Top 25 Public Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Schools in the U.S. – 2023 College Rankings

The College of Arts and Sciences at University of Washington (UW) houses the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science & Engineering, which introduced the world’s first augmented reality capstone course in 2016. Serving more than 2,000 students, the school also houses several computer science programs for individuals interested in studying AR/VR. Options include the Computer Science (CS) BS, a Combined BS/MS in CS also known as the Fifth Year Master’s Program, a Professional Master’s (PMP) in CS, and CS PhD. The BS/MS enables current and recent Allen School undergraduate majors to earn both degrees in approximately five years, instead of 6.5.

Course examples across programs include Advanced Topics in HCI (Graphics & Virtual Reality), Interaction Programming, Computer Vision, Special Topics: Ubiquitous Computing, Human-Computer Interaction, Computational Fabrication, Software Engineering, Advanced Topics in Digital Animation, Applications of AI, Computational Complexity, Interactive Learning, Advanced Digital Sound Synthesis and Processing  Machine Learning, and Neural Control of Movement: A Computational Perspective.

Students in all programs have the opportunity to work with an interdisciplinary team of faculty and peers in the UW Reality Lab. Launched in 2018 and housed in the Allen School, the Lab includes the Reality Studio, Reality Lab Incubator, and classes. In addition to advancing AR/VR research, Lab participants will work on projects in 3D computer vision and perception, graphics, game science and education, distributed computing, databases and computer architecture, stream processing, privacy and security, and object recognition.

Graduates of the Computer Science & Engineering Programs at University of Washington go on to establish careers at some of the world’s top companies, studios, and organizations. Examples Microsoft, Amazon, Oracle, Google, Epic Software, Adobe, Disney, HBO, Pixar Animation Studios, Dell, Apple, Riot Games, Samsung, Unity Technologies, and Hulu.

Established in 1861, University of Washington serves approximately 59,725 students across campuses in Seattle (main), Bothell, and Tacoma, Washington. UW offers more than 300 programs and 570+ degree options across in 18 colleges and schools. Engineering at University of Washington is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). University of Washington is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) and is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU).

University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley) sends more graduates to Silicon Valley than just about any other college in the U.S. The schools engineering and computer science programs rank among the best in the U.S., with learning that takes place in state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and research centers.

The Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences (EECS) Department at UC Berkeley manages two undergraduate degrees through two different colleges: the BS in EECS in the College of Engineering (CoE), and the BA in Computer Science (CS) in the College of Letters & Science (L&S).

Both programs have the same technical requirements, with differing breadth requirements and admissions processes. Course examples for both programs include The Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs, Designing Information Devices and Systems, Machine Structures, and Data Structures and Programming Methodology.

All EECS and CS students have access to the XR Lab@Berkeley—a Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality Laboratory (AR/VR/MR), the student-run Extended Reality@Berkeley (est. 2015), and the FHL Vive Center for Enhanced Reality, which sponsors research and applications in AR/VR and AI.

Collectively, the Labs and Centers at UC Berkeley train Computer Scientists and Engineers in all areas of AR/VR. The Labs also advance the field of AR/VR through development plans, actions, and state-of-art research, while bringing attention to the unlimited possibilities associated with advancements in technology.

Graduates of the CS and EECS Programs at UC Berkeley work AR/VR, AI and Machine Learning, Software Development, Computer Systems Design, Computer Vision and Robotics, Defense, Engineering, Aerospace, Production, Design, Entertainment, and Healthcare, among others. Some of the top hiring companies for UC Berkeley graduates include Apple, Tesla, Google, and Meta.

Chartered in 1868, University of California, Berkeley was named after 18th-century philosopher George Berkeley. The school serves approximately 45,310 students enrolled in more than 350 degree programs across 15 colleges and schools and dozens of academic departments. UC Berkeley has been fully accredited since 1949 and had its accreditation reaffirmed in 2015 under the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

University of Texas at Austin houses the College of Liberal Arts, home to the Center for Perceptual Systems. Within the Center are state-of-the-art labs such as the Virtual Reality Laboratory and the Vision, Cognition, and Action Virtual Reality Lab. The labs focus on research in Virtual Reality Systems, Neural Mechanisms, Computation, and more.

