Minnesota does have notable contributions to the game industry, specifically being the originator of the popular 1971 educational game, The Oregon Trail, which was produced by the Minnesota Educational Computing Consortium. At the same time, the state’s independent studios are starting to emerge. While not as plentiful as other states, Minnesota does have a few game design schools for game design programs or relevant courses that provide real pathways into the gaming space.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Minnesota, 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 Minnesota (2026)
University of Minnesota – Twin Cities
The University of Minnesota – Twin Cities in Minneapolis may not have a full-pledged game design degree, but it does provide multiple ways to be qualified for a role in the gaming industry. One of these is the computer science program that includes a Fundamentals of Game Design course in its curriculum. Additionally, the course will tackle the theoretical and practical aspects of game creation, along with various areas of game design. Meanwhile, the other pathways include a Bachelor of Science in UX Design degree and a Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering that explores digital interaction in games and game design, respectively. Moreover, graduates will have essential skills to qualify for roles in the gaming space.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 18 of 14,131
- US ranking: 14 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 85%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $14,000 per year for in-state students to over $34,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of St. Thomas
The University of St. Thomas features a Game Design minor that allows students to acquire experience, skills, and theoretical knowledge in creating interactive digital media. With a state-of-the-art gaming studio and courses like Game Design, Introduction to Programming and Problem Solving, Game Production, and Writing Video Games, learners will be taught game design theory through creating games. Students who finish this minor will exit St. Thomas with credentials sufficient for a career in advertising, marketing, media production, web design, and more.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1620 of 14,131
- US ranking: 392 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 75%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $21,000 to over $50,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
St. Cloud State University
St. Cloud State University offers a game development certificate (admissions are currently closed as of this writing). This certificate program helps students learn computer animation, data representation and visualization, motion capture, and programming to be able to analyze, design, and produce an actual video game. Aside from this, the university also has online alternatives for a video game design and development course and a digital game artist certificate course. Popular careers after completion include game designer, game developer, game programmer, and video game product manager.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1648 of 14,131
- US ranking: 397 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $14,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Minnesota State University – Mankato
Minnesota State University equips students with a game design and development course within its computer science program. In particular, it is geared towards providing students with game design and development skills. With a mobile game development and the principles of game design as the main focus, students will study a play-centric approach and eventually produce a game demo. Accordingly, taking up the course will help graduates gain an edge when applying for roles in the game design field.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1667 of 14,131
- US ranking: 404 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 91%
- Graduation Rate: 54%
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.
Augsburg University
Augsburg University delivers a Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Development degree. This program includes a curriculum with courses, such as Introduction to Game History and Design, Game Design Studio, and Introduction to Computer Programming. Acquiring this degree ensures career positions like game designer, game developer, programmer, and more roles related to the field.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 1882 of 14,131
- US ranking: 462 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $13,000 to over $43,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Metropolitan State University, Minneapolis College of Art and Design, North Hennepin Community College, Rasmussen University, Riverland Community College, Saint Paul College, and St Olaf College.
Why Study Game Design in Minnesota?
While few schools in Minnesota provide full game design degrees, the available ones reflect a practical, portfolio-focused approach to gain knowledge and skills critical in the modern game industry. The state also presents itself as a place for accessible education, with most institutions having relatively affordable tuition fees. In addition, there is a high salary potential. Wages of game designers in Minnesota normally start at $45,100 and can reach $126,240 a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I get a game design education in Minnesota?
A: Yes, it is possible to finish formal game design education in the area despite the limited options.
Q: What is the best game design program in the state?
A: One option that stands out is the Game Design minor at the University of St. Thomas.
Q: Is there an online game design course in Minnesota?
A: Yes. Aspirants can check out the Video Game Design and Development online course at St. Cloud State University.
