Princeton Review ranks top game design schools for 2025

The Princeton Review has released its rankings for the best game design schools in 2025. It evaluated programs across the United States and beyond. This year, it listed the top 50 undergraduate and 25 graduate programs. For undergraduate programs, the University of Southern California (USC) took the top spot. The university has a 61% employment rate for its 2024 graduates, with an average salary of $116,000. New York University (NYU) and Clark University ranked second and third, respectively. Both schools have notable faculty and a good track record for graduate employment. Graduate programs have New York University leading the list again, with an 87% hiring rate and an average salary of $76,400 for 2024 graduates. The University of Central Florida and the University of Southern California follow in second and third places. These programs emphasize real-world skills and connect students with industry professionals. In addition to the rankings, the article provides insights on the importance of various skills in game design, such as animation, storytelling, and level design. Aspects like fast travel in games and effective communication in multiplayer formats are also discussed, highlighting challenges developers face. For those interested in pursuing a career in game design, exploring these top-ranked schools is a crucial step. Each institution offers unique opportunities and prepares students for the evolving landscape of the gaming industry.