Top 3 Game Development Programs in Pennsylvania
Carnegie Mellon University
271 Game Development graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
195 Game Development graduates annually, 88% graduation rate
Lehigh University
147 Game Development graduates annually, 81% graduation rate
- 1.Pennsylvania offers 12 accredited game development programs across bachelor's, master's, and certificate levels
- 2.Carnegie Mellon's Entertainment Technology Center ranks among the top 3 game development programs globally
- 3.Average starting salaries for Pennsylvania game development graduates reach $72,500, with senior roles earning $125,000+
- 4.Job growth for software developers in gaming is projected at 25% through 2032, faster than most occupations
- 5.Pennsylvania hosts major gaming companies including Bethesda Game Studios and Tango Gameworks in the greater metro areas
Complete Game Development Program Rankings
| Rank | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | $62,260 | 98% | 96.9 |
| 2 | University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus | Pittsburgh, PA | $20,154 | 88% | 80.5 |
| 3 | Lehigh University | Bethlehem, PA | $61,180 | 81% | 78.8 |
| 4 | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA | $58,620 | 100% | 78.1 |
| 5 | Drexel University | Philadelphia, PA | $58,293 | — | 65.7 |
| 6 | Bryn Mawr College | Bryn Mawr, PA | $61,190 | 98% | 62.5 |
| 7 | Haverford College | Haverford, PA | $67,522 | 94% | 58.7 |
| 8 | Villanova University | Villanova, PA | $63,806 | — | 56.5 |
| 9 | Moravian University | Bethlehem, PA | $50,069 | 93% | 55.7 |
| 10 | Moore College of Art and Design | Philadelphia, PA | $48,256 | 86% | 51.9 |
| 11 | Ursinus College | Collegeville, PA | $59,196 | 99% | 51.6 |
| 12 | Juniata College | Huntingdon, PA | $55,322 | 87% | 50.1 |
| 13 | Pennsylvania College of Art and Design | Lancaster, PA | $29,250 | 73% | 49.7 |
| 14 | University of Scranton | Scranton, PA | $51,534 | 88% | 49.4 |
| 15 | Central Penn College | Summerdale, PA | $18,324 | — | 49.3 |
| 16 | Franklin and Marshall College | Lancaster, PA | $68,180 | — | 49 |
| 17 | Widener University | Chester, PA | $52,598 | 86% | 47.7 |
| 18 | Lebanon Valley College | Annville, PA | $48,890 | 98% | 47.4 |
| 19 | Gettysburg College | Gettysburg, PA | $64,230 | — | 46.9 |
| 20 | Dickinson College | Carlisle, PA | $62,900 | — | 46.8 |
| 21 | Thiel College | Greenville, PA | $34,964 | 85% | 46.7 |
| 22 | Allegheny College | Meadville, PA | $54,300 | — | 45.6 |
| 23 | Grove City College | Grove City, PA | $20,890 | — | 44.5 |
| 24 | Saint Vincent College | Latrobe, PA | $39,978 | — | 42.7 |
| 25 | La Salle University | Philadelphia, PA | $34,270 | — | 42.4 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Top 5 Game Development Programs in Pennsylvania: Side-by-Side
| School | Carnegie Mellon | U of Pennsylvania | U of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh | Lehigh | Penn State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $62,260 | $58,620 | $20,154 | $61,180 | $19,672 |
| Graduation Rate | 98% | 100% | 88% | 81% | 87% |
| Annual Graduates | 271 | 194 | 195 | 147 | 67 |
| Acceptance Rate | 11% | 6% | 50% | 29% | 54% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 96.9/100 | 92.8/100 | 80.5/100 | 78.8/100 | 66.4/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Game Development in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania offers 51 bachelor's-level game development programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Carnegie Mellon University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $76,181 in the Pennsylvania market.
A bachelor's in game development typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Game Development Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Game Development Bachelor's Programs in Pennsylvania
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Carnegie Mellon | $62,260 | 98% | 271 | 96.9 |
| #2 U of Pennsylvania | $58,620 | 100% | 83 | 82.0 |
| #3 U of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh | $20,154 | 88% | 195 | 80.5 |
Top Game Development Schools for Master's Degrees in Pennsylvania
For graduate study, Pennsylvania offers 13 master's-level game development programs. Leading institutions include University of Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University, Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Pennsylvania reaching $141,479 or more.
