The 21 Best Michigan Game Design Schools

Michigan is one of the best places to study in the U.S. due in part to the impressive number of public and private universities spread across the state.

The Carnegie Foundation has even classified seven of The Great Lakes State’s universities as top research schools. As an aspiring game designer you have plenty of high-quality game programs to choose from.

The Top Michigan Game Design Colleges

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Full Sail University

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Full Sail offers a Game Design Bachelor of Science Degree Program that is perfect if you want to create captivating worlds and interactive experiences for a living.

Review:
This Game Design program is unrivaled for delivering a comprehensive focus on the production, storytelling, and gameplay aspects of game creation.

You’ll also get to examine design processes that involve level design, prototyping, play balancing, game economics, design tools, and more.

Pros and Cons:
This program is one of the best in the state for covering several areas of game creation. While the program itself has no problems, you may find the high tuition costs discouraging.

Choose from game specific degree programs:

• Game Design
• Game Art
• Animation
• Game Development
• Digital Cinematography
• Mobile Game Design

Both on-campus and online degree courses available.

Recent Graduates

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Top Online Game Design School for 2017

Davenport University, College for Creative Studies

The Computer Science, B.S. program at Davenport University offers a Specialization in Gaming and Simulation made specifically for aspiring game developers like you.

Review:
Earning a Computer Science major means you’ll learn the algorithmic and theoretical foundations of using a computer to develop games, simulations, and biometrics. The Gaming and Simulation specialization lets you take valuable courses like 3D Modeling, Mobile Application Development, Intro to game Theory, and more.

Pros and Cons:
This program is for you if your goal is to earn an education that will make you a skilled and creative game programmer and/or designer. Of course, the downside to this school is that there isn’t an art-focused game design program.

Typical Tuition:
Undergraduates taking five courses (15 credit hours) per semester will pay $9,495 per semester and $18,990 for a full year.

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science w/ Specialty in Gaming and Simulation

Websites:

• http://www.davenport.edu/programs/technology/bachelors-degree/computer-information-systems-major-computer-gaming-and-simulation-bs

School Addresses:

• 6191 Kraft Avenue S.E., Grand Rapids, MI 49512

Top Online Game Design School for 2016

DeVry University

A Bachelor of Science in Multimedia Design and Development is available if you are an aspiring game developer had have interest in DeVry University.

Review:
This strong program puts the latest software applications in your hands as you learn how to manage, design, illustrate, and produce visual communications. Four specializations are offered: Graphic and Multimedia Design, Graphics and Multimedia Management, Web Design and Development, and Web Game Programming.

Pros and Cons:
The biggest strength of DeVry’s program is the ability to choose one of four specializations that each prepare you for a career in game development. But like Full Sail University, you’re looking at a huge tuition cost since the program is 124 credit hours.

Typical Tuition:
Since new students pay $609 per credit hour and the recommended program is 124 credit hours, you’ll end up paying $76,756 for your education.

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Science in in Multimedia Design and Development

Websites:

• http://www.devry.edu/degree-programs/media-arts-technology/multimedia-design-and-development.html

School Addresses:

• 26999 Central Park Blvd., Ste. 125, Southfield, MI 48076

Eastern Michigan University

The College of Arts and Sciences at Eastern Michigan University offers future game designers an Entertainment Design and Technology is a multidisciplinary program.

Review:
While the core curriculum focuses on theatre design and technology, including supplemental studies from arts and technology, there is also a Simulation, Animation and Gaming course. The course offers an overview of software and hardware used to create games and simulation.

Pros and Cons:
With courses like Introduction to Simulation, Animation and Gaming, Graphics for Simulation, and Story Development, this program will prepare you for a position as a game artist or level designer. The big negative is that no programming-intensive game design degree is available

Typical Tuition:
Tuition and mandatory fees range between $296.25 and $695.15 per credit hour for residents of Michigan, depending on the level of courses. For more details please see the following page: http://www.emich.edu/sbs/basics/tuition/index.php

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Arts in Entertainment Design and Technology

Websites:

• http://catalog.emich.edu/preview_program.php?catoid=18&poid=9550

School Addresses:

• 202 Welch Hall, Ypsilanti, MI 48197

Ferris State University

Ferris State University has a Bachelor of Applied Sciences in Digital Animation and Game Design. This program is a great choice if you want an education that trains students to use the latest tools and technology for the creation of digital and interactive content.

Review:
3D animation, game design, simulation– this program covers everything a game developer will expect their newest employee to know. You will also have the opportunity to focus your studies even further by selecting one of the concentrations offered, including 3D animation and Game Development.

