Students seeking a game design education can consider West Virginia, despite the state not having a huge roster of game design schools. With key institutions in the region, aspiring game designers are sure to find programs related to the field that would help them achieve their dream of entering the gaming industry. In line with this, West Virginia’s game design education, which fosters local talent, compensates for its video game industry’s rather low economic impact of $33.9 million, based on the data by the Entertainment Software Association.
Our Criteria
To determine the top game design schools in West Virginia, 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 West Virginia (2026)
West Virginia University
West Virginia University offers undergraduate and graduate programs. To start with, they can apply for a Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media. In this, students will greatly benefit from small class sizes when studying courses, such as Gaming Design and Digital Narrative, Beginning 3D Animation, Interactive Audio Design, and Intermediate Game Design. Then, they can pursue higher education through the Master of Arts in Game Design, which is an online program. It will expand and build upon their skills by taking courses, including Game Design, Fundamentals of UX/UI in Game Design, and the like. All in all, this pathway allows graduates to become character artists, game designers, game developers, mobile game designers, and UI/UX designers.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 259 of 14,131
- US ranking: 105 of 2,496
- Control: Public
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 86%
- Graduation Rate: 61%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $9,000 per year for in-state students to over $28,000 per year for out-of-state students.
University of Charleston
The University of Charleston has a Bachelor of Science in Applied Computer Science, which includes an option to specialize in video game development. With this four-year program, learners have the chance to gain expertise in designing, building, and launching games. As part of the learning outcomes, students will be trained in 3D modeling, animation, game engines, programming, and sound design. Once the program is completed, every graduate is ready for professional roles as a 3D modeler, animator, game designer, game developer, or technical artist.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 3904 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1026 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Doctor’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $16,000 to over $32,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Bethany College
Bethany College houses a Bachelor of Science in Game Development. In detail, this program champions an industry-driven curriculum, which explores C#, project-based development, and gaming industry workflows. It also features modern facilities, such as computer labs, a science lab, and an esports arena. In connection, the possible career pathways for graduates are character artist, concept artist, content designer, game developer, programmer, QA game tester, UX specialist, and many more.
Quick Facts
- World ranking: 4964 of 14,131
- US ranking: 1299 of 2,496
- Control: Private not-for-profit
- Highest degree offered: Master’s degree
- Acceptance rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
Tuition and fees at the school range from about $10,000 to over $31,000 per year for in-state and out-of-state students.
Honorable Mentions: Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, James Rumsey Technical Institute, Marshall University, Mountwest Community & Technical College, and West Virginia Wesleyan College.
Why Study Game Design in West Virginia?
Yes, West Virginia is not considered a top-tier state for the video game industry. Yes, its game design education scene is compact. However, it still manages to strengthen its presence in the field through robust game-aligned academic pathways. The rate of tuition and fees at the universities is also cost-effective. The region even provides career opportunities for graduates thanks to a few studios, such as Vandalia Softworks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I apply for game design programs in West Virginia?
A: Yes, specifically through the recommended game design schools on this list.
Q: Which is the top game design degree in the area?
A: West Virginia University’s Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media is one of the most extensive undergraduate programs in the state.
Q: Is there an online game design degree in West Virginia?
A: Yes, graduate students can pursue a Master of Arts in Game Design at West Virginia University, which is a fully online program.
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.