Top 3 Game Development Master's Programs in Pennsylvania
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Pennsylvania | $58,620 | 100% | 194 | 92.8 |
| #2 Carnegie Mellon | $62,260 | 98% | 63 | 81.1 |
| #3 Penn State | $19,672 | 87% | 67 | 66.4 |
Most Affordable Game Development Colleges in Pennsylvania
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable game development programs in Pennsylvania are at Kutztown University of Pennsylvania ($7,716/year), Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania ($7,716/year), Pennsylvania Western University ($7,716/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Pennsylvania's competitive tech salaries.
At Kutztown University of Pennsylvania, a 4-year degree costs approximately $30,864 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $76,181, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.
Most Affordable Game Development Programs in Pennsylvania (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Kutztown University of... | $7,716 | $30,864 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Commonwealth University... | $7,716 | $30,864 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 Pennsylvania Western | $7,716 | $30,864 | 0.7 years | Public |
Pennsylvania Game Development Programs: Complete Analysis
Pennsylvania has emerged as a significant hub for game development education, hosting 12 accredited programs that prepare students for careers in the rapidly growing gaming industry. The state's programs range from world-renowned research institutions like Carnegie Mellon University to affordable public options that provide excellent value.
Our analysis of Pennsylvania's game development programs reveals a diverse landscape of educational opportunities. Carnegie Mellon University leads the pack with its Entertainment Technology Center, which has produced graduates who work at major studios including Bethesda, Epic Games, and Valve. The program's 94% graduation rate and strong industry connections justify its premium tuition of $64,596 annually.
Drexel University's game development program stands out for its cooperative education model, where students alternate between classroom learning and paid work experiences at gaming companies. This approach results in receiving job offers before graduation, with . The program maintains partnerships with over 50 gaming companies nationwide.
For students seeking affordable options without sacrificing quality, Pennsylvania State University offers exceptional value at $19,816 for in-state students. The program emphasizes both technical skills and creative design, producing well-rounded graduates who excel in various gaming industry roles. Alumni work at companies ranging from indie studios to AAA developers.
Pennsylvania Gaming Industry Landscape
Pennsylvania's gaming industry has experienced remarkable growth, with over 45 gaming companies operating across the state. Major employers include Bethesda Game Studios, which maintains offices in the Philadelphia area, and numerous indie developers concentrated in Pittsburgh and Philadelphia tech corridors. The state's gaming industry generates over $2.8 billion annually and employs approximately 12,500 professionals.
Pittsburgh has emerged as a particularly strong hub for game development careers, benefiting from Carnegie Mellon's talent pipeline and the city's broader tech ecosystem. Companies like Schell Games, one of the largest independent game developers in the US, have established significant operations in the region. The city's lower cost of living compared to traditional tech centers makes it attractive for both companies and developers.
Philadelphia's gaming scene complements Pittsburgh's strengths, with a focus on mobile gaming and educational games. The city hosts the annual PAX Unplugged convention and maintains a vibrant indie developer community. Educational institutions collaborate closely with industry partners to ensure curriculum remains current with technology trends including AI and machine learning in gaming.
The state government has been supportive of gaming industry growth through tax incentives and workforce development programs. The Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development offers grants and resources for gaming startups, contributing to an ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in interactive entertainment.
Application Requirements and Admission Tips
Most Pennsylvania game development programs require a strong foundation in mathematics and computer science. For bachelor's programs, typical requirements include completion of calculus, physics, and at least one programming course. High school students should focus on building portfolios that demonstrate both technical skills and creative thinking.
Carnegie Mellon's MET program is highly competitive, accepting only about 80 students annually from over 800 applicants. Successful candidates typically have undergraduate degrees in computer science, digital media, or related fields, plus demonstrated experience through internships or personal projects. The program values interdisciplinary thinking and collaboration skills equally with technical competence.
For students considering online game development programs, several Pennsylvania institutions offer hybrid or fully online options. These programs maintain the same academic rigor while providing flexibility for working professionals or students with geographic constraints.
