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Compare Video Game Design Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

Compare Video Game Design Programs

Most schools have rolling admissions and financial help so you can start your degree in a few weeks!

In a relatively short time span, video games evolved from a niche interest to one of the world’s most popular forms of entertainment. By earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in video game design from a leading school, you’ll develop the skills necessary to advance video game technology and create the great games of the future.

The employment outlook for individuals with experience in video game and interactive design is strong. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that employment of digital designers will increase 16% through 2032. The median annual salary for digital designers is $98,540. Other career paths graduates of video game design programs can pursue include special effects artists and animators (8% employment growth) and graphic designers (3% job growth).

A bachelor’s degree in video game design will qualify individuals for most entry- and mid-level jobs in video game design, although master’s degree programs are available. Bachelor’s degrees typically last four years for full-time students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average annual tuition for four-year colleges (public and private) was $17,709 in the 2022-23 academic year.

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The Intelligent.com Higher Education Team is dedicated to providing students with independent, equitable school and program rankings and well-researched resources. Our expert-driven articles cover topics related to online colleges and programs, paying for school, and career outlooks. We use data from the U.S. Department of Education’s College Scorecard, the National Center for Education Statistics, and other reputable educational and professional organizations. Our academic advisory team reviews content and verifies accuracy throughout the year for the most current information. Partnerships do not influence rankings or editorial decisions.

  • Analyzed over 2,000 national, accredited, and nonprofit colleges and universities
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  • Content is informed by reputable sources, surveys, and interviews with academic advisors and other experts
  • Over 100 data points are reviewed for accuracy and quality throughout the year, including sources

How we rank schools

Our list features the best Accredited Video Game Design degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.

We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:

Academic Quality:

  • Admission rate versus enrollment rate
  • Retention rate of students who return after year one
  • Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
  • Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions

Graduation Rate

  • Overall graduation rate
  • Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
  • Student-to-faculty ratio

Cost and ROI

  • In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
  • Required credits to graduate
  • Earning potential after graduation
  • Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options

Student Resources

  • Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
  • On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries

Read more about our ranking methodology.

Best 45 Accredited Video Game Design Programs

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#1
Columbia, SC | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

USC Cinematic Arts

Intelligent Score: 99.22
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $12,288

Out-of-state: $33,528

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $13,737

Out-of-state: $13,737

Test scores

SAT: 1140-1340

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
68%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
78%
Students enrolled
35,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$23k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,244

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

WASC Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 213-740-8358

#2
Savannah, GA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Savannah College of Art and Design

Intelligent Score: 99.08
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $37,575

Out-of-state: $37,575

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $38,475

Out-of-state: $38,475

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
78%
On-campus students
74%
Graduation Rate
73%
Students enrolled
14,000
Student to faculty ratio
18:01
Average Salary
$33k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$891

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 800-869-7223

#3
Salt Lake City, UT | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Utah

Intelligent Score: 98.64
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $7,412

Out-of-state: $26,017

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,666

Out-of-state: $6,666

Test scores

SAT: 1130-1350

ACT: 22-29

Retention Rate
89%
Admission Rate
79%
On-campus students
10%
Graduation Rate
67%
Students enrolled
33,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$47k
Average Student Debt
$18k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $255 - $258 Non Resident: $879 - $890

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

122

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 801-581-8761

#4
Rochester, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Rochester Institute of Technology

Intelligent Score: 98.46
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $47,352

Out-of-state: $47,352

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $50,136

Out-of-state: $50,136

Test scores

SAT: 1220-1420

ACT: 28-33

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
74%
On-campus students
18%
Graduation Rate
71%
Students enrolled
16,000
Student to faculty ratio
13:01
Average Salary
$51k
Average Student Debt
$27k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,160

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

121

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 585-475-2763

#5
Troy, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Intelligent Score: 98.05
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $55,600

Out-of-state: $55,600

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $55,600

Out-of-state: $55,600

Test scores

SAT: 1300-1500

ACT: 29-34

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
57%
On-campus students
100%
Graduation Rate
87%
Students enrolled
8,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$67k
Average Student Debt
$25k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,520

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 518-276-6216

#6
Philadelphia, PA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Drexel University

Intelligent Score: 95.14
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $53,868

