Beer Brewing is the specialty of Milwaukee, which is why it has long been called the Brew City. The city’s roots were never really tied to interactive media. However, it is gradually making a mark in game design. Although the selection of game design schools in the area is small, it is optimistic. Universities in the city continue to introduce programs that help students prepare for careers in the back-end of the gaming sector.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, 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 Milwaukee, Wisconsin (2026)
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee’s Game Art and Design undergraduate certificate ensures that students will have what it takes to create games that are unforgettable for players. The program’s curriculum features required interdisciplinary courses like JavaScript or Scripting for Games, Computer Games & Interactive Art, and Game Design & Interactive Art. Studio electives such as 3D Environments and XR, Immersive Game Interfaces, and Intermediate Digital Studio are also available. Overall, this certificate pathway trains students in designing characters, environments, and interactive experiences in games. By the time students complete the program, they will be equipped with creative and technical skills to become 3D animators, character designers, game designers, UI/UX designers, and more.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 416 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 133 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Milwaukee: 1 of 12
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 88%
- Graduation rate: 51%
Tuition and fees at the University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $24,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Marquette University
Marquette University is home to a Games and Interactive Media minor. Specifically, students will learn from a curriculum that includes courses such as Game Studies and Aesthetics, Basic Game Design, and Script and Story. To extend their learning, they can also choose from a variety of electives, including but not limited to Introduction to Computer Graphics, Sound Design, and Game Studies. At the same time, learners will analyze the implications of video games both socially and culturally. Students who finish the minor will be ready to enter the gaming industry and other industries where real-time virtual production is in demand.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 576 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 180 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Milwaukee: 3 of 12
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Graduation rate: 80%
Tuition and fees at Marquette University range from about $23,000 to over $47,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Milwaukee School of Engineering
Milwaukee School of Engineering’s Game Development course within its Computing Explorers Pathway is tailored to explore topics, including 3D modeling, characters, game design, game development, game mechanics, game testing, and many more. The course also ensures that students will be able to use advanced object-oriented programming and apply game development concepts in designing and creating a game. Completion of this offering enables students gain a strong foundation to thrive in game design and game development professions.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 3110 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 801 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Milwaukee: 4 of 12
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Post-master’s certificate
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Graduation rate: 72%
Tuition and fees at Milwaukee School of Engineering range from about $22,000 to over $46,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mention: Milwaukee Area Technical College
Why Study Game Design in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
While it is true that Milwaukee is not traditionally considered a game design hub, it now has a developing scene in the field. Also, the game design education pathways offered at universities are not only comprehensive but are even cost-competitive. However, the companies awaiting Milwaukee graduates are limited to small studios like Galactic Slice and whatnotory. Nevertheless, several more studios in the broader Wisconsin area are within driving distance of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I learn game design in Milwaukee?
A: Yes, there are a few schools in the city that can help students study game design.
Q: What is the top game design option in Brew City?
A: The University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee’s Game Art and Design undergraduate certificate is one of the most focused programs in the field in the city.
Q: Are there game design programs offered in an online format in this place?
A: Yes, there are online alternatives at Milwaukee Area Technical College.
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.
