The state of Georgia has become a rapidly emerging hub contributing to the gaming industry. In detail, the data from the Georgia Game Developers Association reveals that there are around 189 game-related companies in the area. At the same time, the estimated overall statewide economic impact of the industry was already roughly $1 billion in 2021, showing signs of a positive trajectory. Looking at these figures, it is no surprise that Georgia has game design schools with respected, top-notch programs preparing students for careers in the gaming space.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Georgia, 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 Georgia (2026)
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Institute of Technology is an appealing option for students interested in studying game design. It provides a pathway to the field through its Bachelor of Science in Computational Media program. By taking elective courses under the curriculum, students can focus on gaming with the fields of study covering Introduction to Game Studies, Game Studio, and Introduction to Artificial Intelligence. Accordingly, graduates are qualified to take on roles in areas like 3D modeling or game design and development.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 70 of 14,131
- US ranking: 47 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 16%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $10,000 per year for in-state students to over $31,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Georgia
The University of Georgia offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree program in Art, with a graphic design major. This degree program will assist in building a strong foundation for aspiring game designers. Meanwhile, it also has an online game design course that aims to equip students with knowledge and skills in designing and developing games. This training program helps aspirants to master Unity Game, develop programming language skills, and much more. Furthermore, graduates will become competent in related game design roles.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 84 of 14,131
- US ranking: 53 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 37%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $28,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Georgia State University
Georgia State University boasts two routes to study game design, namely the Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and the Bachelor of Science in Game Development. In the former, students are trained to combine game arts and modern technology platforms. On the other hand, the latter trains them to code and program, while exposing them to software-intensive practices. Both programs ensure that students are qualified for roles in the field, with records showing that there are graduates hired at big studios and others who now run their own gaming companies.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 297 of 14,131
- US ranking: 114 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $7,000 per year for in-state students to over $22,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Kennesaw State University
The Kennesaw State University allows students to pursue a Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design and Development degree. Specifically, this four-year program enables students to do 2D and 3D graphics, algorithms, data structures, modeling, simulation, and even human-computer interaction. Through this degree, they can become art directors, special effects artists and animators, software developers, and video game designers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1036 of 14,131
- US ranking: 273 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 48%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $4,000 per year for in-state students to over $19,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah College of Art and Design houses the most programs related to game design in Georgia. For undergraduate options, students can choose between a Bachelor of Arts in Game Development or a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development degree. Meanwhile, the selection for graduate programs includes a Master of Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development or a Master of Fine Arts in Interactive Design and Game Development. With online and on-campus setups, each program gives students chances to acquire hands-on experience and utilize customized facilities. With that said, it can be expected that graduates of this premier institution can secure roles in all areas of game design and development.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 3350 of 14,131
- US ranking: 866 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $40,000 to over $41,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Emory University, Georgia Southern University, University of West Georgia, West Georgia Technical College, and Wiregrass Georgia Technical College.
Why Study Game Design in Georgia?
On top of natural beauty, a warm climate, and plenty of bustling cities, Georgia is a great place to study game design, as several top-ranked video game design schools can be found in the area. Whether you are interested in the art and animation or the computer science side of game development, there is something for you at these reputable and relatively affordable colleges. In short, the Peach State is one of the more popular states for students looking to become the next greatest game designers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it possible to study game design in Georgia?
A: Yes, it is. There are several game design options in the Peach State.
Q: What is the ideal game design degree to apply for in the state?
A: The options that are widely regarded are the undergraduate and graduate degrees at the Savannah College of Art and Design.
Q: Do these programs help build a portfolio?
A: Most options in Georgia require projects or capstone courses that help establish portfolio-ready outputs and experiences.
