Top Colleges for Video Game Design

I'm planning on studying video game design, and I want to find the best colleges for this major. Does anyone have recommendations or insights into which schools are highly regarded in this area?

There are several excellent choice schools that are known for their strong video game design programs, each with their own unique strengths:

1. University of Southern California (USC): USC’s Interactive Media & Games Division is one of the best in the world. The school is located in Los Angeles, a hub for the gaming industry, offering numerous opportunities for networking and internships.

2. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): The Game Lab at MIT offers a unique program where you can explore the philsosophical and cultural implications of games in addition to learning technical skills.

3. Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT): Their game design and development program is highly reputed and provides a strong foundation in programming, art, music, and narrative in games.

4. Carnegie Mellon University (CMU): CMU’s Entertainment Technology Center offers an interdisciplinary curriculum with a balance of left- and right-brain exercises.

5. University of California–Santa Cruz: UC Santa Cruz offers a BS in Computer Science: Computer Game Design. The program emphasizes creativity and design, while also grounding students in the technical aspects of game development.

These are just a few among many quality programs. Take time to research these and other schools, considering factors such as location, internships opportunities, faculty, and resources when making your college list. After conducting your initial research, consider visiting in-person or virtually to get a feel for the college's community and environment. Also, it can be helpful to connect with current students or alumni from the video game design programs to get insider perspectives.