (art and design coursework).
First-year applicants must submit official high school transcripts. Transfer applicants must submit transcripts from high school and previously attended institutions (2.0 minimum GPA). Test scores are optional.
Drury University
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Springfield, MO
64%
55%
18%
Drury University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
DU’s bachelor of science in computer science-game development targets those interested in careers as game developers and students who want to pursue graduate work in computer science or a related digital media field.
The program requires computer science and mathematics courses, with additional credits in game development (computer animation and multimedia storytelling) and media arts.
Submission requirements for first-year students include official high-school transcripts and either SAT/ACT scores or a 250-500-word essay. Transfer applicants must submit high school and previously attended college transcripts. SAT/ACT scores may also be required.
Savannah College of Art and Design
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Savannah, GA
68%
43%
18%
Savannah College of Art and Design is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
SCAD offers a bachelor of arts in digital media with a concentration in interactive design. In addition to learning from experienced faculty, students have access to AR/VR labs, game showcases, and competitions.
The 180-credit BA degree requirements include foundation and general education coursework and the concentration (including game art, interactive design, and digital design aesthetics). SCAD also offers internships.
First-time applicants must submit official high school transcripts and SAT/ACT scores. Transfer applicant requirements include official transcripts from previously attended institutes. All applicants must submit portfolios.
Northeastern University
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Boston, MA
88%
36%
9%
Northeastern University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Northeastern offers a 120-credit bachelor of fine arts in game design that teaches students to communicate ideas through interactive media. The degree explores games as an aesthetic form through critical analysis and creative practice.
Students learn a wide variety of genres and contexts and are encouraged to think up innovative new approaches to game content. The program groups courses into game studies, design, development, aesthetics, and critical play. Graduation also requires a game design capstone.
Submission materials for first-year applicants include high school transcripts and teacher/counselor recommendations. Transfer applicants must submit high school and college transcripts and an academic evaluation. College courses with a 2.0 GPA or higher might be considered for transfer credit. Portfolio submissions are highly encouraged.
Southern Arkansas University Main Campus
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$$
Magnolia, AR
41%
76%
52%
Southern Arkansas University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
SAU’s bachelor of fine arts in game, animation, and simulation teaches students to apply technical and theoretical skills to problem-solving with open source and software applications.
In addition to general education requirements, the 121-credit program’s core curriculum includes studies in game design management, physics of animation, concept art, and virtual reality.
First-year applicants must be high school graduates with a 2.0 minimum GPA and ACT scores of 16 or higher. Transfer applicants must have a cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher. Official transcripts are required.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
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Prescott, AZ
65%
47%
3%
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Embry-Riddle’s Prescott branch offers a bachelor of science in simulation science, games, and animation. The program focuses on mathematical algorithms and technologies underlying aviation simulators, computer-aided design systems, and animation software.
Requirements for the minimum 124-credit program include game design workshops, graphics processing, social science/psychology, and world-building. Additionally, students undergo hands-on lab work to gain proficiency in computer languages.
Applicants must submit official transcripts or GED scores from previously attended institutions. Recommendation letters, standardized test scores, and resumes are optional for both.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
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Worcester, MA
87%
52%
15%
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
The WPI bachelor of science in interactive and media game development covers engagement apps and computer-based game development. Students may concentrate in game studies, digital painting, audio arts, and the social impact of games topics.
Coursework focuses on math and engineering, game development and design, interactive experiences, and cultural narratives. Additional classes target artificial intelligence, computer networks, and operating systems.
Submission requirements for first-year applicants include high school transcripts and recommendation letters from school counselors and teachers. Transfer applicants must submit official high school and college transcripts and a recommendation letter.
California State University-Chico
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Chico, CA
66%
45%
30%
California State University, Chico is regionally accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).
Chico State offers a bachelor of science in computer animation and game development that prepares students in animation production, game scripting, virtual reality, and photogrammetry. The program also offers a master’s fast-track offering both BS and MS degrees in five years.
