2024

What are the top public AR/VR school programs in the US for 2024?

Top 25 Public Augmented/Virtual Reality (AR/VR) Schools in the U.S. – 2024 College Rankings
RankingSchoolState
1University of WashingtonWashington
2Georgia Institute of TechnologyGeorgia
3University of California, BerkeleyCalifornia
4University of Texas at AustinTexas
5University of Central FloridaFlorida
6University of MichiganMichigan
7University of North Carolina at Chapel HillNorth Carolina
8University of Illinois Urbana-ChampaignIllinois
9Arizona State UniversityArizona
10Texas A&M UniversityTexas
11Purdue UniversityIndiana
12University of ArizonaArizona
13Iowa State UniversityIowa
14University of California, San DiegoCalifornia
15University of MarylandMaryland
16University of UtahUtah
17The Ohio State UniversityOhio
18University of FloridaFlorida
19University of Colorado, BoulderColorado
20University of Illinois, ChicagoIllinois
21Ohio UniversityOhio
22North Carolina State UniversityNorth Carolina
23University of California, Santa CruzCalifornia
24University at BuffaloNew York
25University of Minnesota, Twin CitiesMinnesota

Our 2024 rankings -our fourth annual- of the Top 25 Public College Public Augmented/Virtual Reality AR/VR programs in the US. For an explanation of ranking criteria, click here.

1. University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
University of Washington

In 2016, the Paul G. Allen School of Computer Science and Engineering at University of Washington became the world’s first school to offer an augmented reality capstone course. Housed in the College of Arts and Sciences, the Allen School serves more than 2,300 students enrolled in programs leading to a BS, MS, Professional Master’s (PMP), or PhD. The school also has a postdoctoral program that focuses on independent research projects, collaborations with faculty, and mentoring. 

For individuals interested in studying AR/VR, the Allen School has a Computer Science (CS) BS; a Combined BS/MS; a PMP in CS; and a CS PhD. Also known as the Fifth Year Master’s Program, the BS/MS enables current and recent Allen School undergraduate majors to earn a BS and an MS in approximately five years, instead of 6.5. 

Across programs, students will take courses such as Advanced Topics in HCI (Graphics & Virtual Reality); Neural Control of Movement: A Computational Perspective; Digital Circus; Human-Computer Interaction; Digital Design; Applications of AI; Interaction Programming; Software Design and Implementation; Machine Learning; The Hardware/Software Interface; Computer Vision; Interactive Learning; Advanced Digital Sound Synthesis and Processing; Software Engineering; and Advanced Topics in Digital Animation. 

Students in all Allen School programs have the opportunity to take courses and work on interdisciplinary teams in the UW Reality Lab. Launched in 2018, the Lab houses the Reality Studio, which focuses on production and storytelling in immersive environments, and supporting all forms of content in AR/VR. The Studio also provides courses at the graduate and undergraduate levels. 

Undergraduate course examples include Storytelling in VR; Virtual Reality Systems; Design for Virtual Reality; Computer Vision; Computational Design and Fabrication; Computer Graphics; and VR/AR Capstone. Graduate course examples include Deep Learning; Computational Fabrication; Computer Vision; Machine Learning; and Special Topics in Graphics. 

Also housed in the UW Reality Lab is the Reality Lab Incubator, which focuses on the research and development of AR/VR technology. This program also provides mentoring; opportunities to work on projects; and skills development for undergraduate students. Examples of current projects include 

Virtual Field Geology; AR Notetaking; GuitXR; Event Horizon: Cooperative VR Game for 2 People; Chefing: Interactive AR Cooking; Superfly: Emergent Gameplay through VR Locomotion; AR Bathymetry; and Superhero Ninja: Make-A-Wish & Virtual World Society Collaboration. 

Depending on the program, Computer Science and Engineering students at University of Washington will complete a final project, portfolio, thesis, or all three. Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles in AR/VR at major companies, studios, and organizations. Program alumni are routinely hired at places such as Microsoft, Apple, Epic Software, Pixar Animation Studios, Google, Dell, Amazon, Oracle, Riot Games, Samsung, Adobe, Hulu, Disney, HBO, and Unity Technologies. 

Founded in 1861, the University of Washington serves approximately 60,705 students, making it the largest university in the state. More than 300 separate programs and over 600 degree options are provided across three campuses including Seattle/main, Bothell, and Tacoma, and 18 colleges and schools. The University of Washington is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU). The school is also a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). Engineering at UW is accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET).

2. Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia
Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) provides several paths to study AR/VR in the College of Computing. One of the largest computing colleges in the nation, the Georgia Tech College of Computing houses the Schools of Computer Science, Computational Science and Engineering, and Interactive Computing. 

Specific AR/VR-related degree options across schools include the BS in Computational Media (BSCM), and BS, MS and PhD degrees in Computer Science. Ideal minors include Computing and Devices; Scientific Engineering and Computing; Computing and Intelligence; Computing and People; Computing and Media; and Computing and Systems Architecture. 

With approximately 300 students, the Computational Media BS is joint offering between the College of Computing and the School of Literature, Media, and Communication (within the Ivan Allen College of Liberal Arts), and the School of Music within the College of Design. One of Georgia Tech’s fastest growing programs, the BSCM is the top choice for students interested in AR/VR. 

The program provides the opportunity to select a thread, allowing students to create their own computing degree. Thread examples include Modeling and Simulation; Devices; Systems and Architecture; Media; and Information Networks. All students have access to courses such as People and Interaction Design; Intelligence and Games; Constructing the Moving Image; Experimental Media; Intelligence and Interaction Design; Science, Technology and Performance; Computer Animation; and Media and Interaction Design. 

Students in all Georgia Tech programs have the opportunity to work and learn in the GVU Center. Examples of the centers core research areas include AR/VR, wearable computing, gaming, human-computer interaction, artificial intelligence, social computing, graphics and animation, robotics, information visualization, mobile and ubiquitous computing, and educational technologies.   

Within the Georgia Tech GVU Center is the Augmented Environments Lab, which focuses on building interactive computing environments that directly augment the user senses with computer-generated material. The center also houses the Prototyping eNarrative Lab (PeN Lab), which focuses on emerging platforms such as AR/VR; simulation and game design; storytelling as it relates to digital experiences; and experimental television. 

Across GVU Center labs, past and current projects include Bringing Interactivity to Static Data Visualization through AR; Interactive Techniques for Children’s AR Education; Argon: AR-Enabled Web Browser; Augmented Reality and the Fan Experience of Esports; ARToss: Networked Argon3 Game Demo; Auburn Avenue: Augmented Reality for Cultural Heritage; Exploring AR Potential in Extending Visiting Experience of Aquariums and Zoos; and Smart Home with AR Interface Control. 

Upon completion of any AR/VR-related program at Georgia Tech, students will complete a capstone project. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers in areas such as AR/VR, robotics, animation, game development, special effects, human-computer interaction, and simulation. 

Georgia Tech alumni have been hired by companies such as Boeing, Cisco Systems, Intel, Microsoft, Apple, IBM, Google, Disney, Tesla, and Delta Airlines. 

Georgia Institute of Technology was established in 1885. When it opened, the school had just 129 students enrolled in one degree program—the Mechanical Engineering BS. Today, Georgia Tech serves nearly 50,000 students in-person at the main campus in Atlanta, at Georgia Tech-Europe in France, at Georgia Tech-Shenzhen in China, and through distance and online learning. Students have access to 180 degree programs and minors across six distinct colleges and 28 schools. Georgia Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

3. University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California
University of California, Berkeley

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

For students looking to pursue a career in AR/VR, the College of Engineering (CoE) and the College of Letters and Science (L&S) provide two undergraduate degree options. Housed in the CoE’s Engineering and Computer Sciences (EECS) Department is the BS in EECS. And in UC Berkeley’s largest college—Letters and Sciences—students can earn a BA in Computer Science (CS). 

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. 

The EECS BS and the CS BA have the same technical requirements, with differing admissions and breadth requirements. EECS students have the option to focus in areas such as Communications or Robotics and Mechatronics. BS and BA students also have opportunities to complete an internship with a local company or organization in places such as San Francisco, New York, or Los Angeles; study abroad for a semester or summer; or complete a global internship in places such as London, Spain, France, Argentina, Tokyo, Canada, or Portugal. 

Across programs, students have access to courses such as Designing Information Devices and Systems; Introduction to Digital Design and Integrated Circuits; Machine Structures; Foundations of Computer Graphics; Great Ideas in Computer Architecture; Electronics for the Internet of Things; Human-Computer Interaction Research; Robotic Manipulation and Interaction; Programming Languages and Compilers; Introduction to Digital Electronics; Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs; Computer Vision; Designing, Visualizing and Understanding Deep Neural Networks; and Natural Language Processing. 

Both programs culminate with a final project. Graduates of the CS and EECS programs at UC Berkeley are prepared to pursue advanced roles in areas such as AR/VR, AI and machine learning, computer vision, robotics, aerospace, healthcare, defense, engineering, software development, production, design, entertainment, computer systems design, and production. 