Equipment includes HiBall high precision head tracking systems, a SensAble Technologies Phantom Force Feedback System with a large workspace, Oculus Rift DKII, several Polhemus Fastrack Systems, Motion Capture Systems, and an Immersion Cyberglove hand posture sensor with vibrotactile stimulators. An additional laboratory houses a driving simulator mounted on a motion platform, and a PhaseSpace 3D body tracking system using 40 LED Markers and 16 Impulse Cameras. The virtual environments are displayed using three Virtual Research V8 Head Mounted Displays and two N-Vis wide field of view helmets with binocular eye tracking.

The College of Natural Sciences at University of Texas Austin (UT Austin) houses the Computer Science (CS) Department, which has several pathways to study game design. The Computer Science BS (BS CS) has an optional Concentration in Game Development. Course examples for the program include Game Technology, Object-Oriented Programming, Computer Graphics, Software Engineering, and Generic Programming & STL.

For students interested in studying AR/VR, University of Texas at Austin has several program options that provide access to the Virtual Reality Labs and other related facilities.

Housed in the College of Fine Arts’ School of Design and Creative Technologies is the Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies (AET). Within the AET Department is a Professional BS in AET with heavy AR/VR coursework. A Game Design and Development curriculum was launched in 2020 for undergraduates with career interests in the Interactive/Immersive, Gaming, and Creative industries. This program is jointly offered by the Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies (AET), the Department of Computer Science (CS), and the Department of Radio-Television-Film (RTF).

Across programs, course examples include AR/VR: Intro to the Metaverse, Mixed Reality for the Masses, Design for Artificial Intelligence, Advanced Creative Coding, Interactive Environments, DxD Studio, Design & Interactivity, IBM Studio, User Interfaces, Integrated Design, Storytelling in Design, Immersive Audio, Video Game Prototyping, AET Studio, 3D Previz in Live Environment, and Video Game Scripting.

Note that students in Computer Science Programs in the College of Natural Science may take AR/VR courses as electives. This is especially true for the BSA in Computer Science (CS), which allows students to explore other areas to suit their goals. In addition to a BSA, CS students can earn a BS, BA, MS, or five-year BS/MS.

Graduates of the AET, Game Design, and CS Programs at UT Austin enjoy a 93% employment rate within six months of graduation. Program alumni have been hired at places such as Apple, HP, Amazon, IBM, Zynga, EA Games, Google, Scientific Games, GameStop, Diamond Entertainment, Everi Digital, Cloud Imperium, and Aspyr Media, Inc.

Founded in 1883, University of Texas at Austin serves approximately 52,385 students, making it one of the largest universities in Texas. UT Austin provides more than 155 undergraduate degree programs with 170+ fields of study, 139 graduate degree programs, and nearly 100 doctoral programs across 18 colleges and schools. University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) the College of Arts and Sciences, home to the Department of Computer Science (CS). Established in 1964, the CS Department was one of the first independent computer science departments in the U.S. Within the Department are several options for students who would like to study AR/VR.

Pathways include BS and MS degrees in Computer Science with a Computer Graphics or Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Research Area. Computer Graphics sub-areas include Animation & Simulation, Virtual Environments, and Visualization. HCI offers a Virtual Environments subarea. A PhD in Computer Science is also available.

Course examples across programs include 2D Computer Graphics, Connecting Language to Vision and Robotics, Digital Culture, Digital Logic and Computer Design, Human Robot Interaction, Machine Learning, Models of Languages & Computation, Scientific Programming, and Software Engineering Laboratory.

In addition to a variety of AR/VR related courses, SCS students have access to a number of organizations and labs to support their goals. The Carolina Augmented and Virtual Reality Club (CARVR) provides the opportunity to work on extended reality (XR) projects with real clients. Students may also participate in the UNC Augmented and Virtual Reality Interest Group (UNC AR/VR), which consists of more than 250 people from across campus. The Group focuses on training, research, learning, and more through the use of immersive technologies. UNC AR/VR plans to launch two additional groups soon (a Faculty Group and Student Group), that focus on AR/VR.

Students interested in AR/VR at UNC-Chapel Hill have access to the Graphics, Imaging, and Robotics Lab and the Graphics and 3D Vision Laboratory. The Graphics, Imaging, and Robotics Lab is a 3,500 sq. ft. space located in J. Carlyle Sitterson Hall. Most of the Lab is dedicated to work in effective virtual environments. The remaining area, which houses a variety of robots, focuses on robotics research.