In addition to general education pathway requirements, classes for the 120-credit degree include digital texturing, computer graphics programming, internet media design, and digital audio. Students may select additional options in animation production or game development.
First-time applicants must submit high school transcripts (2.5 minimum GPA). Requirements for transfer applicants vary based on status (upper- or lower-division).
Dakota State University
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Madison, SD
47%
46%
65%
Dakota State University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
DSU offers a bachelor of science in computer game design that builds communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. Graduates come away with knowledge in programming languages, 3D modeling, 2D graphics, and an ability to craft effective player experiences.
Required classes include computer design, project development, game programming tools, and world-building. Students may also select an emphasis in game art, narrative design, or software development.
All applicants must submit transcripts. First-year applicants need to show either a minimum 2.6 high school GPA, ACT 18, or SAT 950. Transfer applicants must have a cumulative college GPA of 2.0 or higher.
American University
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Washington, DC
80%
45%
7%
American University is regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).
American University’s master of arts in game design helps students stretch their capabilities as designers, developers, and game administrators. Award-winning faculty share real-world experiences, training participants in game design theory and multi-disciplinary development.
The 36-credit program goes beyond traditional design, instructing students how to build educationally based games and play. Courses include rhetoric, design, 3D static modeling, and 3D animation. Other coursework covers tools and techniques and research methods.
Applicants must hold an accredited bachelor’s degree with a 3.0 cumulative GPA. Required submission materials include a statement of purpose, transcripts, recommendation letters, and a resume.
Kennesaw State University
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Kennesaw, GA
43%
49%
42%
Kennesaw State University is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The bachelor of science in computer game design and development at KSU equips students with the skills to apply computing and software engineering techniques to digital media production and design. Studies build on expertise in hardware and software to create immersive multimedia systems.
The program consists of general education and lower-division major requirements and major courses. Classes include computer graphics, software testing, digital media and interaction, and casual game development. Students may select from seven different tracks, including simulations-informatics, creative content, and a custom option.
KSU requires a high school diploma with a minimum 2.5 GPA and SAT or ACT scores. Transfer students must submit transcripts with a minimum GPA of 2.0.
University of Nebraska at Omaha
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Omaha, NE
48%
40%
49%
University of Nebraska Omaha is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
UNO’s bachelor of science in computer science, game programming concentration teaches introductory knowledge of 2D and 3D game programming, resource management, design concepts, and general graphics theory.
Required courses focus on computer graphics and game programming. Electives include artificial intelligence, robot algorithms, video game design, and human-computer interaction.
For assured admission, first-year applicants must submit an official high school transcript showing a 3.0 minimum GPA, a minimum 20 ACT or SAT equivalent, and rank 50th percentile in their graduating class. Transfer applicants must submit college transcripts with a 2.0 minimum GPA.
St. Andrews University
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Laurinburg, NC
32%
72%
23%
St. Andrews University is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
St. Andrews offers a bachelor of arts major in visual performing arts with a concentration in game art and design. Concepts include creating advanced character models, multiple layer textures, lighting, and animation.
Coursework includes character rigging and animation, textures, and level development. Graduation requires both a portfolio and a demo reel.
First-year applicants must submit official high school transcripts, but no minimum GPA or test scores are required. Transfer applicants must submit transcripts from previously attended institutions with a 2.0 minimum GPA. Up to 90 credits may be transferred.
Ringling College of Art and Design
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Sarasota, FL
72%
61%
Ringling College of Art and Design is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
The bachelor of fine arts in game art offered through Ringling College emphasizes visual art for computer and virtual reality games. Participants learn artistic techniques and game design mechanics with the ultimate goal of “hyper marketability.”
Ringling College gives students the opportunity for real-world experience through its Collaboratory Commitment. Undergrads can pair with local businesses to develop innovative approaches to design and branding and understand the entire creative process. Students must also prepare thesis projects during the program’s final year.