UC Berkeley graduates are routinely hired by technology companies such as Apple, Tesla, Google, and Meta Platforms, Inc. 

Chartered in 1868, University of California, Berkeley was named after 18th-century philosopher George Berkeley. The school serves approximately 45,700 students enrolled in more than 400 degree programs across 15 colleges and schools. UC Berkeley has been fully accredited since 1949 and had its accreditation reaffirmed in 2015 under the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).  

4. University of Texas at Austin, Austin, Texas
University of Texas at Austin

University of Texas at Austin (UT) houses a Game Design and Development (GDAD) program dedicated to training students for careers in AR/VR, games, and digital media. Established in 2012, the program provides the opportunity to work alongside UT’s game development student organization EGaDS! and industry studios, while taking courses on immersive experiences through the Texas Immersive Institute in Moody College of Communication. 

Other coursework comes from the Department of Computer Science (CS) in the College of Natural Sciences; the Department of Arts and Entertainment Technologies (AET) in the College of Fine Arts’ School of Design and Creative Technologies; and the Department of Radio-Television-Film (RTF) in Moody College of Communication.  

In addition to coursework across schools and departments, GDAD students have access to the Center for Perceptual Systems in the College of Liberal Arts. The center houses 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. 

In addition to the interdisciplinary GDAD program, students interested in AR/VR can enroll in the Computer Science BS (BS CS) program with an optional Game Development concentration; or the Professional Arts and Entertainment Technologies BS. Across programs, course examples include AR/VR: Intro to the Metaverse; Design for Artificial Intelligence; Mixed Reality for the Masses; Advanced Creative Coding; Immersive Audio; Interactive Environments; Video Game Prototyping; DxD Studio;

3D Previz in Live Environment; Design and Interactivity; Storytelling in Design; AET Studio; Video Game Scripting; IBM Studio; Integrated Design; and User Interfaces. 

Students in all CS programs in the College of Natural Sciences may also take additional AR/VR courses as electives. This is especially true for the BSA in CS, which allows students to explore other areas to match their goals. In addition to a BSA and BS, CS students can earn a BA, MS, or five-year BS/MS. 

Graduates of the AET, Game Design, and CS Program at UT Austin enjoy a 93% employment rate within six months of graduation. Program alumni are prepared to pursue AR/VR jobs in fields such as entertainment, game design and development, manufacturing, the military, education, automotive, marketing, design, training, law enforcement, retail, architecture, healthcare, hospitality, and sports. , 

UT Austin graduates have been hired at places such as Apple, Google, HP, EA Games, Amazon, IBM, Zynga, GameStop, Scientific Games, Aspyr Media, Inc., Diamond Entertainment, Cloud Imperium, and Everi Digital. 

Founded in 1883, University of Texas at Austin serves approximately 51,915 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 19 colleges and schools. University of Texas at Austin is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

5. University of Central Florida, Orlando, Florida
University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida (UCF) provides several paths to study AR/VR in the College of Engineering and Computer Science, Department of Computer Science; the School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training (SMST); and UCF Continuing Education. In addition to degree programs and certificate options, students interested in studying AR/VR have access to several labs that focus on collaboration, AR/VR systems and applications creation, and AR/VR research. 

Housed in Institute for Simulation & Training (IST), the Synthetic Reality Lab is part of several larger UCF entities. Known as SREAL (pronounced Surreal), the lab is a center for affiliated faculty members, software developers, PhD students, modelers and animators, researchers, and interactors such as digital puppeteers. With 7,000 square feet of office and experimental space, SREAL has spaces dedicated to the development of AR/VR; human surrogate and robotics research; mixed reality experiences; developing cultural heritage and STEM experiences; and interactive training using digital avatar technology. 

The Interactive Systems and User Experience Lab focuses on the development of innovative techniques, tools, and applications that enhance the overall experience between humans and machines. 

Program options in the Department of Computer Science include the Computer Science (CS) BS; an Accelerated BS/MS in CS; and a Mixed Reality Engineering graduate certificate. The School of Modeling, Simulation, and Training houses the MS and PhD degrees in Modeling and Simulation. Both programs are also part of the College of Graduate Studies. 

In partnership with Circuit Stream, UCF Continuing Education provides an XR Development with Unity course that can prepare students to become an AR/VR developer in 10 weeks. Areas covered include AR application development, C# script coding, VR application development, and XR development and game creation with Unity. Upon completion of the fully online course, students will receive a VX Developer digital badge from UCF Continuing Education and Circuit Stream.  