Housed in the Frederick P. Brooks Jr. Computer Science Building and Sitterson Hall, the new Graphics and 3D Vision Laboratory is situated in a noise-controlled, 2,500 sq. ft. space divided into three research zones by floor-to-ceiling blackout curtains for light and sound suppression. Zones include Projective Display Research, Computer Vision and Optical Tracking Research, and Physical Simulation and Audio Synthesis Research with a focus on GPU processing. The space has 11-foot ceilings and a Unistrut mounting grid.

Across facilities and labs, projects and groups have included the Effective Virtual Environments Project; Geometric Algorithms for Modeling, Motion, and Animation Group (GAMMA) Project; and the Walkthrough Group, (simulated walkthroughs of architectural models).

UNC-Chapel Hill graduates have gone on to establish careers at some of the world’s top corporations. Examples include Microsoft, Amazon, Cisco, Capital One, SAS – Analytics Software & Solutions, Red Ventures, and Accenture.

Founded in 1789, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill welcomed its first students in 1795, becoming the first and only public university in the U.S. to award degrees in the 18th century. Today, UNC-Chapel Hill serves more than 31,500 students enrolled in over 250 bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD programs across 14 colleges and schools. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

University of Illinois Urbana Champaign (UIUC) houses Grainger College of Engineering, home to the Thomas M. Siebel Center for Computer Science. Within the Center is a Computer Science (CS) program that’s suitable for students interested in studying AR/VR. Specific degrees options include the BS, MS, and Minor in Computer Science (CS). The Minor consists of 12 credit hours.

Students in the CS BS have the opportunity to take up to 18 credit hours of technical electives and six hours of CS advanced electives. This allows students focus in a specific area of interest. The Media, Intelligence and Big Data, and Human and Social Impact areas include course options such as Virtual Reality, AI for Computer Games, Applied Machine Learning, Mobile Interactive Design, and Audio Computing Lab.

The CS MS is a research-oriented degree that requires 28 credit hours of coursework and a four credit hour thesis. The program consists of 10 core areas. Examples include Interactive Computing, Programming Languages, Artificial Intelligence (AI), and Scientific Computing.  

Students in both the BS and MS programs have access to the VR@Illinois Lab (VR LAB). Supported by the Center for Innovation in Teaching & Learning (CITL) and University Library’s IDEA Lab and Media Commons, the VR Lab is a collaborative initiative that supports AR/VR and extended reality research, exploration, and teaching at UIUC.

The Lab houses studio spaces for VR creation and exploration, mobile virtual reality classrooms, loanable headsets and cameras for viewing and capturing 360 media, and the VR Club, which hosts weekly club meetings. Lab experts provide consultations on implementing VR in the classroom and assistance with VR research projects.

Adjacent to the VR Lab is the Innovation Studio—an active, experimental and emerging technology studio with VR headsets, a video wall, gaming computers, and a range of innovative technologies.

Graduates of the Computer Science and other related programs at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are routinely hired by some of the world’s top companies. Examples include Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Tesla, Meta, Apple, IBM, Caterpillar, ADM, Deloitte, Ernst & Young, and JPMorgan Chase.

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was established in 1867 as Illinois Industrial University. The second oldest public school in the state, UIUC serves 55,000 students from 50 U.S. states and 126 countries. More than 150 undergraduate programs and more than 100 graduate and professional programs are offered across 16 colleges and instructional units. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego) houses the CSE Virtual Reality Lab (VR Lab). Launched in 2017, the Lab is designed for students interested in developing content for virtual environments. The Lab features workshops, research opportunities in the field of AR/VR, projects, and networking opportunities. The VR Lab also houses the 300+ member VR Club at UCSD. 

For students seeking a, AR/VR-related degree, UC San Diego has several degree pathways, a Minor, and Virtual Reality App Development Certificate. Provided by UCSanDiegoX, the Certificate program can be added to any degree program or taken alone. Courses include How Virtual Reality Works, Computer Graphics, and Creating Virtual Reality Apps.

Degree options are housed in Jacobs School of Engineering’s Department of Computer Science & Engineering (CSE). Pathways include the BS, MS, BS/MS, and PhD in Computer Science (CS). Required electives allow students to craft a focus, such as AR/VR. Undergraduates may choose seven electives worth four units each.

