Nebraska is not considered a top-tier national powerhouse in gaming and game design. Since it is not big on the specific field, the state does not have game design schools that offer standalone game design degree programs. Even so, the situation is far from hopeless. Students can still find a few alternatives to cultivate foundational skills through game design-related programs and game design certificate options. There are also a few independent gaming studios in Nebraska, such as 2DArray, that could serve as a good starting point to establish professional careers in the growing game and digital entertainment industry.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Nebraska, 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 Nebraska (2026)
University of Nebraska – Lincoln
The University of Nebraska in Lincoln does not deliver a focused game design curriculum. Nevertheless, students can take up the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Emerging Media instead. In this program, they will find a curriculum that has courses, including Games, Play and Performance, Introduction to Game Engines, and Game Engines for Real-time Performances. Learners also benefit from interdisciplinary collaborations that teach them about experience design, game design, virtual reality, and more. They can even join the UNL Game Development Club to further learn about professional game development techniques. Following graduation, graduates can explore a spectrum of creative careers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 115 of 14,131
- US ranking: 64 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $25,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Nebraska – Omaha
The University of Nebraska in Omaha has the College of Communication, Fine Arts, and Media, which offers a Bachelor’s degree in Studio Art. This program includes a Media Arts concentration with a Game Design option. Specifically, it focuses on game design theories, game mechanics, and visual content creation. At the same time, the university offers a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Game Programming concentration, where students explore 2D/3D game programming and game design concepts. To name a few possible careers after graduation, students can secure roles as an animator, game designer, or game programmer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 874 of 14,131
- US ranking: 235 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $6,000 per year for in-state students to over $20,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a Game Design certificate to learners who are interested in studying game design principles and their application on various platforms. The major courses in the program include Digital 3D Design, Game Design Fundamentals, Digital Game Design, Advanced Digital Game Design, and Digital Prototyping. After learning concepts and gaining knowledge in digital tools and engines, completers become versatile entry-level game designers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 3300 of 14,131
- US ranking: 853 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 to over $11,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Creighton University, Doane University, Hastings College, and Northeast Community College.
Why Study Game Design in Nebraska?
Nebraska may not be a top choice for full-blown game design education. However, it should not be overlooked, since it still has a few relevant programs that develop technical and storytelling skills essential in gaming. Aside from this, the university options here are much more affordable, with tuition fees not surpassing $25,000. Getting a career in Nebraska after graduation is also possible, with studios present in the area, like the one that did the video game, Not The Robots.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I study game design in Nebraska?
A: While you won’t find a dedicated game design degree program in the state, some universities allow you to take up relevant programs or certificate courses.
Q: Which Nebraska school has the best game design-related program?
A: The game programs at the University of Nebraska at Omaha are probably the top choices in this category.
Q: Does the state have universities that offer online alternatives?
A: As of this writing, there are no confirmed online formats of game design education in Nebraska.
Note: This article incorporates the latest available data and information at the time of writing. Keep in mind that statistics can vary over time due to updates and real-world changes.