- Build a strong portfolio showcasing both programming projects and creative work
- Complete prerequisite courses in calculus, physics, and computer programming
- Gain experience through game jams, hackathons, or independent projects
- Research faculty interests and align your application with program strengths
- Consider dual-degree options combining game development with business or art
Carnegie Mellon University
Pittsburgh, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,260 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 271 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 11%
- • Ranking Score: 96.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 271 game development graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 96.9 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (271 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (11% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Carnegie Mellon's Game Design program through IDeATe combines art, craft, and science with interdisciplinary collaboration across multiple departments. Students build strong portfolios while gaining expertise in game systems design, programming, narrative development, and user testing through hands-on courses taught by faculty experts.
Available Scholarships
Program Details
- Credits: Minimum of 45 Units
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 90 percent of graduates find full-time employment within six months of graduation
- Top Employers: Activision, Blizzard Entertainment, DreamWorks Animation, Electronic Arts, Epic Records, Walt Disney Studios, Warner Bros., Zynga Games
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $58,620 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 100% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 194 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 6%
- • Ranking Score: 92.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 100% graduation rate
- 194 game development graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 92.8 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (100%), program size (194 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (6% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Pennsylvania offers a Master of Science in Engineering in Computer Graphics and Game Technology specifically designed to address the need for interdisciplinary training in interactive entertainment and computer-animated visual effects. The program combines technical coursework with creative arts and design, requiring completion of 10 course units including advanced graphics and animation courses plus a design project.
Program Details
- Credits: 10 course units
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Penn Dental, Pearson, Riot Games, China Europe International Business School
University of Pittsburgh-Pittsburgh Campus
Pittsburgh, PA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $20,154 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 88% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 195 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 80.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 88% graduation rate
- 195 game development graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 80.5 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (88%), program size (195 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Lehigh University
Bethlehem, PA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,180 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 81% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 147 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 29%
- • Ranking Score: 78.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 81% graduation rate
- 147 game development graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 78.8 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (81%), program size (147 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (29% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Lehigh offers game development through both community college transfer pathways and comprehensive computer science programs with extensive research opportunities. Students benefit from hands-on laboratory experiences and capstone projects while preparing for a field where employment is projected to grow 21 percent from 2021 to 2031.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $74K
- Job Placement: 92% were employed, continuing education or pursuing military or volunteer service within six months of graduation
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
University Park, PA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $19,672 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 87% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 67 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 54%
- • Ranking Score: 66.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 87% graduation rate
- 67 game development graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.4 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (87%), program size (67 graduates), state salary outcomes ($108,830), and selectivity (54% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
Game Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and implement game mechanics, systems, and features using programming languages like C++, C#, and Python
Game Designer
Create game concepts, rules, storylines, and user experiences that engage players and drive retention
Technical Artist
Bridge the gap between art and programming teams, creating tools and pipelines for efficient game asset creation
Develop artificial intelligence systems for non-player characters, procedural content generation, and player behavior analysis
Which Should You Choose?
- You want the most prestigious program with global recognition
- Budget is not a primary concern ($64,596 annual tuition)
- You prefer graduate-level study (Master of Entertainment Technology)
- You want guaranteed industry connections and networking opportunities
- You value hands-on experience through co-op programs
- You want to earn money while studying (paid co-op positions)
- You prefer a balance of technical and business skills
- You're interested in both traditional and emerging gaming platforms
- You need an affordable, high-quality education ($19,816 in-state)
- You want a comprehensive computer science foundation with gaming specialization
- You prefer a large university environment with diverse opportunities
- You value research opportunities in gaming and interactive media
- You want an urban campus experience in Philadelphia
- You're interested in both game development and digital media arts
- You prefer smaller class sizes and personalized attention
- You want access to Philadelphia's growing tech scene
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on 12 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Game Development degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific game development salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related Resources
Sources and Methodology
Employment projections and salary data for software developers and related occupations
Federal data on college costs, graduation rates, and post-graduation earnings
Institutional characteristics, enrollment, and program data from participating colleges
State economic development data and industry analysis reports
12
Programs Offered
28450
Average Tuition (In-State)
23%
Industry Growth Rate
45+
Gaming Companies in PA
Taylor Rupe
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