Graduate students may choose 16 units of electives and research, along with 12 units in a Depth Area such as Graphics and Vision, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), Robotics, or AI. Programming Languages, Compilers, and Software Engineering are other options.

The MS Program also allows students to choose from three pathways: MS Plan I: Thesis; MS Plan II: Comprehensive Exam, Standard Option; and MS Plan II: Comprehensive Exam, Interdisciplinary Option. The Interdisciplinary Option provides additional opportunities to focus on a customized or available area of interest. 

CSE Department focus areas include AI, HCI, Robotics, Programming Systems, Software Engineering, and Visual Computing (Computer Graphics and Computer Vision), among others.

Across programs, other features include internship opportunities, study abroad experiences, participation in the VR Club at UC San Diego and events such the Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality Hackathon sponsored by companies such as Google, Sony, HTC, and Oculus. 

Graduates of the CS and Certificate Programs at University of California, San Diego are prepared to pursue positions such as AR/VR Developer, AR/VR Technician, XR Gameplay and Tools Engineer, Design/Graphics Engineer, Software Developer, AR/VR Maintenance and Support, and Graphics Engineer.

With a campus dating back to the late 1800s, University of California, San Diego was founded on November 18, 1960. The school enrolled its first undergraduates in 1964. Today, UC San Diego serves approximately 43,000 student enrolled in hundreds of programs across eight colleges. University of California San Diego is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

University of Maryland (UMD) houses the College of Arts and Humanities (ARHU) and the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (CMNS). ARHU serves approximately 3,070 students across 11 academic departments and three schools. Thirty-one academic majors and 37 minors are available.

The College of CMNS, which houses the Department of Computer Science (CS , is part of Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering. The CS Department alone serves more than 3,400 students with interests ranging from algorithms and design to VR to Robotics. Department features include research opportunities in Graphics, Visualization, and VR/AR; internships; participation in the honors program; and study abroad experiences.

Across the ARHU and CMNS Programs, students can earn a BA or BS in Immersive Media Design (IMD) or a BS, MS, BS/MS, or PhD in Computer Science with an AR/VR focus. All students learn to create, code, and collaborate using the most current digital technologies and tools. Students have the opportunity to focus in Art or Computer Science to graduate with a BA from the College of ARHU or a BS from the College of CMNS.

Students in all programs have access to the UMD Graphics and Visual Informatics Laboratory (GVIL), and the Mixed/Augmented/Virtual Reality Innovation Center (MAVRIC).

Established in 2000 by the Department of Computer Science, the GVIL explores computer graphics, scientific visualization, and virtual environments through research and education.

Current projects include applications for next-generation AR/VR, including immersive education, augmented navigation, virtual manufacturing, and medical training.

MAVRIC was created to support the future of XR, foster XR talent, and connect developers, entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers through workshops, events, and programs.

UMD also houses the Maryland Blended Reality Center (MBRC)—a multidisciplinary partnership initially funded by the University of Maryland Strategic Partnership: MPowering the State. Launched in 2017, The Center also partners with the federal government, industry leaders, and other academic institutions to explore and develop AR/VR, MR, and other visual computing tools and applications  based in immersive technologies.

Graduates of the Computer Science, IMD, and other programs at University of Maryland have established careers in the tech industry, federal laboratories, medicine, teaching, and law. Notable alumni include Naresh Gupta, Senior Vice President of Adobe’s Print and Publishing Business Unit; Brendan Iribe, Oculus Co-Founder; Sergey Brin, Co-founder of Google; and Gary Flake, a Microsoft Distinguished Engineer and founder of Yahoo! Research Labs.

University of Maryland in College Park was founded in 1856. The flagship campus of the University System of Maryland and the original land-grant institution in the state, UMD is one of only 62 members of the Association of American Universities. The school serves approximately 40,710 students enrolled in more than 300 undergraduate majors, master’s degrees, and doctoral programs across 12 colleges. University of Maryland, College Park is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

University of Arizona (UArizona) houses several labs and studios that support AR/VR research, projects, and training.  Labs include the Extended Reality and Games Lab (XRG Lab) and the 3D Visualization and Imaging Systems Lab. Studios include the Terry Seligman VR Studio—UArizona’s first public virtual reality studio. Equipped with headsets and hand controllers, the VR Studio allows students, faculty, and staff to immerse in virtual spaces and environments, while working on class projects and other AR/VR-related activities. 

