Standalone game design majors in New Mexico are still emerging, but there are a few game design schools that offer diverse and creative educational pipelines in the field. Besides, the state has become more alluring to gaming corporations in recent years. It is particularly noted for its 30% tax incentive for game development companies, as reported by NM Borderplex. The educational pathways and supportive gaming ecosystem make New Mexico one of the best gaming destinations.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in New Mexico, 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 New Mexico (2026)
University of New Mexico – Valencia Campus
The University of New Mexico’s campus in Valencia is home to an Associate of Applied Science in Game Design and Simulation degree and a Game Design and Simulation certificate. In the degree program, students gain skills in using software and techniques to create game assets and game design theories to make their projects immersive. Meanwhile, the certificate program enables learners to acquire experience in the entire game design process. Both programs include courses, such as Introduction to Game Development, Game Engine, Game Programming, Character and Creature Modeling, Level Design, and much more. Upon completion, students can use this credential to make educational advancement, like a bachelor’s degree, or start working in areas including game development, digital art, and UX design.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 187 of 14,131
- US ranking: 84 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $6,000 per year for in-state students to over $25,000 per year for out-of-state students.
New Mexico State University
New Mexico State University’s branch campuses in Grants and Doña Ana have a Game Design certificate and an Associate of Applied Science in Game Development, respectively. Students who prefer the certificate program will train using the Adobe suite, Blender, and Unreal Engine 5. They will also take Introduction to 3D Modeling, 3D Character Design, Game Tools and Techniques, and Level Design Concepts courses. On the other hand, those who choose the associate degree will acquire essential knowledge and skills by completing courses, such as Principles of Design, Creative Media Studio, Storyboarding, Game Tools and Techniques, and much more. Accordingly, completers will be proficient enough to land jobs in 3D modeling, conceptual game design, digital media design, and programming.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 481 of 14,131
- US ranking: 150 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $6,000 per year for in-state students to over $23,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Eastern New Mexico University – Roswell
The Eastern New Mexico University in Roswell administers a Media Arts program with a game design track. In particular, it is a certificate of occupational training. Additionally, the curriculum has courses, such as 3D animation, game design concepts, game design fundamentals, and game tools & techniques. At the end of the training, students are expected to contribute to the creation of digital games, as well as use industry-standard tools. Accordingly, the program ensures that graduates have the competencies to secure positions as game artists, game designers, interface designers, level designers, and producers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 3291 of 14,131
- US ranking: 851 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 55%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $4,000 per year for in-state students to over $7,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Clovis Community College, Luna Community College, Santa Fe Community College, and Southeast New Mexico College.
Why Study Game Design in New Mexico?
New Mexico’s gaming landscape is becoming well-rounded. For instance, the existing universities offer game design programs or relevant courses to help students build essential expertise in various areas. At the same time, the supportive environment in the state makes it more appealing to gaming companies, which could translate to more job opportunities for game design graduates in New Mexico.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there strong opportunities to learn game design in New Mexico?
A: Yes, there are educational institutions that provide reliable pathways to study game design.
Q: Which school delivers a comprehensive game design degree?
A: The university that has one of the most directly game-oriented degrees in the state is the University of New Mexico – Valencia (Associate of Applied Science in Game Design and Simulation).
Q: Which option offers online education?
A: Many community colleges in the region provide online formats for game design education.
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.
