Key Takeaways

Top 3 ranked: UC Berkeley, U of California-Irvine, U of Southern California

Based on graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $1,104 to $66,640/year

Diablo Valley College offers the most affordable option at $1,288/yr

IPEDS 2023

Degree levels: 87 associate's, 40 master's, 13 doctoral programs available in California

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

29 California programs offer online or hybrid formats

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2023

California community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

87 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: Google, Apple, Meta, Netflix

Tech hubs in San Francisco and San Jose

Hakia Research 2026

Game Development programs available near 234+ cities across California

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page

$145,770

Is Game Development in California Worth It?

Yes. Game Development degrees in California deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $145,770 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $13,061/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Game Development Degree Programs in California

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs in California

87 programs•$145,770 median salary•79% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$1,531/yr

Avg Tuition

79%

Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

California offers 87 accredited associate's degree programs in game development, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Diablo Valley College, De Anza College, Orange Coast College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in California offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $1,531/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $80,174 in California.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with California's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Google, Apple, Meta hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among game development schools in California, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their game development degrees in California.

🥇

Diablo Valley College

Public

Pleasant Hill, CA

$1,288

Tuition/yr

57.8

Score

Website

Visit Diablo Valley College

🥈

De Anza College

Public

Cupertino, CA

$1,395

Tuition/yr

56.6

Score

Website

🥉

Orange Coast College

Public

Costa Mesa, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

56.3

Score

Website

Grossmont College

Public

El Cajon, CA

$1,288

Tuition/yr

54.4

Score

Website

Santa Monica College

Public

Santa Monica, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

95%

Grad Rate

66.0

Score

Website

Moorpark College

Public

Moorpark, CA

$1,340

Tuition/yr

52.5

Score

Website

Clovis Community College

Public

Fresno, CA

$1,288

Tuition/yr

44.6

Score

Website

Citrus College

Public

Glendora, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

52.4

Score

Website

Irvine Valley College

Public

Irvine, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

52.4

Score

Website

#10

San Diego Miramar College

Public

San Diego, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

52.3

Score

Website

All Game Development Associate's Degree Programs in California (87 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	College of the Canyons Public	Santa Clarita, CA	$1,104	—	52.2
#12	Sierra College Public	Rocklin, CA	$1,104	—	52.2
#13	Riverside City College Public	Riverside, CA	$1,380	—	49.5
#14	Saddleback College Public	Mission Viejo, CA	$1,380	—	49.2
#15	Foothill College Public	Los Altos Hills, CA	$1,395	—	49.2
#16	Hartnell College Public	Salinas, CA	$1,380	—	49.0
#17	Norco College Public	Norco, CA	$1,380	—	49.0
#18	Mt San Jacinto Community College District Public	San Jacinto, CA	$1,380	—	41.4
#19	Santa Rosa Junior College Public	Santa Rosa, CA	$1,242	—	48.6
#20	Southwestern College Public	Chula Vista, CA	$1,288	—	48.6
#21	Bakersfield College Public	Bakersfield, CA	$1,380	—	48.6
#22	Yuba College Public	Marysville, CA	$1,104	—	48.5
#23	San Diego Mesa College Public	San Diego, CA	$1,104	—	48.4
#24	College of San Mateo Public	San Mateo, CA	$1,288	—	48.3
#25	Fullerton College Public	Fullerton, CA	$1,104	—	48.1
#26	MiraCosta College Public	Oceanside, CA	$1,104	94%	59.0
#27	Mt San Antonio College Public	Walnut, CA	$1,288	—	48.0
#28	Santa Barbara City College Public	Santa Barbara, CA	$1,104	—	47.9
#29	Cerritos College Public	Norwalk, CA	$1,288	—	47.8
#30	Antelope Valley Community College District Public	Lancaster, CA	$1,104	82%	47.1
#31	College of the Desert Public	Palm Desert, CA	$1,288	—	47.4
#32	Merced College Public	Merced, CA	$1,104	—	47.3
#33	Ohlone College Public	Fremont, CA	$1,104	—	47.3
#34	Evergreen Valley College Public	San Jose, CA	$1,288	—	47.3
#35	Allan Hancock College Public	Santa Maria, CA	$1,104	—	47.2
#36	Cabrillo College Public	Aptos, CA	$1,104	—	47.2
#37	Solano Community College Public	Fairfield, CA	$1,104	74%	45.1
#38	Gavilan College Public	Gilroy, CA	$1,444	—	47.2
#39	Chaffey College Public	Rancho Cucamonga, CA	$1,104	—	47.1
#40	Las Positas College Public	Livermore, CA	$1,104	—	47.1
#41	Reedley College Public	Reedley, CA	$1,288	—	47.1
#42	Modesto Junior College Public	Modesto, CA	$1,188	77%	53.9
#43	Palomar College Public	San Marcos, CA	$1,288	—	47.1
#44	Skyline College Public	San Bruno, CA	$1,288	—	47.1
#45	Cypress College Public	Cypress, CA	$1,104	68%	51.3
#46	Santiago Canyon College Public	Orange, CA	$1,104	—	46.8
#47	Crafton Hills College Public	Yucaipa, CA	$1,104	—	46.7
#48	Laney College Public	Oakland, CA	$1,104	—	46.7
#49	Santa Ana College Public	Santa Ana, CA	$1,104	—	46.7
#50	Butte College Public	Oroville, CA	$1,104	—	46.6
#51	Long Beach City College Public	Long Beach, CA	$1,472	—	46.5
#52	Cuyamaca College Public	El Cajon, CA	$1,288	—	46.2
#53	College of the Sequoias Public	Visalia, CA	$1,288	—	46.1
#54	San Bernardino Valley College Public	San Bernardino, CA	$1,104	—	45.9
#55	Imperial Valley College Public	Imperial, CA	$1,104	—	45.8
#56	Los Angeles Valley College Public	Valley Glen, CA	$1,196	—	45.8
#57	Los Medanos College Public	Pittsburg, CA	$1,288	—	45.8
#58	Moreno Valley College Public	Moreno Valley, CA	$1,380	—	45.8
#59	Los Angeles City College Public	Los Angeles, CA	$1,196	—	45.6
#60	San Joaquin Delta College Public	Stockton, CA	$1,288	—	45.6
#61	San Jose City College Public	San Jose, CA	$1,288	—	45.6
#62	Canada College Public	Redwood City, CA	$1,288	—	45.5
#63	Rio Hondo College Public	Whittier, CA	$1,306	65%	49.3
#64	Pasadena City College Public	Pasadena, CA	$1,104	—	45.3
#65	Copper Mountain Community College Public	Joshua Tree, CA	$1,104	—	38.5
#66	Monterey Peninsula College Public	Monterey, CA	$1,104	—	45.1
#67	West Los Angeles College Public	Culver City, CA	$1,196	—	45.1
#68	American River College Public	Sacramento, CA	$0	—	52.6
#69	Glendale Community College Public	Glendale, CA	$1,104	—	38.2
#70	Los Angeles Harbor College Public	Wilmington, CA	$1,196	—	44.9
#71	Columbia College Public	Sonora, CA	$1,465	—	44.9
#72	Los Angeles Mission College Public	Sylmar, CA	$1,196	—	44.7
#73	City College of San Francisco Public	San Francisco, CA	$0	—	52.1
#74	Berkeley City College Public	Berkeley, CA	$1,104	—	44.5
#75	Contra Costa College Public	San Pablo, CA	$1,288	—	44.5
#76	Madera Community College Public	Madera, CA	$1,288	—	37.8
#77	Los Angeles Southwest College Public	Los Angeles, CA	$1,196	—	44.2
#78	Barstow Community College Public	Barstow, CA	$1,104	—	37.3
#79	Golden West College Public	Huntington Beach, CA	$1,104	—	43.9
#80	Los Angeles Pierce College Public	Woodland Hills, CA	$1,196	—	43.9
#81	Folsom Lake College Public	Folsom, CA	$0	—	48.7
#82	Napa Valley College Public	Napa, CA	$1,104	—	43.5
#83	Mendocino College Public	Ukiah, CA	$1,380	—	43.5
#84	College of the Siskiyous Public	Weed, CA	$1,380	—	43.5
#85	Cosumnes River College Public	Sacramento, CA	$0	—	48.3
#86	Sacramento City College Public	Sacramento, CA	$0	—	46.9
#87	Academy of Art University For-Profit	San Francisco, CA	$27,024	—	57.9

Online Associate's Game Development Degree Programs in California

50 programs•$145,770 median salary•79% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$1,531/yr

Avg Tuition

79%

Avg Grad Rate

Online Program Options

California's community colleges offer 50 online associate's game development programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include Diablo Valley College, Grossmont College, Santa Monica College, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers.

Costs & Employer Recognition

Online associate's programs average $1,767/yr—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.

Program Format

These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete 60 credit hours in 2 years while working full-time.

Technology & Flexibility

Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online game development degrees in California, these accredited game development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

