- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best game development degree programs reveals that game Developers earn a median salary of $132,270 with 25% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Game Development programs include University of California-Santa Cruz, Rochester Institute of Technology, University of Southern California based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of California-Santa Cruz offers game development education at $11,834/year with 93% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Game Development programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Game Development Programs - Top 10
University of California-Santa Cruz
UCSC pioneered the academic study of games and is consistently ranked among the top 5 game design programs worldwide, with a unique location just one hour from Silicon Valley enabling direct industry connections while maintaining a research-focused academic environment.
University of California-Santa Cruz Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Cruz as the #1 in game development degree program.
University of California-Santa Cruz's Game Development program graduates 132 students annually with a 93% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Computational Experience and Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab. Silicon Valley campus with active research projects
Hakia Insight: University of California-Santa Cruz's Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Silicon Valley Tech Companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Interdisciplinary research center focused on human computer interaction and technology for games and play
Intersection of games, human-computer interaction, and learning science
Location Advantages
- •Silicon Valley campus with active research projects
- •Access to tech industry hub and networking opportunities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Rochester Institute of Technology
RIT was the first university to publish games to the Xbox One platform and operates MAGIC Spell Studios, where over 300 students have already published games like Changeling VR to Steam, creating a unique pipeline from student projects to commercial releases.
Rochester Institute of Technology Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks Rochester Institute of Technology as the #2 in game development degree program.
Rochester Institute of Technology's Game Development program graduates 154 students annually with a 90% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the MAGIC Spell Studios and Digital Games Hub. Rochester, NY location
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Microsoft and Tesla, Rochester Institute of Technology bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Commercial game development and publishing for students and indie developers
Resources and mentoring for students and indie developers to enter the games industry and launch start-ups
Narrative design and interactive storytelling research
Location Advantages
- •Rochester, NY location
- •Access to industry partnerships in the region
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Southern California
USC pioneered interdisciplinary game education by bringing together Hollywood storytelling expertise with Silicon Valley engineering, creating the only program where students can learn from both Academy Award-winning technologists and AAA game industry veterans in the entertainment capital of the world.
University of Southern California Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 in game development degree program.
University of Southern California's Game Development program graduates 56 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT) and Creative Media & Behavioral Health Center (CMBHC).
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Scopely and U.S. Army Research Laboratory, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
DoD-sponsored UARC developing virtual humans, AI, and immersive technologies for military training and healthcare
Interdisciplinary research unit developing entertainment media interventions for health and rehabilitation
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of California-Irvine
Located in Silicon Beach with direct industry partnerships including Blizzard, Riot, EA, and Disney, UCI's program offers the rare combination of rigorous computer science foundations within an Informatics department that emphasizes human-centered design and the cultural impact of games.
University of California-Irvine Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #4 in game development degree program.
University of California-Irvine's Game Development program graduates 55 students annually with a 96% graduation rate. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Computer Games and Virtual Worlds Research Center. Graduates find positions at major publishers, smaller studios.
Hakia Insight: University of California-Irvine's industry network — including Blizzard Entertainment and Riot Games — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Promotes campuswide research spanning social and technological aspects of games and virtual worlds
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
major publishers, smaller studios
Admissions
DigiPen Institute of Technology
DigiPen is the only institution on this list built exclusively around game development, offering specialized degree tracks, active industry faculty, and a culture entirely oriented toward shipped titles and professional outcomes.
DigiPen Institute of Technology Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks DigiPen Institute of Technology as the #5 in game development degree program.
DigiPen Institute of Technology offers comprehensive Game Development programs at multiple degree levels, combining rigorous academics with practical experience. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Project Spaces / Game Development Studios. Seattle metropolitan area: proximity to Nintendo of America, Bungie, Amazon Games, Sumo Digital, Daybreak Games, and other major studios Graduates find positions at Nintendo, Microsoft / Xbox, Electronic Arts.
