Top 3 Game Development Programs in Wisconsin 2025
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
69 game development graduates annually, 97% graduation rate
University of Wisconsin-Stout
127 game development graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
Milwaukee School of Engineering
37 game development graduates annually, 77% graduation rate
- 1.Wisconsin offers 19+ accredited game development programs across public and private universities
- 2.University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee leads with 97% graduation rate
- 3.Wisconsin software developers earn median $103,360 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Madison, Milwaukee
- 5.Cost of living index: 95.2% of US average (below average)
Game Development Education in Wisconsin: Overview
Wisconsin offers 19 accredited game development programs, producing approximately 377 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Madison, Milwaukee, with major employers including Epic Systems, Rockwell Automation, Northwestern Mutual.
With a median software developer salary of $103,360 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 95.2% compared to the US average, Wisconsin offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers compared to higher-cost coastal markets.
The top game development programs in the state are led by University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Milwaukee School of Engineering, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Based on 19 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Game Development degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Wisconsin-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Wisconsin Game Development Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | Milwaukee, WI | Public | $8,455 | 97% | 69.8 |
| 2 | University of Wisconsin-Stout | Menomonie, WI | Public | $7,330 | — | 67.9 |
| 3 | Milwaukee School of Engineering | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $46,385 | 77% | 60.2 |
| 4 | University of Wisconsin-Whitewater | Whitewater, WI | Public | $6,812 | 92% | 58.4 |
| 5 | University of Wisconsin-Green Bay | Green Bay, WI | Public | $6,767 | 79% | 53.6 |
| 6 | Wisconsin Lutheran College | Milwaukee, WI | Private | $34,520 | 93% | 48.5 |
| 7 | University of Wisconsin-Platteville | Platteville, WI | Public | $6,827 | 99% | 48.4 |
| 8 | Beloit College | Beloit, WI | Private | $58,042 | — | 45.6 |
| 9 | Carroll University | Waukesha, WI | Private | $36,400 | — | 44.9 |
| 10 | University of Wisconsin-Parkside | Kenosha, WI | Public | $6,582 | — | 44.1 |
| 11 | Lawrence University | Appleton, WI | Private | $55,149 | — | 43.9 |
| 12 | University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point | Stevens Point, WI | Public | $7,112 | 86% | 43.8 |
| 13 | University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | Oshkosh, WI | Public | $6,806 | 89% | 42.1 |
| 14 | Concordia University-Wisconsin | Mequon, WI | Private | $33,750 | — | 38.5 |
| 15 | Saint Norbert College | De Pere, WI | Private | $43,532 | — | 37.1 |
| 16 | University of Wisconsin-River Falls | River Falls, WI | Public | $6,837 | — | 34.7 |
| 17 | Ripon College | Ripon, WI | Private | $50,400 | — | 34.3 |
| 18 | Herzing University-Madison | Madison, WI | Private | $12,360 | 39% | 30.6 |
| 19 | Herzing University-Brookfield | Brookfield, WI | Private | $12,360 | 22% | 24.5 |
Top 5 Game Development Programs in Wisconsin: Side-by-Side
| School | U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | U of Wisconsin-Stout | Milwaukee School of... | U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | U of Wisconsin-Green Bay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,455 | $7,330 | $46,385 | $6,812 | $6,767 |
| Graduation Rate | 97% | N/A% | 77% | 92% | 79% |
| Annual Graduates | 69 | 127 | 37 | 33 | 31 |
| Acceptance Rate | 88% | 85% | 60% | 83% | 88% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Public |
| Score | 69.8/100 | 67.9/100 | 60.2/100 | 58.4/100 | 53.6/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Game Development in Wisconsin
Wisconsin offers 18 bachelor's-level game development programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-Stout, Milwaukee School of Engineering. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $72,352 in the Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 87 | 73.2 |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Stout | $7,330 | N/A% | 127 | 67.9 |
| #3 Milwaukee School of... | $46,385 | 77% | 37 | 60.2 |
Top Game Development Schools for Master's Degrees in Wisconsin
For graduate study, Wisconsin offers 3 master's-level game development programs. Leading institutions include University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-River Falls. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Wisconsin reaching $134,368 or more.