Out-of-state: $53,868

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $36,234

Out-of-state: $36,234

Test scores

SAT: 1180-1380

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
88%
Admission Rate
77%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
71%
Students enrolled
24,000
Student to faculty ratio
11:01
Average Salary
$54k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,311

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

127

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 215-895-1738

#7
Manchester, NH | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Southern New Hampshire University

Intelligent Score: 94.07
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,600

Out-of-state: $9,600

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $18,810

Out-of-state: $18,810

Test scores

SAT: N/A

ACT: N/A

Retention Rate
67%
Admission Rate
94%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
37%
Students enrolled
134,000
Student to faculty ratio
21:01
Average Salary
$43k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$540

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 603-645-9611

#8
East Lansing, MI | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Michigan State University

Intelligent Score: 93.92
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $15,555

Out-of-state: $40,384

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $18,858

Out-of-state: $18,858

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1300

ACT: 23-29

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
76%
On-campus students
8%
Graduation Rate
81%
Students enrolled
50,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$45k
Average Student Debt
$24k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $521 - $600 Non Resident: $1,434 - $1,478

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 517-355-8332

#9
Fairfax, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

George Mason University

Intelligent Score: 93.48
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,510

Out-of-state: $32,970

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $12,594

Out-of-state: $12,594

Test scores

SAT: 1100-1300

ACT: 24-30

Retention Rate
86%
Admission Rate
89%
On-campus students
4%
Graduation Rate
72%
Students enrolled
39,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$47k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $572

Out-of-State: $1,486

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 703-993-2000

#10
Worcester, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Clark University

Intelligent Score: 92.38
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $48,250

Out-of-state: $48,250

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $47,650

Out-of-state: $47,650

Test scores

SAT: 1150-1350

ACT: 27-32

Retention Rate
87%
Admission Rate
47%
On-campus students
1%
Graduation Rate
75%
Students enrolled
3,000
Student to faculty ratio
9:01
Average Salary
$38k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,795

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 508-793-7431

#11
Chicago, IL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Columbia College Chicago

Intelligent Score: 92.06
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $53,716

Out-of-state: $53,716

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $29,479

Out-of-state: $29,479

Test scores

SAT: Not Required

ACT: Not Required

Retention Rate
62%
Admission Rate
95%
On-campus students
99%
Graduation Rate
40%
Students enrolled
6,424
Student to faculty ratio
15-to-1
Average Salary
39,200
Average Student Debt
18,020

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$816 - $1,115

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 312-369-7130

#12
Orlando, FL | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of Central Florida

Intelligent Score: 90.72
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $4,478

Out-of-state: $19,810

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $6,916

Out-of-state: $6,916

Test scores

SAT: 1160-1340

ACT: 25-30

Retention Rate
92%
Admission Rate
45%
On-campus students
91%
Graduation Rate
74%
Students enrolled
72,000
Student to faculty ratio
31:01:00
Average Salary
$40k
Average Student Debt
$19k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

In-State: $212

Out-of-State: $748

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 407-823-1711

#13
Amherst, MA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Hampshire College

Intelligent Score: 90.66
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $71,374

Out-of-state: $71,374

Graduate Tuition

In-state: NA

Out-of-state: NA

Test scores

SAT: 1200-1400

ACT: 25-31

Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
69%
On-campus students
100%
Graduation Rate
67%
Students enrolled
505
Student to faculty ratio
16-to-1
Average Salary
46,938
Average Student Debt
26,893

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$1,905

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120-128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 413-549-4600

#14
Lynchburg, VA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Liberty University

Intelligent Score: 90.38
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $14,791

Out-of-state: $14,791

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $7,935

Out-of-state: $7,935

Test scores

SAT: 1040-1250

ACT: 21-29

Retention Rate
81%
Admission Rate
50%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
54%
Students enrolled
93,000
Student to faculty ratio
17:01
Average Salary
$36k
Average Student Debt
$26k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$440 - $815

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus, Online

ACCREDITATION

Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 434-592-7321

#15
Berkeley, CA | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

University of California - Santa Cruz

Intelligent Score: 90.15
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $41,196

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $11,442

Out-of-state: $11,442

Test scores

SAT: 1310-1530

ACT: 30-35

Retention Rate
96%
Admission Rate
17%
On-campus students
3%
Graduation Rate
92%
Students enrolled
42,000
Student to faculty ratio
19:01
Average Salary
$58k
Average Student Debt
$13k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $417 Non Resident: $1,085

