Iowa does not have a gaming industry as established as in states like California, Florida, or Illinois. The game studios in the state are also limited to a few independent ones, such as Fair Weather Studios, Numinous Games, and Random Seed Games. While the area’s gaming scene is not exactly inviting, it is worth noting that it does offer robust educational foundations. Iowa houses some game design schools, fostering talent and preparing designers for growing opportunities, despite not being a central gaming hub.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Iowa, 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 Iowa (2026)
University of Iowa
The University of Iowa does not necessarily have a degree program available to study game design, per se. Even so, it offers multiple alternative pathways to establish a foundation to enter the field of gaming. First is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, which allows learners to gain a holistic design experience. Second is the Digital Arts Certificate program with coursework involving sound design and visual design for games. Lastly, if students want to go deeper into gaming, they can opt for the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, wherein learners study how video games relate to identity. With all these options, graduates are likely to secure careers related to gaming within a span of six months.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 72 of 14,131
- US ranking: 48 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $9,000 per year for in-state students to over $32,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Iowa State University
Iowa State University offers a Bachelor of Science in Game Design degree, which enables learners to transform their pastime into a lucrative career. In the curriculum, learners will explore game design principles and have a choice to specialize in one area of interest, namely: Game Art, Game Computing, or Game Worlds. More specifically, the courses across the focus areas will cover career development, game analysis, game design thinking, and prototyping. They will even take a game design workshop and a game design capstone in junior and senior years. The program equips students with knowledge and skills to make them qualified for roles such as a game artist, programmer, or writer, in leading game design studios.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 91 of 14,131
- US ranking: 56 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $27,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Grand View University
The Grand View University in Des Moines champions a major in Game Design and Interactive Analytics, which fosters cognitive and research skills, preparing students for working in the game design industry. In detail, the curriculum includes courses like 2D/3D Digital Design, Introduction to Games, Programming for Games, Design, and more that help learners understand the basics of design, narrative, and play. After completing the program, graduates can apply for positions including animator, 3D illustrator, game designer, user experience designer, and the like.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 5701 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1498 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Post-master’s Certificate
- Acceptance rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $9,000 to over $32,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Des Moines Area Community College, Drake University, Grinnell College, Hawkeye Community College, Iowa Lakes Community College, Maharishi International University, and Western Iowa Tech Community College.
Why Study Game Design in Iowa?
Studying in Iowa comes with unique benefits that make up for the lack of university options. One is that the tuition costs per university are comparatively lower than in other states, especially for in-state students. The affordability aspect makes education far more accessible for students, providing a sustainable way to learn. Additionally, the universities that exist in the state emphasize hands-on learning, project collaboration, and portfolio development. Through these educational institutions, Iowa could eventually build a broader game design culture, attracting interest and more studios.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I study game design in Iowa?
A: While it is not exactly a hotspot for game design education, it is definitely possible to study through a few solid game design schools.
Q: What is the best game design major in Iowa?
A: Considering the limited options, the one that stands out is the Bachelor of Science in Game Design degree at Iowa State University.
Q: Are there community colleges available to study game design in Iowa?
A: Yes. The state actually has quite a few community colleges offering courses to learn game design.
