Most Affordable Game Design Schools for 2027

The Most Affordable Game Design Schools in 60 Seconds

Net price is 60 of the 100 points. Net price, what aided students pay after grants, makes the list favor schools that are cheap for most students, not cheap on paper. The median across the 81 schools is $24,700 a year, and $15,800 in the top 25. Use the main ranking if you'd trade price for size. Is It for You ›
The cheapest school finishes under half its students. Utah Valley University has the lowest net price in the top 25, $8,650, with in-state tuition of $5,818. University of Houston-Victoria is next at $9,912. The catch is finishing, since only 46% of students school-wide earn a degree at Utah Valley. Top 25 ›
Cheapest to priciest is a $41,854 gap. Net price runs from $8,650 a year to $50,504 across the 81 ranked schools. The median is $24,700 a year, or about $98,600 over four years, against $15,800 in the top 25. Public schools have a median of $16,300 and private ones $30,500. Lowest Net Prices ›
8 schools missed the 40% completion floor. A school needs an eight-year completion rate of at least 40% to be ranked, since a low price is a poor deal if you leave without the degree. Academy of Art University sits at 26% and Southern New Hampshire University at 36%. None of the 8 are public. Completion Floor ›
Leaving your state adds $14,700 a year at the median. Among public schools here, median in-state tuition is $8,500 a year against $23,200 out of state. Exchanges like the Western Undergraduate Exchange cut nonresident tuition at member schools. Run each college's net price calculator too, because the average blends very different households. Paying Less ›

Heads up Net price averages students who got aid, so yours can land above or below it.

Is it for you

Is a Low-Cost Game Design Degree Right for You?

Use this ranking if cost decides your shortlist. It weighs net price, what aided students pay after grants, at 60 of the 100 points, so it rewards schools that are cheap for most students rather than schools that are cheap on paper. The median net price across the 81 schools is $24,700 a year, and $15,800 in the top 25.

Use the best game design schools ranking instead if you'd trade a higher price for a bigger program or a higher completion rate. There, cost is 40 points and size gets more weight. And if you'll only consider schools in your own state, the public game design schools ranking shows in-state prices.

Methodology

How We Score These Programs

This ranking puts price first. Net price is 60 of the 100 points, completion 25 and program size 15, all from federal figures each school reports the same way: IPEDS completions, Outcome Measures and net price.

Cheap only helps if you finish, so there is a floor: a school whose eight-year completion rate is under 40% isn't ranked here, however low its price. The main ranking scores the same programs with cost at 40 points and no floor.

Read the full methodology →

Who's included

Bachelor's programs in game design, game programming or simulation where at least 40% of students finish, open to new students

A program makes this list when it is a bachelor's in game design or interactive media, game programming or simulation and virtual environments at a college in the 50 states or DC, has had graduates in the last three years, and the school publishes its completion rate and net price. It must also be open to new students: closed and phasing-out programs are left off. At least 40% of the school's students must finish a degree within eight years, so a cheap program few people finish doesn't make the list. A college with more than one such program appears once, with its higher-scoring program. A program missing one of these figures is left off rather than estimated.

What the score counts100 pts total

Net price: 60 pts; What first-year students who get grants actually pay per year, at in-state rates for public colleges. A school-wide figure. Source: IPEDS.; Scoring: All 60 points at $8k a year or less, none at $32k or more, and evenly fewer in between, so $20k earns 30.
Completion: 25 pts; How many entering students, full-time, part-time and transfer, finish a degree within eight years. A school-wide figure. Source: IPEDS. Schools under 40% aren't ranked.; Scoring: The rate times 25, so a 60% rate earns 15.
Grads a year: 15 pts; How many students finish this program each year, averaged over three years. The program's own figure. Source: IPEDS.; Scoring: More graduates earn more points, quickly at first and then more slowly, up to all 15 at 50 or more a year. 5 a year earns 6.8, 25 a year earns 12.4.

What the Score Means for Most Affordable Game Design Schools

Price scores on a straight line here, not in bands: every dollar below $32,000 counts, and 0 schools earn the full 60 at $8,000 or less. 22 of the top 25 are public. Utah Valley University ranks 19 in the main ranking and first here, which is the difference the weighting makes.

Top 25

The 25 Most Affordable Game Design Schools in 2027

The 25 most affordable programs, with their figures. Net price, completion and earnings are school-wide; graduates a year is the program's own. The score is out of 100.

Utah Valley University

Orem, UT · Public · Game design program

82.1

Lowest net price in the top 25
Public

Price is where this program stands out: aided first-years at Utah Valley pay $8,650 school-wide, the lowest net price in the top 25. Published in-state tuition is $5,818 before aid, and out-of-state tuition is $17,800.

The degree runs 120 credit hours and splits into 2D animation, 3D animation and VFX, and game and XR development, entered by portfolio review after the first year. Students learn Maya, Unity, Unreal Engine and Houdini. Across the university, 46% of students complete a degree within eight years, and graduates of all majors earn $55,486 ten years out. About 24 graduate from the program annually.

Students can only apply twice for track matriculation, so portfolio preparation in the first year matters. General education takes 30 of the 120 credits, covering writing, quantitative reasoning and history or civics.

Completion: 46%school-wide
Net price: $8,650aided first-years
Grads a year: 24this program
Earnings: $55,48610 yrs, all majors
Students: 46,807school enrollment
In-state tuition: $5,818published, before aid

View Utah Valley University's Bachelor of Science in Animation and Game Development

University of California-Irvine

Irvine, CA · Public · Simulation program

79.9

Public

Price is the case for Irvine. Aided first-years pay a net price of $14,647 school-wide, well under the $41,878 cost of attendance before aid, and published in-state tuition is $12,260. Out-of-state students face $44,148, so residency matters a great deal here.

What that money buys is a computer science core, ten or more game courses, nearly thirty electives and a two-quarter team capstone. Across the university, 86% of entering students complete a degree within eight years and graduates of all majors earn $80,735 ten years out. The department adds that most majors find work in the industry or move on to graduate school. About 51 students finish the program each year. The department also lists a resources page for majors with game jams, scholarships, competitions and professional organizations, which adds value beyond tuition savings.

Completion: 86%school-wide
Net price: $14,647aided first-years
Grads a year: 51this program
Earnings: $80,73510 yrs, all majors
Admit rate: 29%most selective in the top 25
Out-of-state premium: $31,888published tuition, per year

View University of California-Irvine's Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Science

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT · Public · Game programming program

79.1

Public

Value at Utah starts with a net price of $13,341 for aided first-years school-wide, with published in-state tuition of $8,461 and a $33,875 cost of attendance before aid. The B.S. in Games is a degree with a lot of structure for that price: pre-major courses, a games core, a capstone sequence and 30 hours of games electives.

Across the university, 70% of entering students finish within eight years and 36,894 students are enrolled. Graduates of all majors earn $67,170 ten years after entry. The program turns out about 151 graduates each year, so classes and advising serve a sizable group. Students who need to stretch dollars may also look at the minor or the CS emphasis in games. Students must plan carefully, though: every games course needs a C- or better and the pre-major requires a 3.0 GPA.

Completion: 70%school-wide
Net price: $13,341aided first-years
Grads a year: 151this program
Earnings: $67,17010 yrs, all majors
SAT midpoint: 1285school-wide
Students: 36,894school enrollment

View University of Utah's Bachelor of Science in Games

California State University-Chico

Chico, CA · Public · Game design program

75.8

Public

Few game programs cost less to enter than this one. Chico State charges California residents $6,084 in published tuition and out-of-state students $18,684, and the typical aided first-year student across the university pays a net price of $15,187. The full school-wide cost of attendance is $29,088.

What that price buys is a Bachelor of Science in Computer Animation and Game Development with a required internship, a motion capture lab and a studio class that produces finished work. Students choose between animation and game development tracks. About 67 graduates complete the program each year, and school-wide, graduates of all majors earn a median of $64,172 a decade after enrolling. A required internship and a campus game studio mean the lower price does not come with fewer hands-on options.

Completion: 75%school-wide
Net price: $15,187aided first-years
Grads a year: 67this program
Earnings: $64,17210 yrs, all majors
Admit rate: 93%school-wide
In-state tuition: $6,084published, before aid

View California State University-Chico's Bachelor of Science in Computer Animation and Game Development

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR · Public · Game design program

75.3

Public

Affordability is the headline at Arkansas Tech University: in-state tuition is $5,995 a year, and aided first-years pay $11,443 net across the university. Cost of attendance is $24,559 before aid, and out-of-state students pay $11,989 in tuition.

For that price, the BFA in Game & Interactive Media Design covers drawing, color and design foundations, game development courses, digital 3D foundations, and a sequence ending in 3D animation. Students get hands-on work through beta testing and real-world projects. About 17 students graduate each year. School-wide, earnings ten years after entry average $41,766 across all majors, so it is a low-cost bet, and 52% of entering students finish within eight years. Admission is open to 96% of applicants school-wide, and the campus has 8,746 students.