🥇

Diablo Valley College

Public

Pleasant Hill, CA

$1,288

Tuition/yr

57.8

Score

Website

Visit Diablo Valley College

🥈

Grossmont College

Public

El Cajon, CA

$1,288

Tuition/yr

54.4

Score

Website

🥉

Santa Monica College

Public

Santa Monica, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

95%

Grad Rate

66.0

Score

Website

Irvine Valley College

Public

Irvine, CA

$1,104

Tuition/yr

52.4

Score

Website

De Anza College

Public

Cupertino, CA

$1,395

Tuition/yr

56.6

Score

Website

Foothill College

Public

Los Altos Hills, CA

$1,395

Tuition/yr

49.2

Score

Website

Santa Rosa Junior College

Public

Santa Rosa, CA

$1,242

Tuition/yr

48.6

Score

Website

Saddleback College

Public

Mission Viejo, CA

$1,380

Tuition/yr

49.2

Score

Website

Hartnell College

Public

Salinas, CA

$1,380

Tuition/yr

49.0

Score

Website

#10

Southwestern College

Public

Chula Vista, CA

$1,288

Tuition/yr

48.6

Score

Website

All Game Development Associate's Degree Programs in California (50 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	College of San Mateo Public	San Mateo, CA	$1,288	—	48.3
#12	Mt San Antonio College Public	Walnut, CA	$1,288	—	48.0
#13	Santa Barbara City College Public	Santa Barbara, CA	$1,104	—	47.9
#14	Cerritos College Public	Norwalk, CA	$1,288	—	47.8
#15	College of the Desert Public	Palm Desert, CA	$1,288	—	47.4
#16	Merced College Public	Merced, CA	$1,104	—	47.3
#17	Ohlone College Public	Fremont, CA	$1,104	—	47.3
#18	Allan Hancock College Public	Santa Maria, CA	$1,104	—	47.2
#19	Cabrillo College Public	Aptos, CA	$1,104	—	47.2
#20	Chaffey College Public	Rancho Cucamonga, CA	$1,104	—	47.1
#21	Las Positas College Public	Livermore, CA	$1,104	—	47.1
#22	Modesto Junior College Public	Modesto, CA	$1,188	77%	53.9
#23	Palomar College Public	San Marcos, CA	$1,288	—	47.1
#24	Skyline College Public	San Bruno, CA	$1,288	—	47.1
#25	Crafton Hills College Public	Yucaipa, CA	$1,104	—	46.7
#26	Santa Ana College Public	Santa Ana, CA	$1,104	—	46.7
#27	Butte College Public	Oroville, CA	$1,104	—	46.6
#28	San Bernardino Valley College Public	San Bernardino, CA	$1,104	—	45.9
#29	Imperial Valley College Public	Imperial, CA	$1,104	—	45.8
#30	Los Angeles Valley College Public	Valley Glen, CA	$1,196	—	45.8
#31	Los Medanos College Public	Pittsburg, CA	$1,288	—	45.8
#32	Los Angeles City College Public	Los Angeles, CA	$1,196	—	45.6
#33	San Joaquin Delta College Public	Stockton, CA	$1,288	—	45.6
#34	San Jose City College Public	San Jose, CA	$1,288	—	45.6
#35	Canada College Public	Redwood City, CA	$1,288	—	45.5
#36	Pasadena City College Public	Pasadena, CA	$1,104	—	45.3
#37	West Los Angeles College Public	Culver City, CA	$1,196	—	45.1
#38	American River College Public	Sacramento, CA	$0	—	52.6
#39	Glendale Community College Public	Glendale, CA	$1,104	—	38.2
#40	Los Angeles Harbor College Public	Wilmington, CA	$1,196	—	44.9
#41	Los Angeles Mission College Public	Sylmar, CA	$1,196	—	44.7
#42	Los Angeles Southwest College Public	Los Angeles, CA	$1,196	—	44.2
#43	Barstow Community College Public	Barstow, CA	$1,104	—	37.3
#44	Golden West College Public	Huntington Beach, CA	$1,104	—	43.9
#45	Folsom Lake College Public	Folsom, CA	$0	—	48.7
#46	Napa Valley College Public	Napa, CA	$1,104	—	43.5
#47	College of the Siskiyous Public	Weed, CA	$1,380	—	43.5
#48	Cosumnes River College Public	Sacramento, CA	$0	—	48.3
#49	Sacramento City College Public	Sacramento, CA	$0	—	46.9
#50	Academy of Art University For-Profit	San Francisco, CA	$27,024	—	57.9

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs in California

62 programs•$145,770 median salary•88% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$27,795/yr

Avg Tuition

88%

Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

California ranks among the nation's top destinations for game development education, with 62 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 30 public and 28 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are UC Berkeley, U of California-Irvine, U of Southern California, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from California game development programs earn a median salary of $123,905—26% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Google, Apple, Meta.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $5,742 to $66,640 annually, with an average of $27,795/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 88%, with the highest reaching 100%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to California's leading technology employers. For students seeking game development degrees in California, these top-ranked game development schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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🥇

University of California-Berkeley

Public

Berkeley, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

97.6

Score

Website

Visit University of California-Berkeley

🥈

University of California-Irvine

Public

Irvine, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

88.5

Score

Website

🥉

University of Southern California

Private

Los Angeles, CA

$66,640

Tuition/yr

92%

Grad Rate

87.4

Score

Website

University of California-Santa Cruz

Public

Santa Cruz, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

93%

Grad Rate

82.4

Score

Website

University of California-Los Angeles

Public

Los Angeles, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

92%

Grad Rate

85.6

Score

Website

University of California-San Diego

Public

La Jolla, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

81%

Grad Rate

84.7

Score

Website

University of California-Davis

Public

Davis, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

80.7

Score

Website

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Public

San Luis Obispo, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

100%

Grad Rate

76.7

Score

Website

University of California-Santa Barbara

Public

Santa Barbara, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

90%

Grad Rate

74.6

Score

Website

#10

Stanford University

Private

Stanford, CA

$61,731

Tuition/yr

74.2

Score

Website

All Game Development Bachelor's Degree Programs in California (62 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	California Institute of Technology Private	Pasadena, CA	$60,816	88%	73.1
#12	San Diego State University Public	San Diego, CA	$5,742	83%	71.7
#13	California State University-Long Beach Public	Long Beach, CA	$5,742	73%	71.7
#14	University of California-Riverside Public	Riverside, CA	$11,834	83%	71.2
#15	San Jose State University Public	San Jose, CA	$5,742	100%	69.5
#16	California State Polytechnic University-Pomona Public	Pomona, CA	$5,742	87%	66.3
#17	California State University-Northridge Public	Northridge, CA	$5,742	95%	66.0
#18	California State University-Sacramento Public	Sacramento, CA	$5,742	92%	63.5
#19	California State University-Monterey Bay Public	Seaside, CA	$5,742	99%	63.1
#20	California State University-Los Angeles Public	Los Angeles, CA	$5,742	99%	63.7
#21	Chapman University Private	Orange, CA	$62,400	93%	62.7
#22	California State University-Fullerton Public	Fullerton, CA	$5,742	65%	60.9
#23	University of San Diego Private	San Diego, CA	$55,690	97%	61.5
#24	Pitzer College Private	Claremont, CA	$62,392	96%	61.9
#25	California State University-San Marcos Public	San Marcos, CA	$5,742	96%	60.0
#26	Harvey Mudd College Private	Claremont, CA	$65,954	—	60.1
#27	Pomona College Private	Claremont, CA	$61,906	—	58.1
#28	Otis College of Art and Design Private	Los Angeles, CA	$49,100	86%	57.5
#29	California State University-Fresno Public	Fresno, CA	$5,742	97%	56.6
#30	San Francisco State University Public	San Francisco, CA	$5,742	—	53.3
#31	Academy of Art University For-Profit	San Francisco, CA	$27,024	—	54.7
#32	University of San Francisco Private	San Francisco, CA	$57,670	—	54.1
#33	Claremont McKenna College Private	Claremont, CA	$63,800	—	52.5
#34	Point Loma Nazarene University Private	San Diego, CA	$42,600	94%	51.0
#35	Dominican University of California Private	San Rafael, CA	$49,821	96%	50.5
#36	Gnomon For-Profit	Hollywood, CA	$33,390	45%	50.1
#37	Occidental College Private	Los Angeles, CA	$62,850	—	50.0
#38	California State University-East Bay Public	Hayward, CA	$5,742	—	50.2
#39	William Jessup University Private	Rocklin, CA	$36,000	90%	49.9
#40	University of Silicon Valley For-Profit	San Jose, CA	$21,480	—	48.8
#41	National University Private	San Diego, CA	$13,320	—	48.9
#42	California State University-Chico Public	Chico, CA	$5,742	—	47.3
#43	Laguna College of Art and Design Private	Laguna Beach, CA	$35,650	69%	47.8
#44	Scripps College Private	Claremont, CA	$63,216	—	47.1
#45	New York Film Academy For-Profit	Burbank, CA	$34,898	58%	46.7
#46	California State University-San Bernardino Public	San Bernardino, CA	$5,742	—	45.3
#47	California State University-Dominguez Hills Public	Carson, CA	$5,742	—	46.6
#48	California State University-Bakersfield Public	Bakersfield, CA	$5,742	—	45.1
#49	Biola University Private	La Mirada, CA	$46,704	—	44.7
#50	University of the Pacific Private	Stockton, CA	$54,506	—	44.6
#51	California State University-Channel Islands Public	Camarillo, CA	$5,742	—	44.1
#52	Concordia University-Irvine Private	Irvine, CA	$40,510	—	43.5
#53	California State University-Stanislaus Public	Turlock, CA	$5,742	—	42.6
#54	Sonoma State University Public	Rohnert Park, CA	$5,742	—	42.6
#55	Woodbury University Private	Burbank, CA	$43,392	—	42.2
#56	California Baptist University Private	Riverside, CA	$37,570	—	41.4
#57	Azusa Pacific University Private	Azusa, CA	$42,900	—	40.3
#58	California Lutheran University Private	Thousand Oaks, CA	$49,880	—	39.8
#59	San Francisco Bay University Private	Fremont, CA	$7,920	—	40.3
#60	California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt Public	Arcata, CA	$5,742	—	39.1
#61	La Sierra University Private	Riverside, CA	$34,920	—	36.3
#62	Saint Mary's College of California Private	Moraga, CA	$55,634	—	36.4

Online Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs in California

29 programs•$145,770 median salary•88% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$27,795/yr

Avg Tuition

88%

Avg Grad Rate

Online Program Options

29 California institutions offer bachelor's game development degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include U of California-San Diego, California State Universi..., San Francisco State, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers.

Costs & Employer Recognition

Online bachelor's programs average $24,623/yr—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.

Program Format

These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete 120 credit hours in 4 years while working full-time.

Technology & Flexibility

🥇

University of California-San Diego

Public

La Jolla, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

81%

Grad Rate

84.7

Score

Website

Visit University of California-San Diego

🥈

California State University-Fullerton

Public

Fullerton, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

65%

Grad Rate

60.9

Score

Website

🥉

San Francisco State University

Public

San Francisco, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

53.3

Score

Website

University of Silicon Valley

For-Profit

San Jose, CA

$21,480

Tuition/yr

48.8

Score

Website

Academy of Art University

For-Profit

San Francisco, CA

$27,024

Tuition/yr

54.7

Score

Website

California State University-East Bay

Public

Hayward, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

50.2

Score

Website

California State University-Chico

Public

Chico, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

47.3

Score

Website

Dominican University of California

Private

San Rafael, CA

$49,821

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

50.5

Score

Website

Point Loma Nazarene University

Private

San Diego, CA

$42,600

Tuition/yr

94%

Grad Rate

51.0

Score

Website

#10

National University

Private

San Diego, CA

$13,320

Tuition/yr

48.9

Score

Website

All Game Development Bachelor's Degree Programs in California (29 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	California State University-San Bernardino Public	San Bernardino, CA	$5,742	—	45.3
#12	William Jessup University Private	Rocklin, CA	$36,000	90%	49.9
#13	California State University-Dominguez Hills Public	Carson, CA	$5,742	—	46.6
#14	California State University-Bakersfield Public	Bakersfield, CA	$5,742	—	45.1
#15	University of the Pacific Private	Stockton, CA	$54,506	—	44.6
#16	New York Film Academy For-Profit	Burbank, CA	$34,898	58%	46.7
#17	California State University-Channel Islands Public	Camarillo, CA	$5,742	—	44.1
#18	Biola University Private	La Mirada, CA	$46,704	—	44.7
#19	California State University-Stanislaus Public	Turlock, CA	$5,742	—	42.6
#20	Sonoma State University Public	Rohnert Park, CA	$5,742	—	42.6
#21	Concordia University-Irvine Private	Irvine, CA	$40,510	—	43.5
#22	Woodbury University Private	Burbank, CA	$43,392	—	42.2
#23	California Baptist University Private	Riverside, CA	$37,570	—	41.4
#24	California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt Public	Arcata, CA	$5,742	—	39.1
#25	California Lutheran University Private	Thousand Oaks, CA	$49,880	—	39.8
#26	Azusa Pacific University Private	Azusa, CA	$42,900	—	40.3
#27	San Francisco Bay University Private	Fremont, CA	$7,920	—	40.3
#28	La Sierra University Private	Riverside, CA	$34,920	—	36.3
#29	Saint Mary's College of California Private	Moraga, CA	$55,634	—	36.4

