Among the 50 states in the United States of America, Utah is one of those that punches above its weight in terms of the local video game industry. As per the data provided by the Entertainment Software Association, its economic impact stands at $394.6 million and boasts 1,353 supported jobs. In the same sense, despite having a smaller game design education ecosystem, Utah also manages to deliver extensive programs, industry-relevant curricula, and project-based experience through some of its game design schools.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Utah, 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 Utah (2026)
University of Utah
The University of Utah houses the Utah Division of Games, which has a selection of multiple degree programs that explore game design. Specifically, the options include a Bachelor of Science in Games, a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Entertainment Arts & Engineering emphasis, and a Master of Entertainment Arts and Engineering with a game design track. In detail, the Games BS ensures that students are prepared for overall game design, the EAE specialization includes courses that tackle video game design and development, and the MEAE game design track allows learners to have a robust background in design. Upon completion of any of the programs, graduates are sure to land roles as game designers in the industry.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 56 of 14,131
- US ranking: 41 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 87%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $8,000 per year for in-state students to over $28,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Utah Valley University
Utah Valley University’s main game design offering is an online game design and development course. It is a program that teaches students about game asset creation, game engines, and programming languages. In particular, one of the primary learning outcomes is knowing how to design and make PC video games. Meanwhile, if students prefer on-campus learning, they can take the Bachelor of Science in Animation and Game Development, which is not a game design program, but provides relevant skills. More concretely, this option focuses on 2D animation and 3D animation, along with the modern, industry-standard processes in the field. Further, graduates can apply their training and expertise to roles in the gaming industry, such as animator, game designer, and the like.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 2032 of 14,131
- US ranking: 492 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 41%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $5,000 per year for in-state students to over $22,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Neumont University
Neumont University, also known as Neumont College of Computer Science, broadens its academic scope in game design with a Bachelor of Science in Software & Game Development program. It introduces learners to various areas, such as game design, gameplay design, game engine systems, programming, project management and planning, and UI design, among others. Some of the courses in the curriculum are Introduction to Artificial Intelligence, Object-Oriented Programming & Design, C++ Programming, and Topics in Game Development. This degree program prepares students for careers like AI programmer, game designer, game developer, game programmer, interactive developer, and simulation programmer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 7501 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1931 of 2,496
- Control: Private for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Bachelor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $13,000 to over $25,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Why Study Game Design in Utah?
While the game design school selection in Utah is not exactly broad, the available options are nationally recognized programs or largely relevant coursework. Students are likely to gain portfolio pieces and real-world-ready experience through them. The state also supports direct and indirect jobs in the video game sector, with game companies like D20Studios and Alchimia Studios providing career prospects for graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Utah worth considering for game design education?
A: Although the game design programs are not vast and standalone ones are rare, Utah still provides reliable pathways to gain relevant skills.
Q: What is Utah’s top game design program?
A: The Entertainment Arts & Engineering program at the University of Utah is widely recognized as the state’s deeply focused game design track.
Q: Does Utah provide access to online game design programs?
A: Yes, students can find an online game design course at Utah Valley University.
Note: This article incorporates the latest available data and information at the time of writing. Keep in mind that statistics can vary over time due to updates and real-world changes.