Pros and Cons:
The strength of this program is that it prepares you for more than just a career in game design. Other opportunities the Digital Animation & Game Design program will train you for include film, television, product design, web development, and more. The only flaw we can think of is that no Master’s program is available to continue your studies.

Typical Tuition:
Undergraduate tuition for freshman and sophomore students are as follows: $10,696 a year for Michigan residents, $16,044 a year for U.S. Non-resident, and $17,248 a year for international students. For more information, visit here: http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/administration/businessoffice/tuition-rates.htm

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Applied Science in Digital Animation and Game Design

Websites:

• http://catalog.ferris.edu/catalog/2015-2016/program/4791

School Addresses:

• 1201 S. State Street, Big Rapids, MI 49307

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Lansing Community College

Lansing Community College offers an A.A.A. in Computer Graphics Animation. This degree promises to sharpen your creative abilities while helping you master the tools a computer animator needs to succeed in the film and video game industries.

Review:
Skills you can expect to learn and/or enhance with this degree include drawing, design, communication, presentation, problem-solving, and production. Notable courses you’ll be required to take include 3D Design,Vector Drawing, Storyboards & Animatics, and several Computer Graphics courses.

Pros and Cons:
The A.A.A. degree is great if you want a short but valuable degree that prepares you for the position of artist and/or animator at a game studio. Of course, the downside to this school is that it doesn’t offer any more substantial Bachelor’s degrees in game design.

Typical Tuition:
Tuition rates are $176 per billing hour for in-state students, $264 per billing hour for out-of-state students, and $309 per billing hour for international students. For more information on why billing hours are used instead of the traditional credit hours, see here: http://www.lcc.edu/schedule/general_information/tuition_fees.aspx

Degrees Available:

• Associate in Applied Arts Degree in Computer Graphics Animation

Websites:

• http://www.lcc.edu/catalog/degree_certificateprograms/2014-2015/Applied/0284.pdf

School Addresses:

• 422 N Washington Sq, Lansing, MI 48933

Michigan State University

Undergraduate students pursuing a B.S. or B.A. in Media and Information at Michigan State University can continue their studies with a Minor in Game Design and Development (Media, Art, and Computer Science students), and/or a Master of Arts in Media and Information.

Review:

Through the Game Minor courses, students will learn the technology, design fundamentals, and development process of digital games, as well as the history, social impacts, and business of games.

Being a part of the M.A. program allows you to join a Game Design track covers games as more than just an entertainment medium. You’ll also learn how to design captivating games through a theoretical understanding of learning, emotion, cognition, and play.

Pros and Cons:
The Game Design track is unique in that it emphasizes games for learning and health as well as games that deal with social and policy change. The downside is that you have to go through a 4-year degree and then apply to a Masters of Arts to get involved in this Track.

Typical Tuition:
Undergraduate student courses can range from $452 and $761.75 per credit hour, depending on the level of the course. For specific information please see this page: http://www.ctlr.msu.edu/COStudentAccounts/Tuition_FeesResident_Undergraduate.aspx

Degrees Available:

• Minor in Game Design and Development
• Masters of Arts in Media and Information with a Serious Game Design track.

Websites:

• http://cas.msu.edu/places/departments/telecommunication-information-studies-media/programs/graduate-studies/serious-game-design/

School Addresses:

• 220 Throwbridge Rd, East Lansing, MI 48824

International Academy of Design and Technology

In International Academy of Design & Technology’s game design and production programs you can develop your knowledge of asset development and integration, gameplay, team collaboration, written and verbal communication, and business operations.

Review:
Trained by instructors with real-world experience in the gaming industry, you’ll leave this program what an understanding of theory, process, and digital assets as well as a strong portfolio of projects.

Pros and Cons:
Having instructors who actually have experience making games is always a good thing. The only downside is that there isn’t a degree with programming-intensive courses to consider.

Typical Tuition:
Use the net price calculator to figure out how much your education will cost ant IADT: http://www.iadt.edu/Tuition-and-Financial-Aid/Financial-Aid-Tools/Financial-Aid-Estimator

Degrees Available:

• Media Arts Program in Game Design & Production

Websites:

• http://www.iadt.edu/Degree-Programs/Media-Arts-and-Technology/Game-Design-and-Production

School Addresses:

• 6039 S. Rio Grande Ave, Orlando, FL 32809

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Lawrence Technological University

Lawrence Technological University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art will teach you everything you need to know about the process of designing art, rules, and content for traditional and interactive games.

Review:
This program is valuable for providing you knowledge and training in narrative design and storytelling, art integration, and the ability to collaborate with programmers as an artist. You end up with an excellent education as well as a diverse portfolio.

