Maine is not conventionally known for having a compelling gaming scene. It also does not have a large concentration of standalone game design degrees. Despite not being a primary commercial hub, the state’s participation in the field is evolving, as it is now quietly crafting a community within the industry. In fact, Maine is home to the Maine Video Game Devs, which is a group aiming to establish a local video game developer community. While smaller in scale, the state also offers a few programs through game design schools that prepare students for professional roles in game design.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Maine, 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 Maine (2026)
University of Maine
The University of Maine in Orono offers a game design and development minor, which lets students acquire skills in computer programming, game development, modeling, sound design, and storytelling. Additionally, the learning outcomes of the curriculum include being able to develop skills in designing and prototyping games, skills in asset generation, and skills in conducting user-centered design. Two of the required courses are Video Game Programming and 3D Modeling and Animation. Accordingly, the possible career paths for graduates are animator, gameplay programmer, and interactive developer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 498 of 14,131
- US ranking: 154 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 96%
- Graduation Rate: 56%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $12,000 per year for in-state students to over $34,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Southern Maine
The University of Southern Maine runs an established undergraduate minor in game design studies. Specifically, this program educates students about game design and development by helping them develop an academic understanding of games and applied skills in game design. Moreover, the curriculum includes courses, such as Game Design (I, II, III), and a program track in game software development. At the end of the program, graduates will be equipped with the essentials to be part of a game design team as a designer, programmer, and the like.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1902 of 14,131
- US ranking: 464 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $24,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Maine College of Art & Design
Maine College of Arts & Design houses a formal Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation & Game Art degree. In this program, students learn animation and ways to effectively communicate with audiences through all areas of production, while having access to industry-standard hardware and software. With courses like Intro to Game Development, Storyboarding for Animation, Character Animation, and Game Art Production, classes focus on the entire production process for both games and animation. In line with this, the university highlights that previous graduates have proven careers as 3D artists, 3D modelers, game creators, and more.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 6444 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1694 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 49%
Tuition and fees at the school are over $40,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Central Maine Community College, Northern Maine Community College, University of Maine at Farmington, and University of Maine at Farmington.
Why Study Game Design in Maine?
At the center of the game design scene in Maine are the reputable educational institutions that emphasize creative fundamentals, technical adaptability, and portfolio quality. The options also combine private and public schools, allowing for accessibility and practicality. Similarly, the state boasts prosperous opportunities for graduates looking to pursue professional careers in game design, since many studios in the area are present, including Chickadee Games, Dirigo Games, and more. Overall, Maine has a supportive game design environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I study game design in Maine?
A: Yes! It is possible through universities offering dedicated programs or relevant courses.
Q: What is the best game design program in the state?
A: One of the most ideal game design-related programs in the area is the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation & Game Art at Maine College of Art & Design.
Q: Is there an online game design course available in the state?
A: Yes, there is an available online course at Central Maine Community College.