Master's Game Development Degree Programs in California

40 programs•$145,770 median salary•88% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$18,810/yr

Avg Tuition

88%

Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

California offers 40 master's degree programs in game development, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—U of Southern California, U of California-San Diego, U of California-Irvine—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in California earn a median salary of $145,770, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Google, Apple, Meta actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $18,810/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among California's game development schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

🥇

University of Southern California

Private

Los Angeles, CA

$66,640

Tuition/yr

92%

Grad Rate

100.0

Score

Website

Visit University of Southern California

🥈

University of California-San Diego

Public

La Jolla, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

81%

Grad Rate

87.1

Score

Website

🥉

University of California-Irvine

Public

Irvine, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

83.6

Score

Website

University of California-Los Angeles

Public

Los Angeles, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

92%

Grad Rate

83.2

Score

Website

Stanford University

Private

Stanford, CA

$61,731

Tuition/yr

79.5

Score

Website

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

Public

San Luis Obispo, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

100%

Grad Rate

75.9

Score

Website

University of California-Davis

Public

Davis, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

75.6

Score

Website

University of California-Santa Barbara

Public

Santa Barbara, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

90%

Grad Rate

75.1

Score

Website

California State University-Long Beach

Public

Long Beach, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

73%

Grad Rate

66.3

Score

Website

#10

San Diego State University

Public

San Diego, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

83%

Grad Rate

73.0

Score

Website

All Game Development Master's Degree Programs in California (40 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	University of California-Riverside Public	Riverside, CA	$11,834	83%	72.5
#12	University of California-Santa Cruz Public	Santa Cruz, CA	$11,834	93%	71.7
#13	San Jose State University Public	San Jose, CA	$5,742	100%	61.2
#14	University of California-Berkeley Public	Berkeley, CA	$11,834	96%	69.9
#15	California Institute of Technology Private	Pasadena, CA	$60,816	88%	67.5
#16	California State University-Los Angeles Public	Los Angeles, CA	$5,742	99%	56.0
#17	California State University-Northridge Public	Northridge, CA	$5,742	95%	55.6
#18	California State Polytechnic University-Pomona Public	Pomona, CA	$5,742	87%	65.6
#19	Academy of Art University For-Profit	San Francisco, CA	$27,024	—	53.4
#20	California State University-Fullerton Public	Fullerton, CA	$5,742	65%	61.3
#21	Naval Postgraduate School Public	Monterey, CA	$0	—	48.6
#22	University of San Francisco Private	San Francisco, CA	$57,670	—	48.4
#23	William Jessup University Private	Rocklin, CA	$36,000	90%	50.6
#24	California State University-San Marcos Public	San Marcos, CA	$5,742	96%	58.5
#25	California State University-Sacramento Public	Sacramento, CA	$5,742	92%	58.1
#26	California State University-Fresno Public	Fresno, CA	$5,742	97%	48.9
#27	California Institute of the Arts Private	Valencia, CA	$56,074	—	50.9
#28	California State University-East Bay Public	Hayward, CA	$5,742	—	46.4
#29	New York Film Academy For-Profit	Burbank, CA	$34,898	58%	46.2
#30	National University Private	San Diego, CA	$13,320	—	46.4
#31	Laguna College of Art and Design Private	Laguna Beach, CA	$35,650	69%	43.9
#32	Northcentral University Private	San Diego, CA	$11,064	—	52.1
#33	San Francisco Bay University Private	Fremont, CA	$7,920	—	44.1
#34	Sofia University For-Profit	Palo Alto, CA	$18,000	—	44.5
#35	San Francisco State University Public	San Francisco, CA	$5,742	—	47.7
#36	California State University-Chico Public	Chico, CA	$5,742	—	47.7
#37	California State University-Dominguez Hills Public	Carson, CA	$5,742	—	38.4
#38	California State University-Channel Islands Public	Camarillo, CA	$5,742	—	37.3
#39	California State University-San Bernardino Public	San Bernardino, CA	$5,742	—	46.3
#40	University of the Pacific Private	Stockton, CA	$54,506	—	37.1

Online Master's Game Development Degree Programs in California

15 programs•$145,770 median salary•88% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$18,810/yr

Avg Tuition

88%

Avg Grad Rate

Online Program Options

Working professionals can advance their careers through 15 online master's game development programs from California universities, designed for flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Top-ranked online programs include U of California-San Diego, California State Universi..., Academy of Art, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers.

Costs & Employer Recognition

Online master's programs average $16,246/yr—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs.

Program Format

These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete 30-36 credit hours in 18-24 months while working full-time.

Technology & Flexibility

🥇

University of California-San Diego

Public

La Jolla, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

81%

Grad Rate

87.1

Score

Website

Visit University of California-San Diego

🥈

California State University-Fullerton

Public

Fullerton, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

65%

Grad Rate

61.3

Score

Website

🥉

Academy of Art University

For-Profit

San Francisco, CA

$27,024

Tuition/yr

53.4

Score

Website

California State University-East Bay

Public

Hayward, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

46.4

Score

Website

William Jessup University

Private

Rocklin, CA

$36,000

Tuition/yr

90%

Grad Rate

50.6

Score

Website

National University

Private

San Diego, CA

$13,320

Tuition/yr

46.4

Score

Website

San Francisco Bay University

Private

Fremont, CA

$7,920

Tuition/yr

44.1

Score

Website

New York Film Academy

For-Profit

Burbank, CA

$34,898

Tuition/yr

58%

Grad Rate

46.2

Score

Website

Sofia University

For-Profit

Palo Alto, CA

$18,000

Tuition/yr

44.5

Score

Website

#10

San Francisco State University

Public

San Francisco, CA

$5,742

Tuition/yr

47.7

Score

Website

All Game Development Master's Degree Programs in California (15 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	California State University-Chico Public	Chico, CA	$5,742	—	47.7
#12	California State University-Dominguez Hills Public	Carson, CA	$5,742	—	38.4
#13	California State University-San Bernardino Public	San Bernardino, CA	$5,742	—	46.3
#14	California State University-Channel Islands Public	Camarillo, CA	$5,742	—	37.3
#15	University of the Pacific Private	Stockton, CA	$54,506	—	37.1

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs in California

13 programs•$145,770 median salary•90% avg grad rate

Programs

$145,770

Median Salary

$24,577/yr

Avg Tuition

90%

Avg Grad Rate

Program Landscape

California is home to 13 doctoral programs in game development, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Southern California, UC Berkeley, U of California-San Diego are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.

Career Outcomes

Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with California PhD holders earning a median of $182,213—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Google, Apple, Meta.

Costs & Value

PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.

Curriculum & Specializations

Research strengths across California programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing game development degrees in California, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

🥇

University of Southern California

Private

Los Angeles, CA

$66,640

Tuition/yr

92%

Grad Rate

100.0

Score

Website

Visit University of Southern California

🥈

University of California-Berkeley

Public

Berkeley, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

100.0

Score

Website

🥉

University of California-San Diego

Public

La Jolla, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

81%

Grad Rate

61.5

Score

Website

University of California-Los Angeles

Public

Los Angeles, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

92%

Grad Rate

66.3

Score

Website

Stanford University

Private

Stanford, CA

$61,731

Tuition/yr

61.9

Score

Website

University of California-Irvine

Public

Irvine, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

96%

Grad Rate

63.6

Score

Website

University of California-Santa Barbara

Public

Santa Barbara, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

90%

Grad Rate

61.6

Score

Website

University of California-Davis

Public

Davis, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

91%

Grad Rate

57.7

Score

Website

University of California-Riverside

Public

Riverside, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

83%

Grad Rate

52.2

Score

Website

#10

University of California-Santa Cruz

Public

Santa Cruz, CA

$11,834

Tuition/yr

93%

Grad Rate

81.1

Score

Website

All Game Development Doctoral Degree Programs in California (13 total)

Rank	School	Location	Tuition	Grad Rate	Score
#11	California Institute of Technology Private	Pasadena, CA	$60,816	88%	64.0
#12	Northcentral University Private	San Diego, CA	$11,064	—	44.9
#13	Naval Postgraduate School Public	Monterey, CA	$0	—	52.3

Complete Game Development Degree Program Rankings in California

Best Associate's Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California offers **87 accredited** associate's degree programs in game development, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Diablo Valley College**, **De Anza College**, **Orange Coast College**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in California offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$1,531/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$80,174** in California. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with California's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like Google, Apple, Meta hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among game development schools in California, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their game development degrees in California.