Pros and Cons:
The B.F.A. is a great choice if you see yourself providing art for games in the future. The downside to this school is that a game design degree involving a focus on computer science isn’t offered.

Typical Tuition:
Tuition costs per credit hour can range from $930 to $1,050, depending on the program and level of courses. For more details please see the following page: http://www.ltu.edu/cm/attach/5365f1c5-738f-40a5-90b9-9c48261711f3/2014-2015-tuition-and-fees-012115.pdf

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Game Art

Websites:

• http://www.ltu.edu/architecture_and_design/art_design/game_art.asp

School Addresses:

• 21000 West Ten Mile Road, Southfield, MI 48075

Siena Heights University

The Graphic Design program offered at Siena Heights University Graphic Design will not only treat you like an artist but also encourage you to integrate your own personal and cultural values into your visual communication designs.

Review:
The purpose of the program is to provide you with a mastery of the creative process and the tools needed to craft an advanced portfolio that includes print, web and time-based media. Your digital art experience will include the use of graphic tablets, scanners, and large format inkjets as well as traditional studio practices like printmaking and photography.

Pros and Cons:
While the Graphic Design program is perfect for an aspiring game artist, there’s no opportunity at this school to learn the computer science or game design side of development.

Typical Tuition:
Total full-time tuition per year (including mandatory fees) is $23, 750 with an additional $9,710 if you need room and board (including a meal plan).

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design

Websites:

• http://www.sienaheights.edu/Academics/ProgramDetail/tabid/73/MajorID/ARG/Default.aspx

School Addresses:

• 1247 E. Siena Heights Dr., Adrian, MI 49221

Grand Valley State University

Grand Valley State University’s various Studio Art degrees prepare you for an engaging career in the production and examination of the visual arts.

Review:
With any of these degrees you can pursue an emphasis in jewelry and metalsmithing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics, graphic design, illustration, and visual studies. Graphic design is of course recommended for any aspiring game artists. You’ll also get to work in small classes that ensure you’ll receive the help and attention you need.

Pros and Cons:
A big upside to these degrees is that they allow you to pursue several career paths, including teacher, designer, leadership in arts organizations, gallery and museum work, and independent artist. The problem with these programs, however, is that none truly focus on the concepts and practices of designing games.

Typical Tuition:
Undergraduate tuition rates can range between $11,078 per year and $16, 344, depending on the level of classes and if you’re a Michigan resident or not. You can see more details here: http://www.gvsu.edu/financialaid/tuition-fees-68.htm

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art
• Bachelor of Science in Studio Art
• Bachelor of FIne Arts in Studio Art

Websites:

• https://www.gvsu.edu/acad-view.htm?pdfId=AD8A33E3-BF92-9415-BC21356552AC0E03

School Addresses:

• 1 Campus Drive, Allendale, MI 49401-9403

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University of Michigan

University of Michigan offers a 5-day Game Design & Development camp where you’ll get a taste of what it takes to design and build games.

Review:
The brief but informative program goes over several aspects of game creation, including level design, math and game balance, testing and debugging, and more. The classes are given by an independent game developer with experience designing game for a living.

Pros and Cons:
This course is obviously only good for getting a brief impression of the process of game design. It is obviously not a program, degree, or anything of the sort.

Typical Tuition:
A full-time undergraduate taking only lower division classes will pay $6,764 for 12-18 credits, or $21,574 if they’re not a Michigan resident. Since tuition and fees range between programs and course levels, please see the following page for further information: http://www.ro.umich.edu/tuition/tuition-fees.php

Degrees Available:

• Game Design & Development computer camp

Websites:

• http://mibytes.eecs.umich.edu/program-3/

School Addresses:

• Fleming Administration Building, Ann Arbor, MI 48109

Cranbrook Academy of Art

The Cranbrook Academy of Art is unique in that gives 150 graduate students a chance to work together while being mentored by 10 Artists-in-Residence for two years in a studio-based setting.

Review:
At this innovative school you’ll have the option to study in one of 10 departments: Architecture, Ceramics, Fiber, Painting, Metalsmithing,Photography, Print Media, Sculpture, 2D Design, and 3D Design. While we recommend 3D Design, any will give you good experience in working closely with other peoples, which is a necessary skill in the gaming industry.

Pros and Cons:
This school’s programs are great because they don’t follow a set curriculum or list of courses, which means more educational opportunities are available as they become available. The big drawback to this school is that there is no solid game design training.