In the XRG Lab, researchers and participants focus on the research and development of virtual, augmented, and mixed reality techniques. Ongoing research projects are funded by the National Science Foundation, the University of Arizona Social & Behavioral Sciences Research Institute (SBSRI), and others. Projects include Googly Eyes (VR), Mirrored VR, Bounce: A Mixed Reality Serious Game for Teaching Newtonian Physics Concepts, Grabbable Holograms (mixed reality) and Give Me a Hand? (virtual reality).

The 3D Visualization and Imaging Systems Lab is designed for research in emerging technologies such as mixed- and augmented realities (MR-AR), the Lab focuses on the development of 2D/3D display systems, 3D visualization systems, 3D human computer interaction methods, and image acquisition systems. Researchers are interested in applying these technologies in medicine, scientific visualization, and education.

In addition to the labs and studios and University of Arizona, faculty in the School of Information (iSchool) engage in AR/VR and other extended reality (XR) technology, video game design and development, and human-computer interaction (HCI) in order to advance these interactive technologies for enhanced performance and user experience.

Programs for students interested in AR/VR are also housed in the School of Information, which is a part of the College of Social & Behavioral Sciences. Options include the Information Science and Technology BS and a Games and Simulation Certificate. The BS Program features an Emphasis in Interactive and Immersive Technologies and hands-on learning, including internships with companies such as Hydrant, Octavia Digital Media, and the Enterprise Technology Division of State Farm Insurance.

Course examples for the program include Virtual Reality; Special Topics in Information, Science, Technology & Arts; Artificial Intelligence (AI); Information, Multimedia Design and the Moving Image; Technology of Sound; Digital 3D Modeling, Rendering and Rapid Prototyping; Human Computer Interaction; Game Development; Computing and the Arts; Ethics in a Digital World; Advanced Creative Coding; Computational Thinking and Doing; and Algorithms for Games.

The Information Science BS at University of Arizona has a required Individual Studies Component and the program culminates with the Senior Capstone course.

The Games and Simulation Certificate at UArizona explores the creation of virtual interactive environments for varying devices and platforms. Course examples for the program include Virtual Reality, Game Programming, Computing and the Arts, Technology of Sound, and Advanced Game Development. Students in this 12 credit hour Certificate Program will gain real-world experience through collaboration with peers and the development of several working prototypes.

Graduates of the iSchool at University of Arizona have been hired at places such as Lockheed Martin, Microsoft, Amazon, Intel Corporation, IBM Systems & Technology Group, Texas Instruments (TI), and Raytheon Technologies.

University of Arizona was established in 1885. The school serves approximately  49,400 students enrolled in hundreds of programs leading to a Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctoral, or Professional Degree. Programs at UArizona are housed across 20 colleges and additional specialized schools. University of Arizona has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1917 and is currently pursuing institutional accreditation with the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

The College of Arts and Sciences at The Ohio State University (OSU) houses the Department of Design. Established in 1968, the Department has a Design MFA program that’s ideal for individuals interested in a career in AR/VR. This interdisciplinary program has a Digital Animation and Interactive Media (DAIM) Track. Students in this Track have the opportunity to take 12 studio elective credits in any area.

The 60 credit hour MFA Program also includes core design courses, open electives in the themes of studio/lab; history/theory/criticism; collaborative/interdisciplinary studio; writing development courses, and a thesis project. Areas covered include Real Time Graphics and Virtual Environments, Responsive and Interactive Media, Performance Animation, Game Art, and Installations.

Students in the program have access to courses such as Designing Immersive Virtual Environments, Virtual Modeling, Computer Vision for Human-Computer Interaction, Mobile Handset Systems and Networking, Programming Concepts and Applications for Artists and Designers, Integrated Tech Lab, Computer Game and Design, Survey of Artificial Intelligence I: Basic Techniques, Aspects of Art and Technology II, VCD Design Media, INT Technology, Devising Experiential Media, Motion Capture Production and Experimentation, Emerging Trends in Data Visualization, Experimental Scripting for Animation in Maya, Interactive Arts Media II: UI/UX, and Design DAIM Seminar.

Also housed in OSU’s College of Arts and Sciences is the Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design (ACCAD) and the Emerging Tech Studio (ETS). The ACCAD conducts research that focuses on emerging arts technologies. The Center also houses specialized and flexible studios for interactive design, animation, mediated performance design, motion capture, and media production.