#1. Diablo Valley College
Hakia ranks Diablo Valley College as the #1 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Pleasant Hill, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 57.8.
#2. De Anza College
Hakia ranks De Anza College as the #2 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Cupertino, CA has annual tuition of $1,395. Ranking score: 56.6.
#3. Orange Coast College
Hakia ranks Orange Coast College as the #3 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Costa Mesa, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 56.3.
#4. Grossmont College
Hakia ranks Grossmont College as the #4 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in El Cajon, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 54.4.
#5. Santa Monica College
Hakia ranks Santa Monica College as the #5 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Monica, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 95% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.0.
#6. Moorpark College
Hakia ranks Moorpark College as the #6 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Moorpark, CA has annual tuition of $1,340. Ranking score: 52.5.
#7. Clovis Community College
Hakia ranks Clovis Community College as the #7 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fresno, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 44.6.
#8. Citrus College
Hakia ranks Citrus College as the #8 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Glendora, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 52.4.
#9. Irvine Valley College
Hakia ranks Irvine Valley College as the #9 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Irvine, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 52.4.
#10. San Diego Miramar College
Hakia ranks San Diego Miramar College as the #10 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 52.3.
#11. College of the Canyons
Hakia ranks College of the Canyons as the #11 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Clarita, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 52.2.
#12. Sierra College
Hakia ranks Sierra College as the #12 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Rocklin, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 52.2.
#13. Riverside City College
Hakia ranks Riverside City College as the #13 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 49.5.
#14. Saddleback College
Hakia ranks Saddleback College as the #14 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Mission Viejo, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 49.2.
#15. Foothill College
Hakia ranks Foothill College as the #15 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Altos Hills, CA has annual tuition of $1,395. Ranking score: 49.2.
#16. Hartnell College
Hakia ranks Hartnell College as the #16 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Salinas, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 49.0.
#17. Norco College
Hakia ranks Norco College as the #17 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Norco, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 49.0.
#18. Mt San Jacinto Community College District
Hakia ranks Mt San Jacinto Community College District as the #18 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Jacinto, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 41.4.
#19. Santa Rosa Junior College
Hakia ranks Santa Rosa Junior College as the #19 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Rosa, CA has annual tuition of $1,242. Ranking score: 48.6.
#20. Southwestern College
Hakia ranks Southwestern College as the #20 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Chula Vista, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 48.6.
#21. Bakersfield College
Hakia ranks Bakersfield College as the #21 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Bakersfield, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 48.6.
#22. Yuba College
Hakia ranks Yuba College as the #22 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Marysville, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 48.5.
#23. San Diego Mesa College
Hakia ranks San Diego Mesa College as the #23 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 48.4.
#24. College of San Mateo
Hakia ranks College of San Mateo as the #24 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Mateo, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 48.3.
#25. Fullerton College
Hakia ranks Fullerton College as the #25 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fullerton, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 48.1.
#26. MiraCosta College
Hakia ranks MiraCosta College as the #26 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Oceanside, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 59.0.
#27. Mt San Antonio College
Hakia ranks Mt San Antonio College as the #27 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Walnut, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 48.0.
#28. Santa Barbara City College
Hakia ranks Santa Barbara City College as the #28 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Barbara, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.9.
#29. Cerritos College
Hakia ranks Cerritos College as the #29 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Norwalk, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 47.8.
#30. Antelope Valley Community College District
Hakia ranks Antelope Valley Community College District as the #30 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Lancaster, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 82% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.1.
#31. College of the Desert
Hakia ranks College of the Desert as the #31 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Palm Desert, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 47.4.
#32. Merced College
Hakia ranks Merced College as the #32 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Merced, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.3.
#33. Ohlone College
Hakia ranks Ohlone College as the #33 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fremont, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.3.
#34. Evergreen Valley College
Hakia ranks Evergreen Valley College as the #34 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 47.3.
#35. Allan Hancock College
Hakia ranks Allan Hancock College as the #35 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Maria, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.2.
#36. Cabrillo College
Hakia ranks Cabrillo College as the #36 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Aptos, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.2.
#37. Solano Community College
Hakia ranks Solano Community College as the #37 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fairfield, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 74% graduation rate. Ranking score: 45.1.
#38. Gavilan College
Hakia ranks Gavilan College as the #38 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Gilroy, CA has annual tuition of $1,444. Ranking score: 47.2.
#39. Chaffey College
Hakia ranks Chaffey College as the #39 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Rancho Cucamonga, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.1.
#40. Las Positas College
Hakia ranks Las Positas College as the #40 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Livermore, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 47.1.
#41. Reedley College
Hakia ranks Reedley College as the #41 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Reedley, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 47.1.
#42. Modesto Junior College
Hakia ranks Modesto Junior College as the #42 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Modesto, CA has annual tuition of $1,188 and a 77% graduation rate. Ranking score: 53.9.
#43. Palomar College
Hakia ranks Palomar College as the #43 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Marcos, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 47.1.
#44. Skyline College
Hakia ranks Skyline College as the #44 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Bruno, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 47.1.
#45. Cypress College
Hakia ranks Cypress College as the #45 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Cypress, CA has annual tuition of $1,104 and a 68% graduation rate. Ranking score: 51.3.
#46. Santiago Canyon College
Hakia ranks Santiago Canyon College as the #46 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Orange, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 46.8.
#47. Crafton Hills College
Hakia ranks Crafton Hills College as the #47 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Yucaipa, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 46.7.
#48. Laney College
Hakia ranks Laney College as the #48 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Oakland, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 46.7.
#49. Santa Ana College
Hakia ranks Santa Ana College as the #49 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Ana, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 46.7.
#50. Butte College
Hakia ranks Butte College as the #50 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Oroville, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 46.6.
#51. Long Beach City College
Hakia ranks Long Beach City College as the #51 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Long Beach, CA has annual tuition of $1,472. Ranking score: 46.5.
#52. Cuyamaca College
Hakia ranks Cuyamaca College as the #52 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in El Cajon, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 46.2.
#53. College of the Sequoias
Hakia ranks College of the Sequoias as the #53 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Visalia, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 46.1.
#54. San Bernardino Valley College
Hakia ranks San Bernardino Valley College as the #54 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Bernardino, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 45.9.
#55. Imperial Valley College
Hakia ranks Imperial Valley College as the #55 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Imperial, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 45.8.
#56. Los Angeles Valley College
Hakia ranks Los Angeles Valley College as the #56 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Valley Glen, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 45.8.
#57. Los Medanos College
Hakia ranks Los Medanos College as the #57 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Pittsburg, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 45.8.
#58. Moreno Valley College
Hakia ranks Moreno Valley College as the #58 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Moreno Valley, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 45.8.
#59. Los Angeles City College
Hakia ranks Los Angeles City College as the #59 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 45.6.
#60. San Joaquin Delta College
Hakia ranks San Joaquin Delta College as the #60 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Stockton, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 45.6.
#61. San Jose City College
Hakia ranks San Jose City College as the #61 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 45.6.
#62. Canada College
Hakia ranks Canada College as the #62 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Redwood City, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 45.5.
#63. Rio Hondo College
Hakia ranks Rio Hondo College as the #63 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Whittier, CA has annual tuition of $1,306 and a 65% graduation rate. Ranking score: 49.3.
#64. Pasadena City College
Hakia ranks Pasadena City College as the #64 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Pasadena, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 45.3.
#65. Copper Mountain Community College
Hakia ranks Copper Mountain Community College as the #65 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Joshua Tree, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 38.5.
#66. Monterey Peninsula College
Hakia ranks Monterey Peninsula College as the #66 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Monterey, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 45.1.
#67. West Los Angeles College
Hakia ranks West Los Angeles College as the #67 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Culver City, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 45.1.
#68. American River College
Hakia ranks American River College as the #68 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 52.6.
#69. Glendale Community College
Hakia ranks Glendale Community College as the #69 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Glendale, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 38.2.
#70. Los Angeles Harbor College
Hakia ranks Los Angeles Harbor College as the #70 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Wilmington, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 44.9.
#71. Columbia College
Hakia ranks Columbia College as the #71 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sonora, CA has annual tuition of $1,465. Ranking score: 44.9.
#72. Los Angeles Mission College
Hakia ranks Los Angeles Mission College as the #72 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sylmar, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 44.7.
#73. City College of San Francisco
Hakia ranks City College of San Francisco as the #73 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 52.1.
#74. Berkeley City College
Hakia ranks Berkeley City College as the #74 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Berkeley, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 44.5.
#75. Contra Costa College
Hakia ranks Contra Costa College as the #75 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Pablo, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 44.5.
#76. Madera Community College
Hakia ranks Madera Community College as the #76 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Madera, CA has annual tuition of $1,288. Ranking score: 37.8.
#77. Los Angeles Southwest College
Hakia ranks Los Angeles Southwest College as the #77 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 44.2.
#78. Barstow Community College
Hakia ranks Barstow Community College as the #78 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Barstow, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 37.3.
#79. Golden West College
Hakia ranks Golden West College as the #79 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Huntington Beach, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 43.9.
#80. Los Angeles Pierce College
Hakia ranks Los Angeles Pierce College as the #80 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Woodland Hills, CA has annual tuition of $1,196. Ranking score: 43.9.
#81. Folsom Lake College
Hakia ranks Folsom Lake College as the #81 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Folsom, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 48.7.
#82. Napa Valley College
Hakia ranks Napa Valley College as the #82 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Napa, CA has annual tuition of $1,104. Ranking score: 43.5.
#83. Mendocino College
Hakia ranks Mendocino College as the #83 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Ukiah, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 43.5.
#84. College of the Siskiyous
Hakia ranks College of the Siskiyous as the #84 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Weed, CA has annual tuition of $1,380. Ranking score: 43.5.
#85. Cosumnes River College
Hakia ranks Cosumnes River College as the #85 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 48.3.
#86. Sacramento City College
Hakia ranks Sacramento City College as the #86 associate's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 46.9.
#87. Academy of Art University
Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #87 associate's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $27,024. Ranking score: 57.9.

Online Associate's Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Online Program Options California's community colleges offer 50 online associate's game development programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Diablo Valley College**, **Grossmont College**, **Santa Monica College**, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online associate's programs average **$1,767/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online game development degrees in California, these accredited game development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

Diablo Valley College - Pleasant Hill, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Grossmont College - El Cajon, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Santa Monica College - Santa Monica, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Irvine Valley College - Irvine, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
De Anza College - Cupertino, CA - Tuition: $1,395/year
Foothill College - Los Altos Hills, CA - Tuition: $1,395/year
Santa Rosa Junior College - Santa Rosa, CA - Tuition: $1,242/year
Saddleback College - Mission Viejo, CA - Tuition: $1,380/year
Hartnell College - Salinas, CA - Tuition: $1,380/year
Southwestern College - Chula Vista, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
College of San Mateo - San Mateo, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Mt San Antonio College - Walnut, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Santa Barbara City College - Santa Barbara, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Cerritos College - Norwalk, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
College of the Desert - Palm Desert, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Merced College - Merced, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Ohlone College - Fremont, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Allan Hancock College - Santa Maria, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Cabrillo College - Aptos, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Chaffey College - Rancho Cucamonga, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Las Positas College - Livermore, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Modesto Junior College - Modesto, CA - Tuition: $1,188/year
Palomar College - San Marcos, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Skyline College - San Bruno, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Crafton Hills College - Yucaipa, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Santa Ana College - Santa Ana, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Butte College - Oroville, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
San Bernardino Valley College - San Bernardino, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Imperial Valley College - Imperial, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Los Angeles Valley College - Valley Glen, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
Los Medanos College - Pittsburg, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Los Angeles City College - Los Angeles, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
San Joaquin Delta College - Stockton, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
San Jose City College - San Jose, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Canada College - Redwood City, CA - Tuition: $1,288/year
Pasadena City College - Pasadena, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
West Los Angeles College - Culver City, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
American River College - Sacramento, CA - Tuition: $0/year
Glendale Community College - Glendale, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Los Angeles Harbor College - Wilmington, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
Los Angeles Mission College - Sylmar, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
Los Angeles Southwest College - Los Angeles, CA - Tuition: $1,196/year
Barstow Community College - Barstow, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Golden West College - Huntington Beach, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
Folsom Lake College - Folsom, CA - Tuition: $0/year
Napa Valley College - Napa, CA - Tuition: $1,104/year
College of the Siskiyous - Weed, CA - Tuition: $1,380/year
Cosumnes River College - Sacramento, CA - Tuition: $0/year
Sacramento City College - Sacramento, CA - Tuition: $0/year
Academy of Art University - San Francisco, CA - Tuition: $27,024/year

Best Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California ranks among the nation's top destinations for game development education, with **62 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **30 public** and **28 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **UC Berkeley**, **U of California-Irvine**, **U of Southern California**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from California game development programs earn a median salary of **$123,905**—26% above the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including Google, Apple, Meta. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$5,742** to **$66,640** annually, with an average of **$27,795/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **88%**, with the highest reaching **100%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to California's leading technology employers. For students seeking game development degrees in California, these top-ranked game development schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