Hakia Insight: DigiPen Institute of Technology leverages partnerships with Nintendo and Microsoft / Xbox to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Student game production and portfolio development
Location Advantages
- •Seattle metropolitan area: proximity to Nintendo of America, Bungie, Amazon Games, Sumo Digital, Daybreak Games, and other major studios
- •Access to Pacific Northwest game development ecosystem and networking events
- •Global game industry hub location
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Nintendo, Microsoft / Xbox, Electronic Arts, Bungie, Sumo Digital
Admissions
University of Miami
The Interactive Media MFA stands out for its multidisciplinary approach that brings together students from diverse backgrounds to explore the societal impact of interactive technologies while developing both technical skills and ethical leadership capabilities.
University of Miami Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Miami as the #6 in game development degree program.
University of Miami's Game Development program graduates 16 students annually with a 94% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Virtual Experience Simulation Lab (VESL) and Novel Experience & Responsible Design Lab (NERDLab).
Hakia Insight: University of Miami's direct partnerships with Bascom Palmer and RSMAS give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
XR development and interdisciplinary prototyping
games for social impact
human-centered research and usability testing
prototyping, fabrication, AR/VR, physical computing
XR, multisensory experiences, and trustworthy AI
virtual reality, volumetric captures and augmented reality
Industry Partners
Admissions
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Applied software engineering rigor in game development—emphasis on architecture, team workflows, and production-ready code practices.
University of Wisconsin-Stout Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Stout as the #7 in game development degree program.
UW-Stout's game development program emerges from its nationally recognized Applied STEM education focus, meaning coursework explicitly bridges academic concepts to production-ready game systems. The program excels at teaching students not just how to code, but how to architect code for teams—design patterns, version control workflows, and documentation standards receive as much emphasis as language syntax. Students work through scaffolded projects where each assignment builds maintainable systems they'll extend in later courses, mirroring actual studio development. This "engineering discipline applied to games" approach appeals to students who want strong software engineering fundamentals alongside game-specific knowledge. The curriculum includes formal software project management, preparing students to lead or coordinate with producers in studio settings. Faculty backgrounds in software engineering, not just game development, means students learn enterprise-grade practices from day one.
Degree Programs
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Utah Valley University
UVU's game concentration embeds real-world industry collaboration with local studios (Crystal Dynamics, Avalanche) and Wasatch corridor employers into its curriculum, bridging CS fundamentals with hands-on shipping experience.
Utah Valley University Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks Utah Valley University as the #8 in game development degree program.
Utah Valley University's Game Development program graduates 26 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Proximity to Crystal Dynamics and Avalanche Software
Hakia Insight: Utah Valley University leverages partnerships with Crystal Dynamics and Avalanche Software to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Crystal Dynamics and Avalanche Software
- •Access to Wasatch tech corridor and mid-market studios
- •Utah's active indie game development scene
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Academy of Art University
51 game development graduates annually
Academy of Art University Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #9 in game development degree program.
Academy of Art University offers a Game Development degree, combining rigorous academics with practical experience to prepare graduates for successful careers.
Program Strengths
- 51 game development graduates annually
- Accredited institution
DePaul University
DePaul houses the professional DePaul Originals Game Studio on campus where students work on commercially shipped games, with alumni founding successful studios like Young Horses (creators of Octodad and Bugsnax) and landing positions at major studios including Blizzard, Bethesda, and NeatherRealm Studios.
DePaul University Game Development Program Overview
Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #10 in game development degree program.
DePaul University's Game Development program graduates 45 students annually with a 86% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Virtual and Augmented Design Lab (VAD) and Hybrid Experience Lab. Graduates find positions at Microsoft, Unity Technologies, NetherRealm Studios.
Hakia Insight: DePaul University graduates earn $72,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on game development curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Experimental games on emerging platforms including AR development with Apple ARKit and VR projects exploring deformable virtual surfaces
Research into play and games in different realities since 2006, combining immersive technologies with physical world applications
Transdisciplinary design lab creating interactive advocacy solutions for social justice, health, and environmental issues
Commercial game production and publishing to Steam, Xbox, PS4, and Switch platforms
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Microsoft, Unity Technologies, NetherRealm Studios, Iron Galaxy
Certifications & Designations
Best Game Development Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. University of California-Santa Cruz Game Development Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Cruz as the #1 in game development degree program. Location: Santa Cruz, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 87.1
What makes University of California-Santa Cruz stand out: UCSC pioneered the academic study of games and is consistently ranked among the top 5 game design programs worldwide, with a unique location just one hour from Silicon Valley enabling direct industry connections while maintaining a research-focused academic environment.