Completion: 52%school-wide
Net price: $11,443aided first-years
Grads a year: 17this program
Earnings: $41,76610 yrs, all majors
SAT midpoint: 990lowest SAT midpoint in the top 25
Admit rate: 96%school-wide

View Arkansas Tech University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game & Interactive Media Design

University of Houston-Victoria

Victoria, TX · Public · Simulation program

74.8

Public

Few game programs cost less than this one. Houston-Victoria lists a sticker cost of $23,153, the lowest in the top 25 here, and aided first-years pay a net price of $9,912 school-wide. Texas residents see published tuition of $5,111, and out-of-state students pay $14,903, which adds $9,792.

For that price a student gets a Bachelor of Science in Digital Gaming & Simulation on a public city campus with 3,586 students. About 9 people graduate from the program each year. Across the university, 43% of entering students finish within eight years, and graduates of all majors earn $54,467 ten years later, so the value case rests on low cost and modest debt. Students from Texas get the largest saving, while the university admits 96% of applicants, keeping the door open for budget-minded applicants.

Completion: 43%school-wide
Net price: $9,912aided first-years
Grads a year: 9this program
Earnings: $54,46710 yrs, all majors
Sticker cost: $23,153lowest sticker cost in the top 25
Students: 3,586school enrollment

View University of Houston-Victoria's Bachelor of Science in Digital Gaming & Simulation

West Virginia University

Morgantown, WV · Public · Game design program

74.1

Public

Price is where West Virginia University competes: the published in-state tuition is $10,104, and aided first-years pay a net price of $13,691 school-wide. Cost of attendance before aid is $31,716, and nonresidents pay $28,608 in tuition.

The B.A. gives students real production experience for that money, including the chance to publish original games through a nonprofit studio called MonRiverGames. Courses range from game design and digital narrative to 3D animation and coding for media. Earnings ten years after entry average $55,939 across all majors, 64% of entering students finish within eight years, and about 24 students graduate from the program each year. No portfolio review is required for admission, which keeps the application simple. The campus is in the city of Morgantown, with 23,643 students.

Completion: 64%school-wide
Net price: $13,691aided first-years
Grads a year: 24this program
Earnings: $55,93910 yrs, all majors
Admit rate: 89%school-wide
Campus setting: CityIPEDS locale

View West Virginia University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media

University of California-Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA · Public · Game design program

74.0

Public

Cost and value split in two at Santa Cruz. Published in-state tuition is $12,260, and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Game Design costs the same per year as any other major for a California resident. Out-of-state students pay $44,148, which is $31,888 more.

After grants, the typical aided first-year student across the university pays a net price of $16,526, compared with a school-wide cost of attendance of $44,047 before aid. In return, students get a computer science degree with a game design focus, a public campus of 19,938 students and an 81% eight-year completion rate. The value case is strongest for residents and for anyone who qualifies for aid. About 139 students graduate from the game major each year, and across the university graduates of any major earn a median of $68,396 ten years after enrolling.

Completion: 81%school-wide
Net price: $16,526aided first-years
Grads a year: 139this program
Earnings: $68,39610 yrs, all majors
Sticker cost: $44,047highest sticker cost in the top 25
Out-of-state premium: $31,888published tuition, per year

View University of California-Santa Cruz's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Computer Game Design

University of Maryland-College Park

College Park, MD · Public · Simulation program

72.0

Public

Maryland's price picture is a $15,833 net price for aided first-years school-wide, a $31,731 cost of attendance before aid and in-state tuition of $10,087. Out-of-state tuition is $39,464, so the bargain is mostly for residents.

The degree itself is a cross-disciplinary immersive media major with studio lab courses every year, a four-year course sequence and a senior capstone. The program says graduates move into digital media work in the arts, healthcare, science and engineering. Across the university, graduates of all majors earn $82,860 ten years after entry, and 85% of entering students complete within eight years. About 14 students graduate from the program each year. Net price is a school-wide figure, and a Maryland resident should compare it against the $31,731 cost of attendance before aid.

Completion: 85%school-wide
Net price: $15,833aided first-years
Grads a year: 14this program
Earnings: $82,86010 yrs, all majors
SAT midpoint: 1465highest SAT midpoint in the top 25
Admit rate: 45%school-wide

View University of Maryland-College Park's Bachelor of Arts in Immersive Media Design

Indiana University-Bloomington

Bloomington, IN · Public · Game design program

71.1

Public

Cost is where Indiana University earns its place for Indiana families: published in-state tuition is $10,622 a year and aided first-years pay a net price of $16,282 across the university. Nonresidents face $40,369 in tuition, which is $29,747 more.

For that price the B.S. in Game Design gives students a joint program from an arts and sciences college and a media school, plus nine credit hours in a focal area they choose, whether art, programming or sound. Ten years after entry, earnings average $63,742 across all majors school-wide, and 81% of entering students graduate within eight years. About 20 students complete the program annually, and the full cost of attendance is $30,602 before aid. A student can aim the degree at entertainment, teaching or social problem solving.

Completion: 81%school-wide
Net price: $16,282aided first-years
Grads a year: 20this program
Earnings: $63,74210 yrs, all majors
Students: 48,424school enrollment
Out-of-state premium: $29,747published tuition, per year

View Indiana University-Bloomington's Bachelor of Science in Game Design

University of Wisconsin-Stout

Menomonie, WI · Public · Simulation program

70.9

Public

Affordability is the case for this program. Aided first-year students pay a net price of $15,574 school-wide, and published tuition is $7,715 a year in state or $16,279 out of state, with a cost of attendance of $23,693 before aid. The school admits 88% of applicants, so the price comes without a long odds admission.

What the money buys is a B.F.A. accredited through the School of Art & Design by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Students learn drawing, 3D modeling and animation, then join team projects with computer science majors. The university says 96% of graduates are employed or continuing education within six months. Across the university, graduates earn $58,084 ten years out, counting all majors. About 67 students finish the program yearly.

Completion: 59%school-wide
Net price: $15,574aided first-years
Grads a year: 67this program
Earnings: $58,08410 yrs, all majors
Sticker cost: $23,693cost of attendance, before aid
Campus setting: TownIPEDS locale

View University of Wisconsin-Stout's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design and Development

Fitchburg State University

Fitchburg, MA · Public · Game design program

68.6

Public

Cost leads the case for Fitchburg. Resident tuition is published at $970 a year and non-resident tuition at $7,050, while aided first-year students pay a net price of $15,820 school-wide. The cost of attendance is $30,398 before aid, so the gap between sticker and net price is worth reading closely.

For that price the B.S. in Game Design delivers courses in game design, art foundations and programming, plus team production work and a capstone semester inside a game studio or a communication media internship. The school admits 87% of applicants. Across the university, 58% of entering students finish within eight years, and graduates earn $53,874 a decade out counting all majors. The major turns out roughly 34 graduates a year, and student games can be played on the program's itch.io site.

Completion: 58%school-wide
Net price: $15,820aided first-years
Grads a year: 34this program
Earnings: $53,87410 yrs, all majors
In-state tuition: $970lowest in-state tuition in the top 25
Campus setting: SuburbanIPEDS locale

View Fitchburg State University's Bachelor of Science in Game Design

SUNY College of Technology at Canton

Canton, NY · Public · Game programming program

68.3

Public

Price is the case for SUNY Canton: published in-state tuition is $7,070 a year, aided first-years pay a net price of $14,451 school-wide, and the cost of attendance is $28,050 before aid. Nonresident tuition of $14,097 is $7,027 higher.

For that money, students in the B.S. in Game Design and Development take applied game production courses that lead to playable games, plus programming, English and business classes. The campus is in a town with 3,459 students. Earnings ten years after entry average $47,860 across all majors, and 50% of entering students finish within eight years. About 22 students graduate from the program each year, so cohorts stay small. The program's career list runs from game programmers to texture mappers and digital content producers.

Completion: 50%school-wide
Net price: $14,451aided first-years
Grads a year: 22this program
Earnings: $47,86010 yrs, all majors
Students: 3,459school enrollment
Campus setting: TownIPEDS locale

View SUNY College of Technology at Canton's Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

Wilmington University

New Castle, DE · Private nonprofit · Game programming program

66.1

Private

Cost here is set per credit: a typical three-credit course is $1,317, and a student pays only for the courses the degree requires. The degree is 40 courses and 120 credits. Published tuition is $12,570 for every student, with no out-of-state premium, and school-wide net price after aid is $14,267 for aided first-years.

What that money buys is a lab-based degree with two concentrations, Game Art Production and Interactive Programming, plus a portfolio built from project work. Transfer credits can trim the total, and electives can double as a graduate certificate or a head start on a master's. Across the university, 48% of entering students finish within eight years, and graduates of all majors earn $53,844 ten years out. Classes start every 8 weeks, which also lets a student begin when money and schedule line up rather than waiting for a fall start.

Completion: 48%school-wide
Net price: $14,267aided first-years
Grads a year: 12this program
Earnings: $53,84410 yrs, all majors
Out-of-state premium: None (private)same tuition for all students
Campus setting: SuburbanIPEDS locale

View Wilmington University's Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Magnolia, AR · Public · Game design program

64.7

Public

Cost at Southern Arkansas University starts with a published in-state tuition of $7,380 and a school-wide net price of $14,164 for aided first-years. The cost of attendance is $26,153 before aid, and out-of-state students pay $5,730 more in tuition.