#1. University of California-Berkeley
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #1 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Berkeley, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 97.6.
#2. University of California-Irvine
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #2 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Irvine, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 88.5.
#3. University of Southern California
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #3 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $66,640 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 87.4.
#4. University of California-Santa Cruz
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Cruz as the #4 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Cruz, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 82.4.
#5. University of California-Los Angeles
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #5 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 85.6.
#6. University of California-San Diego
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #6 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in La Jolla, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 81% graduation rate. Ranking score: 84.7.
#7. University of California-Davis
Hakia ranks University of California-Davis as the #7 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Davis, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 80.7.
#8. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Hakia ranks California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo as the #8 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Luis Obispo, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 76.7.
#9. University of California-Santa Barbara
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Barbara as the #9 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Barbara, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 74.6.
#10. Stanford University
Hakia ranks Stanford University as the #10 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Stanford, CA has annual tuition of $61,731. Ranking score: 74.2.
#11. California Institute of Technology
Hakia ranks California Institute of Technology as the #11 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Pasadena, CA has annual tuition of $60,816 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 73.1.
#12. San Diego State University
Hakia ranks San Diego State University as the #12 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.7.
#13. California State University-Long Beach
Hakia ranks California State University-Long Beach as the #13 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Long Beach, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 73% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.7.
#14. University of California-Riverside
Hakia ranks University of California-Riverside as the #14 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.2.
#15. San Jose State University
Hakia ranks San Jose State University as the #15 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 69.5.
#16. California State Polytechnic University-Pomona
Hakia ranks California State Polytechnic University-Pomona as the #16 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Pomona, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 87% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.3.
#17. California State University-Northridge
Hakia ranks California State University-Northridge as the #17 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Northridge, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 95% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.0.
#18. California State University-Sacramento
Hakia ranks California State University-Sacramento as the #18 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 63.5.
#19. California State University-Monterey Bay
Hakia ranks California State University-Monterey Bay as the #19 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Seaside, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 63.1.
#20. California State University-Los Angeles
Hakia ranks California State University-Los Angeles as the #20 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 63.7.
#21. Chapman University
Hakia ranks Chapman University as the #21 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Orange, CA has annual tuition of $62,400 and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 62.7.
#22. California State University-Fullerton
Hakia ranks California State University-Fullerton as the #22 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fullerton, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 65% graduation rate. Ranking score: 60.9.
#23. University of San Diego
Hakia ranks University of San Diego as the #23 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $55,690 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.5.
#24. Pitzer College
Hakia ranks Pitzer College as the #24 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Claremont, CA has annual tuition of $62,392 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.9.
#25. California State University-San Marcos
Hakia ranks California State University-San Marcos as the #25 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Marcos, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 60.0.
#26. Harvey Mudd College
Hakia ranks Harvey Mudd College as the #26 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Claremont, CA has annual tuition of $65,954. Ranking score: 60.1.
#27. Pomona College
Hakia ranks Pomona College as the #27 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Claremont, CA has annual tuition of $61,906. Ranking score: 58.1.
#28. Otis College of Art and Design
Hakia ranks Otis College of Art and Design as the #28 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $49,100 and a 86% graduation rate. Ranking score: 57.5.
#29. California State University-Fresno
Hakia ranks California State University-Fresno as the #29 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fresno, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 56.6.
#30. San Francisco State University
Hakia ranks San Francisco State University as the #30 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 53.3.
#31. Academy of Art University
Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #31 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $27,024. Ranking score: 54.7.
#32. University of San Francisco
Hakia ranks University of San Francisco as the #32 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $57,670. Ranking score: 54.1.
#33. Claremont McKenna College
Hakia ranks Claremont McKenna College as the #33 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Claremont, CA has annual tuition of $63,800. Ranking score: 52.5.
#34. Point Loma Nazarene University
Hakia ranks Point Loma Nazarene University as the #34 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $42,600 and a 94% graduation rate. Ranking score: 51.0.
#35. Dominican University of California
Hakia ranks Dominican University of California as the #35 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Rafael, CA has annual tuition of $49,821 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.5.
#36. Gnomon
Hakia ranks Gnomon as the #36 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Hollywood, CA has annual tuition of $33,390 and a 45% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.1.
#37. Occidental College
Hakia ranks Occidental College as the #37 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $62,850. Ranking score: 50.0.
#38. California State University-East Bay
Hakia ranks California State University-East Bay as the #38 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Hayward, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 50.2.
#39. William Jessup University
Hakia ranks William Jessup University as the #39 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Rocklin, CA has annual tuition of $36,000 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 49.9.
#40. University of Silicon Valley
Hakia ranks University of Silicon Valley as the #40 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $21,480. Ranking score: 48.8.
#41. National University
Hakia ranks National University as the #41 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $13,320. Ranking score: 48.9.
#42. California State University-Chico
Hakia ranks California State University-Chico as the #42 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Chico, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 47.3.
#43. Laguna College of Art and Design
Hakia ranks Laguna College of Art and Design as the #43 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Laguna Beach, CA has annual tuition of $35,650 and a 69% graduation rate. Ranking score: 47.8.
#44. Scripps College
Hakia ranks Scripps College as the #44 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Claremont, CA has annual tuition of $63,216. Ranking score: 47.1.
#45. New York Film Academy
Hakia ranks New York Film Academy as the #45 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Burbank, CA has annual tuition of $34,898 and a 58% graduation rate. Ranking score: 46.7.
#46. California State University-San Bernardino
Hakia ranks California State University-San Bernardino as the #46 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Bernardino, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 45.3.
#47. California State University-Dominguez Hills
Hakia ranks California State University-Dominguez Hills as the #47 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Carson, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 46.6.
#48. California State University-Bakersfield
Hakia ranks California State University-Bakersfield as the #48 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Bakersfield, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 45.1.
#49. Biola University
Hakia ranks Biola University as the #49 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in La Mirada, CA has annual tuition of $46,704. Ranking score: 44.7.
#50. University of the Pacific
Hakia ranks University of the Pacific as the #50 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Stockton, CA has annual tuition of $54,506. Ranking score: 44.6.
#51. California State University-Channel Islands
Hakia ranks California State University-Channel Islands as the #51 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Camarillo, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 44.1.
#52. Concordia University-Irvine
Hakia ranks Concordia University-Irvine as the #52 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Irvine, CA has annual tuition of $40,510. Ranking score: 43.5.
#53. California State University-Stanislaus
Hakia ranks California State University-Stanislaus as the #53 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Turlock, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 42.6.
#54. Sonoma State University
Hakia ranks Sonoma State University as the #54 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Rohnert Park, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 42.6.
#55. Woodbury University
Hakia ranks Woodbury University as the #55 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Burbank, CA has annual tuition of $43,392. Ranking score: 42.2.
#56. California Baptist University
Hakia ranks California Baptist University as the #56 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $37,570. Ranking score: 41.4.
#57. Azusa Pacific University
Hakia ranks Azusa Pacific University as the #57 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Azusa, CA has annual tuition of $42,900. Ranking score: 40.3.
#58. California Lutheran University
Hakia ranks California Lutheran University as the #58 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Thousand Oaks, CA has annual tuition of $49,880. Ranking score: 39.8.
#59. San Francisco Bay University
Hakia ranks San Francisco Bay University as the #59 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Fremont, CA has annual tuition of $7,920. Ranking score: 40.3.
#60. California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt
Hakia ranks California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt as the #60 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Arcata, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 39.1.
#61. La Sierra University
Hakia ranks La Sierra University as the #61 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $34,920. Ranking score: 36.3.
#62. Saint Mary's College of California
Hakia ranks Saint Mary's College of California as the #62 bachelor's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Moraga, CA has annual tuition of $55,634. Ranking score: 36.4.

Online Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Online Program Options 29 California institutions offer bachelor's game development degrees with online or hybrid options, enabling students to earn accredited degrees while maintaining professional or personal commitments. Top-ranked online programs include **U of California-San Diego**, **California State Universi...**, **San Francisco State**, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online bachelor's programs average **$24,623/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **120 credit hours** in 4 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online game development degrees in California, these accredited game development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

University of California-San Diego - La Jolla, CA - Tuition: $11,834/year
California State University-Fullerton - Fullerton, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
San Francisco State University - San Francisco, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
University of Silicon Valley - San Jose, CA - Tuition: $21,480/year
Academy of Art University - San Francisco, CA - Tuition: $27,024/year
California State University-East Bay - Hayward, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California State University-Chico - Chico, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
Dominican University of California - San Rafael, CA - Tuition: $49,821/year
Point Loma Nazarene University - San Diego, CA - Tuition: $42,600/year
National University - San Diego, CA - Tuition: $13,320/year
California State University-San Bernardino - San Bernardino, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
William Jessup University - Rocklin, CA - Tuition: $36,000/year
California State University-Dominguez Hills - Carson, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California State University-Bakersfield - Bakersfield, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
University of the Pacific - Stockton, CA - Tuition: $54,506/year
New York Film Academy - Burbank, CA - Tuition: $34,898/year
California State University-Channel Islands - Camarillo, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
Biola University - La Mirada, CA - Tuition: $46,704/year
California State University-Stanislaus - Turlock, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
Sonoma State University - Rohnert Park, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
Concordia University-Irvine - Irvine, CA - Tuition: $40,510/year
Woodbury University - Burbank, CA - Tuition: $43,392/year
California Baptist University - Riverside, CA - Tuition: $37,570/year
California State Polytechnic University-Humboldt - Arcata, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California Lutheran University - Thousand Oaks, CA - Tuition: $49,880/year
Azusa Pacific University - Azusa, CA - Tuition: $42,900/year
San Francisco Bay University - Fremont, CA - Tuition: $7,920/year
La Sierra University - Riverside, CA - Tuition: $34,920/year
Saint Mary's College of California - Moraga, CA - Tuition: $55,634/year

Best Master's Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California offers **40** master's degree programs in game development, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**U of Southern California**, **U of California-San Diego**, **U of California-Irvine**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in California earn a median salary of **$145,770**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with Google, Apple, Meta actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$18,810/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among California's game development schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