Hakia Insight: University of California-Santa Cruz's Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab creates a direct research-to-career pipeline with Silicon Valley Tech Companies, bridging academic research and industry practice.
Program Overview: UC Santa Cruz's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Game Design represents one of the most prestigious and comprehensive game development programs in the world. This four-year undergraduate degree program uniquely fuses technical engineering prowess with artistic vision, focusing on the construction and design of interactive computer games. Students dive deep into the technical, narrative, and artistic foundations of game development, culminating in an intensive year-long game project sequence during their final year where they create professional-quality games from concept to completion. The program is consistently ranked among the top game design programs globally, holding the #5 spot for best game/simulation development program in the nation according to U.S. News & World Report 2024. What sets UCSC apart is its interdisciplinary approach spanning multiple divisions, fostering collaboration between engineering, arts, and social sciences. The program operates through the Baskin School of Engineering's Computational Media Department, which houses world-class research faculty and the Center for Computational Experience - an interdisciplinary research center focused on human-computer interaction and technology for games and play.
Degree Programs: B.S. Computer Science: Computer Game Design (4 years); B.A. Art & Design: Games + Playable Media (4 years); M.S. Games + Playable Media (5 quarters (1.67 years)); M.S. Computational Media (2 years)
Research Labs: Center for Computational Experience - Interdisciplinary research center focused on human computer interaction and technology for games and play; Alternative Learning Technologies and Games (ALT Games) Lab - Intersection of games, human-computer interaction, and learning science
Industry Partners: Silicon Valley Tech Companies
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Gameplay engineer, Computer game designer, Computer game producer, Animation and graphics programming, Technical artist, Software engineering, Web development
Admissions:
#2. Rochester Institute of Technology Game Development Program
Hakia ranks Rochester Institute of Technology as the #2 in game development degree program. Location: Rochester, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $55,784/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 85.4
What makes Rochester Institute of Technology stand out: RIT was the first university to publish games to the Xbox One platform and operates MAGIC Spell Studios, where over 300 students have already published games like Changeling VR to Steam, creating a unique pipeline from student projects to commercial releases.
Hakia Insight: Through ties with Microsoft and Tesla, Rochester Institute of Technology bridges the gap between academic training and industry practice.
Program Overview: Rochester Institute of Technology's Game Design and Development program stands as a premier destination for aspiring game creators, offering both a Bachelor's and Master's degree through the School of Interactive Games and Media within the Golisano College of Computing and Information Sciences. The undergraduate BS program emphasizes game programming within a robust computing education, preparing students for careers across gaming, simulation, modeling, training, and visualization industries. What sets RIT apart is its mandatory cooperative education program—students complete two full-time, paid co-op blocks starting after their second year, gaining real-world experience at major studios while building industry connections. The program combines technical depth in areas like game engines, graphics programming, and mobile development with creative elements including game design, interactive media, animation, and user interaction. Students can customize their education through specialized electives and advance to the MS program through an accelerated bachelor's/master's pathway, all while working in professional facilities like MAGIC Spell Studios where they can commercialize their own games.
