South Dakota has a quite small game design ecosystem, which pales in comparison to those in other regions in the United States.
According to the Entertainment Software Association, the local video game industry’s economic impact stands at $4.5 million, which is well below the billions contributed by other areas. At the same time, the total number of jobs supported by the said sector is 30. It is also significantly less than the thousands of direct and indirect career opportunities provided by other states, such as Oregon and New York. These dismal figures are primarily driven by the lack of game design schools and game studios in South Dakota, which otherwise could have strengthened the state’s position in the gaming industry.
Nevertheless, the region houses one university that provides robust education for aspiring game designers and a few alternative options to gain relevant knowledge and skills.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in South Dakota, 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.
Best Game Design School in South Dakota (2026)
Dakota State University
Dakota State University is the only educational institution in South Dakota that has a standalone game design degree. Specifically, it provides students with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design. In this on-campus program, students will benefit from a project-based curriculum that includes courses such as 3D Character Animation, Rigging and Lighting, Game Design Core Experience, and Introduction to Game Design. Learners are also going to work with industry tools and technologies and experienced faculty in designing their first concept to developing an actual game. Upon graduation, students will be fully prepared for careers as an application developer, concept artist, game designer, game developer, multimedia specialist, and software engineer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 2358 of 14,131
- US ranking: 591 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $7,000 per year for in-state students to over $11,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions
Given that the state’s game design school options are limited, here are alternatives where students can gain relevant learning to pursue careers in the gaming industry.
- Southeast Technical College
Southeast Technical College offers a Computer Programming Associate Degree program. It also houses the Game Development Student Organization, which is a group of students studying game design patterns, game engines, and more.
- Dakota Wesleyan University
Dakota Wesleyan University’s Digital Media and Design program explores UI/UX and graphic design, which could be helpful in game design fields.
Why Study Game Design in South Dakota?
Putting into consideration the current game design scene in South Dakota, it is easy to exclude it from your options. With that said, its appeal may be limited to the locals who do not want to transfer or those out-of-state students who will be moving to the region. Accordingly, those who choose to study game design in South Dakota can take advantage of affordable education and a lower cost of living. Together, these factors ensure that higher education is more accessible. Other than that, the game design schools in the area may be limited, but the one that exists provides strong programs for meaningful careers and growth opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get game design education in South Dakota?
A: While there is a significant lack of game design schools in the state, students can definitely study game design in the area.
Q: Which South Dakota university offers a standalone game design degree?
A: The best, and perhaps the only, option for students looking for a dedicated game design degree is the Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design at Dakota State University, which delivers a comprehensive program in the field.
Q: Do the universities in South Dakota support online programs for game design?
A: As of this writing, there is no confirmed online game design course in the state. You may check their respective official websites for the latest information.
Q: Are there affordable options for game design education in the region?
A: Yes, there is. The tuition fees at Dakota State University are under $12,000.
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.