#1. University of Southern California
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #1 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $66,640 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 100.0.
#2. University of California-San Diego
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #2 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in La Jolla, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 81% graduation rate. Ranking score: 87.1.
#3. University of California-Irvine
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #3 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Irvine, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 83.6.
#4. University of California-Los Angeles
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #4 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 83.2.
#5. Stanford University
Hakia ranks Stanford University as the #5 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Stanford, CA has annual tuition of $61,731. Ranking score: 79.5.
#6. California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo
Hakia ranks California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo as the #6 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Luis Obispo, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.9.
#7. University of California-Davis
Hakia ranks University of California-Davis as the #7 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Davis, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.6.
#8. University of California-Santa Barbara
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Barbara as the #8 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Barbara, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 75.1.
#9. California State University-Long Beach
Hakia ranks California State University-Long Beach as the #9 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Long Beach, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 73% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.3.
#10. San Diego State University
Hakia ranks San Diego State University as the #10 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 73.0.
#11. University of California-Riverside
Hakia ranks University of California-Riverside as the #11 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 72.5.
#12. University of California-Santa Cruz
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Cruz as the #12 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Cruz, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 71.7.
#13. San Jose State University
Hakia ranks San Jose State University as the #13 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Jose, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 100% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.2.
#14. University of California-Berkeley
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #14 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Berkeley, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 69.9.
#15. California Institute of Technology
Hakia ranks California Institute of Technology as the #15 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Pasadena, CA has annual tuition of $60,816 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 67.5.
#16. California State University-Los Angeles
Hakia ranks California State University-Los Angeles as the #16 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 99% graduation rate. Ranking score: 56.0.
#17. California State University-Northridge
Hakia ranks California State University-Northridge as the #17 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Northridge, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 95% graduation rate. Ranking score: 55.6.
#18. California State Polytechnic University-Pomona
Hakia ranks California State Polytechnic University-Pomona as the #18 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Pomona, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 87% graduation rate. Ranking score: 65.6.
#19. Academy of Art University
Hakia ranks Academy of Art University as the #19 master's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $27,024. Ranking score: 53.4.
#20. California State University-Fullerton
Hakia ranks California State University-Fullerton as the #20 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fullerton, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 65% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.3.
#21. Naval Postgraduate School
Hakia ranks Naval Postgraduate School as the #21 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Monterey, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 48.6.
#22. University of San Francisco
Hakia ranks University of San Francisco as the #22 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $57,670. Ranking score: 48.4.
#23. William Jessup University
Hakia ranks William Jessup University as the #23 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Rocklin, CA has annual tuition of $36,000 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 50.6.
#24. California State University-San Marcos
Hakia ranks California State University-San Marcos as the #24 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Marcos, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 58.5.
#25. California State University-Sacramento
Hakia ranks California State University-Sacramento as the #25 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Sacramento, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 58.1.
#26. California State University-Fresno
Hakia ranks California State University-Fresno as the #26 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Fresno, CA has annual tuition of $5,742 and a 97% graduation rate. Ranking score: 48.9.
#27. California Institute of the Arts
Hakia ranks California Institute of the Arts as the #27 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Valencia, CA has annual tuition of $56,074. Ranking score: 50.9.
#28. California State University-East Bay
Hakia ranks California State University-East Bay as the #28 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Hayward, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 46.4.
#29. New York Film Academy
Hakia ranks New York Film Academy as the #29 master's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Burbank, CA has annual tuition of $34,898 and a 58% graduation rate. Ranking score: 46.2.
#30. National University
Hakia ranks National University as the #30 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $13,320. Ranking score: 46.4.
#31. Laguna College of Art and Design
Hakia ranks Laguna College of Art and Design as the #31 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Laguna Beach, CA has annual tuition of $35,650 and a 69% graduation rate. Ranking score: 43.9.
#32. Northcentral University
Hakia ranks Northcentral University as the #32 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $11,064. Ranking score: 52.1.
#33. San Francisco Bay University
Hakia ranks San Francisco Bay University as the #33 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Fremont, CA has annual tuition of $7,920. Ranking score: 44.1.
#34. Sofia University
Hakia ranks Sofia University as the #34 master's in game development degree program in California. This for-profit institution in Palo Alto, CA has annual tuition of $18,000. Ranking score: 44.5.
#35. San Francisco State University
Hakia ranks San Francisco State University as the #35 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Francisco, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 47.7.
#36. California State University-Chico
Hakia ranks California State University-Chico as the #36 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Chico, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 47.7.
#37. California State University-Dominguez Hills
Hakia ranks California State University-Dominguez Hills as the #37 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Carson, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 38.4.
#38. California State University-Channel Islands
Hakia ranks California State University-Channel Islands as the #38 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Camarillo, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 37.3.
#39. California State University-San Bernardino
Hakia ranks California State University-San Bernardino as the #39 master's in game development degree program in California. This public institution in San Bernardino, CA has annual tuition of $5,742. Ranking score: 46.3.
#40. University of the Pacific
Hakia ranks University of the Pacific as the #40 master's in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Stockton, CA has annual tuition of $54,506. Ranking score: 37.1.

Online Master's Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Online Program Options Working professionals can advance their careers through 15 online master's game development programs from California universities, designed for flexibility without sacrificing academic rigor. Top-ranked online programs include **U of California-San Diego**, **California State Universi...**, **Academy of Art**, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online master's programs average **$16,246/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **30-36 credit hours** in 18-24 months while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online game development degrees in California, these accredited game development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

University of California-San Diego - La Jolla, CA - Tuition: $11,834/year
California State University-Fullerton - Fullerton, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
Academy of Art University - San Francisco, CA - Tuition: $27,024/year
California State University-East Bay - Hayward, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
William Jessup University - Rocklin, CA - Tuition: $36,000/year
National University - San Diego, CA - Tuition: $13,320/year
San Francisco Bay University - Fremont, CA - Tuition: $7,920/year
New York Film Academy - Burbank, CA - Tuition: $34,898/year
Sofia University - Palo Alto, CA - Tuition: $18,000/year
San Francisco State University - San Francisco, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California State University-Chico - Chico, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California State University-Dominguez Hills - Carson, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California State University-San Bernardino - San Bernardino, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
California State University-Channel Islands - Camarillo, CA - Tuition: $5,742/year
University of the Pacific - Stockton, CA - Tuition: $54,506/year

Best Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Program Landscape California is home to **13** doctoral programs in game development, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at **U of Southern California**, **UC Berkeley**, **U of California-San Diego** are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages. ### Career Outcomes Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with California PhD holders earning a median of **$182,213**—reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like Google, Apple, Meta. ### Costs & Value PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of **$25,000–$40,000** annually. ### Curriculum & Specializations Research strengths across California programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing game development degrees in California, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.

#1. University of Southern California
Hakia ranks University of Southern California as the #1 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $66,640 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 100.0.
#2. University of California-Berkeley
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #2 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Berkeley, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 100.0.
#3. University of California-San Diego
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #3 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in La Jolla, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 81% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.5.
#4. University of California-Los Angeles
Hakia ranks University of California-Los Angeles as the #4 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Los Angeles, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 66.3.
#5. Stanford University
Hakia ranks Stanford University as the #5 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Stanford, CA has annual tuition of $61,731. Ranking score: 61.9.
#6. University of California-Irvine
Hakia ranks University of California-Irvine as the #6 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Irvine, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 96% graduation rate. Ranking score: 63.6.
#7. University of California-Santa Barbara
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Barbara as the #7 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Barbara, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 90% graduation rate. Ranking score: 61.6.
#8. University of California-Davis
Hakia ranks University of California-Davis as the #8 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Davis, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 91% graduation rate. Ranking score: 57.7.
#9. University of California-Riverside
Hakia ranks University of California-Riverside as the #9 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Riverside, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 83% graduation rate. Ranking score: 52.2.
#10. University of California-Santa Cruz
Hakia ranks University of California-Santa Cruz as the #10 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Santa Cruz, CA has annual tuition of $11,834 and a 93% graduation rate. Ranking score: 81.1.
#11. California Institute of Technology
Hakia ranks California Institute of Technology as the #11 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This private institution in Pasadena, CA has annual tuition of $60,816 and a 88% graduation rate. Ranking score: 64.0.
#12. Northcentral University
Hakia ranks Northcentral University as the #12 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This private institution in San Diego, CA has annual tuition of $11,064. Ranking score: 44.9.
#13. Naval Postgraduate School
Hakia ranks Naval Postgraduate School as the #13 doctoral in game development degree program in California. This public institution in Monterey, CA has annual tuition of $0. Ranking score: 52.3.

Online Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs in California

### Online Program Options 1 California universities offer doctoral game development programs with online or hybrid components, accommodating established professionals pursuing terminal degrees. Top-ranked online programs include **U of California-San Diego**, all regionally accredited and recognized by California employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online doctoral programs average **$11,834/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. California-based employers including Google, Apple, Meta value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The San Francisco, San Jose, Los Angeles job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete doctoral requirements in 3-5 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online game development degrees in California, these accredited game development schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

University of California-San Diego - La Jolla, CA - Tuition: $11,834/year

Game Development Tuition in California

Metric	Value
Average in-state tuition	$13,061/year
Average out-of-state tuition	$32,653/year
Community college tuition	$3,265/year
4-year savings for residents	$78,368
2+2 transfer pathway savings	$19,592

Source: IPEDS 2023

Game Development Financial Aid & Scholarships in California

State Aid Programs

California state financial aid supports game development students.

The Cal Grant provides need-based aid covering tuition at UC, CSU, and qualifying private institutions. The Middle Class Scholarship (MCS) covers remaining costs for families with incomes up to $234,000 at UC, CSU, or California Community College bachelor's programs (California Student Aid Commission). Game development students in eligible degree programs qualify for all standard state aid programs.

Key Programs & Amounts

Federal aid and specialized scholarships:

Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 for 2024-25 academic year
Federal student loans: Subsidized and unsubsidized options
IGDA (International Game Developers Association): Scholarships for game development students
Women in Games: Scholarships supporting women in the game industry
ESA Foundation: Entertainment Software Association scholarships for game-related studies
Unity, Epic Games: Some vendor scholarships for students using their platforms Art school scholarships may include portfolio-based merit awards that can significantly reduce costs at institutions like Gnomon or Academy of Art.

Institutional Scholarships

Institutional scholarships vary significantly.

USC offers substantial need-based and merit aid—families with incomes under $80,000 typically pay no tuition. UC campuses provide robust financial aid with 70% of undergraduates receiving an average of $22,000 in aid. CSU programs have more limited institutional scholarship budgets but significantly lower base costs. Art schools often negotiate tuition discounts for strong portfolio applicants. Apply early—complete FAFSA starting October 1, and submit portfolio materials well before deadlines for maximum scholarship consideration. Private school scholarship negotiations may be possible, particularly for applicants with multiple acceptances.

Calculate Your Game Development Degree ROI in California

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a game development degree in California. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Game Development Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a game development degree

Program Type

Total Program Cost

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

Target Career

Work Location

Career Timeline20 years

10 years20 years30 years

20-Year ROI

+1378%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$2,549,181

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$102,778

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$3,584,589

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (San Francisco Bay Area, CA)$185,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return6.4%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Career Paths

Software Developer

+25%

Design and develop software applications and systems

Median Salary:$164,720

Data Scientist

+35%

Analyze complex datasets and build predictive models

Median Salary:$137,024

Cybersecurity Analyst

+32%

Protect computer networks from cyber threats

Median Salary:$153,059

DevOps Engineer

+22%

Manage cloud infrastructure and deployment pipelines

Median Salary:$161,805

Cloud Architect

+28%

Design and maintain cloud computing infrastructure

Median Salary:$157,432

Machine Learning Engineer

+40%

Build and deploy machine learning models

Median Salary:$183,670

Game Development Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in California metro areas

Hakia.com

View data table

Category	value
San Francisco	$160K
San Jose	$153K
Los Angeles	$146K
San Diego	$138K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

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+$25K avg salary increase · Use bootcamp discount code HK1000SB to save $1,000

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Game Development Jobs in California: Top Employers Hiring

Find game development jobs in California. These major employers across California metro areas are actively hiring game development graduates. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Game Development Jobs in Silicon Valley

~2,943 Open Positions

Silicon Valley remains the global center of tech innovation. Headquarters for Google, Apple, Meta, and thousands of startups.

Nearby cities: San Jose, Palo Alto, Mountain View, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, Cupertino, Menlo Park, Redwood City

Google

Search/AI/Cloud

Apple

Consumer Electronics

Game Development Jobs in San Francisco

San Francisco is a major fintech and enterprise software hub. Salesforce Tower anchors a dense tech ecosystem.

