Even if Montana is not exactly a high-profile gaming or game design center, it continues to make contributions to the industry in effective ways. To illustrate, it is home to the Add-A-Tudez Entertainment Company, which is the parent organization of two PlayStation-certified game studios, namely: Ingenium and KAIZEN. Likewise, the state fosters talent through programs across a few game design schools.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Montana, we reviewed publicly available information and program offerings and relied on EduRank to select the best options in the state. Our focus was on identifying schools that provide the strongest preparation for professional game design careers. This approach ensures a consistent evaluation while prioritizing choices that equip students with knowledge and practical skills for the evolving gaming industry.
How to Use Our Criteria
While our list is based on statistics and facts, we acknowledge that it is not absolute and is open to interpretation. We also recognize that each student has varying needs regarding program focus, campus culture, cost, lifestyle, and the like. With that said, our rankings are solely intended to provide guidance and highlight programs that can help students land a career in game design.
Three Game Design Schools in Montana (2026)
Montana State University
Montana State University is not known for having a dedicated game design degree, but it has game design-related programs available. For those interested in establishing a foundation in creating, marketing, and enhancing the visual experience of video games, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design is offered. Its curriculum includes courses like Motion Graphics, Interaction Design, and more. On the other hand, students who prefer more technical stuff will enjoy the Computer Science/Programming program, which has courses that tackle the design, development, and implementation of multimedia games and the connection of artificial intelligence to game playing. After completing their studies, graduates can find careers in advertising, programming, and UI/UX design.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 460 of 14,131
- US ranking: 67 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $6,000 per year for in-state students to over $29,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Montana
The University of Montana oversees a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design & Interactive Media program. In detail, the curriculum focuses on the basics of 3D animation, creative coding, design, game development, illustration, and storytelling, allowing students to conceptualize and create games on their own. Among the many beneficial courses are Sound Production & Design Fundamentals, Intro to Motion Design, Serious Games, Multiplayer Games, and Mobile Game Programming. Upon earning their degrees, completers may enter roles such as a 3D modeler, storyline developer, and video game designer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 500 of 14,131
- US ranking: 155 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 45%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $5,000 per year for in-state students to over $32,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Rocky Mountain College – Montana
Rocky Mountain College in Montana offers other pathways to enter the field of gaming. One of these is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art, which develops skills in 3D character art, 3D environment art, 3D modeling, lighting, observational drawing, rigging, texture mapping, and visual storytelling. Another option is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in 2D or 3D Animation, which helps students learn about the 12 principles of animation, character design with turnarounds, storyboarding with animatic, and much more. Furthermore, graduates with a game art degree can take on roles like environment artist, lighting artist, texture artist, and props artist. Meanwhile, animation degree holders can become 3D artists, animators, and character designers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 5823 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1532 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $31,000 to over $32,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Flathead Valley Community College and Helena College University of Montana.
Why Study Game Design in Montana?
Montana’s game design landscape is far from a lost cause, despite being more limited compared to those in other states. Two quick reasons: academic tracks with potential and high career opportunities. The state offers a fairly decent set of game design and related education pathways. At the same time, Montana houses notable game studios that are recognized by major gaming companies in the industry, indicating possible career destinations after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it feasible to learn game design in Montana?
A: Yes, it is, despite the shortage of game design schools in the area.
Q: What is the best game design program in the state?
A: One of the most dedicated game design offerings in Montana is the University of Montana’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design & Interactive Media.
Q: Can I learn game design through an online course in Montana?
A: Online courses are available at Helena College, the University of Montana, and Rocky Mountain College – Montana.
