U of A Undergraduate Game Design Program Climbs in National Rankings

The University of Arizona’s Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development (BSGDD) continues its upward momentum, moving up two spots to rank #22 among public universities in Animation Career Review’s 2025 rankings of the Top Game Design Schools in the U.S.

This national recognition reflects the program’s growing excellence in preparing students for the fast-evolving and multifaceted world of game design. Offered through the College of Information Science, the BSGDD equips students with the skills to succeed across sectors—from entertainment and education to healthcare and advanced training.

“Our program’s rise in the national rankings is a testament to the strength of our faculty, the creativity of our students and the real-world relevance of what we teach,” says Catherine Brooks, interim dean of the College of Information Science. “We’re proud to offer a degree that blends cutting-edge technology with interdisciplinary thinking, all while remaining accessible to students both on campus and—beginning this fall—fully online.”

Animation Career Review—which has published national rankings since 2013—evaluates game design programs based on a range of factors, including academic reputation, graduate employment data, faculty credentials, program depth, selectivity and affordability. In 2025, the rankings considered 154 degree-granting institutions across the country.

The University of Arizona’s STEM-designated BSGDD provides students with hands-on training in game development, gamification, usability, storytelling and technical design. Students complete coursework across multiple categories, including core major courses such as Computational Thinking and Doing, Introduction to Game Design, Game Programming and Game Development; electives such as Digital Games and Society, Narrative Practices in Digital Games, 3D Modeling for Games and Virtual Reality; research methods such as Quantitative Methods for the Digital Marketplace; and a capstone engagement course. BSGDD students also pursue a minor or second major, broadening their academic and career horizons.

As recent BSGDD graduate Elijah Parent says, “The hands-on classes let us try out different roles in game development. Since the industry is so portfolio-driven, the experience we gain completing real projects is essential for getting hired and building something meaningful.”

Graduates of the program are prepared for a wide array of careers across industries, including game designer, 3D artist, software developer, art director and application developer. The degree also emphasizes ethical design, cross-cultural communication and the analysis of emerging technologies—critical skills in a rapidly diversifying industry.

With its strong foundation, practical orientation and interdisciplinary reach, the BSGDD continues to attract students eager to shape the future of gaming and interactive media.
 

Explore the Bachelor of Science in Game Design and Development, now offered on main campus and online.