The ETS provides AR/VR experiences that simulate real-world, and otherworldly scenes. VR technology and more include Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest Pro, VIVE XR Elite, and VR apps from Steam, Steam, the Oculus Rift Store, and the Oculus Quest Store.

Graduates of the Design MFA Program at The Ohio State University are prepared to pursue positions in a range of industries. Examples include Augmented Reality Designer, Mixed Reality Designer, Virtual Reality Designer, Human-Computer Interaction Designer, Visualization Specialist,  Motion Graphics Designer, Game Designer, Experiential Designer, Multimedia Designer, and CG Specialist.

The Ohio State University was established in 1870 as Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. The school serves close to 65,795 students across six regional campuses including Columbus (main), Lima, Mansfield, Marion, Newark, and OSU’s Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster. More than 200 majors, minors, and specializations are offered in 18 colleges and schools. The Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) houses the College of Engineering. Within the College is the Department of Computer Science (CS), which is the fastest growing program at UIC. Pathways for students interested in studying AR/VR include the BS in Computer Science and Design (the only such program at a public university), a CS MS, a CS BS/MS, and a CS Minor. A CS PhD is also available for AR/VR students who would also like to pursue research or teaching positions.

Across programs, areas explored include AR/VR Design, Computer Graphics, Creative Coding, Human-Centered Computing, Designing and Developing Digital Interfaces and Applications, and Media Design. Programs consist of a combination of studio courses, electives, and required technical courses that allow students to collaborate in teams on projects and research.

Course and elective examples for the BS and Minor include Virtual, Augmented and Mixed Reality; Software Design; Artificial Intelligence; Human Augmentics; Programming Language Design and Implementation; Computer Graphics; Digital Media Design; Object-Oriented Languages and Environment; Game Design; Integrative Design Studio I-III; and Visualization.

The CS MS consists of 36 credit hours. Students may also enroll in the BS/MS Program, which takes just five years to complete. The MS has coursework only, project (capstone), and thesis options (research or PhD preparation). Course examples include Virtual Reality; Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality; Advanced Machine Learning; Software Engineering; Video Game Design and Development; Applied Artificial Intelligence; Programming Language Design; Wearables and Nearables Technology Laboratory; Creative Coding; Deep Learning for computer Vision; Multimedia Systems; Human-Computer Interaction; and Design of Mobile Apps.

Students in all programs have access to UIC’s Electronic Visualization Laboratory (EVL) and the Human-in-Mind Engineering Research Lab (HiMER).

Established in 1973, EVL is an interdisciplinary research laboratory in the Department of CS. EVL specializes in virtual reality, visual data science, collaborative visualization, and advanced computing and networking infrastructure. The Lab is supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Argonne National Laboratory, The Joseph and Bessie Feinberg Foundation, the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, the State of Illinois, and UIC.

The HiMER Lab in the College of Engineering highlights recently funded research including AR/VR, Human Performance Modeling, Human-System Interaction, Data Analytics, and Transportation Safety. Recent AR/VR projects include HiMER Lab Augmented/Virtual Reality Wearable Screen Design; Projection-Based Mixed Reality Platform-Spatial Mixed Reality; Gaze-Based Multimodal Interactions in AR; and Human Perception and Cognition in AR.

Graduates of the Computer Science Programs at University of Illinois Chicago are prepared to pursue a variety of roles in technology, entertainment, architecture, health, education, aerospace, medicine, and more. Program alumni have been hired at places such as Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Apple, Cisco, Meta, Adobe, LG, Blue Cross Blue Shield, HP, Redbox, and Verizon.  

University of Illinois Chicago formed in 1982 when two University of Illinois campuses—the Medical Center campus and the Chicago Circle campus—consolidated. Today, with close to 34,000 students enrolled, UIC is the largest university in the Chicago area. The school provides 260 degree programs and more than 60 certificate programs across 14 colleges and the School of Law. University of Illinois  Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

North Carolina State University (NC State) is home to the College of Design, which recently celebrated its 75th year in existence. Within the College are several labs including Experience Design (IX) and Mixed Reality (MxR). The IX Lab is a cross-disciplinary community of artists, designers, humanists, scientists, and engineers that focus on expanding worlds through AR/VR and other new and emerging technologies.