Top 3 Game Development Master's Programs in Wisconsin
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Milwaukee | $8,455 | 97% | 69 | 69.8 |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Whitewater | $6,812 | 92% | 10 | 51.6 |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-River Falls | $6,837 | N/A% | 2 | 34.7 |
Most Affordable Game Development Colleges in Wisconsin
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable game development programs in Wisconsin are at University of Wisconsin-Parkside ($6,582/year), University of Wisconsin-Green Bay ($6,767/year), University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh ($6,806/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Wisconsin's competitive tech salaries.
At University of Wisconsin-Parkside, a 4-year degree costs approximately $26,328 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $72,352, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years. See our Most Affordable Game Development Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Game Development Programs in Wisconsin (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Wisconsin-Parkside | $6,582 | $26,328 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 U of Wisconsin-Green Bay | $6,767 | $27,068 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 U of Wisconsin-Oshkosh | $6,806 | $27,224 | 0.7 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Game Development Schools in Wisconsin
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 game development programs in Wisconsin, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Milwaukee, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,455 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 97% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 69 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 69.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- 97% graduation rate
- 69 game development graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 69.8 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (97%), program size (69 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The Digital Arts and Culture program is student-centered and interdisciplinary, allowing students to tailor coursework to individual goals while providing comprehensive understanding of the intersection of digital technologies, culture, and creativity. The program emphasizes collaboration and community-building with hands-on learning opportunities and prepares graduates for careers in creative industries and cultural institutions.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
Program Details
- Credits: 36 credits
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Menomonie, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $7,330 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 127 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 67.9 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 127 game development graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.9 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (127 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (85% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee, WI • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $46,385 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 77% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 37 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 60%
- • Ranking Score: 60.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 77% graduation rate
- 37 game development graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 60.2 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (77%), program size (37 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (60% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
MSOE's computer science program offers hands-on learning with cutting-edge AI technology including access to Rosie, the school's GPU supercomputer, and specialized labs in Diercks Hall. Students work on real-world capstone projects with industry sponsors and learn from faculty with industry experience.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •four years of mathematics (including one-and-a-half years of algebra, one year of geometry, and one-half year of trigonometry)
- •four years of natural science (including biology, chemistry, and physics)
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 90% of 2023-24 graduates from computer science program are fully employed, enrolled in graduate school or enlisted in a branch of the military after graduation
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Whitewater, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,812 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 92% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 33 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 83%
- • Ranking Score: 58.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- 92% graduation rate
- 33 game development graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 58.4 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (92%), program size (33 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (83% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers 100% employment rate within one year of graduation and features a cutting-edge motion capture studio for real-world technical experience. Students hear from industry experts representing major games and films like God of War, Transformers, and Assassin's Creed at the annual MAGD Expo.
Available Scholarships
Career Outcomes
- Job Placement: 100% of UW-Whitewater Media Arts and Game Design majors were employed in their field within one year of graduation (2022-23)
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Green Bay, WI • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,767 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 79% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Game Development Graduates: 31 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 53.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 79% graduation rate
- 31 game development graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 53.6 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (79%), program size (31 graduates), state salary outcomes ($103,360), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program is designed by a Unity Authorized Academic Training Partner with over 20 years of professional experience, offering both academic courses and online certificate training. Students build three complete games including a 3D arcade game, first-person adventure, and custom game while learning programming languages, game asset creation, and modern real-time game engines.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Data Scientist
SOC 15-2051Data Scientist opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
AI/ML Engineer
SOC 15-1299AI/ML Engineer opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Cybersecurity Analyst opportunities in Wisconsin with strong job growth.
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Madison, Milwaukee
- You're seeking lower cost of living than coastal states (95.2% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like Epic Systems or Rockwell Automation
- You prefer Wisconsin's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Wisconsin's 19)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration (consider SF, Seattle, NYC)
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Game Development Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
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Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Massachusetts
Game Development in Wisconsin FAQ
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Wisconsin salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.