Among the places in Pennsylvania with a vibrant game design scene is Philadelphia. The city is devoted to helping aspiring game designers reach their objectives through its top-tier game design schools. At the same time, career opportunities are everywhere. Philadelphia has over a hundred game-related companies, with game studios such as Flyclops Games, JumpButton Studio, and Skyless Games present in the city.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, we reviewed publicly available information and program offerings, and we relied on EduRank to select the best options in the city. 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.
Top Game Design Schools in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (2026)
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania does not have a dedicated game design program. However, it compensates for it by offering relevant ones, specifically the Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Digital Media Design and the Master of Science in Engineering in Computer Graphics & Game Technology. The undergraduate curriculum includes courses like Introduction to Computer Programming, Interactive Computer Graphics, Computer Animation, and more. On the other hand, some of the courses featured in the graduate curriculum are 3D Computer Modeling, Game Design and Development, and Game Design Practicum. These pathways lead to professional careers as an artist, animator, designer, engineer, software developer, or writer.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 16 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 12 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Philadelphia: 1 of 19
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 6%
- Graduation Rate: 97%
Tuition and fees at the University of Pennsylvania range from about $41,000 to over $58,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Drexel University
Drexel University fosters game design talent through its Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Production degree program. With mentorship from experienced professionals and small class sizes, students will focus on hands-on coursework in animation, game level design, 3D design, programming, interactivity design, and the like. Graduates of this program will have the critical competencies necessary to land positions in the industry, such as animator, 3D artist, game designer, producer, concept artist, gameplay engineer, narrative designer, level designer, and many more.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 266 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 108 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Philadelphia: 3 of 19
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 77%
Tuition and fees at Drexel University range from about $36,000 to over $58,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Moore College of Art and Design
Moore College of Art and Design offers a major in Animation & Game Arts. In detail, the main highlights of this program are the inclusion of collaborations and internships at top studios. Students can choose from animation, games, and hybrid paths. In addition, the core curriculum covers 2D Design, 3D Design, 3D Modeling, Animation, Contemporary Media, Game Art & Design, and beyond. As expected, this major assists students in launching their careers in animation and game design.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 3886 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 1018 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Philadelphia: 11 of 19
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
Tuition and fees at Moore College of Art and Design range from about $48,000 to over $62,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mention: Temple University
Why Study Game Design in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania?
Pursuing game design education in Philadelphia might be more costly than in other cities or states. However, it is essentially justifiable as these are private universities that offer nationally recognized programs. In other words, game design students can expect to get their money’s worth. In line with this, the quality education they can get will not go to waste, since the city is home to game companies, making it a fertile ground for students to grow professionally.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are game design schools available in Philadelphia?
A: Yes, educational institutions that offer game design programs or relevant pathways do exist in the area.
Q: What is the best standalone game design option in the city?
A: The Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Production offered at Drexel University is often considered the best full-pledged game design program in the city.
Q: Is there a school that makes it possible to learn game design through an online setup?
A: Yes. One of the universities that delivers online game design courses is Temple University.
Note: This article incorporates the latest available data and information at the time of writing. Please note that statistics can fluctuate over time due to updates and real-world changes.