The MxR Lab consists of designers, engineers, and individuals interested in experimentation. The Lab focuses on AR/VR and MR technologies. Projects have included Axe One, Morphaces, and Pop’n’Play.

The College of Engineering at NC State is home to the Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering, which houses an additional lab—the Virtual and Augmented Reality Lab (VR).

In the VR Lab researchers study the interaction between humans and AR/VR. Projects have included User Performance Training and Patient Motor Learning. Current projects include Scale Cognition through Advanced Learning Environments in Virtual Reality (SCALE-VR); Virtual Instructor Application using Augmented Reality for Worker Posture Training; and Investigation of Virtual Reality Guided Upper Limb Exercises.

Accessible equipment includes four-sided (C4) Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE) with full-body tracking capability, several head-mounted displays (HMDs), and a head-up display (HUD). In addition, a variety of peripheral devices that support movement tracking are available.

The College of Design at North Carolina State University has several programs for students interested in studying AR/VR. Options include BA and MA degrees in Art + Design (A + D) and a 16 credit hour A + D Minor with a customizable curriculum. All programs provide access to the schools AR/VR labs.

The interdisciplinary, studio-based  A + D BA program provides the opportunity to learn about and develop creative portfolios in areas such as AR/VR, Interactive and Computational Media, Motion Graphics, Visual Effects (VFX), Graphic and Interactive Narratives, Game Design, 3D Modeling, and others. In addition, three Concentrations are available: Gaming + Interaction Design, Animation (2D + 3D), and Fibers + Soft Construction.

Students may also create a focus through required free electives totaling 12 credit hours. Elective examples include Advanced Digital Techniques, Digital Representation, and Art + Design Laboratory.  Course examples for the program include Visualization, Art + Design Laboratory, Creative Technology, Digital Imaging, Advanced Digital Techniques, Digital Motion, and Animation.  Studios include Creative technology, Art and Design International, and Design, Context, and Experience.

The A + D MA (M.A.D) focuses on Experimental Media Arts. Depending on the student’s academic background and experience, they may enroll in the 30-, 48- or 72-credit Track. Course examples include Sequential Imaging, Visualizing Narratives, Graduate Studio: Immersive and Experimental narratives, Digital Motion, Special Effects, Animation, Dynamic Data, Digital Modeling, and Coding for Designers. Final projects for the M.A.D. Program may explore AR/VR, VFX, Interactive and Computational Media, Graphic and Interactive Narratives, Visual Composition, and Motion Graphics, among others.  

Graduates of the A + D programs at North Carolina State University work in fields such as Software Design, Multimedia, Illustration, Textile Design, Fashion Design, Art and Design Education, Photography, Filmmaking, SFX and VFX, Set Design, Exhibition Design, Museum Education, and Public Art. Some graduates have launched their own businesses and studios.

North Carolina State University employs 9,000+ faculty and staff that serve more than 36,000 students, making it the largest university in the University of North Carolina System. Established in 1887 as a land-grant institution focusing in agriculture and engineering, NC State offers more than 300 degree programs across 11 colleges, 68 departments, and The Graduate School. North Carolina State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

University of California, Santa Cruz (UC Santa Cruz or UCSC) has a number of paths to study AR/VR. The Baskin School of Engineering at UCSC houses the Computational Media Department (CM), which has BS and MS Programs in Computer Science (CS), as well as Computational Media MS and PhD programs. Students in all pathways may focus in AR/VR by selecting related courses and electives.

Examples include Introduction to Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality, Data Visualization with AR/VR, Programming Abstractions: Python, Advanced Computer Graphics and Animation Laboratory, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Immersive Analytics, Human-Computer Interaction Seminar, C Programming, Topics in Human-Robot Interaction, AI in Games, Software Engineering, Interactive Narrative, Computer Systems, Data Programming for Visualization, User Experience for Interactive Media, and Machine Learning for Creativity and Design.

Across all programs, students will complete a variety of projects, both assigned and in their area of choice. Graduate students will complete a thesis OR additional project with written report.

All Baskin students have the opportunity to work and learn in the VizLab. Dedicated to AR/VR, VizLab provides access to high-end VR equipment that can be used to develop virtual or augmented reality content and interact with imagined worlds. Students can check out equipment such as a VIVE headset, Gear VR, Google Cardboard, 360 cameras, GoPros, DSLR cameras, video cameras, and other media capture devices. The VizLab also hosts class sessions, workshops, and project development meetings.