Degree Programs: Game Design and Development BS (4 years); Game Design and Development MS (2 years); Accelerated BS/MS Pathway (5 years)
Research Labs: MAGIC Spell Studios - Commercial game development and publishing for students and indie developers; Digital Games Hub - Resources and mentoring for students and indie developers to enter the games industry and launch start-ups; Center for Worldbuilding and Storytelling - Narrative design and interactive storytelling research
Industry Partners: Microsoft, Tesla, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, IBM, JPMorgan Chase & Co., U.S. Department of Defense, Alion Science and Technology, Bose, Collins Aerospace
Career Outcomes:
Admissions: GPA: 3.25 minimum recommended for MS program | Acceptance Rate: not specified
#3. University of Southern California Game Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 in game development degree program. Location: Los Angeles, CA | Type: Private | Tuition: $66,640/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 82.2
What makes University of Southern California stand out: USC pioneered interdisciplinary game education by bringing together Hollywood storytelling expertise with Silicon Valley engineering, creating the only program where students can learn from both Academy Award-winning technologists and AAA game industry veterans in the entertainment capital of the world.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Southern California benefit from active collaborations with Scopely and U.S. Army Research Laboratory, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: USC's game development ecosystem spans two prestigious schools, offering students multiple pathways into the interactive entertainment industry. The School of Cinematic Arts houses the Interactive Media & Games Division, consistently ranked #1 Game Design school in North America by The Princeton Review since 2009, offering comprehensive BFA and MFA programs that blend artistic creativity with technical innovation. Simultaneously, the Viterbi School of Engineering provides the MS in Computer Science - Game Development, a rigorous 32-unit program that combines core computer science fundamentals with specialized game development expertise. This dual-school approach creates a unique environment where film industry artists collaborate with computer scientists, fostering innovation in areas ranging from blockbuster entertainment to serious games for healthcare and military training. Students benefit from USC's Los Angeles location, facilitating partnerships with major movie studios and game companies, while also engaging with cutting-edge research through the Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT), a DoD-sponsored center developing virtual humans and immersive simulations.
Degree Programs: BFA in Game Development and Interactive Design (4 years); BFA in Game Art (4 years); BFA in Themed Entertainment (4 years); MFA in Interactive Media & Games (2-3 years); MS in Computer Science - Game Development (2 years); MA in Cinematic Arts (Media Arts, Games and Health) (2 years)
Research Labs: Institute for Creative Technologies (ICT) - DoD-sponsored UARC developing virtual humans, AI, and immersive technologies for military training and healthcare; Creative Media & Behavioral Health Center (CMBHC) - Interdisciplinary research unit developing entertainment media interventions for health and rehabilitation
Industry Partners: Scopely, U.S. Army Research Laboratory, Unity Technologies, Rockstar Games, Treyarch
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#4. University of California-Irvine Game Development Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #4 in game development degree program. Location: Irvine, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 79.8
What makes University of California-Irvine stand out: Located in Silicon Beach with direct industry partnerships including Blizzard, Riot, EA, and Disney, UCI's program offers the rare combination of rigorous computer science foundations within an Informatics department that emphasizes human-centered design and the cultural impact of games.
Hakia Insight: University of California-Irvine's industry network — including Blizzard Entertainment and Riot Games — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: UC Irvine's Game Design and Interactive Media program represents one of the most comprehensive undergraduate experiences in game development education. This Bachelor of Science degree, housed within the Department of Informatics in the Donald Bren School of Information and Computer Sciences, combines rigorous technical programming foundations with creative design principles across a unique two-year foundation curriculum. Students dive deep into worldbuilding, game programming in engines like Unity, visual design fundamentals, and critical game studies before pursuing specialized tracks in their final years. The program culminates in a two-quarter capstone project supported by industry mentors, where students create portfolio-ready games that showcase their individual interests and career goals. What sets UCI apart is its location in Orange County's 'Silicon Beach' - placing students at the heart of Southern California's booming game industry. The program maintains active partnerships with industry giants including Blizzard Entertainment, Riot Games, Electronic Arts, Obsidian Entertainment, Disney, and Cartoon Network, providing students with internship opportunities and real-world project experience. The curriculum explores both traditional and emerging platforms, from mobile and AR/VR to tabletop games, preparing graduates for the rapidly evolving interactive entertainment landscape.
Degree Programs: B.S. Game Design and Interactive Media (4 years (3 years minimum for transfers))
Research Labs: Computer Games and Virtual Worlds Research Center - Promotes campuswide research spanning social and technological aspects of games and virtual worlds
Industry Partners: Blizzard Entertainment, Riot Games, Electronic Arts, Obsidian Entertainment, Disney, Cartoon Network, Tencent, Age of Learning
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: major publishers, smaller studios | Common Roles: game designer, game developer, freelancer, serious games developer
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum UC transferable GPA for transfers
#5. DigiPen Institute of Technology Game Development Program
Hakia ranks DigiPen Institute of Technology as the #5 in game development degree program. Location: Redmond, WA | Type: For-Profit | Tuition: $37,200/year | Score: 65.7
What makes DigiPen Institute of Technology stand out: DigiPen is the only institution on this list built exclusively around game development, offering specialized degree tracks, active industry faculty, and a culture entirely oriented toward shipped titles and professional outcomes.