The town of Magnolia sets the pace, and so does the 121-credit degree, which teaches 3D animation, game environment production and the management of game projects. Prototyping for medical, transportation and military makers gives graduates a second path beyond entertainment. About 11 students finish the program each year. Earnings ten years after entry average $42,386 across all majors, and 43% of entering students graduate within eight years. Tuition is charged per credit hour at $260 for residents and $461 for nonresidents, with $88 an hour in fees.

Completion: 43%school-wide
Net price: $14,164aided first-years
Grads a year: 11this program
Earnings: $42,38610 yrs, all majors
SAT midpoint: 991school-wide
Campus setting: TownIPEDS locale

View Southern Arkansas University Main Campus' Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game, Animation, and Simulation Design

Georgia State University

Atlanta, GA · Public · Game programming program

64.4

Public

Georgia State's net price for aided first-years is $16,390 school-wide, which is well under the university's $29,166 cost of attendance. Published tuition is $7,344 for Georgia residents and $23,520 for others, so residency is the main swing in the bill.

The Bachelor of Arts in Game Design is taught in the College of Arts & Sciences in a city setting. Across the university, 58% of students complete a degree within eight years and graduates of all majors earn $47,384 a decade after enrolling. About 17 students graduate from this program each year.

Admission is open to 55% of applicants across the university, and enrollment is 34,944. The $16,176 gap between resident and nonresident tuition is the largest cost factor to check before applying.

Completion: 58%school-wide
Net price: $16,390aided first-years
Grads a year: 17this program
Earnings: $47,38410 yrs, all majors
Admit rate: 55%school-wide
Campus setting: CityIPEDS locale

View Georgia State University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw, GA · Public · Game programming program

63.5

Public

Aided first-years at Kennesaw State pay a school-wide net price of $17,566, and published in-state tuition is only $4,560 before aid. Out-of-state students pay $16,488, so the price depends on residency. The university's overall cost of attendance is $26,478, and enrollment across the university is 47,764.

For that cost, students get a 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design and Development with concentrations in media production, distributed mobile, education and serious games, planning and management, and simulation and informatics. About 43 students graduate each year, and graduates of all majors earn $57,552 ten years after enrolling.

The program page lists tuition, fees and cost of attendance resources alongside internships and co-ops, so students can build their own estimate. Across the university, 52% of students complete a degree within eight years.

Completion: 52%school-wide
Net price: $17,566aided first-years
Grads a year: 43this program
Earnings: $57,55210 yrs, all majors
In-state tuition: $4,560published, before aid
Students: 47,764school enrollment

View Kennesaw State University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Game Design and Development

Eastern Michigan University

Ypsilanti, MI · Public · Game design program

63.5

Public

Cost is where Eastern Michigan stands out. Aided first-year students pay a school-wide net price of $17,388, and the published tuition of $15,920 applies equally to residents and nonresidents. Cost of attendance before aid is $34,026.

For that price, the Simulation, Animation and Gaming B.S. covers a wide software set: Maya and 3ds Max for 3D, Photoshop and Illustrator for imagery, After Effects for finished sequences and V-Ray for photorealistic rendering. About 31 students a year earn the degree. The tradeoff is a school-wide completion rate of 55% within eight years, and graduates of all majors earn $51,793 ten years out.

The program is accredited through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, and enrollment across the university is 12,631. Students learn Autocad early to get acquainted with modeling and design software.

Completion: 55%school-wide
Net price: $17,388aided first-years
Grads a year: 31this program
Earnings: $51,79310 yrs, all majors
In-state tuition: $15,920highest in-state tuition in the top 25
Out-of-state premium: Nonesame tuition for all students

View Eastern Michigan University's Bachelor of Science in Simulation, Animation and Gaming

University of Arizona

Tucson, AZ · Public · Game design program

62.1

Public

Cost options are broad here. The program page lists on-campus in-state tuition and fees of $7,403 per semester, out-of-state of $22,184 per semester and online at $6,528 per semester, or $525 a unit. Published yearly in-state tuition is $11,835, while out-of-state students pay $26,330 more.

School-wide, aided first-years pay a net price of $18,144, and 63% of entering students complete within eight years. Graduates of all majors earn $59,979 ten years out. The degree requires 120 units across a four-year plan and can be taken on campus or online, which gives students a way to adjust cost and pace. About 21 students graduate annually. Students can also expect a school-wide admit rate of 86%, so the main variable is how they choose to finance it.

Completion: 63%school-wide
Net price: $18,144aided first-years
Grads a year: 21this program
Earnings: $59,97910 yrs, all majors
Students: 56,365largest school in the top 25
Out-of-state premium: $26,330published tuition, per year

View University of Arizona's Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

SUNY College of Technology at Alfred

Alfred, NY · Public · Game design program

62.1

Public

For cost-conscious students, Alfred State pairs a public price with a hands-on program. Aided first-years across the college pay a net price of $14,877, and the program page ties the bachelor's to UX, app and web design, data visualization and interactive entertainment, rather than games alone.

The campus is rural, one of the few in the top 25, so housing on the Alfred campus is part of the plan. Students can stop after two years with an associate degree or continue four years for the B.S. Ten years after entry, earnings average $50,445 across all majors. School-wide, 56% of entering students complete within eight years. About 3 students graduate from the program in a typical year, from a college of 3,781.

Completion: 56%school-wide
Net price: $14,877aided first-years
Grads a year: 3this program
Earnings: $50,44510 yrs, all majors
Campus setting: Ruralone of the few rural campuses in the top 25
Students: 3,781school enrollment

View SUNY College of Technology at Alfred's Bachelor of Science in Game & Interactive Design

University of Delaware

Newark, DE · Public · Game design program

61.9

Public

Value here comes from a school-wide net price of $17,716 for aided first-years, set against $14,600 in published in-state tuition. Out-of-state students pay $39,190, so cost depends heavily on residency. Cost of attendance before aid is $35,446 across the university.

For the money, the Game Studies and Esports B.A. offers a cross-disciplinary core, a focus area, a capstone in research or game production and a hands-on internship during the junior or senior year. Earnings ten years after entry average $72,950 across all majors school-wide, and 82% of entering students finish within eight years. Roughly four students graduate from the program each year, and the setting is a suburban campus. Placements for the internship span studios, esports and related fields, so the price includes real work experience.

Completion: 82%school-wide
Net price: $17,716aided first-years
Grads a year: 4this program
Earnings: $72,95010 yrs, all majors
In-state tuition: $14,600published, before aid
Campus setting: SuburbanIPEDS locale

View University of Delaware's Bachelor of Arts in Game Studies and Esports

Boise State University

Boise, ID · Public · Game design program

61.0

Public

The case for Boise State is a low in-state sticker price. Published tuition is $6,119 for Idaho residents and $24,859 for everyone else. After grants, aided first-year students across the university pay a net price of $19,037, and the school-wide cost of attendance is $31,191.

That price covers a Bachelor of Science in Games, Interactive Media, and Mobile, which blends game development with interactive media and mobile work. Value depends on more than cost, though. Completion across the university is 57% within eight years, and graduates of all majors earn a median $51,658 a decade after enrolling. The program graduates about 41 students a year. The $18,740 gap between resident and nonresident tuition is the biggest lever on the price, so Idaho residents benefit the most.

Completion: 57%school-wide
Net price: $19,037aided first-years
Grads a year: 41this program
Earnings: $51,65810 yrs, all majors
Campus setting: CityIPEDS locale
In-state tuition: $6,119published, before aid

View Boise State University's Bachelor of Science in Games, Interactive Media, and Mobile

University of Colorado Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO · Public · Simulation program

58.8

Public

Value here comes from a low sticker price at a public university. Published in-state tuition is $9,022 a year, and aided first-year students pay a net price of $16,816 school-wide, against a $30,355 cost of attendance before aid. Out-of-state tuition is $23,155, so residency matters a great deal for the total.

For that price, students get a 120-credit Bachelor of Innovation in Game Design and Development taught on campus. It pairs programming and game design with art and music breadth, and it adds an innovation core meant to prepare graduates to launch a small company or join a studio. The college admits 97% of applicants. Across the university, 48% of entering students finish in eight years and graduates earn $54,659 ten years later, counting all majors.

Completion: 48%school-wide
Net price: $16,816aided first-years
Grads a year: 9this program
Earnings: $54,65910 yrs, all majors
Admit rate: 97%least selective in the top 25
Campus setting: CityIPEDS locale

View University of Colorado Colorado Springs' Bachelor of Innovation in Game Design and Development

Lindenwood University

Saint Charles, MO · Private nonprofit · Game design program

57.7

Private

Cost comes first on this page. Aided first-years at Lindenwood pay a net price of $18,698 school-wide, against a published tuition of $19,900 that is identical for in-state and out-of-state students. The university reports a cost of attendance of $37,702 for the full year, so aid carries a large share of the difference.

For that price the program offers a Bachelor of Arts in Game Design built on production, usability and game aesthetics, with storytelling and character development as the foundation. Project and portfolio courses give students finished pieces to show. Across the university, 58% of entering students complete a degree within eight years, and graduates of all majors earn $53,278 a decade later.

Because the tuition is flat, there is no residency question to work through, which keeps the estimate simple for families comparing public and private options. The blended format lets students attend on campus, while the online version is priced per credit.