Nearby cities: Oakland, Berkeley, Daly City, South San Francisco, San Mateo, Fremont

Fintech/Payments

Data/AI Platform

Design Tools

Transportation/Delivery

Airbnb

Travel/Hospitality

Game Development Jobs in Los Angeles

LA has a diverse tech scene spanning entertainment tech, aerospace, and ecommerce. SpaceX and Snap are headquartered here.

Nearby cities: Santa Monica, Culver City, Burbank, Pasadena, Long Beach, Irvine, El Segundo

Social Media

Aerospace

Streaming

Entertainment

Defense/Aerospace

Game Development Jobs in San Diego

San Diego is a biotech and defense technology hub. Qualcomm is headquartered here alongside major military contractors.

Nearby cities: La Jolla, Carlsbad, Chula Vista, Oceanside, Escondido, El Cajon

Wireless/5G

Financial Software

Data Analytics

Defense/Aerospace

Biotech/Genomics

How to Apply to Game Development Programs in California

Research Program Requirements

Review admission requirements for game development programs at your target schools. Requirements vary by institution and degree level.

Prepare Application Materials

Gather transcripts, test scores (SAT/ACT for undergrad, GRE for graduate), letters of recommendation, and personal statement.

Apply for Financial Aid

Complete the FAFSA by priority deadlines.

Submit Applications Before Deadlines

Apply early for priority consideration. Early action/decision deadlines are typically October-November; regular deadlines December-January.

Complete Enrollment Steps

Accept your offer, submit enrollment deposit, complete orientation requirements, and register for classes.

Game Development Transfer Pathways in California

State Transfer System

California's ASSIST system supports transfers for game development education (ASSIST.org). Students can complete foundational programming courses (C++, Java), mathematics (calculus, linear algebra), and general education at community college before transferring to university game programs. Some community colleges offer game design introductory courses that articulate to four-year programs. Art-focused students can complete foundational drawing, digital art, and 3D modeling courses that support game art track transfers.

How Transfers Work

Transfer paths to major game programs require planning.

UC Santa Cruz's game programs accept transfers into computer science or digital arts depending on track—verify current articulation for your target program. UC Irvine's Informatics/Game Design program has specific transfer requirements. USC Games is highly competitive for transfers; most students enter as freshmen. The Associate Degree for Transfer (AS-T) in Computer Science provides guaranteed CSU admission—students can then pursue game-related electives or concentrations within computer science programs. TAG (Transfer Admission Guarantee) excludes some impacted majors; verify current TAG availability.

Transfer Planning Tips

Strategic approaches for game development transfers:

1Build programming foundations: Complete CS1/CS2 sequence plus data structures
2Take math requirements: Calculus, linear algebra, and statistics support graphics and physics programming
3Develop portfolio independently: Game jams, personal projects, and mods demonstrate passion regardless of formal coursework
4Consider multiple paths: Art schools, CSU programs, and UC programs offer different strengths and accessibility
5Start engine learning early: Unity and Unreal Engine tutorials and projects can begin at any time Community college pathways offer substantial savings—completing two years at $1,380/year before transferring reduces total costs by $40,000-60,000.

Why Study Game Development in California?

Industry & Workforce

California is the undisputed center of the American video game industry.

The state hosts 2,500+ game development studios including major publishers and countless independent developers. California's gaming industry generates over $18 billion annually, representing 15% of total U.S. video game revenue. Headquarters for major publishers are concentrated in California: Activision Blizzard (Santa Monica), Electronic Arts (Redwood City), Sony Interactive Entertainment (San Mateo), and Riot Games (Los Angeles). This concentration creates unmatched internship, networking, and career opportunities for game development students.

Salary Outlook

California offers world-class game development education.

USC Games is consistently ranked among the top game design and development programs in North America, combining the School of Cinematic Arts' Interactive Media & Games Division with the Viterbi School of Engineering (USC Games). UC Santa Cruz offers degrees including BFA Digital Arts and Game Design, BS Computer Science in Computer Game Design, MFA Digital Arts and New Media, MS Games and Playable Media, and PhD programs. UC Irvine's Game Design and Interactive Media program provides access to industry partners including Blizzard, Riot, Electronic Arts, Obsidian Entertainment, and Disney. Stanford ranks #1 in the U.S. for Game Design and Development research.

Regional Tech Hubs

Game development salaries in California exceed national averages.

California game developers earn a median of $115,240 annually—18% above the national average for software developers (BLS OEWS May 2024). Video game industry workers in San Jose make $95,768 average—97% above the U.S. average. Senior game developers earn $150,000+ in California compared to approximately $110,000 in lower-cost states. The BLS projects 17% job growth for software developers (including game developers) through 2033, translating to approximately 140,100 annual openings. Compare programs in Texas, Washington, or explore our national rankings.

Game Development Job Market in California

Employment Outlook

California dominates the U.S. game development job market.

The 2025 Game Industry Salary Report found that average salary for U.S.-based game industry professionals reached approximately $142,000 (Variety 2025 Game Industry Report). California positions, concentrated in Los Angeles and the Bay Area, command premium salaries above this average. Game developers earn $97,170 average nationally, with top earners reaching $169,318 (90th percentile). The typical pay range spans $72,898 (25th percentile) to $130,557 (75th percentile). California's concentration of major studios, indie developers, and technology companies creates diverse career options.

Salaries by Metro

Game development salaries vary by role and experience:

Entry-level Game Developer: $42,183-$105,898 range
Mid-level Game Developer: $80,000-$120,000 range
Senior Game Developer: $112,000-$180,000 range ($154,062 average)
Video Game Designer: $95,185 average nationally, with California premiums
Game Artist (entry-level): $35,000-$60,000
Game Artist (experienced): $90,000-$100,000+
C++ Programmer/Technical Lead: Up to $120,000+ with specialized skills Professionals in California and New York earn approximately $150,000 at senior levels, compared to $110,000 in lower-cost states like Wyoming or Montana.

High-Growth Sectors

Industry trends shaping California game development careers: mobile gaming continues growing with studios throughout Southern California, VR/AR development is concentrated at Meta (Quest), Apple (Vision Pro), and numerous startups, esports organizations are headquartered in Los Angeles driving competitive gaming infrastructure, cloud gaming (Google Stadia legacy, Amazon Luna, NVIDIA GeForce NOW) creates new development paradigms, and AI integration in game development (procedural content, NPC behavior, development tools) represents emerging opportunities. Note: the 2025 survey found 53% of game workers feel undercompensated and 64% support game industry unionization, reflecting ongoing industry debates. For related careers, explore software engineering or animation programs.

Game Development Curriculum & Specializations in California

Core Requirements

Game development curriculum combines technical and creative skills.

Core coursework covers game design principles, programming (typically C++ and C#), 3D graphics and animation, game engines (Unity, Unreal Engine), level design, and game production. Students learn both the artistic side (visual design, storytelling, user experience) and technical implementation (physics engines, AI systems, networking). Mathematics requirements include linear algebra, calculus, and discrete math supporting graphics programming and simulation. USC's program uniquely spans both the School of Cinematic Arts and Viterbi Engineering, allowing students to emphasize either creative or technical tracks.

Degree Pathways

Specialization tracks at California programs include: game programming/engineering (C++, graphics engines, optimization), game design (mechanics, level design, player experience), game art (3D modeling, animation, visual effects), and game production (project management, QA, business). UC Santa Cruz offers distinct BFA (art-focused) and BS (computer science-focused) pathways. UC Irvine explores established and emerging platforms including AR/VR, tabletop, and mobile. UCLA's game-related coursework emphasizes interactive media theory and practice. Art schools like Gnomon focus specifically on visual production skills valued by AAA studios.

Specialization Tracks

Industry partnerships enhance California game education.

UC Irvine students benefit from access to industry partners including Blizzard, Riot, Electronic Arts, Obsidian Entertainment, Age of Learning, Disney, Tencent, and Cartoon Network. USC Games maintains close relationships with Los Angeles-area studios for internships and capstone projects. Capstone/thesis projects require students to complete playable games demonstrating integrated skills. Some programs require or strongly encourage industry internships. Total credit requirements range from 120-128 units for bachelor's programs, with significant project-based coursework. Graduate programs (MS, MFA) typically require 2-3 years including thesis projects. Explore related programs in our computer science rankings or animation programs.

Online vs On-Campus Game Development Programs in California

Online Program Growth

Campus programs are strongly preferred for game development education.

Collaborative team projects—essential to game development training—work best in person. Motion capture studios, VR/AR labs, and specialized hardware require campus presence. Networking with peers, faculty with industry experience, and visiting industry professionals creates career opportunities. USC Games, UC Santa Cruz, and UC Irvine all emphasize in-person instruction and team-based learning. Art schools similarly emphasize studio-based instruction with direct faculty feedback.

Accredited Online Options

Limited online options exist for game development.

Some programming-focused game development courses are available online, but comprehensive programs typically require campus attendance. Graduate programs at some institutions offer hybrid formats. Online courses through platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning provide supplementary skill development in Unity, Unreal Engine, and specific tools—valuable for self-directed learning but not replacements for degree programs. Game design theory and production management courses may work online, but technical art and programming skills benefit from hands-on instruction.

Choosing Your Format

Making campus programs work for non-traditional students: Evening classes at some CSU campuses accommodate working students. Flexible completion timelines allow part-time attendance. Co-op programs integrate paid work experience with academics. Transfer pathways let students complete general education locally before relocating for game-focused upper-division coursework. Self-taught game developers exist—successful indie developers often learn through tutorials, game jams, and personal projects without formal degrees—but this path requires exceptional self-motivation and portfolio-building. For students primarily interested in programming, online computer science degrees plus self-directed game development learning may provide alternative paths. See our online computing programs.

Game Development by City in California

Los Angeles

Los Angeles is the epicenter of California game development. The concentration of major studios—Riot Games, Activision (Santa Monica), Naughty Dog, Insomniac, Respawn—creates the nation's largest game development job market. USC Games provides direct talent pipelines to local studios. Game developers earn $115,240+ median in Southern California. The entertainment industry overlap (film, TV, music) creates unique opportunities in transmedia storytelling and licensed games. Cost of living is high but lower than the Bay Area, with median home prices around $900,000. The Los Angeles game community includes numerous meetups, game jams, and industry events.

San Francisco/Bay Area

San Francisco/Bay Area offers technology-focused game careers. Electronic Arts, Ubisoft, Apple Arcade, and Meta's VR gaming division employ game developers with strong technical backgrounds. Indie studios and game startups receive Bay Area venture capital funding. San Jose game industry workers earn $95,768 average—97% above the national average. Stanford's research and UC Santa Cruz's programs contribute local talent. Cost of living is extreme (median home prices $1.3+ million), but technology-focused salaries compensate accordingly. VR/AR game development concentrates around Meta's Menlo Park campus.

Irvine/Orange County

Irvine/Orange County hosts major studios in a more affordable setting. Blizzard Entertainment's campus, Obsidian Entertainment, and numerous mobile studios are headquartered in Orange County. UC Irvine's game program provides local talent with direct industry connections to Blizzard, Riot, and other partners. Cost of living is high but lower than LA or Bay Area. San Diego offers smaller but growing game development opportunities, with game studios and VR companies. University of San Diego and UCSD provide some local talent. For broader perspective, see our national game development rankings.