Another space—the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE) Lab—provides the opportunity to create 3D virtual environments that allow multiple users to interact at the same time. The facility houses a room-sized, advanced visualization system (also called the CAVE), which combines high-resolution, stereoscopic projection and 3D computer graphics to create and fully immerse in virtual environments.

The CAVE Lab is also outfitted with Mechdyne CAVE and FLEX technology and adjustable walls that allow environments to be modified for different applications. The Unity development platform is used to create 3D interactive environments.

For students in other programs across UC Santa Cruz or professionals looking to develop skills in AR/VR skills may enroll in a Certificate Program through UCSC Silicon Valley Extension. Options include Software Engineering and Quality, User Experience and Web Design, and Mobile Application Development. Across options, students have access to courses such as Designing User Experience for AR, Smart Things, Virtual Reality, and Wearable Technology; Mobile Interface Design; and Data Structures and Algorithms Using Python.

Other features include hands-on projects, guest speakers, and topics such as Software Engineering, Augmented Reality - UX Design, Virtual Reality - UX/UI Design (Oculus Rift and Samsung Gear VR), Artificial intelligence (AI), Designing Glasses for AR, Visual Design, Design Implementation, and Interface Design. Certificate students will have a professional portfolio upon completion of their respective programs.

Graduates of the Computer Science Programs and Certificate Programs at University of California, Santa Cruz are prepared for positions such as AR/VR Developer, XR Gameplay and Tools Engineer, Software Developer, AR/VR Maintenance and Support, Senior Software Engineer, AR/VR Capture Systems Engineer, Design/Graphics Engineer, and AR/VR Researcher.

Established in 1965, University of California, Santa Cruz opened with 652 students. Today, the school serves approximately 18,980 students enrolled in more than 130 programs in the Arts, Engineering, Humanities, Physical and Biological Sciences, and Social Sciences. Programs at UC Santa Cruz are housed across 10 colleges and the Graduate Division. University of California, Santa Cruz is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) is home to the Hixson-Lied College of Fine and Performing Arts. Within the Hixson-Lied College is the Johnny Carson Center for Emerging Media Arts, which has one pathway to study AR/VR. The program—Emerging Media Arts BFA (BFA-EMA)—requires two emphasis areas totaling 24 credit hours; an interdisciplinary concentration; and 27 credit hours of electives. This provides a number of opportunities to study AR/VR.

Popular emphasis options for AR/VR students include Immersive and Interactive Media (games, VR, AR, XR, interactive and immersive environments); Experience Design (designing projects and experiences that synthesize the virtual and the real); Virtual Production (animation, motion graphics, 3D modeling); Sensory Media (physical computing, wearable technologies, human computer interaction-HCI, hardware and software); and Data + Art (generating art with artificial intelligence-AI, data, and the Internet of Things).

In addition to completing courses such as Creating Augmented Worlds, Principles of Interactivity, Creating Virtual Worlds, Experience Design, and Game Engines for Real-Time Performances, BFA-EMA students will also spend two semesters each in a total of five studio and lab courses including Innovation Studio, Sound Lab, Computation and Media Studio, Visual Expression Studio, and Story Lab. Other program features include the Entrepreneurship course and a yearlong Capstone Project.

Housed in the College of Business, the Entrepreneurship course introduces students to the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and business creation. The Capstone Project allows students to work in teams to from concept and development to prototype and finished product. Completed projects will be ready for distribution.

Graduates of the Emerging Media Arts BFA Program at University of Nebraska-Lincoln have been hired for positions in areas such as Wearables and Physical Computing, AI, Robotics, Sound Design, Game Design, Visual Effects (VFX), Film Production Design, and Animation. Potential job titles include AR/VR Designer, Theme Park Experience Designer, Game Designer, Creative Technologist, AR/VR Developer, Interactive Designer, Innovation Designer, App and Designer, Mobile Media Designer, Technology Interactives Researcher and Developer, UX Design Lead, and Video Game Director.

Founded in 1869 and serving 23,805 students, University of Nebraska – Lincoln is the state's oldest university and the largest institution in the University of Nebraska System. UNL provides more than 70 doctoral programs and over 150 majors, 70+ master's degree programs, and more than 30 graduate certificates. Programs at UNL are housed across nine colleges. University of Nebraska-Lincoln is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).