Hakia Insight: DigiPen Institute of Technology leverages partnerships with Nintendo and Microsoft / Xbox to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: DigiPen Institute of Technology is purpose-built for game development and digital arts education, with every aspect of curriculum and campus culture centered on shipping games and building industry-ready portfolios. The institute offers multiple specialized degree pathways—BS in Game Design, BS in Computer Science in Game Programming, BS in Real-Time Interactive Simulation, and others—each with a distinct focus but all embedded in a cohesive game development ecosystem. Faculty are active or recently-active game industry veterans, and curriculum is continuously updated to reflect current engine standards, pipeline practices, and market demand. DigiPen's proximity to Seattle connects students directly to a global game industry hub, and the institute maintains formal relationships with major studios. Graduates emerge with shipped games, deep technical or design specialization, and strong industry networks; the program's intensity and focus attract students seeking a no-compromise path to professional game development roles.
Degree Programs: BS in Game Design (4 years); BS in Computer Science in Game Programming (4 years); BS in Real-Time Interactive Simulation (4 years); BS in Computer Science in Graphics Programming (4 years)
Research Labs: Project Spaces / Game Development Studios - Student game production and portfolio development
Industry Partners: Nintendo, Microsoft / Xbox, Electronic Arts, Bungie, Amazon Games
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Nintendo, Microsoft / Xbox, Electronic Arts, Bungie, Sumo Digital, Daybreak Games | Common Roles: Gameplay Programmer, Graphics Programmer, Game Designer, Engine Programmer, Technical Director
Admissions:
#6. University of Miami Game Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Miami as the #6 in game development degree program. Location: Coral Gables, FL | Type: Private | Tuition: $58,104/year | Graduation Rate: 94% | Score: 64.4
What makes University of Miami stand out: The Interactive Media MFA stands out for its multidisciplinary approach that brings together students from diverse backgrounds to explore the societal impact of interactive technologies while developing both technical skills and ethical leadership capabilities.
Hakia Insight: University of Miami's direct partnerships with Bascom Palmer and RSMAS give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: Based on the available sources, the University of Miami does not appear to offer a dedicated Game Development program. The closest related offering is the M.F.A. in Interactive Media through the School of Communication, which is a 45-credit terminal degree that prepares students to design meaningful experiences through emerging technologies. This program focuses on interactive entertainment, interactive product design, and game design as part of its broader curriculum in interaction design. The program combines design, technology, and human behavior study, preparing graduates for careers as interactive product designers, game designers, and similar roles in the interactive entertainment industry. Students complete core courses in Innovation Design, Creative Coding, Designing Playful Experiences, and Visual Design for Interactive Media, followed by collaborative labs and capstone projects that culminate in an advanced interactive project portfolio.
Degree Programs: B.S.C. in Interactive Media; B.S.C. in Immersive Media; Minor in Game Design
Research Labs: Virtual Experience Simulation Lab (VESL) - XR development and interdisciplinary prototyping; Novel Experience & Responsible Design Lab (NERDLab) - games for social impact; User Experience Lab - human-centered research and usability testing; Emerging Media Lab - prototyping, fabrication, AR/VR, physical computing; Future Realities Research Lab - XR, multisensory experiences, and trustworthy AI; XR Studio - virtual reality, volumetric captures and augmented reality
Industry Partners: Bascom Palmer, RSMAS, Miller School of Medicine, UHealth
Notable Faculty: Kim Grinfeder (Professor and Department Chair)
Admissions:
#7. University of Wisconsin-Stout Game Development Program
Hakia ranks University of Wisconsin-Stout as the #7 in game development degree program. Location: Menomonie, WI | Type: Public | Tuition: $7,330/year | Score: 63.4
What makes University of Wisconsin-Stout stand out: Applied software engineering rigor in game development—emphasis on architecture, team workflows, and production-ready code practices.
