Kentucky is not a massive gaming powerhouse, at least not yet. It is still not recognized as a major game development hub in the United States. However, it is developing its game design scene. As of now, it houses a growing number of independent studios like Frogdice, and the state currently has $33,525 as the average annual salary for a video game designer. More importantly, it is pushing initiatives through quality programs at several game design schools to teach valuable skills to those interested in stepping into careers in the gaming industry.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Kentucky, 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.
Five Game Design Schools in Kentucky (2026)
University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky develops game design talents through its media arts and studies degree program, wherein students can take a minor in video game design and development. Specifically, the curriculum requires them to take courses, such as Industry of Video Games & Esports, Video Game Studies, and Video Game Design. Aside from the academic track, the school even has the CI Gamers Club, which promotes student engagement and participation in the world of video game development. All in all, these enable all graduates to be prepared for entry into the game industry through diverse roles.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 112 of 14,131
- US ranking: 63 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 92%
- Graduation Rate: 70%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $11,000 per year for in-state students to over $34,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Western Kentucky University
Western Kentucky University provides a game design certificate that is open to all students drawn to computer game design. To teach students how to build a functioning game, gain practical skills in a programming language, use the elements and principles of design, and more, the curriculum includes courses like Game Design and Development, Introduction to Computer Animation, and User Interface Design. Students who finish the program can apply their knowledge in careers such as game animator, game artist, game programmer, and game designer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1024 of 14,131
- US ranking: 269 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 97%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $11,000 per year for in-state students to over $27,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Eastern Kentucky University
The Eastern Kentucky University in Richmond has two ways to pursue studies in game design through the Department of Computer Science & Information Technology. For the undergraduate, there is an available game content design minor, which familiarizes learns with game design fundamentals. Among many courses, students will take 2D Animation, Exploring Virtual Worlds, and Game Design Capstone. Meanwhile, the university also delivers a graduate certificate in game design through an online setup. This option gives students skills and knowledge about aesthetics and immersion. In line with this, the possible career outcomes are animator, art director, and game designer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1628 of 14,131
- US ranking: 393 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $9,000 per year for in-state students to over $20,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Murray State University
Murray State University also offers two routes to learn game design. The first option is a computer science degree with a game development track. With this minor, students have the opportunity to take courses, such as Programming in Python, Motion Graphics, Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Game Development, and more. In addition, the second choice is a certificate in game design. This program features a curriculum that covers animation and illustration, creative writing or storytelling, computer graphics, and game programming languages. By learning all areas of game design and development, graduates will be qualified for entry-level jobs in the game design industry.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1927 of 14,131
- US ranking: 471 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 60%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $18,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Kentucky State University
The Kentucky State University, like Eastern Kentucky University and Murray State University, presents two pathways to study game design. One of these is the game development major under the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science degree. In here, they will establish a robust foundation in game design and development theory. On the other hand, they can also apply for a computer gaming minor within the School of Mathematics and Computer Science. This other option focuses on hands-on learning about computer graphics, game engine architecture, and game programming, including elective options like artificial intelligence for games. Successful completion of either program can lead to careers in the interactive entertainment industry.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 2853 of 14,131
- US ranking: 730 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 93%
- Graduation Rate: 27%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $12,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Bluegrass Community & Technical College and Campbellsville University.
Why Study Game Design in Kentucky?
The gaming and game design landscape in Kentucky may be small compared to those in other states, but it has institutions emphasizing projects, teamwork, real software tools, and portfolio creation, which are all important for game industry roles. At the same time, many online courses and certificates can be completed and used to transfer into specialized four-year degrees — talk about flexibility. Overall, the initiatives by the state to develop its gaming ecosystem make it a promising place to pursue game design education and careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I learn game design in Kentucky?
A: Yes, you can. Students can choose from many notable game design schools available in the state.
Q: What is the best game design degree in the area?
A: Generally, all the options are strong pathways into the industry, but your search can start with the certificate in Game Design at Western Kentucky University.
Q: Are there online game design alternatives in Kentucky?
A: Yes, several educational institutions in the area offer online courses, such as Eastern Kentucky University.