Completion: 58%school-wide
Net price: $18,698aided first-years
Grads a year: 13this program
Earnings: $53,27810 yrs, all majors
Out-of-state premium: None (private)same tuition for all students
Admit rate: 57%school-wide

View Lindenwood University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

Freed-Hardeman University

Henderson, TN · Private nonprofit · Game design program

55.9

Private

Cost is where this program earns its place on the list. Freed-Hardeman is a private university, yet aided first-year students across the university pay a net price of $18,267, well under the $39,410 cost of attendance and the $25,620 published tuition. Everyone pays that same tuition, so out-of-state students face no premium.

The degree itself is a B.S. in Interactive Digital Design with a developer emphasis, built on 2D design, digital graphics and web and mobile app development. It is the smallest school in the top 25, with 2,306 students, and its classes are small. Earnings ten years after entry average $47,485 across all majors, and 59% of entering students finish within eight years. The program page lists practical capstone work and customizable electives among its highlights.

Completion: 59%school-wide
Net price: $18,267aided first-years
Grads a year: 5this program
Earnings: $47,48510 yrs, all majors
Students: 2,306smallest school in the top 25
Out-of-state premium: None (private)same tuition for all students

View Freed-Hardeman University's Bachelor of Science in Interactive Digital Design (Developer track)

The rest of the list

More Low-Cost Game Design Schools: #26 to #81

The rest of the 2027 ranking, from #26 down, with what each program offers.

Villa Maria College

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Buffalo, NY · Private nonprofit · Game design program

55.8

Villa Maria's school-wide net price after aid is $15,687, against published tuition of $27,530. The private nonprofit in Buffalo enrolls 611 students and admits 87% of applicants. Game Design B.F.A. students work through pre-production, development, modeling and texturing in classes with an 8 to 1 student-to-faculty ratio. Choose it if the $15,687 school-wide net price is attractive next to $27,530 tuition, but a 43% school-wide completion rate means checking support.

Completion: 43%
Net price: $15,687
Grads a year: 2

View Villa Maria College's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Michigan State University

Bachelor of Arts in Games and Interactive Media

East Lansing, MI · Public · Game design program

54.1

Michigan State's Games and Interactive Media B.A. combines art, design and programming fundamentals with the history, social impact and business of games, and coursework is project-based with game studio partners. Michigan residents pay $17,739 in published tuition against $44,510 out of state. Net price across the university averages $24,630, and about 49 students graduate each year. Worth a look if you want a public university with solid finish rates, since 83% complete school-wide, but out-of-state students face tuition more than double the in-state rate.

Completion: 83%
Net price: $24,630
Grads a year: 49

View Michigan State University's Bachelor of Arts in Games and Interactive Media

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Games Animation

Cincinnati, OH · Public · Simulation program

53.5

Cincinnati's Games Animation B.F.A. runs as a studio, where students work with industry artists and animators and progress from apprentice to creator. Ohio residents pay $11,685 in published tuition, against $27,019 for out-of-state students. School-wide net price is $21,511, and about 11 students complete the degree each year, so costs stay moderate for a public art degree. Best for Ohio residents who want a studio-style art degree at public prices, though about 11 graduates a year suggests a small program where competition for studio spots may be tight.

Completion: 72%
Net price: $21,511
Grads a year: 11

View University of Cincinnati-Main Campus' Bachelor of Fine Arts in Games Animation

University of Advancing Technology

Bachelor of Science in Game Programming

Tempe, AZ · Private for-profit · Game programming program

49.2

UAT charges $17,900 in tuition for every student, and the school-wide net price after aid is $21,148. The private for-profit admits 98% of applicants and enrolls 933 students in Tempe. For that, students get a Game Programming B.S. built on C++, C#, scripting, artificial intelligence, networking and game engines. The trade-off is that the 48% school-wide completion rate offsets the low $17,900 tuition, so the savings only pay off if you finish on time.

Completion: 48%
Net price: $21,148
Grads a year: 13

View University of Advancing Technology's Bachelor of Science in Game Programming

Heidelberg University

Bachelor's in Video Game Production

Tiffin, OH · Private nonprofit · Game design program

48.1

Heidelberg's tuition is $32,900, but the school-wide net price falls to $19,620 after aid. In the Video Game Production program on a town campus in Tiffin, Ohio, students build their own 2D and 3D games and study game theory, storytelling and animation. Heidelberg admits 86% of applicants and enrolls 1,091 students. The drawback is the small program size, though the $19,620 school-wide net price against $32,900 tuition makes it one of the cheaper routes after aid.

Completion: 58%
Net price: $19,620
Grads a year: 1

View Heidelberg University's Bachelor's in Video Game Production

University of Tulsa

Bachelor of Science in Computer Simulation and Gaming

Tulsa, OK · Private nonprofit · Simulation program

47.4

The University of Tulsa lists tuition of $48,340, but the school-wide net price after aid falls to $23,681. The private nonprofit has an 11 to 1 student-faculty ratio, enrolls 3,914 students and admits 62% of applicants. Students in the Computer Simulation and Gaming B.S. work across games, simulation and 3D media. The catch is that a $48,340 tuition drops to a $23,681 school-wide net price only with aid, so confirm your award before assuming it is affordable.

Completion: 72%
Net price: $23,681
Grads a year: 9

View University of Tulsa's Bachelor of Science in Computer Simulation and Gaming

T-32

Long Island University

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Game Design & Development

Brookville, NY · Private nonprofit · Game programming program

46.9

LIU's published tuition is $40,248, while the net price school-wide is $22,620 after aid. Students in the Brookville B.F.A. complete solo and group projects in game design, programming and visual design, then finish with a capstone thesis that can double as a portfolio piece. The school admits 86% of applicants. The downside is that the $22,620 school-wide net price is far below the $40,248 tuition, so the real cost depends on aid, and only 53% finish school-wide.

Completion: 53%
Net price: $22,620
Grads a year: 13

View Long Island University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Digital Game Design & Development

T-32

Drury University

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Game Development

Springfield, MO · Private nonprofit · Game design program

46.9

Drury's tuition is $35,400, but aided students pay a school-wide net price of $22,194. The degree is a Computer Science B.S., a 41-credit-hour major with Discrete Mathematics, Algorithms and Artificial Intelligence, taught at a Springfield, Missouri campus of 1,615 students. Students are strongly encouraged to complete an internship, and the school admits 58% of applicants. A good fit if a campus of 1,615 students in Springfield suits you, and the $22,194 school-wide net price eases the $35,400 tuition.

Completion: 60%
Net price: $22,194
Grads a year: 6

View Drury University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science: Game Development

University of the Incarnate Word

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation and Game Design

San Antonio, TX · Private nonprofit · Game design program

46.4

Published tuition at the University of the Incarnate Word is $35,050, but the school-wide net price after aid is $21,246. The San Antonio private nonprofit enrolls 7,047 students and admits 98% of applicants. The B.F.A. offers four concentrations and small classes taught in person, and students graduate with a portfolio aimed at industry jobs. The concern is that although the $21,246 school-wide net price is far below $35,050 tuition, only 55% finish school-wide, so ask about advising.

Completion: 55%
Net price: $21,246
Grads a year: 4

View University of the Incarnate Word's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Animation and Game Design

Albright College

Bachelor's in Game and Simulation Development

Reading, PA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

46.2

A published tuition of $27,836 turns into a $22,116 school-wide net price after aid at Albright. Majors in Game and Simulation Development enter semesterly game jams judged by outside professionals, work alongside art students and finish with a capstone. The Reading, Pennsylvania campus enrolls 1,380 students. The catch is that a $22,116 school-wide net price is attractive next to $27,836 tuition, yet only 53% finish school-wide, so ask about support.

Completion: 53%
Net price: $22,116
Grads a year: 8

View Albright College's Bachelor's in Game and Simulation Development

Grand View University

Bachelor's in Game Design

Des Moines, IA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

44.8

Published tuition at Grand View is $34,112, but aided students pay a school-wide net price of $22,296. Its Game Design bachelor's sits on a Des Moines, Iowa campus of 1,856 students, and the private nonprofit admits 99% of applicants. Across the university, 59% of entering students complete a degree within eight years. A good fit if you want a smaller private school with a $22,296 school-wide net price against $34,112 tuition, though the 59% school-wide completion rate invites questions.

Completion: 59%
Net price: $22,296
Grads a year: 4

View Grand View University's Bachelor's in Game Design

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania

Bachelor of Science in Game Development

Kutztown, PA · Public · Game programming program

44.5

With $7,716 in-state tuition and $12,590 for out-of-state students, Kutztown keeps sticker price low, and the school-wide net price after aid is $21,856. The B.S. is a 120-credit major combining computer science, art and game strategy, taught in person. The department also offers a 21 to 22 credit minor for students who want game skills alongside another major. The risk is that the lower price is for Pennsylvanians at $7,716, and a 57% school-wide completion rate suggests planning your course load carefully to avoid extra semesters.