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

WASC Senior College and University Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 831-459-4877

#16
Burlington, VT | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

Champlain College

Intelligent Score: 89.92
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $64,010

Out-of-state: $68,575

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $19,635

Out-of-state: $19,635

Test scores

SAT: 1224

ACT: 28

Retention Rate
79%
Admission Rate
56%
On-campus students
58%
Graduation Rate
66%
Students enrolled
3,170
Student to faculty ratio
14-to-1
Average Salary
52,500
Average Student Debt
26,814

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,000

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

New England Commission of Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 802-625-0201

#17
New York, NY | 4 years | Online + Campus | Private

NYU Game Center

Intelligent Score: 88.96
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $52,204

Out-of-state: $52,204

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $34,704

Out-of-state: $34,704

Test scores

SAT: 1370-1540

ACT: 31-34

Retention Rate
90%
Admission Rate
21%
On-campus students
11%
Graduation Rate
88%
Students enrolled
53,000
Student to faculty ratio
8:01
Average Salary
$56k
Average Student Debt
$21k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

$2,134

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Middle States Commission on Higher Education

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

128

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 646-997-0708

#18
Bloomington, IN | 4 years | Online + Campus | Public

Indiana University - Bloomington

Intelligent Score: 88.9
Undergraduate Tuition

In-state: $9,815

Out-of-state: $36,194

Graduate Tuition

In-state: $9,786

Out-of-state: $9,786

Test scores

SAT: 1120-1350

ACT: 24-31

Retention Rate
91%
Admission Rate
80%
On-campus students
7%
Graduation Rate
80%
Students enrolled
43,000
Student to faculty ratio
16:01
Average Salary
$44k
Average Student Debt
$20k

ESTIMATED COST PER CREDIT

Resident: $393 Non Resident: $1,349

DELIVERY FORMAT

On-Campus

ACCREDITATION

Higher Learning Commission

REQUIRED CREDITS TO GRADUATE

120

MORE PROGRAM INFORMATION

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 812-855-9247

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How to Choose a School for Video Game Design

Choose your area of study

When considering attending school for video game design, it’s important to first become familiar with the program options in this field. At the bachelor’s level, there are a few different types of available degrees, including a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Bachelor of Science (BS), and Bachelor of Arts (BA). A BFA focuses on artistic proficiency and creativity, while a BS emphasizes the technical aspects of designing games. BA degrees offer a robust general education component alongside major courses. All degree types are typically sufficient for entering the industry, but depending on your specific interests and approach to video game design, there may be a specific type of degree you want to pursue.

Another consideration is what specialization, if any, you want to pursue. Options for specializations within video game design include 3D art, 2D art, sound design, production, and writing. Your area of focus will also depend on your interests and career goals.

Research schools and programs

Once you have a general idea of what you’re seeking from a school in video game design, start researching available options.

Visiting a school’s website is a good place to start, as this is where prospective students can typically find information on program curriculum, admissions requirements, faculty, experiential learning opportunities, and more. If possible, participate in on-campus or virtual open houses or information sessions. These events can be an opportunity to speak to current students and faculty and gain additional insight into the program. You can also contact the school’s admissions office if you have questions.

Key questions to ask during the research phase include:

  • What does the program’s curriculum cover? How does the curriculum align with your interests and goals?
  • What specialization options are available?
  • Who are the faculty? What are their qualifications?
  • Are there any experiential learning components, such as internships?
  • What is the program’s cost? What financial aid resources are available?
  • Is the school accredited by a regional accrediting body?

Accreditation is important because it can impact financial aid eligibility, job opportunities, and future educational options. Schools may also have specialized accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Prepare for tests and applications

When researching video game design schools and programs, find out what your potential schools require for applications. Each program has its own admissions policies and procedures, so if you have questions, contact the school’s admissions office to clarify.

For an undergraduate applicant to a video game design program, an application typically includes:

  • Completed application and required fees
  • Official transcripts from all schools previously attended
  • Letter(s) of recommendation
  • Resume or CV
  • Personal statement
  • SAT or ACT scores

Many programs, particularly BFA degrees, also require that students submit an art portfolio or work samples during the application process. Check with your prospective schools to find out what, if any, portfolio requirements they have.