Program Overview: UW-Stout's game development program emerges from its nationally recognized Applied STEM education focus, meaning coursework explicitly bridges academic concepts to production-ready game systems. The program excels at teaching students not just how to code, but how to architect code for teams—design patterns, version control workflows, and documentation standards receive as much emphasis as language syntax. Students work through scaffolded projects where each assignment builds maintainable systems they'll extend in later courses, mirroring actual studio development. This "engineering discipline applied to games" approach appeals to students who want strong software engineering fundamentals alongside game-specific knowledge. The curriculum includes formal software project management, preparing students to lead or coordinate with producers in studio settings. Faculty backgrounds in software engineering, not just game development, means students learn enterprise-grade practices from day one.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Game Development
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#8. Utah Valley University Game Development Program
Hakia ranks Utah Valley University as the #8 in game development degree program. Location: Orem, UT | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,614/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 63.2
What makes Utah Valley University stand out: UVU's game concentration embeds real-world industry collaboration with local studios (Crystal Dynamics, Avalanche) and Wasatch corridor employers into its curriculum, bridging CS fundamentals with hands-on shipping experience.
Hakia Insight: Utah Valley University leverages partnerships with Crystal Dynamics and Avalanche Software to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: UVU's game development concentration within its computer science curriculum strikes a balance between breadth and specialization, ensuring graduates can pivot between gameplay programming, tools development, and engine work without narrow skill silos. The program leverages Utah's thriving indie and mid-market game studio ecosystem—students collaborate directly with local studios like Crystal Dynamics and Avalanche Software through capstone projects and internship pipelines. The concentration structure lets you take core CS fundamentals (algorithms, architecture, graphics math) alongside hands-on game-specific courses in engine development, game AI, and multiplayer systems—you're not studying games in isolation from real computer science. Faculty bring industry experience; instructors often maintain consulting relationships or sabbaticals at studios, keeping curriculum tied to current shipping practices rather than academic theory alone. UVU's proximity to the Wasatch tech corridor and established relationships with major publishers mean recruiting visits are frequent and internship-to-offer conversion rates are measurable. The capstone requirement typically involves shipping a game or substantial mod, played by real audiences—not just graded by professors.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Game Development
Industry Partners: Crystal Dynamics, Avalanche Software
Career Outcomes:
Admissions:
#9. Academy of Art University Game Development Program
Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #9 in game development degree program. Location: San Francisco, CA | Type: For-Profit | Tuition: $27,024/year | Score: 62.6
#10. DePaul University Game Development Program
Hakia ranks DePaul University as the #10 in game development degree program. Location: Chicago, IL | Type: Private | Tuition: $43,379/year | Graduation Rate: 86% | Score: 61.2
What makes DePaul University stand out: DePaul houses the professional DePaul Originals Game Studio on campus where students work on commercially shipped games, with alumni founding successful studios like Young Horses (creators of Octodad and Bugsnax) and landing positions at major studios including Blizzard, Bethesda, and NeatherRealm Studios.
Hakia Insight: DePaul University graduates earn $72,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on game development curriculum.
Program Overview: DePaul University's Game Development program spans the Jarvis College of Computing and Digital Media with multiple pathways including a BS in Game Design and MS in Game Programming. The program stands out for its integration of technical programming skills with creative design thinking, housed in cutting-edge facilities like the 8,000 square-foot Jarvis Student Center for Innovation and Collaboration. Students work in specialized labs including the Virtual and Augmented Design Lab, game development and research labs, and playtest and usability facilities. The program emphasizes real-world experience through DePaul Originals Game Studio, where students create commercial games shipped to platforms like Steam, Xbox, PS4, and Switch. Faculty include industry veterans like Allen Turner, former lead designer at Wideload Games/Disney Interactive Studio, and researchers pushing boundaries in VR/AR and social justice gaming.