Completion: 57%
Net price: $21,856
Grads a year: 3

View Kutztown University of Pennsylvania's Bachelor of Science in Game Development

Miami University-Oxford

Bachelor of Science in Games + Simulation

Oxford, OH · Public · Game programming program

43.7

Miami University's Games + Simulation B.S. offers three areas of focus: game art, game design and game development, drawing on business and design, art and computer science. Ohio residents pay $14,420 in published tuition, while out-of-state students pay $35,866, a $21,446 gap. Net price is $27,928 school-wide, and about 30 students graduate each year. Suits students who want to choose between art, design and development within one degree, and the 82% school-wide completion rate is strong, but out-of-state tuition adds a big premium.

Completion: 82%
Net price: $27,928
Grads a year: 30

View Miami University-Oxford's Bachelor of Science in Games + Simulation

Houston Christian University

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Video Game Design

Houston, TX · Private nonprofit · Game design program

42.2

Houston Christian lists tuition of $36,750, but aided students pay far less: the school-wide net price is $20,530. The private nonprofit enrolls 4,276 students and admits 84% of applicants. Students design and produce real games in a Video Game Design B.F.A. that mixes animation, programming and narrative. A good fit if aid brings the $36,750 tuition to the $20,530 school-wide net price, but only 48% finishing school-wide suggests checking graduation support.

Completion: 48%
Net price: $20,530
Grads a year: 1

View Houston Christian University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Video Game Design

William Peace University

Bachelor of Arts in Simulation and Game Design

Raleigh, NC · Private nonprofit · Game design program

41.8

Peace's published tuition is $33,526 and its school-wide net price comes to $24,503 after aid. Raleigh students in the Simulation and Game Design B.A. use a dedicated lab and can head toward entertainment or serious games. Across the university, 46% of entering students complete within eight years. The catch is that the 46% school-wide completion rate offsets a $24,503 school-wide net price, so confirm the degree path before you commit.

Completion: 46%
Net price: $24,503
Grads a year: 20

View William Peace University's Bachelor of Arts in Simulation and Game Design

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Bachelor of Science in Game & Simulation Programming

Williamsport, PA · Public · Simulation program

41.5

Pennsylvania residents pay $15,450 in tuition at Penn College, and the school-wide net price after aid is $24,650. That buys a 126.5-credit B.S. in Game & Simulation Programming that mixes math, database and discrete structures courses with game design principles. Out-of-state students pay $23,190 in tuition, and the college enrolls 4,575 students in Williamsport. Suits cost-conscious students who can handle math and database coursework, and the $24,650 school-wide net price keeps the total below most private rivals, though 64% finish school-wide.

Completion: 64%
Net price: $24,650
Grads a year: 6

View Pennsylvania College of Technology's Bachelor of Science in Game & Simulation Programming

Oklahoma City University

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Animation

Oklahoma City, OK · Private nonprofit · Game design program

41.4

Every Game Design and Animation major at Oklahoma City University receives a $6,000 scholarship each year for up to four years, a total of $24,000 that can stack with other aid. Published tuition at this private nonprofit is $29,804, and the school-wide net price after aid is $23,143. The school enrolls 2,966 students. Keep in mind that the $6,000 yearly scholarship helps, yet $29,804 in tuition and 58% completing school-wide mean you should confirm what total aid you would actually receive.

Completion: 58%
Net price: $23,143
Grads a year: 3

View Oklahoma City University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Animation

Rider University

Bachelor of Arts in Game & Interactive Media Design

Lawrenceville, NJ · Private nonprofit · Simulation program

40.7

Rider's published tuition is $39,700, though the net price across the university drops to $26,618 after aid. Students study in suburban Lawrenceville, New Jersey, in game design labs located between New York City and Philadelphia. Across the university, 66% of entering students complete a degree within eight years. Consider it if the $26,618 school-wide net price works for you and you like a suburban campus, and the 66% school-wide completion rate is reasonable.

Completion: 66%
Net price: $26,618
Grads a year: 16

View Rider University's Bachelor of Arts in Game & Interactive Media Design

University of Southern California

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Games

Los Angeles, CA · Private nonprofit · Simulation program

37.5

USC's published tuition is $69,904, and the net price after aid is $41,496 school-wide. The Computer Science Games B.S. pairs a computer science core with game engine programming, serious games and two semester-long final game projects. Across the university, 93% of entering students finish within eight years. The drawback is that a $41,496 school-wide net price is still large, and admission is selective, so it suits students with top grades and strong aid.

Completion: 93%
Net price: $41,496
Grads a year: 41

View University of Southern California's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Games

Webster University

Bachelor of Arts in Games Design and Development

Saint Louis, MO · Private nonprofit · Game design program

36.3

Webster charges $31,450 in tuition, and school-wide aided students pay $27,695 net. Game Design and Development majors get Unreal Engine teaching materials as an Epic Games academic partner and work in professional labs with film and audio majors near Saint Louis. Webster admits 86% of applicants, and the university enrolls 8,260 students. A good fit if a $27,695 school-wide net price against $31,450 tuition works for you and you want a large university of 8,260 near Saint Louis.

Completion: 58%
Net price: $27,695
Grads a year: 17

View Webster University's Bachelor of Arts in Games Design and Development

Shenandoah University

Bachelor of Science in Virtual Reality Design

Winchester, VA · Private nonprofit · Simulation program

35.8

Shenandoah lists tuition of $35,460, and the school-wide net price after aid comes to $26,400. For that students get a Virtual Reality Design B.S. built around programming and game engines, with a unique focus on AR, VR and XR. About 68% of entering students complete a degree within eight years across the university. A good fit if you want developer roles in XR rather than art work, and the 68% school-wide completion rate helps, though the $26,400 net price still needs a close look.

Completion: 68%
Net price: $26,400
Grads a year: 3

View Shenandoah University's Bachelor of Science in Virtual Reality Design

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Bachelor of Science in Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences

Troy, NY · Private nonprofit · Game design program

35.3

Published tuition at Rensselaer is $62,500, but the school-wide net price after aid is $35,940. Across the university, 86% of entering students complete a degree within eight years. The Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences B.S. offers six concentrations and emphasizes collaborative, interdisciplinary work at a school of 7,040 students. A good fit if you can use aid to bring the cost to a $35,940 school-wide net price, and an 86% school-wide completion rate makes the finish line more likely.

Completion: 86%
Net price: $35,940
Grads a year: 37

View Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Bachelor of Science in Games and Simulation Arts and Sciences

Saint Edward's University

Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Development

Austin, TX · Private nonprofit · Game design program

34.7

Saint Edward's sticker price is $50,484, with a school-wide net price of $28,351 after aid. The Video Game Development B.A. in Austin teaches game audio and every phase from prototyping to release, and the university admits 81% of applicants. Students also study interactive storytelling and the Visual Studies curriculum. Ideal if a $28,351 school-wide net price against $50,484 tuition works for you, and you value networking at Austin game events.

Completion: 62%
Net price: $28,351
Grads a year: 13

View Saint Edward's University's Bachelor of Arts in Video Game Development

Neumont College of Computer Science

Bachelor of Science in Software & Game Development

Salt Lake City, UT · Private for-profit · Simulation program

34.5

Tuition at Neumont is $25,500 and the school-wide net price after aid is $28,592. Students in the Software & Game Development B.S. work in Java, .NET, C# and C++ and move through game engines, physics, computer graphics and mobile development, ending with a ninth-quarter capstone. Neumont enrolls 476 students and admits 87% of applicants. The catch is that the $28,592 school-wide net price exceeds the $25,500 tuition, so check the full cost, and 52% completion school-wide is moderate.

Completion: 52%
Net price: $28,592
Grads a year: 30

View Neumont College of Computer Science's Bachelor of Science in Software & Game Development

Columbia College Chicago

Bachelor of Arts in Game and Interactive Media Design

Chicago, IL · Private nonprofit · Game design program

34.2

Columbia College Chicago lists $32,272 in published tuition, and the school-wide net price after aid is $29,790, a small gap. The private nonprofit enrolls 5,570 students in Chicago and admits 89% of applicants. The Game and Interactive Media Design B.A. offers several concentrations and ends in a collaborative senior capstone. The downside is that the $29,790 school-wide net price is close to the $32,272 tuition, so aid does little here, and the school-wide completion rate is 56%.

Completion: 56%
Net price: $29,790
Grads a year: 47

View Columbia College Chicago's Bachelor of Arts in Game and Interactive Media Design

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Bachelor of Arts in Interactive Media & Game Development

Worcester, MA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

33.9

At WPI, published tuition is $59,700 and the school-wide net price is $47,799. The Interactive Media and Game Development degree is highly customizable and project-based from day one, in Worcester, where students create everything from escape rooms to digital games. Across the university, 88% of entering students complete a degree within eight years. The catch is that the $47,799 school-wide net price remains large, though an 88% school-wide completion rate means the money more often leads to a degree.

Completion: 88%
Net price: $47,799
Grads a year: 22

View Worcester Polytechnic Institute's Bachelor of Arts in Interactive Media & Game Development

St. John's University-New York

Bachelor of Science in Game Development and Emerging Media

Queens, NY · Private nonprofit · Game design program

33.1

Tuition is $51,919 at this Queens university, with a school-wide net price of $28,206 after aid. The 120-credit Game Development and Emerging Media B.S. trains students to code for games and design ethically, with the Media Art and Design Lab on campus. The university enrolls 19,389 students and admits 83% of applicants. A good fit if a $28,206 school-wide net price works for you at a large university of 19,389, but expect a big-campus experience.