Select your program

Once you have a shortlist of video game design schools, you can decide how many of them you want to apply to. Based on how competitive the programs you’re considering are, you may want to apply to multiple schools to increase the odds of admission. However, your preferences and interests should be the main guide to how many applications you submit. If you’re accepted to multiple schools for video game design, compare your options to the priorities you outlined in step one to help you decide which program is the best fit for you.

Determine how you’ll pay for your degree

When researching schools for video game design, you should also gather information about their tuition and available financial aid. This information is usually available on a school’s website, or you can contact their financial aid office.

For students planning on using federal student aid, including loans and grants, to help pay for their degree, the first step is submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Colleges use the information from this application to determine eligibility for federal and institutional need-based aid.

Other options for paying for a video game design degree include scholarships from external sources, such as professional development organizations, religious and community groups, and non-profit foundations. Students who plan on working while earning their degree in video game design should find out if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits.

What Can You Expect From a School for Video Game Design?

Video game design programs equip students with the technical and artistic skills they need to design and build innovative, compelling video games and other interactive digital experiences. Students will develop proficiency in the tools and techniques required for the complex process of creating video games, including digital design, programming, audio design, creative writing, and more.

Learning is typically hands-on, with studio classes that allow students to practice their skills in a supportive, collaborative setting. Many programs also include an internship component, in which students have the opportunity to work at video game and interactive design studios and see the process of developing video games up close.Most bachelor’s in video game design degree programs require a minimum of 120 credits. Specialization options and minors are common for this type of degree, as video game design is a multi-faceted art. Common specializations include game development, 3D design, 2D design, programming, and UI/UX. Some schools offer a “design your own” specialization that allows students to create a program tailored to their specific interests.

Students with a passion for design should also check out graphic design programs, as this may be a better fit for your personal interests and career goals.

Potential courses you’ll take in an online video game design program

  • Game Design Fundamentals: Introduces the various aspects of game design for those intending to work in management, production, or design teams. Students analyze gaming platforms, game genres, playability, objectives, rule dynamics, and overall quality and learn the elements of production, including game conceptualization, story development, character design, and more.
  • 2D Art Workshop: A studio practice-based course in which students develop drawing fundamentals for game design, animation, and narrative art.
  • Introduction to 3D Computer Animation: Introduces computer animation concepts such as geometric modeling, motion specification, lighting, texture mapping, rendering, compositing, production techniques, and systems for computer-synthesized animation using Maya software.
  • Character Modeling for Games: Covers character design principles, visual communication, polygonal construction, and the use of image guides and edge flows for realistic deformation.

Video Game Design Degree Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply to a school for video game design?

The most common way to apply for college is via an online application on the school’s website. Undergraduate students may also be able to apply to multiple schools using the Common Application. If you have questions about what application materials are required and how to submit them, contact the school’s admissions office for more information.

Depending on the school, admissions for video game design programs can be competitive. It’s important to be mindful of application deadlines and start terms, as some programs only admit new students once or twice per year. Failing to submit all required application materials by the deadline can impact a student’s ability to start on time.

Students must typically have some background in art and design, and programs may require that students submit a portfolio of artwork samples in order to be considered for acceptance.

How much does a school for video game design cost?

The cost of video game design schools varies based on several factors, including the school’s status as a public or private institution. For the most accurate information on how much a video game design school costs, contact the college’s financial aid office and speak to a financial aid counselor.

According to the NCES, the average annual tuition for four-year undergraduate degree programs in the 2022-23 academic year was $9,750 at public colleges and $38,421 at private universities. For students living on campus, room and board averaged $13,175 annually at four-year colleges.

Students in video game design programs should also keep in mind that this program typically requires a computer with certain specs and a variety of specialized software programs. Some schools may offer this equipment to students for free or at a discount, or students may be expected to pay full price.

How long does it take to earn a video game design degree?

For students enrolling in a 120-credit bachelor’s degree in video game design program on a full-time, the minimum completion time is four years. Students who attend their program part-time may take five to six years to finish. Degree completion programs that accept previously earned credits from other undergraduate degree programs can typically be completed in one to two years of full-time study.