Typical Tuition:
Total tuition costs for the 2015-2016 academic year is $33,406. This includes several fees you can see here: http://cranbrookart.edu/admissions/tuition-and-fees/

Degrees Available:

• Master’s Degree in 3D Design

Websites:

• http://cranbrookart.edu/program/overview/

School Addresses:

• 39221 Woodward Avenue, Bloomfield Hills, MI 48303

College for Creative Studies

The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Entertainment Arts program will prepare you to join the next generation of designers and storytellers set to make the next groundbreaking video game experiences.

Review:
While there are three concentrations available, you’ll definitely want to choose the Game Design. This track teaches you all there is to know about conceptualizing and producing 2D and 3D games.

Pros and Cons:
A big plus is that the education this program offers will prepare you for a job in not just game design but also in the creation of major motion pictures. A lack of a programming-intensive game design major is the only drawback to this school.

Typical Tuition:
Tuition for the 2015-2016 academic year is $1,252 per credit hour, or $18,780 per semester for full-time enrollment (12 to 18 credits).

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts in Entertainment Arts with Concentration in Game Design

Websites:

• http://www.collegeforcreativestudies.edu/academics/undergraduate-programs/entertainment-arts

School Addresses:

• 201 East Kirby, Detroit, MI 48202

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Kendall College of Art and Design of Ferris State University

Kendall’s Digital Media program will teach you digital art and design skills that can be applied to a diverse spectrum of purposes, including: entertainment, information, advertising, retail, and education.

Review:
This program goes over several fields that will be useful to you during your game design career. These include 2D animation, 3D Animation, Digital Imaging, Interactive Design, and Video and Motion Graphics.

Pros and Cons:
This program is ideal if you want to become a skilled and professional artist for games, but you’re out of luck if you wanted a degree that teaches the computer science portion of game development.

Typical Tuition:
Undergraduate tuition for US and Canada residents is $382 per credit hour and $616 per credit hour for international students. See more details here: http://www.kcad.edu/uploads/docs/15-16_tuition_and_fees.pdf

Degrees Available:

• Digital Media program

Websites:

• http://www.kcad.edu/programs/undergraduate/graphicdesign/

School Addresses:

• 17 Fountain St. NW, Grand Rapids, MI 49503

Western Michigan University

The Game Your Class Institute offers you an understanding of game design as you learn how to apply gaming principles toward the creation of captivating games.

Review:
While attending this program you will learn the core principles, practices, and concepts of game design. This includes learning how to evaluate material for games, developing rules, choosing play configurations, studying game dynamics, and more.

Pros and Cons:
While this short 3-day program is valuable to any aspiring game developer, you’ll want to look elsewhere if you want an an actual game design related degree.

Typical Tuition:
Approximate cost of tuition at Western Michigan University is $10,685 per semester, or $24,917 per year.

Degrees Available:

• Game Your Class Institute

Websites:

• http://www.wmich.edu/facultydevelopment/programs/institutes/gameyourclass

School Addresses:

• 1903 West Michigan Avenue, Kalamazoo, MI 49008

Central Michigan University

The College of Communication and Fine Arts began offering a Minor in Media Design, Production, and Technology to address the needs of several evolving and flexible disciplines, including game development.

Review:
This program will allow you to enhance your preparation for the ever-evolving fields of visual media, which includes publications design, graphic design, web design, and multimedia design. This is an interdisciplinary minor that combines existing programs found in Broadcast and Cinematic Arts, Art and Design, Journalism, and Computer Science.

Pros and Cons:
A Minor such as this is a great way to get additional training for your future game design career. Of course, a lack of a solid 4-year game design major is a big drawback.

Typical Tuition:
Approximate Central Michigan University tuition is $11,550 per semester or $23,670 per year.

Degrees Available:

• Minor in Media Design, Production, and Technology

Websites:

• https://www.cmich.edu/colleges/CCFA/CCFAMediaDesignProductionandTechnology/Pages/default.aspx

School Addresses:

• 1200 S. Franklin St, Mount Pleasant, MI 48859

Baker College

The Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development will prepare you for a career in making games for computers, consoles, mobile phones, the internet, and other devices.

Review:
The program has been designed by people who actually work in the gaming industry and will immerse you in software engineering with a focus on game development and animation. This includes game modeling, programming and animating for games.

Pros and Cons:
A big advantage to this degree is the inclusion of a senior design project that has you create your own game, which you can add to your resume and portfolio.