Completion: 70%
Net price: $28,206
Grads a year: 4

View St. John's University-New York's Bachelor of Science in Game Development and Emerging Media

Loyola University New Orleans

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Game Programming

New Orleans, LA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

33.0

Loyola New Orleans lists $47,390 in tuition, but the school-wide net price after aid is $26,150. The private nonprofit enrolls 4,250 students and admits 93% of applicants. Students earn a Computer Science B.S. with a Game Programming concentration, complete an internship and choose electives such as Making Games and Videogames and Literature. The concern is that the $47,390 tuition requires aid to reach the $26,150 school-wide net price, though a 63% school-wide completion rate is reasonable.

Completion: 63%
Net price: $26,150
Grads a year: 1

View Loyola University New Orleans' Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with Game Programming

Rochester Institute of Technology

Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

Rochester, NY · Private nonprofit · Simulation program

32.8

RIT's published tuition is $58,260 against a school-wide net price of $39,753. The Game Design and Development B.S. includes two paid co-op blocks, access to MAGIC Spell Studios and an option for an accelerated bachelor's and master's, which can cut time and cost. RIT enrolls 17,098 students and admits 67% of applicants. A good fit if you want to shorten the path with the accelerated bachelor's and master's option, and a $39,753 school-wide net price still needs a funding plan.

Completion: 71%
Net price: $39,753
Grads a year: 158

View Rochester Institute of Technology's Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

Hampshire College

Game Design and Development

Amherst, MA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

31.9

Hampshire students pay $57,158 in published tuition, with a school-wide net price of $27,556 after aid. Game Design and Development here is self-directed: students shape their own programs through project-based courses covering playtesting, game programming and audio design, in a small Amherst community of 844 students. The risk is that the $57,158 tuition is high, so the $27,556 school-wide net price only works with aid, and a campus of 844 is small.

Completion: 64%
Net price: $27,556
Grads a year: 3

View Hampshire College's Game Design and Development

University of Miami

Bachelor's in Immersive Media

Coral Gables, FL · Private nonprofit · Game design program

31.1

Miami's published tuition is $60,720, and the net price school-wide after aid is $41,028. The Immersive Media degree offers a design track and a development track, with courses in creative coding and immersive storytelling. Across the university, 82% of entering students complete a degree in eight years. A good fit if aid brings you to the $41,028 school-wide net price, and an 82% school-wide completion rate makes it a safer bet.

Completion: 82%
Net price: $41,028
Grads a year: 15

View University of Miami's Bachelor's in Immersive Media

Marist University

Bachelor of Science in Games and Emerging Media Degree

Poughkeepsie, NY · Private nonprofit · Game design program

30.9

Marist charges $46,920 in tuition, with a school-wide net price of $40,106, and enrolls 6,356 students. Games and Emerging Media majors work in collaborative studio teams from concept to production, in suburban Poughkeepsie. Across the university, 80% of entering students complete a degree within eight years. The catch is that a $40,106 school-wide net price is still a heavy cost, though 80% finishing school-wide gives some reassurance for the investment.

Completion: 80%
Net price: $40,106
Grads a year: 17

View Marist University's Bachelor of Science in Games and Emerging Media Degree

Laguna College of Art and Design

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Development

Laguna Beach, CA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

30.2

Published tuition at Laguna College of Art and Design is $37,500 for everyone, and the school-wide net price after aid is $44,285, so aid matters here. The private nonprofit enrolls just 775 students and admits 94% of applicants. Students earn a four-year B.F.A. with a Game Art or Game Design track. The trade-off is that the $44,285 school-wide net price tops the $37,500 tuition, so aid is not guaranteed to lower the bill at this small school of 775 students.

Completion: 67%
Net price: $44,285
Grads a year: 33

View Laguna College of Art and Design's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Development

T-59

High Point University

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

High Point, NC · Private nonprofit · Game design program

29.5

High Point's tuition is $39,714 and the school-wide net price after aid is $43,578. The Game Design B.A. ends with Collaborative Game Design and Development and a portfolio course, and a Game Development Club runs game jams. The university enrolls 6,331 students and admits 75% of applicants, and the major totals 128 credits. The catch is that a $43,578 school-wide net price exceeds the $39,714 tuition, so aid does little here, and the major totals 128 credits.

Completion: 71%
Net price: $43,578
Grads a year: 21

View High Point University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

T-59

Quinnipiac University

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Development

Hamden, CT · Private nonprofit · Game design program

29.5

Quinnipiac's tuition is $52,670, and the school-wide net price after aid is $39,632. The Game Design and Development B.A. adds game labs, research projects and internships to its coursework in suburban Hamden, with guest speakers from Sony and Epic. Across the university, 80% of entering students complete in eight years. Look here if you can reach a $39,632 school-wide net price, and 80% completing school-wide offers confidence, but the cost is significant.

Completion: 80%
Net price: $39,632
Grads a year: 11

View Quinnipiac University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Development

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation

Redmond, WA · Private for-profit · Simulation program

29.0

DigiPen's published tuition is $38,600 for every student, and the school-wide net price after aid is $40,015. The private for-profit school enrolls 1,084 students and admits 64% of applicants. The price buys an ABET-accredited Computer Science degree in Real-Time Interactive Simulation in which students build their own game engines with a focus on graphics. The drawback is price: $38,600 in tuition and a $40,015 school-wide net price, so it suits students sure about low-level programming and an ABET-accredited credential.

Completion: 56%
Net price: $40,015
Grads a year: 92

View DigiPen Institute of Technology's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation

University of Silicon Valley

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

San Jose, CA · Private for-profit · Game design program

28.4

Published tuition is $21,480 at the University of Silicon Valley, and the school-wide net price after aid is $30,602. Students can take the Game Design B.A. on campus or 100% online, with game prototyping, narrative design and level design in the coursework. Students graduate with a published portfolio, and the private for-profit school enrolls 477 students. The downside is that a 52% school-wide completion rate and a $30,602 net price above the $21,480 tuition mean you should check the real cost and support before enrolling.

Completion: 52%
Net price: $30,602
Grads a year: 22

View University of Silicon Valley's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design

Biola University

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design & Interactive Media

La Mirada, CA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

28.1

Biola's sticker price of $48,984 shrinks to a $30,510 net price school-wide once aid is counted, which changes the math for a private campus in suburban La Mirada. The Game Design & Interactive Media B.A. runs four years and 120 credits, and each student logs 180 studio hours before graduating. The catch is that the $30,510 school-wide net price is far below $48,984 in tuition, so the final bill depends heavily on the aid offer you receive.

Completion: 69%
Net price: $30,510
Grads a year: 6

View Biola University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design & Interactive Media

Champlain College

Bachelor of Science in Game Design Degree |

Burlington, VT · Private nonprofit · Game design program

27.6

Champlain's tuition is $47,400, with a school-wide net price of $36,846 after aid, and it admits 83% of applicants. Game Design majors in Burlington build a collaborative portfolio from the start and team with other game majors through the Game Studio Experience. Internships are a recommended experience. The concern is that a $36,846 school-wide net price is still high for a degree where internships are only recommended, so weigh the 59% school-wide completion rate and your aid offer first.

Completion: 59%
Net price: $36,846
Grads a year: 28

View Champlain College's Bachelor of Science in Game Design Degree |

Maryland Institute College of Art

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Baltimore, MD · Private nonprofit · Game design program

27.2

At $54,750, published tuition at this Baltimore art college is the same for every student, with no out-of-state premium. Aided first-years pay a net price of $43,066 school-wide, well below the $80,500 cost of attendance. The Game Design B.F.A. is a small program that graduates about seven students a year. The catch is that the $54,750 sticker price leaves a gap even after aid, so this suits students who have a strong aid offer in hand and are comfortable with a small cohort.

Completion: 77%
Net price: $43,066
Grads a year: 7

View Maryland Institute College of Art's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Woodbury University

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Design

Burbank, CA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

27.0

Woodbury asks $45,562 in published tuition, yet aided students across the university pay $31,257 net. That price covers a STEM-designated B.F.A. with art and design tracks on a Burbank campus of just 849 students, where about 64% of entrants finish a degree within eight years. The risk is the small scale: a Burbank campus of 849 students, a $31,257 school-wide net price and 64% finishing school-wide suit students who want close faculty contact more than size.

Completion: 64%
Net price: $31,257
Grads a year: 10

View Woodbury University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Design

Pennsylvania College of Art and Design

Bachelor's in Animation and Game Art

Lancaster, PA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

26.8

Tuition at Pennsylvania College of Art and Design is $30,250, and the school-wide net price is $30,437. Lancaster's Animation and Game Art students can join the SIGGRAPH chapter and tabletop and esports clubs, get tutoring in digital art and submit a portfolio to apply. The college admits 99% of applicants. The trade-off is that the $30,437 school-wide net price is above the $30,250 tuition, so aid does little, and 57% finish school-wide.

