Des Moines may be more widely recognized as a major insurance and financial services hub rather than a prominent center for the game industry. Be that as it may, it remains a suitable option for students seeking to become professional game designers. Although small in number, the game design schools here maintain high academic standards, while studios like Gold Creek Games help support the local career landscape.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Des Moines, Iowa, 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 Des Moines, Iowa (2026)
Grand View University
Grand View University’s Game Design and Interactive Analytics major ensures that students are ready for the rigors of working in the gaming sector. A few highlights of the curriculum include game-aligned courses, such as Introduction to Games, Programming for Games, Game Studio, and Game Design Capstone. Students will even explore 2D/3D digital design, animation, AR/VR design, and more. Accomplishing all the courses means learners understand design, play, and narrative elements more deeply. Subsequently, graduates have a plethora of career options to choose from, including game designer, app designer, interactive media designer, producer, user experience designer, animator, writer, researcher, and 3D illustrator.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 5701 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 1498 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Des Moines: 3 of 4
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Post-master’s certificate
- Acceptance rate: 98%
- Graduation rate: 56%
Tuition and fees at Grand View University range from about $9,000 to over $32,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines Area Community College offers three online alternatives to gain the necessary skills in the field. For students seeking a long-term option, the school administers a Video Game Design and Development training course that focuses on game engines, programming, game development, and game assets. In contrast, those who prefer short-term learning can opt for the Get Started in Game Development course that features lessons, such as Game Genres, Platforms, and Audiences, Game Interface Design, and Game-Development Processes. Finally, students also have the chance to complete a Certificate in Basic Game Design by taking courses, including Introduction to Game Design and Intermediate Video Game Design. All of these options enable completers to pursue game design and development careers.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: N/A (not yet reported)
- Current ranking in the United States: N/A (not yet reported)
- Current ranking in Des Moines: N/A (not yet reported)
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: N/A (not yet reported)
- Acceptance rate: N/A (not yet reported)
- Graduation rate: N/A (not yet reported)
Tuition and fees data for Des Moines Area Community College have not been published by the ranking and data provider (Edurank).
Why Study Game Design in Des Moines, Iowa?
What makes Des Moines a promising place to learn game design is the fact that it combines formal degree programs with accessible certificate options. This compensates for the small selection of game design schools. The offered programs in the city also emphasize practical, portfolio-focused skills that are immediately applicable to industry roles at game studios within the city or the state of Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can students pursue game design education in Des Moines?
A: Absolutely. Grand View University and Des Moines Area Community College offer programs, making the city a viable place to study game design.
Q: What is the best game-focused program in the area?
A: A stronger choice of program would be the Game Design & Interactive Analytics major at Grand View University, since it is a formal degree.
Q: Is there a flexible online or certificate option for game design?
A: Yes, different types of online game design offerings are available at Des Moines Area Community 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.
