DigiPen Institute of Technology logo

DigiPen Institute of Technology

Redmond, WA

private forprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

1988
Founded
Private for-profit university
Type
1,032
Total Students
2,500
Undergrad
50
Graduate
$37K
Tuition (In-State)
$37K
Tuition (Out-State)
$42K
Avg Net Price
68%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Graduation Rate
6-year
73%
Retention Rate
Baccalaureate Colleges
Classification
President: Claude Comair

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About DigiPen Institute of Technology

Pioneering interactive simulation and digital media education since 1988.

DigiPen Institute of Technology stands out as a true innovator in the realm of digital arts and interactive entertainment education. Founded in 1988 by Claude Comair, DigiPen began as a research and development institute, quickly distinguishing itself by recognizing the burgeoning potential of computer science and animation. This forward-thinking approach led to a groundbreaking collaboration with Nintendo of America, setting the stage for what would become the world's first bachelor's degree in video game development.

Prospective students seeking to make their mark in the dynamic fields of game design, animation, and computer science will find DigiPen’s legacy compelling. In 1996, the institution launched its Bachelor of Science in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation, a monumental achievement that cemented its status as a global leader. This pioneering spirit extends to its comprehensive curriculum, which has grown to include master's programs and a focus on hands-on, project-based learning that prepares graduates for the demands of leading technology and entertainment companies.

DigiPen offers a unique academic journey, nurtured by its deep industry roots and continuous innovation. From its main campus in Redmond, Washington, a hub of technological advancement, to its international campuses in Singapore and Spain, students are immersed in a collaborative environment. An exciting development in 2025 allows students to retain and monetize the intellectual property rights of their creative projects, empowering them to take their work from concept to market, even before graduation. DigiPen isn't just an education; it's a launchpad for the future of interactive media.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Founded in 1988, evolving from a research and development institute into a leading educational institution.
  • ✦Pioneered the world's first Bachelor of Science in video game development (BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation) in 1996.
  • ✦Developed an early and significant collaboration with Nintendo of America, shaping its educational programs in video game programming.
  • ✦Offers advanced degrees, including a Master of Science in Computer Science.
  • ✦Expanded its global reach with campuses in Singapore (2008) and Spain (2011), fostering an international learning environment.
  • ✦Introduced a groundbreaking policy in 2025 allowing students to retain and monetize intellectual property rights for their academic projects.

Timeline

1988
Founded by Claude Comair in Vancouver, Canada, as a research and development institute.
1990
Began offering its first dedicated educational program in 3D computer animation and collaborated with Nintendo of America on a post-secondary program for video game programming.
1994
Accepted its first class of video game programming students through the DigiPen Applied Computer Graphics School.
1996
Granted authorization to award degrees in the US and launched the world's first bachelor's degree in video game development (BS in Computer Science in Real-Time Interactive Simulation).
1998
Opened its campus in Redmond, Washington, as a joint campus with Nintendo Software Technology.
2002
Received national accreditation from ACCSC and began offering its first Master's program, a Master of Science in Computer Science.
2008
Opened its campus in Singapore in conjunction with Singapore's Economic Development Board.
2011
Opened its campus in the Greater Bilbao area, in the municipality of Zierbena, Spain.
2025
Introduced an institutional policy allowing students to transfer and monetize intellectual property rights for their created projects.
🏛️
38 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

Find Scholarships at DigiPen Institute of Technology

Sign up free to discover grants and scholarships you qualify for at this school and thousands more.

Start Your Free Search