Completion: 57%
Net price: $30,437
Grads a year: 9

View Pennsylvania College of Art and Design's Bachelor's in Animation and Game Art

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott

Bachelor of Science in Simulation Science, Games and Animation

Prescott, AZ · Private nonprofit · Simulation program

26.3

Tuition at Embry-Riddle Prescott is $42,408 for every student, with no out-of-state premium, and school-wide cost of attendance is $63,807 before aid. First-years who receive aid pay a net price of $41,209, so this is a private-school price tag. The B.S. runs 127 credits, is taught on campus and is housed in the College of Arts & Sciences. The catch is price: with a $41,209 school-wide net price and 70% finishing within eight years school-wide, this is a costly route, so compare aid offers before committing to the 127 credits.

Completion: 70%
Net price: $41,209
Grads a year: 9

View Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott's Bachelor of Science in Simulation Science, Games and Animation

Sacred Heart University

Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Development

Fairfield, CT · Private nonprofit · Game design program

26.2

Sacred Heart University charges $50,084 in published tuition, with no difference by residency, and aided first-years pay a net price of $46,165 school-wide. In return, the B.S. in Game Design and Development includes paid-for Unity certification training for students who want it, and about eight students graduate from the program each year. Worth a look if you plan to use the certification training and want engineering depth, but the $46,165 school-wide net price is steep, so compare your own aid offer carefully.

Completion: 71%
Net price: $46,165
Grads a year: 8

View Sacred Heart University's Bachelor of Science in Game Design & Development

University of Denver

Bachelor of Science in Game Development

Denver, CO · Private nonprofit · Game design program

25.9

Denver's published tuition runs $60,048, and the school-wide net price after aid lands at $43,324, so this is a premium private route. In return, Game Development majors complete 52 COMP credits, a math minor and a creative minor, and 75% of entering students across the university finish a degree in eight years. A good fit if you value a technical computer science base and 75% completion school-wide, but the $43,324 school-wide net price means planning for a substantial cost.

Completion: 75%
Net price: $43,324
Grads a year: 6

View University of Denver's Bachelor of Science in Game Development

New England Institute of Technology

Bachelor of Science in Game Development and Simulation Programming

East Greenwich, RI · Private nonprofit · Game design program

25.8

NEIT's tuition is $34,875, with a school-wide net price of $36,714. The Game Development and Simulation Programming B.S. builds on an associate degree, adds coding for VR and AR games and ends with a team capstone game reviewed by three faculty members. NEIT enrolls 1,922 students and admits 67% of applicants. The drawback is that the $36,714 school-wide net price exceeds the $34,875 tuition, so verify the total cost, and the program builds on prior study.

Completion: 67%
Net price: $36,714
Grads a year: 10

View New England Institute of Technology's Bachelor of Science in Game Development and Simulation Programming

Columbus College of Art & Design

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Design Degree

Columbus, OH · Private nonprofit · Game design program

25.7

Published tuition at CCAD is $40,825, while the school-wide net price after aid is $30,900. The private nonprofit enrolls just 916 students. Game art and design students join game jams and clubs including the Game Development Guild, and learn everything from introductory coding to building playable prototypes. The catch is that the $30,900 school-wide net price is still a lot, so choose the clubs, jams and prototypes only if the cost works for you.

Completion: 63%
Net price: $30,900
Grads a year: 6

View Columbus College of Art & Design's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art & Design Degree

Northeastern University

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Boston, MA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

25.4

Northeastern charges $64,990 in tuition, with a school-wide net price of $34,770 after aid. The Boston B.F.A. in Game Design focuses on the creative side of game making, and 91% of entering students across the university complete a degree within eight years. Students are encouraged to develop their own creative voice through critical analysis and reflective practice. A good fit if you can use aid to reach a $34,770 school-wide net price, and the 91% school-wide completion rate is a strong sign.

Completion: 91%
Net price: $34,770
Grads a year: 1

View Northeastern University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Florida Southern College

Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive and Game Design

Lakeland, FL · Private nonprofit · Game design program

24.5

Florida Southern's tuition is $42,900, and school-wide aided students pay a net price of $30,462. Students choose a B.A. or B.F.A. in Interactive and Game Design, a four-year in-person program where a portfolio is part of admission. The program takes four years, and the college enrolls 3,211 students and admits 64% of applicants. Keep in mind that you need a portfolio to apply, and the $30,462 school-wide net price against $42,900 tuition depends heavily on aid.

Completion: 66%
Net price: $30,462
Grads a year: 2

View Florida Southern College's Bachelor of Arts or Bachelor of Fine Arts in Interactive and Game Design

Samford University

Bachelor of Science in Game Design

Birmingham, AL · Private nonprofit · Game design program

24.1

Samford lists $39,000 in tuition, and the school-wide net price after aid is $32,176. The private nonprofit in suburban Birmingham enrolls 6,097 students and admits 82% of applicants, and 77% of entering students complete a degree within eight years across the university. The Game Design B.S. covers 3D art, animation and game engine work. A good fit if a $32,176 school-wide net price against $39,000 tuition works for you, and a 77% school-wide completion rate offers some comfort.

Completion: 77%
Net price: $32,176
Grads a year: 3

View Samford University's Bachelor of Science in Game Design

T-76

Cleveland Institute of Art

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Cleveland, OH · Private nonprofit · Game design program

22.4

Published tuition is $45,600 at Cleveland Institute of Art, and the school-wide net price after aid is $33,527. The private nonprofit admits 61% of applicants and enrolls 545 students. Game Design B.F.A. students can check out video, lighting and sound equipment with their ID card and use a motion capture studio. The concern is that $45,600 in tuition and a $33,527 school-wide net price are high for a school of 545 students, so weigh the facilities against your budget.

Completion: 58%
Net price: $33,527
Grads a year: 7

View Cleveland Institute of Art's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

T-76

New York Film Academy

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

Burbank, CA · Private for-profit · Game design program

22.4

New York Film Academy lists tuition of $35,212 for this B.F.A. in Game Design, though the school-wide net price after aid is higher at $50,504. The private for-profit school enrolls 1,132 students, and 65% of entering students complete a degree within eight years school-wide. The degree is taught in person at the Burbank campus. The catch is that the $50,504 school-wide net price tops the $35,212 listed tuition, so get a full cost estimate before treating this as the cheaper option.

Completion: 65%
Net price: $50,504
Grads a year: 4

View New York Film Academy's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Design

California College of the Arts

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Arts & Design

San Francisco, CA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

22.2

Published tuition at California College of the Arts is $59,376, and the net price after aid is $49,945 school-wide, so cost is a real consideration. The private nonprofit admits 91% of applicants and keeps enrollment small at 1,308 students. Students get a fine-arts B.F.A. covering digital, analog and mixed-media game work. The risk is cost: $59,376 in tuition and a $49,945 school-wide net price make this one of the pricier paths, so it suits students who value the fine-arts studio approach above all.

Completion: 72%
Net price: $49,945
Grads a year: 2

View California College of the Arts' Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Arts & Design

Bethany College

Video Game Design Major

Lindsborg, KS · Private nonprofit · Game design program

19.6

Bethany College, in Lindsborg, Kansas, charges $30,700 in published tuition, and aided first-years pay a net price of $29,571 school-wide. The Video Game Design major sits inside a small college of 615 students, which keeps classes close to the faculty and the labs. About two students graduate from the program each year. A good fit if you value small classes and a net price close to the published tuition, but only about two students graduate from the program yearly, so the cohort is tiny.

Completion: 40%
Net price: $29,571
Grads a year: 2

View Bethany College's Video Game Design Major

Palm Beach Atlantic University

Bachelor of Arts in Gaming & Interactive Media Design

West Palm Beach, FL · Private nonprofit · Game design program

17.7

Published tuition is $39,400 at Palm Beach Atlantic, a private university in West Palm Beach, and aided first-years pay a net price of $31,103 school-wide. The B.A. in Gaming and Interactive Media Design runs 120 credit hours, or four years full-time, and can be completed online as well as on campus. Suits students who want an online option at a private-school price, though the school-wide 56% completion rate means it pays to confirm how the department supports students through to graduation.

Completion: 56%
Net price: $31,103
Grads a year: 1

View Palm Beach Atlantic University's Bachelor of Arts in Gaming & Interactive Media Design

Cornish College of the Arts

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art

Seattle, WA · Private nonprofit · Game design program

17.0

Cornish College of the Arts charges $40,038 in published tuition, and the school-wide net price after aid is $40,164. The private nonprofit enrolls only 505 students and admits 62% of applicants. Game Art majors work at the intersection of art and design in Seattle, a city the program describes as home to one of the largest indie gaming scenes in the country. The catch is that the $40,164 school-wide net price barely falls below the $40,038 tuition, so aid may not change the bill much here.

Completion: 54%
Net price: $40,164
Grads a year: 2

View Cornish College of the Arts' Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art

Where the cheapest are

Where the Cheapest Game Design Schools Are

The lowest net price among the 81 ranked schools is $8,650 a year at Utah Valley University, and the highest is $50,504. That $41,854 gap is why price can decide a shortlist. The median is $24,700 a year, or about $98,600 over four years. In the top 25 here the median is $15,800, about $63,300 over four years.

The ranked schools with the lowest average net price for aided first-year students, with their rank here. Net price and completion are IPEDS, school-wide.

