DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, Washington, United States · Est. 1988 · Private University

Pioneer in video game development and interactive media education since 1988.

  • Founded 1988 in Vancouver; relocated to Redmond, Washington in 1998
  • Private for-profit university with 2,500+ undergraduates and 50+ postgraduates
  • Specializes in computer science, game design, digital art & animation, and audio programming
  • Ranked top video game design school by Princeton Review for 17 consecutive years
  • Highest median earnings among Washington state colleges (collegescorecard.ed.gov)
  • Campuses in Redmond (US), Singapore, and Bilbao (Spain)

Academics

DigiPen offers bachelor's and master's degree programs focused on interactive media and game development. Undergraduate programs include BS in Computer Science, BS in Computer Science in Artificial Intelligence, BFA in Digital Art and Animation, BA in Game Design, BS in Computer Science and Game Design, BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation, BA in Music and Sound Design, and BS in Computer Science and Digital Audio. Graduate programs include a Master of Science in Computer Science. The institution is accredited by ACCSC, with the BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation also accredited by ABET.

Campus & Student Life

The main Redmond campus features small class sizes and low student-to-faculty ratios. Students have access to housing options, a library, makerspace, counseling center, career services, and numerous student-run clubs and organizations including DigiPen Jazz. The campus includes dining facilities (Cafe and Dragon Shop) and provides study abroad opportunities. Student achievements are showcased through animation, art, and game exhibitions, with over 1,000 awards earned by students for games, films, and academic work.

Admissions

DigiPen accepts undergraduate and graduate applicants with specific pathways for international students, homeschooled applicants, transfer students, and those with disabilities. The institution offers financial aid and scholarships, with 91% of incoming undergraduates in 2025-26 receiving DigiPen gift aid. A net price calculator and comprehensive financial aid information are available on the website. The final application deadline for Fall 2026 is July 1.

Notable Outcomes

DigiPen alumni have made significant contributions to the gaming and entertainment industries. Notable graduates include Kim Swift (Portal designer), Nick Kondo (lead animator on Spider-Man films), and Satomi Asakawa (Nintendo animator on Zelda and Pikmin). The institution's student game projects, including Narbacular Drop and Tag: The Power of Paint, directly influenced Valve's Portal series. DigiPen's research and development division partners with major companies including Boeing, Renault F1, and Andretti Autosport.

Founded
1988
Type
Private University
Courses
9
Total intake
Not yet verified
Websitehttps://www.digipen.edu
HousingAvailable
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
9
Avg career outcomes
$79.9K
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
Yes
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources