Mississippi is not generally popular for being a hub for gaming or the game design industry. Yes, independent companies like Touchstone Bros. exist, but they are rare. The state also lacks a substantial industry presence due to its game design education landscape being smaller than in other states. Although the options are very limited, it is not totally impossible to study game design, or at least, related programs. With the existence of a few game design schools, students may pursue associate degrees or certificate programs to establish portfolios and industry readiness.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Mississippi, 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 Mississippi (2026)
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State University does not provide a dedicated game design degree. However, it supports game design studies through its Center for Continuing Education, which hosts an online game design and development course. This program covers game design fundamentals all the way to advanced game development techniques. Additionally, the comprehensive online education is topped with the MaxxSouth Digital Media Center, which is a virtual reality and gaming studio. This facility aims to let individuals play and explore, and create virtual reality programs. With these opportunities, students will possess the necessary skills to land gaming-related roles.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 415 of 14,131
- US ranking: 132 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $9,000 per year for in-state students to over $26,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Mississippi
The University of Mississippi currently does not offer a formal undergraduate degree in game design. Nonetheless, it does provide professional video game design and development and digital game artist certificate courses. Accordingly, these online alternatives focus on practical skills training, such as 3D modeling, game engine use, and design techniques. Course completion means learners can become professional game artists, game designers, and the like.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 486 of 14,131
- US ranking: 151 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 98%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $9,000 per year for in-state students to over $26,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Belhaven University
Belhaven University features a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a Game Design concentration. Students enrolled in the program will learn game development through a curriculum with courses like Intro to Games, Content and Systems Designs, and Advanced Unity Programming. The program also prioritizes hands-on learning and collaborative experience. With robust technical and artistic skills, graduates can pursue careers in areas including game development, interactive entertainment, and simulation.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 5247 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1371 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 53%
- Graduation Rate: 51%
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.
Honorable Mentions: Hinds Community College, Mississippi College, and Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College.
Why Study Game Design in Mississippi?
At first, it is understandable that studying game design in Mississippi would not even cross someone’s mind, given the game design scene in the state. However, it remains a viable option, especially for those who do not want to transfer to other places to get their education. Looking at the bright side, Mississippi has affordable universities, with most tuition fees not exceeding $30,000 a year. In addition, the associate degrees and certificate pathways still deliver practical skills and portfolio development, which can lead to entry-level jobs in the gaming industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it possible to pursue a game design education in Mississippi?
A: While the selection is narrow compared to major gaming hubs in the United States, students in the area can find a few institutions that can help them study game design in the state.
Q: Which game design program stands out in the state?
A: Considering that it is one of the few dedicated game design degrees in Mississippi, one of the top choices is the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Game Design at Belhaven University.
Q: Can I study game design in an online setup?
A: Yes, game design schools like the University of Mississippi offer online courses to cater to those who favor remote education.