Utah Valley University

Bachelor of Science in Animation and Game Development

Utah · Public

82.1

Completion: 46%
Net price: $8,650
Grads a year: 24

View Utah Valley University's Bachelor of Science in Animation and Game Development

University of Houston-Victoria

Bachelor of Science in Digital Gaming & Simulation

Texas · Public

74.8

Completion: 43%
Net price: $9,912
Grads a year: 9

View University of Houston-Victoria's Bachelor of Science in Digital Gaming & Simulation

Arkansas Tech University

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game & Interactive Media Design

Arkansas · Public

75.3

Completion: 52%
Net price: $11,443
Grads a year: 17

View Arkansas Tech University's Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game & Interactive Media Design

University of Utah

Bachelor of Science in Games

Utah · Public

79.1

Completion: 70%
Net price: $13,341
Grads a year: 151

View University of Utah's Bachelor of Science in Games

West Virginia University

Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media

West Virginia · Public

74.1

Completion: 64%
Net price: $13,691
Grads a year: 24

View West Virginia University's Bachelor of Arts in Game Design and Interactive Media

Southern Arkansas University Main Campus

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game, Animation, and Simulation Design

Arkansas · Public

64.7

Completion: 43%
Net price: $14,164
Grads a year: 11

View Southern Arkansas University Main Campus' Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game, Animation, and Simulation Design

Wilmington University

Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

Delaware · Private nonprofit

66.1

Completion: 48%
Net price: $14,267
Grads a year: 12

View Wilmington University's Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

SUNY College of Technology at Canton

Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

New York · Public

68.3

Completion: 50%
Net price: $14,451
Grads a year: 22

View SUNY College of Technology at Canton's Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development

Public and Private Schools With the Lowest Prices

Of the 25 lowest-priced schools, 21 are public. Across the whole list the median net price is $16,300 at the 27 public schools and $30,500 at the 54 private ones. The cheapest public school is Utah Valley University at $8,650 a year. The cheapest private school is Wilmington University at $14,267. Net price at a public college is the in-state average, so the public figures only apply if you live in that state.

Which States Have the Most Low-Cost Options

The ranked schools are spread across 34 states. The states with the most schools among the lowest-priced are California (3), New York (3), Arkansas (2), Delaware (2). A cluster of cheap schools in one state usually reflects state funding for public universities, and it means residents of that state have more low-cost choices than most. If your state isn't on that list, the rankings by state page shows what is closest to you.

The completion floor

Cheap Game Design Programs Too Few Students Finish

A cheap program only helps if students finish it. So a school must have an eight-year completion rate of at least 40% to be ranked here. The median completion rate among ranked schools is 63%, and the lowest is 40%.

8 schools have a game design, game programming or simulation bachelor's and are left out for missing the floor. 0 are public. Without the floor, a low price could put these schools near the top on cost points alone, even though a small share of their students finish.

Schools with a qualifying bachelor's that miss the 40% completion floor. Completion is IPEDS Outcome Measures, school-wide.

Academy of Art University

California · Private for-profit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (26%) is under the 40% floor

Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

Colorado · Private for-profit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (31%) is under the 40% floor

Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale

Florida · Private nonprofit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (37%) is under the 40% floor

Baker College

Michigan · Private nonprofit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (26%) is under the 40% floor

Greensboro College

North Carolina · Private nonprofit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (37%) is under the 40% floor

New England College

New Hampshire · Private nonprofit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (28%) is under the 40% floor

Southern New Hampshire University

New Hampshire · Private nonprofit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (36%) is under the 40% floor

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology

Pennsylvania · Private nonprofit

Why it isn't ranked: The school's completion rate (35%) is under the 40% floor

Leaving a school out of this list is not a verdict on its teaching. A school under the floor may still suit you if you know its numbers and you're confident about your own odds of finishing. It just can't be called one of the most affordable, because a low price is a poor deal if you leave without the degree. The main ranking scores these same programs with price at a lower weight and no floor.

Paying less

How to Pay Less for a Game Design Degree

Net price is an average for students who got aid, so your own number can land above or below it. These steps move it down.

Run the net price calculator. Every college must post one. Enter your family's real figures, because the average above blends very different households.
Start with public schools in your own state. Among the public schools here the median published in-state tuition is $8,500 a year. The median out-of-state tuition is $23,200.
Look at regional exchanges. The Western Undergraduate Exchange, the Midwest Student Exchange Program, the Academic Common Market and the New England Regional Student Program cut nonresident tuition at participating public schools. Each has its own rules on who qualifies and which programs count, so check the program is covered before you rely on it.
Ask about the major, not only the school. Some colleges charge differently by program, and some game programs sit inside a department with its own scholarships.
Count the years. A program that takes longer than four years costs more than its yearly price suggests. Ask how many students graduate on time, and what transfer credit the school accepts.

In-State Versus Out-of-State

At 26 of the 27 public schools here, out-of-state tuition is higher than in-state, and the median gap is $14,700 a year. Over four years that gap adds up fast, which is why moving for a cheaper school only pays if you can qualify for the lower rate or a regional discount. Residency rules vary by state, and many require a period of living there before you enroll, so find out early. The public game design schools ranking lists in-state and out-of-state tuition side by side.

To see what is near you, open the rankings by state page and pick your state. Its page lists the schools there with a game program and how each one scores. Compare a few affordable options on their calculators before you decide, and weigh price against the student work each program can show you.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Game Design School Costs the Least?

By this ranking, Utah Valley University is the most affordable game design school for 2027, with an average net price of $8,650 a year for aided first-year students and a 46% completion rate. University of California-Irvine and University of Utah are next. Net price is a school-wide average and your own number will differ with aid and residency, so run each school's net price calculator before you decide. See the top 25.

How Is This Different From the Best Game Design Schools Ranking?

Net price is 60 of the 100 points here, against 40 in the best game design schools ranking, and a school must have a completion rate of at least 40% to be ranked at all. 9 schools miss that floor. The trade-off is that a school that finishes more students but costs more drops down this list. See what the floor removed.

What Does Net Price Mean?

Net price is what first-year, full-time students who received grant aid paid on average after grants, in-state at public schools. It is a school-wide figure from IPEDS and not a quote, so it leaves out students who got no aid and it does not include the cost of a capable computer. The median across the 81 schools ranked here is $24,700 a year. Run each school's net price calculator for your own number. See how to pay less.

Are Public Schools Always Cheaper?

Usually, for in-state students. The median net price is $16,300 at the public schools here and $30,500 at the private ones, and 22 of the top 25 are public. Out of state, a public university can cost as much as a private college that gives generous grants, so compare net prices and not sticker prices. See where the lowest net prices are.

How Much Does a Game Design Degree Cost?

The median net price across the 81 schools ranked here is $24,700 a year, which is about $98,600 over four years. The 25 cheapest have a median of $15,800 a year, or about $63,300 over four years. Prices spread by $41,854 from the lowest to the highest ranked school. That is net price after grants and not sticker price, so use it as a starting point. See every school's net price.

Does a Cheap Game Design School Have Good Completion Rates?

Not always, which is why this ranking has a completion floor. The median eight-year completion rate across the 81 ranked schools is 63%, and the lowest is 40%. A low price only helps if you finish, since an unfinished degree still leaves debt. Check the completion figure next to the price for any school you consider. See the top 25.

Can I Get a Cheaper Game Design Degree Online?

Sometimes, but an online format does not guarantee a lower net price. Compare each program's price the same way you would for a campus program, and confirm on its own page that the whole degree can be completed online. The online game design degrees ranking lists the programs whose pages confirm a fully online path, with net price and completion beside each. Moving costs are the other lever, so a cheap school near home can beat a cheaper one far away.

Sources

1 NCES, IPEDS Completions 2022 to 2024 and Completions by Distance Education 2024 Every program in the ranking, the field code it is filed under, its graduates each year, and whether the school reports it can be completed by distance education. 354 programs in four fields. Accessed October 13, 2026.
2 NCES, IPEDS Outcome Measures 2023 The completion factor: the share of all entering students, full-time, part-time and transfer, who earned an award within eight years. School-wide.
3 NCES, IPEDS Student Financial Aid 2022-23, average net price The cost factor: average net price for first-time, full-time students who received grant aid, in-state for public schools. School-wide.

Most Affordable Game Design Schools for 2027

The Most Affordable Game Design Schools in 60 Seconds

Is a Low-Cost Game Design Degree Right for You?

How We Score These Programs

What the Score Means for Most Affordable Game Design Schools

The 25 Most Affordable Game Design Schools in 2027

More Low-Cost Game Design Schools: #26 to #81

Where the Cheapest Game Design Schools Are

Public and Private Schools With the Lowest Prices

Which States Have the Most Low-Cost Options

Cheap Game Design Programs Too Few Students Finish

How to Pay Less for a Game Design Degree

In-State Versus Out-of-State

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Game Design School Costs the Least?

How Is This Different From the Best Game Design Schools Ranking?

What Does Net Price Mean?

Are Public Schools Always Cheaper?

How Much Does a Game Design Degree Cost?

Does a Cheap Game Design School Have Good Completion Rates?

Can I Get a Cheaper Game Design Degree Online?

Related Pages

Sources