With the global gaming market size projected to reach $302.9 billion this year, the gaming landscape positions itself as an appealing industry to enter. Hence, many places are gradually adapting to stay competitive since the gaming space continues to expand worldwide. Accordingly, one state in the United States that is increasingly embracing game design is Arizona. Specifically, its higher education landscape has game design schools that offer immersive bachelor’s degrees to hands-on production programs that provide students with options that combine creative and technical skills.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Arizona, 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.
Five Game Design Schools in Arizona (2026)
University of Arizona
The University of Arizona features a dedicated game design program. Specifically, students can opt for a degree in Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development. Additionally, this four-year program introduces students to artificial intelligence, game programming, and virtual reality. Moreover, they will benefit from comprehensive courses, such as Algorithms for Games, Advanced Game Development, and more. Through this multidisciplinary approach, game design students will be ready to take on related gaming careers once they complete the program.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 45 of 14,131
- US ranking: 35 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $11,000 per year for in-state students to over $39,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Game Design within the Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. The program aims to help students transform their gaming passion into a professional career in the industry. By instilling learners with mastery in relevant technologies and immersive experiences from projects, they enable students to understand multiple gaming concepts and ideas. In particular, they are exposed to creating games, interactive media, simulations, and virtual environments. With modern technology, advanced mentorship, and a hands-on method of teaching, learners acquire the necessary skills to land creative jobs.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 58 of 14,131
- US ranking: 42 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 90%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $11,000 per year for in-state students to over $31,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University may not have a specific degree that caters to game design, but it does have a course focusing on Game and Simulation Development through its ABET-accredited Computer Science BS program. More concretely, learners gain sweeping knowledge on algorithms, artificial intelligence, simulation, and storyboard creation. At the same time, they are taught to master the process of producing and publishing mobile games. Subsequently, most graduates end up having careers in game development, game programming, and the like.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 2698 of 14,131
- US ranking: 688 of 2,496
- Control: Private for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $10,000 per year for in-state students to over $16,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Advancing Technology
The University of Advancing Technology is well-regarded for its multiple degrees in game design and related areas. It actually delivers different programs, including a BA in Game Design, a BA in Game Art and Animation, a BS in Game Programming, and an MS in Game Production and Management. Some of the curriculum highlights are Level Design, 3D Modeling Characters and Vehicles, C++ programming, App Development, and much more in the respective programs. Furthermore, possible career pathways for graduates include animation and film, simulation training, and digital advertising.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 7129 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1842 of 2,496
- Control: Private for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $15,000 per year for in-state students to over $18,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University offers a BS in Simulation Science, Games, and Animation degree. The program is an ideal entry point for students wanting to study game design, as it has courses that allow students to design virtual worlds, practice animations, execute simulations, and familiarize themselves with user experiences. In line with this, a few possible careers they can pursue are game programming and game development.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 8486 of 14,131
- US ranking: 2065 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $20,000 per year for in-state students to over $40,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Why Study Game Design in Arizona?
Choosing a university can be complicated — there are various factors you would have to consider. However, if you are in Arizona or planning/willing to move to the state, you will definitely find some of the best options to prepare for a career in the gaming industry. Why? The game design ecosystem in Arizona provides education that is strong and diverse, mixing creativity with technology. Most importantly, universities in the area prioritize equipping students with compelling portfolios and experience in practical applications to excel in the professional field of gaming.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I study game design in Arizona?
A: Absolutely! The state has a few schools with gaming design programs.
Q: What is the best game design degree in Arizona?
A: Technically, the answer depends on your situation and objective, but the Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development degree at the University of Arizona includes a comprehensive curriculum.
Q: Is it possible to study game design online in Arizona?
A: Yes! In fact, the University of Arizona recently launched a full online program for its dedicated game design degree.
