Are you passionate about video games and looking to turn your love into a career? Look no further than studying video game design at one of the top schools in the world. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best institutions for learning the craft and provide insights from successful professionals who have graduated from these programs.

1. The University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC)

Located on the beautiful California coastline, UCSC is one of the most prestigious universities in the world when it comes to video game design. Its Computer Science Department offers a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science with an emphasis on Game Design, which includes courses in game development, game engines, and interactive programming. Many graduates have gone on to work at some of the biggest names in the industry, such as Epic Games and Blizzard Entertainment.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

Located in Vancouver, Canada, UBC is another top school for video game design. Its Computer Science Department offers a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science with a specialization in Game Design and Development. Graduates have worked at companies such as Microsoft Studios, Electronic Arts, and Rocksteady Games.

3. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU)

Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, CMU is known for its Robotics Institute, but it also has a strong program in video game design. Its Entertainment Technology Center offers a Master of Fine Arts degree in Game Design, which includes courses in game theory, programming, and interactive narrative. Many graduates have gone on to work at major studios such as Microsoft Studios, Ubisoft, and Sony Interactive Entertainment.

4. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

Located in Providence, Rhode Island, RISD is a top school for graphic design and animation. Its Film, Animation & Video Department offers a Master of Fine Arts degree in Game Design, which includes courses in game art, programming, and interactive storytelling. Graduates have worked at companies such as Ubisoft, Epic Games, and Sony Interactive Entertainment.

5. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT is a top university known for its engineering programs. Its Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence Laboratory offers a Master of Science degree in Computational Media with a specialization in Game Design and Development. Graduates have worked at companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft Studios.

According to game designer and industry expert, James Gurney, “When it comes to video game design, there are only a few schools that truly stand out. These top institutions offer rigorous programs that not only provide the technical skills needed for the job but also foster creativity and innovation.”

One example of a graduate who has benefited from these top schools is Alex Chen, who graduated from UCSC with a degree in Computer Science and now works as a game developer at Epic Games. “I knew I wanted to work in video games since I was young,” says Chen. “Studying at UCSC gave me the technical skills and industry connections I needed to turn my passion into a career.”

Another graduate is Jessica Lu, who graduated from RISD with a Master’s degree in Game Design and now works as a game artist at Sony Interactive Entertainment. “RISD provided me with the opportunity to study game art in-depth and learn how to create visually stunning games,” says Lu. “I couldn’t have landed my job at Sony without my RISD education.