Degree Programs: BS in Game Design (4 years); MS in Game Programming (2 years)
Research Labs: Virtual and Augmented Design Lab (VAD) - Experimental games on emerging platforms including AR development with Apple ARKit and VR projects exploring deformable virtual surfaces; Hybrid Experience Lab - Research into play and games in different realities since 2006, combining immersive technologies with physical world applications; Matters at Play (M@P) - Transdisciplinary design lab creating interactive advocacy solutions for social justice, health, and environmental issues; DePaul Originals Game Studio - Commercial game production and publishing to Steam, Xbox, PS4, and Switch platforms
Industry Partners: Young Horses, Iron Galaxy, Jackbox Games
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Microsoft, Unity Technologies, NetherRealm Studios, Iron Galaxy | Common Roles: Game Programmer, Software Engineer, Technical Designer, Gameplay Programmer
Admissions:
Accreditations: Unity Certified Professional, Unreal Engine Certification
Best Game Development Programs - Compare Top 5
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | 87.1/100 |
| #2 Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $55,784 | 90% | 85.4/100 |
| #3 University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | 82.2/100 |
| #4 University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 79.8/100 |
| #5 DigiPen Institute of Technology | Redmond, WA | For-Profit | $37,200 | N/A | 65.7/100 |
Top 20 Game Development Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Santa Cruz | Santa Cruz, CA | Public | $11,834 | 93% | — | 87.1 |
| 2 | Rochester Institute of Technology | Rochester, NY | Private | $55,784 | 90% | — | 85.4 |
| 3 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 82.2 |
| 4 | University of California-Irvine | Irvine, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 79.8 |
| 5 | DigiPen Institute of Technology | Redmond, WA | For-Profit | $37,200 | — | — | 65.7 |
| 6 | University of Miami | Coral Gables, FL | Private | $58,104 | 94% | — | 64.4 |
| 7 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | Public | $7,330 | — | — | 63.4 |
| 8 | Utah Valley University | Orem, UT | Public | $5,614 | 92% | — | 63.2 |
| 9 | Academy of Art University | San Francisco, CA | For-Profit | $27,024 | — | — | 62.6 |
| 10 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL | Private | $43,379 | 86% | — | 61.2 |
| 11 | Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Worcester, MA | Private | $57,960 | 83% | — | 60.6 |
| 12 | Marist College | Poughkeepsie, NY | Private | $45,330 | 100% | — | 60.1 |
| 13 | Columbia College Chicago | Chicago, IL | Private | $30,734 | 91% | — | 59.6 |
| 14 | Neumont College of Computer Science | Salt Lake City, UT | For-Profit | $25,500 | 97% | — | 58.8 |
| 15 | University of Silicon Valley | San Jose, CA | For-Profit | $21,480 | — | — | 58.7 |
| 16 | Boise State University | Boise, ID | Public | $5,941 | 89% | — | 58.5 |
| 17 | Laguna College of Art and Design | Laguna Beach, CA | Private | $35,650 | 69% | — | 57.1 |
| 18 | California State University-Chico | Chico, CA | Public | $5,742 | — | — | 56.4 |
| 19 | Michigan State University | East Lansing, MI | Public | $16,930 | 87% | — | 56.2 |
| 20 | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | Troy, NY | Private | $60,360 | — | — | 55.3 |
| 21 | Indiana University-Bloomington | Bloomington, IN | Public | $10,312 | 84% | — | 55.2 |
| 22 | Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design | Lakewood, CO | For-Profit | $20,913 | 56% | — | 54.7 |
| 23 | Inter American University of Puerto Rico-Bayamon | Bayamon, PR | Private | $4,848 | — | — | 53.8 |
| 24 | Pennsylvania College of Art and Design | Lancaster, PA | Private | $29,250 | 73% | — | 51.5 |
| 25 | High Point University | High Point, NC | Private | $38,748 | 76% | — | 50.5 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Game Development Programs Overview
The gaming industry has evolved into a $184 billion global market, creating unprecedented demand for skilled game developers, designers, and programmers. Our comprehensive analysis of 87 accredited game development programs reveals significant growth in program quality and industry alignment since 2020.
Top-tier programs like USC's Games program and DigiPen Institute of Technology have established direct partnerships with major studios including Blizzard, Nintendo, and Epic Games. These relationships provide students with internship opportunities, portfolio feedback, and direct pathways to employment.
The field spans multiple specializations including game programming, game design, 3D modeling, animation, and game production. Related career paths in software engineering and AI/ML development offer additional opportunities for game development graduates.
Career Paths
Game Programmer
SOC 15-1252Develop game mechanics, systems, and features using programming languages like C++, C#, and scripting languages. Work on gameplay, graphics, AI, or engine development.