Compare Online Game Development Programs in California

View tuition costs, program formats & enrollment info

Game Development Programs by City in California

Los Angeles San Diego Sacramento San Francisco Pasadena Anaheim Oakland Riverside Fresno Berkeley

Find Game Development Programs Near You in California

Search by city to find accredited game development programs ranked by our state methodology.

Game Development Degree Programs by City in California

Game Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California

Home to major game studios including Rockstar Games, Activision Blizzard, and Riot Games, Los Angeles dominates the AAA game development scene with sprawling production facilities and a deep talent pool of artists, programmers, and designers. The proximity to the entertainment industry (Disney, Warner Bros., Sony Pictures) creates unique crossover opportunities in interactive storytelling, motion capture, and transmedia development.

Los Angeles is located in Los Angeles County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California

Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 9.4 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 82.8 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #4, 44 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California

University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 38.5 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #5, 101.8 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California

University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 101.8 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Los Angeles, California

University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, in Los Angeles. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 38.5 mi from Los Angeles. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California

Insomniac Games and other mid-sized studios thrive in San Diego's competitive but collaborative environment, while the city's significant military and aerospace simulation sector (General Dynamics, Northrop Grumman) offers game developers lucrative AR/VR and simulation contract work. UC San Diego's computer science and design programs provide a steady pipeline of talent and research partnerships in interactive media.

San Diego is located in San Diego County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California

Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 115.6 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 30.9 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #4, 145.1 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California

University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 73.2 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 117.4 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #5, 9.5 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California

University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 109 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 117.4 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 9.5 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near San Diego, California

University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 117.4 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 109 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 73.2 mi from San Diego. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California

As California's capital, Sacramento offers lower cost-of-living than coastal hubs while hosting state government IT contracts that increasingly demand game engine expertise for training simulations and civic applications. The city's emerging indie game scene and proximity to Silicon Valley (90 minutes) make it attractive for remote-first studios and solo developers seeking affordable office space.

Sacramento is located in Sacramento County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California

De Anza College (Public) — State #3, 93.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #5, 67.4 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
Santa Rosa Junior College (Public) — State #8, 70.9 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $1,242/year.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 66.7 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #4, 114.5 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 18.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 66.7 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 18.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 89 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $61,731/year.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Sacramento, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 66.7 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 89 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $61,731/year.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #9, 18.2 mi from Sacramento. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California

San Francisco's strength lies in VR/AR innovation through companies like Meta Reality Labs, Magic Leap partnerships, and dozens of XR startups concentrated in SoMa and SOMA districts, alongside cutting-edge AI research that influences procedural generation and NPC behavior systems. The city's venture capital ecosystem and proximity to Stanford and UC Berkeley creates an unusually tight loop between academic game research and commercial funding.

San Francisco is located in San Francisco County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California

De Anza College (Public) — State #3, 37.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #5, 77.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
Santa Rosa Junior College (Public) — State #8, 49.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $1,242/year.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 10.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #4, 57.3 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 64.2 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 10.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 64.2 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 27.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $61,731/year.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near San Francisco, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 10.9 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 27.5 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $61,731/year.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #9, 64.2 mi from San Francisco. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California

Caltech's computer science and visual computing research programs feed directly into game technology development, while the city's proximity to major Los Angeles studios (20 minutes south) and visual effects companies like Pixar (nearby in Emeryville) creates pathways for game developers into cinematic and real-time rendering work. Pasadena's concentration of JPL and aerospace contractors also generates simulation and visualization contract opportunities.

Pasadena is located in Los Angeles County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California

Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 20.9 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 82 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #4, 36.4 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California

University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 38.8 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 18 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #5, 102.3 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California

University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 12.1 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 18 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 102.3 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Pasadena, California

University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 18 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 12.1 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 38.8 mi from Pasadena. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California

Anaheim's defining advantage is proximity to Disneyland and Disney's vast interactive media operations, where game developers regularly collaborate on theme park attractions, VR experiences, and interactive entertainment products. The city sits within Orange County's growing cluster of mobile game studios and indie developers benefiting from lower overhead than Los Angeles while maintaining access to major industry events and talent networks.

Anaheim is located in Orange County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California

Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 33.7 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 57 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #4, 60.2 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California

University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 13.5 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 34 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #5, 77 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California

University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 24.4 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 34 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 77 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Anaheim, California

University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 34 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 24.4 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 13.5 mi from Anaheim. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California

Oakland hosts a vibrant indie and mid-tier game development scene with studios like Bandcamp and numerous independent developers attracted by affordable rents and a strong arts community, while UC Berkeley's world-class computer science and AI programs (just across the Bay) drive innovation in game AI and procedural systems. The city's cultural diversity and activist ethos have made it a hub for narrative-driven and socially conscious game design.

Oakland is located in Alameda County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California

De Anza College (Public) — State #3, 34.9 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #5, 68.2 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
Santa Rosa Junior College (Public) — State #8, 52.2 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $1,242/year.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #4, 56.5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 57.7 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 57.7 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 26 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $61,731/year.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Oakland, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 5 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 26 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $61,731/year.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #9, 57.7 mi from Oakland. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California

Riverside's primary appeal for game developers is its significantly lower cost-of-living compared to coastal California, making it viable for small studios and remote workers while maintaining a 60-90 minute commute to Los Angeles production jobs if needed. UC Riverside's growing engineering and computer science programs provide some local talent, though most employment leverage requires flexibility with remote work or periodic Los Angeles travel.

Riverside is located in Riverside County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California

Santa Monica College (Public) — State #1, 62.3 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 95%.
MiraCosta College (Public) — State #2, 51.8 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 94%.
Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #4, 68.5 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California

University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #2, 32.8 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #3, 61.2 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #5, 73.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California

University of Southern California (Private) — State #1, 51.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 61.2 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-San Diego (Public) — State #3, 73.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 81%.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Riverside, California

University of California-Los Angeles (Public) — State #2, 61.2 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of Southern California (Private) — State #3, 51.7 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $66,640/year. Graduation rate: 92%.
University of California-Irvine (Public) — State #4, 32.8 mi from Riverside. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California

As a smaller inland city, Fresno is better suited for remote-first game developers and small indie studios seeking low overhead costs rather than as a direct employment hub; however, it sits within 3-4 hours of both Los Angeles and San Francisco, allowing freelancers to service those markets. Fresno State offers computer science programs with some game development electives, but meaningful game industry presence requires either remote work arrangements or relocation to coastal hubs.

Fresno is located in Fresno County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California

De Anza College (Public) — State #3, 131.1 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Antelope Valley Community College District (Public) — State #4, 170.6 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $1,104/year. Graduation rate: 82%.
Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #5, 90.9 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 156.3 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #4, 127.7 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 162.6 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, 156.3 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Barbara (Public) — State #6, 163.9 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 162.6 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Fresno, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, 156.3 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Barbara (Public) — State #6, 163.9 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 90%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 139.7 mi from Fresno. Tuition: $61,731/year.

Game Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California

UC Berkeley's Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) program and award-winning game development research labs make it essential for developers interested in cutting-edge AI, graphics programming, and academic game studies, while the proximity to San Francisco's XR/VR ecosystem (30 minutes) and Stanford's game development scene provides direct industry connections. The city's intellectual culture and access to top-tier computer science talent create advantages in technical innovation over content volume.

Berkeley is located in Alameda County, California.

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California

De Anza College (Public) — State #3, 39.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $1,395/year.
Modesto Junior College (Public) — State #5, 70.1 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $1,188/year. Graduation rate: 77%.
Santa Rosa Junior College (Public) — State #8, 47.4 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $1,242/year.

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, in Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Santa Cruz (Public) — State #4, 61.5 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 93%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 53.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Master's Game Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #5, in Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #7, 53.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 31 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $61,731/year.

Doctoral Game Development Degree Programs Near Berkeley, California

University of California-Berkeley (Public) — State #1, in Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 96%.
Stanford University (Private) — State #8, 31 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $61,731/year.
University of California-Davis (Public) — State #9, 53.9 mi from Berkeley. Tuition: $11,834/year. Graduation rate: 91%.

Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway

Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into tech careers. For those in California considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.

What is a Coding Bootcamp?

A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.

Who Bootcamps Are Best For

Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
Self-taught developers seeking structured training
Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline

What People Love

Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming

Fast-track to employment—many graduates land jobs within 3-6 months
Hands-on, project-based learning builds real portfolio pieces
Career services and interview prep included in most programs
Strong alumni networks for job referrals and mentorship
Structured curriculum keeps you accountable and on track

Common Concerns

Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals

Intense pace can be overwhelming—expect 60-80 hour weeks
Some employers still prefer traditional CS degrees for certain roles
Quality varies widely between programs—research carefully
Job placement stats can be misleading—ask for CIRR audited reports
May lack depth in computer science fundamentals like algorithms

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Top Ranked Game Development Degree Programs in Other States

State	Total Programs	Median Tuition	Top Program
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Texas	34	$30,600	Texas A & M University-College Station
Best Game Development Degree Programs in New York	50	$23,220	Cornell University
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Florida	26	$22,936	Full Sail University
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Washington	19	$31,899	University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Massachusetts	38	$48,552	University of Massachusetts-Amherst
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Illinois	42	$35,740	University of Illinois Chicago
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Georgia	14	$9,790	Georgia State University
Best Game Development Degree Programs in Pennsylvania	51	$39,700	Carnegie Mellon University

Game Development in California: FAQ

How We Rank Game Development Degree Programs

Based on 50 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 50 game development degree programs in California using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for game development graduates. California median salary of $145,770 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

California salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 15, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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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.

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Best Game Development Degree Programs in California — 2026 Rankings

Key Takeaways

Best Game Development Degree Programs in California

Associate's Game Development Degree Programs in California

Program Landscape

Costs & Value

Career Pathways

Curriculum & Specializations

Diablo Valley College

De Anza College

Orange Coast College

Grossmont College

Santa Monica College

Moorpark College

Clovis Community College

Citrus College

Irvine Valley College

San Diego Miramar College

Online Associate's Game Development Degree Programs in California

Online Program Options

Costs & Employer Recognition

Program Format

Technology & Flexibility

Diablo Valley College

Grossmont College

Santa Monica College

Irvine Valley College

De Anza College

Foothill College

Santa Rosa Junior College

Saddleback College

Hartnell College

Southwestern College

Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs in California

Program Landscape

Career Outcomes

Costs & Value

Curriculum & Specializations

University of California-Berkeley

University of California-Irvine

University of Southern California

University of California-Santa Cruz

University of California-Los Angeles

University of California-San Diego

University of California-Davis

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

University of California-Santa Barbara

Stanford University

Online Bachelor's Game Development Degree Programs in California

Online Program Options

Costs & Employer Recognition

Program Format

Technology & Flexibility

University of California-San Diego

California State University-Fullerton

San Francisco State University

University of Silicon Valley

Academy of Art University

California State University-East Bay

California State University-Chico

Dominican University of California

Point Loma Nazarene University

National University

Master's Game Development Degree Programs in California

Program Landscape

Career Outcomes

Costs & Value

Curriculum & Specializations

University of Southern California

University of California-San Diego