Los Angeles is definitely a major hub for game design, serving as one of the cornerstones of the gaming industry in California. The city boasts AAA game development. It houses major studios like Riot Games, producing projects such as League of Legends and Valorant, which are well-renowned titles. At the same time, Los Angeles offers a mix of rigorous game design schools that have extensive programs for aspiring game designers.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Los Angeles, California, 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 Los Angeles, California (2026)
University of California, Los Angeles
The University of California, Los Angeles, mainly offers game design opportunities through a Bachelor of Arts in Design Media Arts degree and an online Unity I: 3D Game Design and Game Engines course. The undergraduate program features a curriculum with courses, such as Design Futures, 3D Modeling and Motion, Game Design, and more. Meanwhile, the online course allows students to explore the creation of worlds and game experiences, establish technical software skills, and produce a full 3D experience. About the possible career paths, graduates can pursue roles as 3D environment artists, game designers, UI/UX designers, and others.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 13 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 11 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Los Angeles: 1 of 31
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 9%
- Graduation Rate: 93%
Tuition and fees at the University of California range from about $11,000 per year for in-state students to over $42,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Southern California
The University of Southern California is popular for its School of Cinematic Arts. In here, they can take a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development and Interaction Design degree. Some of the four-year program’s core requirements include Game Design Workshop and Intermediate Game Design and Production. After this, they can continue studying through a Master of Science in Game Design and Development degree, which is a two-year program. Its curriculum focuses on courses like Interactive Design and Production, Design for Interactive Media, and Game Development for Designers. Consequently, all graduates will be qualified for roles in 3D animation, game design, game development, game programming, and interface design, among others.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 27 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 22 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Los Angeles: 2 of 31
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 10%
- Graduation Rate: 92%
Tuition and fees at the University of Southern California are about $66,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Otis College of Art and Design
Otis College of Art and Design offers two ways to get game design education. The first is a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game and Entertainment Design, wherein the curriculum highlights the study of video game design aspects. Students will also gain skills in concept art, lighting, modeling, texturing, and pipeline game engine integration. In contrast, learners can acquire hands-on game design experience through an online Game Design certificate. Some of the required courses are 3D Modeling: Game Design, Concept/Storytelling for Game Design, Game Design Production, Introduction to Game Design, and Scripting for Game Design. Upon completion, the possible jobs related to the programs include 2D/ 3D CG artist, CG texture artist, character modeler, Unreal Engine artist, and many more.
General Information:
- Current ranking in the world: 5797 of 14,131
- Current ranking in the United States: 1520 of 2,496
- Current ranking in Los Angeles: 14 of 31
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 84%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
Tuition and fees at Otis College of Art and Design range from about $49,000 to over $51,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Gnomon School of Visual Effects and Los Angeles Film School.
Why Study Game Design in Los Angeles, California?
Considering what Los Angeles offers in terms of game design and gaming as a whole, there is no doubt that it is an exceptional choice for anyone looking to enter the field. From robust programs to internships to industry exposure, it is surely an ideal place to train for careers in various areas of the gaming sector. While tuition and fees are far from affordable, the quality of education makes every penny worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I study game design in Los Angeles, California?
A: Yes, the city is home to many highly regarded game design programs at both private and public institutions.
Q: Which is the best game design program in the city?
A: The place’s widely recognized game design option is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Development and Interaction Design at the University of Southern California.
Q: Is there an online alternative for studying game design in Los Angeles?
A: Yes. A few game design schools, including Otis College of Art and Design and the University of California, Los Angeles, offer online courses.
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.