Game Designer
SOC 27-1014Create game concepts, mechanics, levels, and player experiences. Balance gameplay elements and collaborate with artists and programmers to realize game vision.
Technical Artist
SOC 15-1252Bridge art and programming teams by creating tools, shaders, and technical solutions for game assets. Optimize art pipelines and solve rendering challenges.
Game Producer
SOC 11-9041Manage game development projects, coordinate teams, and ensure projects meet deadlines and budgets. Interface between creative and business teams.
UI/UX Designer (Games)
SOC 15-1255Design user interfaces and user experiences specific to games. Create intuitive menus, HUDs, and interaction systems that enhance gameplay.
Quality Assurance Tester
SOC 15-1253Test games for bugs, balance issues, and user experience problems. Document issues and work with development teams to ensure quality standards.
Game Engine Developer
SOC 15-1252Create and maintain game engines and development tools. Focus on performance optimization, rendering systems, and developer productivity tools.
Mobile Game Developer
SOC 15-1252Specialize in developing games for mobile platforms including iOS and Android. Focus on touch interfaces, performance optimization, and monetization strategies.
Top States for Game Development Education
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Game Development Programs in California | 23 | $35,400 | University of Southern California |
| Best Game Development Programs in Texas | 12 | $28,900 | University of Texas at Dallas |
| Best Game Development Programs in New York | 11 | $42,300 | New York University |
| Best Game Development Programs in Florida | 8 | $24,500 | Full Sail University |
| Best Game Development Programs in Washington | 6 | $31,200 | DigiPen Institute of Technology |
| Best Game Development Programs in Pennsylvania | 7 | $38,900 | Carnegie Mellon University |
| Best Game Development Programs in Illinois | 5 | $33,600 | Northwestern University |
| Best Game Development Programs in Georgia | 4 | $22,800 | Georgia Institute of Technology |
| Best Game Development Programs in Massachusetts | 4 | $45,200 | Northeastern University |
| Best Game Development Programs in Utah | 3 | $18,700 | University of Utah |
Financial Aid for Game Development Students
Game development students have access to various financial aid options including federal grants, state aid, and industry-specific scholarships. The Entertainment Software Association offers scholarships specifically for game development students, while many individual studios provide internship stipends and mentorship programs.
Students should explore FAFSA opportunities for STEM majors and employer tuition reimbursement programs from technology companies. Many game development programs qualify for STEM designation, making graduates eligible for extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) periods.
In-Depth Program Spotlights
The following detailed profiles examine the top 5 game development programs, analyzing their unique strengths, curriculum approaches, and career outcomes. Each program offers distinct advantages depending on your career goals and learning preferences.
Game Development Programs by State
Game development programs are concentrated in states with strong technology sectors and entertainment industries. California leads with 23 programs, followed by Texas and New York. Each state offers unique advantages in terms of industry connections, cost of living, and career opportunities.
Choose Your Program Type
- Want maximum industry connections and networking opportunities
- Can afford premium tuition for top-tier education
- Prefer comprehensive curriculum covering all aspects of game development
- Value location in entertainment industry hub (Los Angeles)
- Want the most technically rigorous programming curriculum
- Interested in engine development and low-level programming
- Prefer smaller, specialized learning environment
- Value direct industry partnerships (Nintendo, Microsoft)
- Need affordable tuition with strong academic reputation
- Want flexibility to pursue traditional CS careers alongside games
- Prefer broader computer science foundation with game specialization
- Value ABET accreditation and engineering school prestige
- Want intensive project-based learning with real industry clients
- Value small class sizes and personalized faculty mentorship
- Prefer interdisciplinary collaboration opportunities
- Can justify higher tuition for specialized program benefits
Software Engineering Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- Curriculum designed by Colt Steele, industry veteran
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
Affiliate link · We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Data Sources and Methodology
Federal database providing graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data for accredited institutions
Official employment and salary data for software developers and related occupations
Gaming industry employment trends, growth projections, and market analysis
Aggregated feedback from 1,200+ current students and recent graduates across platforms including Reddit, LinkedIn, and institutional surveys
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.