Houston might be the largest city in Texas, but it does not carry the same weight in terms of the game design ecosystem. It even falls behind the likes of Austin and Dallas when it comes to the availability of game design schools and game studios. Nonetheless, the city maintains a presence in the field through some of its academic options and relevant coursework in game design. Career pathways also exist, although minimally, thanks to entertainment production studio Six Foot and a few other independent studios.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Houston, Texas, 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 Houston, Texas (2026)
University of Houston
The University of Houston offers an online game design course through its online and special programs department. Specifically, this involves training in video game design and development, along with the honing of skills in programming, game engines, and many more. Completion of the course can take up to 12 months, but it helps acquire in-demand occupations in game design.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 194 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 86 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Houston: 2 of 16
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
Tuition and fees at the University of Houston range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $21,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Houston Christian University
Houston Christian University houses a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Video Game Design. It includes courses like 2D/3D Digital Art and Design, Introduction to Video Game Design, Gameplay Implementation, and Advanced Game Development within a curriculum that focuses on practical application. The inclusion of internships and portfolio creation enables students to lead the game industry as 3D modelers, character designers, environment designers, game artists, game designers, game programmers, and game testers.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 4033 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 1055 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Houston: 11 of 16
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
Tuition and fees at Houston Christian University range from about $8,000 to over $35,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Lone Star College – Houston North Victory
Lone Star College – Houston North Victory provides a Game Design and Simulation Designer – artist program, which includes a Level 2 Certificate as a prerequisite to an Associate of Applied Science degree. Through courses such as Introduction to Game Design and Development, Basic Animation, 3D Modeling and Rendering, Level Design, Game Testing, and a few more, students will understand the mechanics that make up the assets necessary for game design and learn how to use software to realize the idea. Moreover, graduates can pursue careers in 3D modeling & animation, level design, and more.
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 Houston: 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 Lone Star College have not been published by the ranking and data provider (Edurank).
Honorable Mentions: Houston City College and Lone Star College-Houston North Victory.
Why Study Game Design in Houston, Texas?
Even without the volume of dedicated game design programs found in nearby cities, Houston is still a solid location for game design education. Due to the existence of reliable programs and alternatives, students manage to build real portfolios and experience. Besides, if graduates do not find any luck or solid career opportunities within the city, they can pursue a plethora of game studios to work for without leaving the state of Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Houston, Texas, support game design education?
A: Yes, definitely. There is a decent number of game design programs and relevant offerings at the universities in the city.
Q: What is the best dedicated game design program in the city?
A: One of the, if not the only, full-fledged game design option is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Video Game Design at Houston Christian University.
Q: Are there online game design courses?
A: Yes, the University of Houston offers online programs in game design.
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.
