Oklahoma ensures that high-quality, focused education is available for aspiring game designers at its game design schools. Even if it is not the biggest state for it in the United States, the universities in the region still do their best to provide well-developed academic programs. GoldFire Studios, Vaporware Studios, and other independent gaming companies in Oklahoma are also present to serve as professional career destinations for graduates.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Oklahoma, 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.
Three Game Design Schools in Oklahoma (2026)
University of Tulsa
The University of Tulsa has designed a curriculum centered on a Bachelor of Science in Computer Simulation and Gaming program. Under the Computer Simulation and Gaming Core of the Tulsa curriculum, students will take courses, such as Game Design Concepts, Introduction to Game Programming, 3D Modeling and Animation, Environmental Storytelling and Level Design, and many more. There are also elective courses focusing on Animation and Visual Effects, Game Design, Art and Graphics, Game Development and Engineering, Simulation and Serious Games, and Game Production. The potential jobs of graduates are game designer, game programmer, interactive media developer, serious games developer, and virtual reality engineer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 979 of 14,131
- US ranking: 262 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $25,000 to over $46,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Oklahoma City University
Oklahoma City University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Animation, which helps students join the game development industry by honing their skills and proficiencies in 3D animation, artificial intelligence in games, experimental game design, and more. The highlights of the curriculum are courses like 3D Modeling and Animation, Concept Development, Game Design and Animation Studio, Motion Graphics, and Texturing, Rendering, and Lighting. This bachelor’s degree prepares students for professional game design roles, such as a 3D modeler, animation artist, character concept artist, character rigger, environmental concept artist, programmer, and video game level designer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 2203 of 14,131
- US ranking: 541 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $10,000 to over $28,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Oklahoma Christian University
Oklahoma Christian University provides a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Gaming and Animation. This program makes sure that learners are well-versed in game design, gaining skills in 2D animation, animating and rigging 3D models, audio production, game level design, interactive design, texturing, and UV mapping. In addition, the curriculum has a focus on gaming and animation, encompassing courses like 3D Modeling and Animation, Gaming and Animation Studio, Interactive Media Design, and Team Game Production. With this, graduates will be equipped with industry-level competencies to pursue roles in animation and game design.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 4858 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1268 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $10,000 to over $24,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Oklahoma State University, Oral Roberts University, Rogers State University, and Seminole State College.
Why Study Game Design in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is committed to preparing students for game careers. Even with limited options, the state maximizes its resources to provide high-value game design education to students. The universities also emphasize hands-on learning, which opens up high-quality training opportunities. Consequently, this boosts their competitiveness in the job market. On top of these, the state’s local gaming industry is supported by emerging independent studios, making it an excellent setting for pursuing a degree in the field.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it feasible to learn game design in Oklahoma?
A: With the presence of a few educational institutions that offer game design programs, it is more than possible to acquire formal schooling in the field.
Q: What game design program is the most ideal to take in the state?
A: One of the programs that is worth considering is the Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Animation at Oklahoma City University.
Q: Are there online alternatives for game design education in Oklahoma?
A: Applicants can find an online video game design course and an online game artist certificate program at Oklahoma State University.
Note: This article incorporates the latest available data and information at the time of writing. Keep in mind that statistics can vary over time due to updates and real-world changes.