Admission requirements include official transcripts (2.0 minimum GPA), recommendation letters, and portfolios.
High Point University
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High Point, NC
65%
43%
1%
High Point University is regionally accredited by The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
HPU’s bachelor of arts in game and interactive media design teaches theoretical concepts and understanding game design principles while applying best practices to game development. Students graduate with a completed portfolio.
Studies for the 128-credit program include communication, media law, and game culture, development, criticism, and theory.
Application requirements for first-year students include an official high school transcript, recommendation letter, and school report form. Transfer applicants must submit official transcripts from previously attended institutions (2.5 minimum GPA) and a transfer essay. Up to 90 credits may be applied to the degree.
University of Denver
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Denver, CO
77%
36%
18%
University of Denver is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Taught through its Ritchie School of Engineering and Computer Science, DU’s bachelor of arts in game development prepares students to be modern game designers. Students learn computer science foundations while building skills as creative artists.
Studies blend general classes with electives and game-specific coursework, such as 3D modeling, game programming, and a two-semester capstone.
Submission requirements for first-year students include official high school transcripts and SAT or ACT scores. While no minimum GPA is specified, successful candidates show a 3.6-4.0 GPA range. ACT and SAT scores average 1280 and 29, respectively. Transfer students must submit transcripts from previously attended institutions (3.0 GPA or higher).
Webster University
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Saint Louis, MO
59%
54%
43%
Webster University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
Webster’s bachelor of arts in games and game design emphasizes preparation for “serious games.” Studies blend game design principles with hands-on tools and techniques for creating levels and modules.
Coursework ranges from conceptualizing different gameplay experiences to building multilevel games. The program also covers professional ethics and cultural understanding, preparing students for the global marketplace. Topics include interactive digital media, screenplay writing, VR, and simulation.
Webster favors applicants showing a minimum 3.0 cumulative in the top 50th class percentile and minimum test scores of ACT 21 or SAT 1000. Admission also requires recommendation letters, a school/community activities resume, and an essay. Transfer student submission requirements include official transcripts from previously attended institutions and a minimum 2.5 GPA.
Fitchburg State University
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$$$
Fitchburg, MA
61%
68%
70%
Fitchburg State University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
The bachelor of science in game design offered through Fitchburg State develops independent thinkers with robust problem-solving skills. Students learn to create powerful, thought-provoking games with solid mechanics, aesthetics, and engaging stories.
The curriculum consists of liberal arts and game design, programming, writing, and art classes. The player-focused program also teaches participants how to manage time, resources, and people and testing, iterating, and collaboration. A capstone requirement may be met by game study or internships.
First-year applicants must submit official high school transcripts (3.0 minimum GPA) and essays. Optional materials include letters of recommendation, a resume, and ACT/SAT scores. Transfer applicant requirements include official college transcripts (2.0 minimum GPA). Up to 90 credits may be applied to the degree.
DePaul University
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Chicago, IL
71%
55%
29%
DePaul University is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).
DePaul’s bachelor of science in game design prepares students to become storytellers, critical thinkers, and leaders in the gaming industry.
The curriculum focuses on game, animation, and liberal arts studies. Classes include game design and development, design and modeling, games literacy, and sound design. Graduation requires a complete portfolio.
First-year applicants must submit official transcripts or GED equivalent and a common application school report from a high school counselor. Transfer applicant submission requirements include official transcripts from previously attended institutions. Standardized tests are optional.
Skagit Valley College
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$
Mount Vernon, WA
24%
8%
37%
Skagit Valley College is regionally accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
Taught through its Multimedia and Interactive Technology program, SVC’s game, app, and web development certificate trains students to create stunning visuals for games and world-building.
The 44-credit program includes studies in video game development, web design, and training in Adobe Creative Suite apps, such as Animate and Dreamweaver.
First-time applicants must demonstrate proof of high school graduation and attend an advising session before registration. Interested transfer applicants should contact the admissions staff for additional information.