One of the major global hubs for game design and development is the state of Washington. According to the Entertainment Software Association, its video game industry has a $13.9 billion impact on the economy and supports more than 28,000 jobs. Washington is also home to major AAA studios, such as Bungie and Valve Corporation. Of greater importance, it houses some of the most respected game design schools that administer rigorous game design programs.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in Washington, 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 Washington (2026)
University of Washington
The University of Washington’s online game design certificate caters to those looking for flexibility. In a span of eight months, with solely evening classes, students will have to accomplish three courses: Fundamentals of Game Design, Game Mechanics & Systems Design, and Game Studio Roles & Development. By examining essential parts of contemporary game design through a hands-on approach, learners will become experts in game system elements, video game genres, various game dimensions, project management, and the business aspect of game creation. In particular, this program is designed for individuals who plan to pursue careers as game designers and game developers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 10 of 14,131
- US ranking: 8 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 43%
- Graduation Rate: 84%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $11,000 per year for in-state students to over $40,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Washington State University
Washington State University delivers a Bachelor of Arts in Digital Technology and Culture, which has game design as one of its focus areas in its multidimensional curriculum. In here, students will experience the process of creating and critiquing video games. The required courses include Video Game Theories & History or Digital Strategies and Engines and Platforms. Additionally, they can select more courses like 3D Animation, Multimedia Design, Usability and Interface Design, and more. As promised by the university, graduates of this program are ready for diverse gaming careers, including animator, game designer, multimedia designer, and UI designer, among others.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 145 of 14,131
- US ranking: 73 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $10,000 per year for in-state students to over $27,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Seattle University
Seattle University has a formal program to study game design — a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art. With this, students will be led by experienced professionals in completing a curriculum that enhances their 2D\3D art, game design, interactive media, programming, and storytelling skills. They can also access state-of-the-art facilities (e.g., digital workstations, game development labs, motion capture studio, VR/AR studios) in mastering industry-standard software and creating game projects. Typically, the career pathways for graduates are roles such as animators, character artists, game artists, game designers, game producers, level designers, and technical artists.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 544 of 14,131
- US ranking: 166 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 73%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $15,000 to over $53,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
DigiPen Institute of Technology
The DigiPen Institute of Technology offers two game design degree programs: Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Game Design. Specifically, the former integrates game design, humanities, and social sciences, as students learn skills in creating experiences for games. In contrast, the former allows learners to be well-versed in game design and computer programming. A few of the current courses are Introduction to Game Design, Tabletop Game Design, Role-Playing Game Design, Game Design, Development & Production, and others. Upon completion, BA program graduates can pursue roles like level designer, narrative designer, systems designer, quest designer, while BS graduates can secure careers as AI programmer, gameplay programmer, and technical designer.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 4300 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1114 of 2,496
- Control: Private for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 68%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $31,000 to over $37,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Lake Washington Institute of Technology
Lake Washington Institute of Technology provides a Bachelor of Applied Science in Game Design and Development program, which covers 3D modeling, animation, game mechanics, programming, traditional art, and more. Also, the curriculum features courses, such as 2D Game Design, 3D Game Design, and Principles of Gameplay Mechanics. Accordingly, one of the main objectives is to teach students how to analyze the key elements of digital game design. Moreover, this program guides learners towards careers in game design, game development, and interactive media.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 6540 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1714 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Bachelor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $3,000 per year for in-state students to over $8,000 per year for out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Academy of Interactive Entertainment, Bellevue College, Cornish College of the Arts, and Western Washington University.
Why Study Game Design in Washington?
Washington is a beautiful state, featuring rivers, a mountain range, and the Pacific coastland. However, its appeal goes well beyond its natural beauty. More specifically, aspiring game designers will love it here, for it boasts a dense ecosystem of game design universities and massive studios. It means students have their education and career covered. As one of the leading states in gaming and game design, there is no doubt that it is a highly active center for gaming talent and development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Washington host universities for game design education?
A: Yes, it is home to several nationally-ranked universities offering game design programs.
Q: What is the best game design degree in the state?
A: Some of the most prominent options are the game design and development degrees at DigiPen Institute of Technology.
Q: Is remote learning available in game design schools in Washington?
A: Yes. One of the best options for online game design is the University of Washington’s game design certificate course.
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.