Typical Tuition:
Most undergraduate courses had a cost of $240 per credit hour for the 2015/2016 academic year. For more information please see the following page: http://www.baker.edu/student-services/financial-aid/#tuition-fees

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor of Science in Game Software Development

Websites:

• http://www.baker.edu/programs-degrees/game-software-development-bachelor/

School Addresses:

• 1116 W Bristol Rd, Flint, MI 48507

ITT Technical Institute

The Digital Entertainment and Game Design offered by ITT Technical Institute-Wyoming is a great way to learn how to use the latest software to make games.

Review:
You can expect to graduate from this program with the knowledge and skills needed to pursue career opportunities in a variety of entry-level positions involving digital games and multimedia applications. Courses cover the foundation of digital game design, including animation, level design, gaming technology, and game design processes.

Pros and Cons:
This is by far one of the most solid game design programs in the state as it not only puts the newest tools and software in your hands but also covers many aspects of game creation.

Typical Tuition:
Tuition and fees at ITT Technical Institute-Wyoming for the 2014-2015 academic year was $18,048. Part-time undergraduate wll pay $493 per credit hour.

Degrees Available:

• Bachelor Degree Program in Digital Entertainment and Game Design

Websites:

• http://www.itt-tech.edu/teach/list/degd.cfm

School Addresses:

• 13000 N. Meridian St., Carmel, IN 46032

Kalamazoo Valley Community College

Kalamazoo Valley Community College offers an A.A.S. degree in Animation and Game Art that focuses entirely on using animation to tell captivating stories.

Review:
During this program you will be introduced to the fundamentals of animation in preparation for countless career options in not just game development but entertainment, marketing, education, and commerce as well. You’ll even be encouraged to explore the convergence of 2D and 3D animation, including other forms of art and design.

Pros and Cons:
The strength of this program is in its variety. From Adobe Creative Suit and 2D Animation to Character Design and Storyboarding, there is a rich and diverse list of required classes designed to prepare you for a career in game design.

Typical Tuition:
Fall 2015 tuition rates ranged from $91 and $211 per contact hour, depending on the student’s residency. See the following page for more details: https://www.kvcc.edu/admissions/tuition.php

Degrees Available:

• Associate of Applied Science in Animation and Game Art

Websites:

• https://www.kvcc.edu/programs/art/aga.aas.php

School Addresses:

• 6767 West O Ave, Kalamazoo, MI 49003

Still Have Questions?
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Muskegon Community College

The A.S.A. degree in Interactive Media and Gaming: Game Designer gives you the skills needed to do what a game designer does: develop the concept, story, and gameplay of interactive media.

Review:
Skills you’ll learn and sharpen during this program include writing, graphic design, and programming. Doing so will leave you ready to apply for several job titles such as game designer, content designer, level designer, game tester, and more.

Pros and Cons:
Aside from the A.S.A. mentioned above, a Certificate in Computer Programming with an emphasis in Game Developer is also offered. It is perfect if you also want to learn the programming side of game creation.

Typical Tuition:
The total list price for in-state Michigan residents at Muskegon Community College is $13,369 for the 2014/2015 academic year. Out-of-state students without Michigan residency can expect a one year cost of $16,009. You can also expect to pay $4,194 per year for room and meal plans.

Degrees Available:

• Associate in Science and Arts in Interactive Media and Gaming: Game Designer
• Certificate in Computer Programmer – Game Developer

Websites:

• http://www.muskegoncc.edu/degrees-and-certificates/areas-of-study/interactive-media-and-game-design/

School Addresses:

• 221 S. Quarterline Rd, Muskegon, MI 49442

Post University

For those interested in game design, but would like flexible scheduling, we recommend Post University’s accelerated online program.

This Accredited Game Design Certificate offers transferrable credits, career assistance, and financial options for those too busy for full-time classes.

Curriculum Includes:

• Game theory
• Game genres
• Design principles
• Fundamentals of programming
• 3-D graphics programming
• Character animation
• Game engine architectures
• Artificial intelligence

Upon graduation, you will receive a certificate and possess both the conceptual knowledge and skills needed to design 3-D interactive games for entertainment.

Get more info (for free):

1. Click the ‘Get More Info‘ button below
2. Select “Certificate: Game Design and Animation” as ‘Program of Interest’
3. Complete the rest of the short form – That’s it!

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Wrapping Up

Michigan is one of the best places to study if you want a future in the gaming industry.

The number of reputable schools with game design programs is impressive, as is the variety you’ll find in these programs.

Whether you want to tackle the technical or artistic side of game creation, you have a good number of selections to choose from.

At the same time, Michigan is pretty barren when it comes to number of game developers.

While not a single notable game company resides in the state, the Chicago area is not too far away.

There you’ll find recognizable names like:

• Disney Interactive
• High Voltage Software
• NetherRealm Studios
• PopCap Games