The Computer Science BS at UCF consists of courses such as Algorithms for Machine Learning, Robot Vision, Game Programming, Software Engineering, Computer Graphics, Advanced AI, Computer Architecture, and AI for Game Programming. Graduates are prepared for careers in fields such as AR/VR, Computer Architecture, Computer Gaming, Computer Vision, Evolutionary Computing, Media Convergence, Robotics, and many others. 

The Computer Science MS at UCF allows students to specialize in a research area. This includes options such as VR, Mixed and Virtual Reality Mobile Computing, Modeling and Simulation, Machine Learning, Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Pairing (combining two research areas) is also an option. In addition to their chosen specialization, CS MS students will study programming systems and languages, computer science theory, and computer architecture. 

The Mixed Reality Engineering graduate certificate requires nine credit hours of coursework beyond the bachelor’s degree. Courses include Virtual Reality Engineering; Augmented Reality Engineering; and the culminating Mixed Reality Project, which includes the development of a mixed reality system or software application.  

The MS and PhD programs in Modeling and Simulation provide opportunities to specialize in areas such as Visualization and Immersive Environments (VR/MR/XR); Training, Modeling, and Simulation; Human-Computer Interaction; Interactive Simulation, and Cognition; Operational Modeling, Simulation, and Optimization; and Predictive Analytics and Machine Learning. The UCF Modeling and Simulation MS program can be completed online. 

Graduates of the Computer Science and Modeling and Simulation programs at University of Central Florida are prepared to pursue careers in areas such as AR/VR, software engineering, defense, entertainment, software development, game design and development, computer science, information security, aerospace, computer systems, and cybersecurity. 

UCF technology alumni are routinely hired by major companies and organizations such as NASA, Cisco, Lockheed Martin, Siemens, IBM, Apple, Oracle, Google, Intel, Accenture, Amazon, and YouTube. 

University of Central Florida was founded in 1963. The school opened its doors in 1968 as Florida Technological University (FTU). On the first day of classes, FTU had less than 2,000 students. Today, UCF is a public research university that serves 69,320 students, making it the largest university by enrollment in the state of Florida. The school is also one of top five largest universities in the nation. UCF students have access to 240 degree programs across 13 colleges. University of Central Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

6. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
University of Michigan

University of Michigan (U-M) houses the College of Engineering; the School of Information; and the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA). Collectively, these academic divisions provide access to a number of degree programs, certificates, studios, coursework, and initiatives that explore AR/VR. 

Founded in 1854, U-M’s College of Engineering launched some of the nation’s earliest programs in computer science, electrical engineering, data science, and nuclear engineering. Options for students interested in studying AR/VR include the Computer Science BS; Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) MS; the CSE PhD; and the CS minor. The Computer Science BS is also offered to students in the College of LAS. With more than 85 majors, sub-majors, and degree programs, and over 100 minors, the College of LAS also provides minors in Computing for Expression; Computing for Scientific Discovery; Complex Systems; and User Experience Design. 

Across degree programs, students have access to courses such as Human-Centered Software Design and Development; Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); Programming Languages; Computer Game Design and Development; Advanced Artificial Intelligence (AI); Machine Learning; VLSI Design; Interactive Computer Graphics; Digital Integrated Technology; Autonomous Robotics; and Software Engineering. 

Computer Science students may also focus in areas such as Intelligent Systems; Web Technology and Applications; Software Development; Computer Hardware; Theory of Computation; or Computing Infrastructure. 

In the School of Information, students with a bachelor’s degree in any major can enroll in the Rackham Graduate Certificate in Extended Reality (XR). This program can be used as an add-on to the graduate student's primary degree program. All students will complete Introduction to AR/VR Application Design. Other course examples include Developing AR/VR Experiences; Augmented Tectonics; Immersive Media; AR/VR for Sustainability; Sci-Fi Prototyping; Generative Design; and Virtual Engagement in Digital Technologies. 

Students in all programs have access to the XR Initiative - Center for Academic Innovation and the studios of the James and Anne Duderstadt Center (DC). Founded in 2019, the XR Initiative works across all U-M colleges, schools, and departments to develop new XR related educational technology designed to enhance student learning experiences. The Initiative also focuses on making XR technology more accessible on campus and promoting its use in higher education. 

Past XR Initiative projects include AR Visit Detroit App: An augmented reality tour of Detroit that combines history, culture, and technology; Cross-platform XR Tools for Supporting Student Creativity in Immersive Audio Design; MIVERSE: A project that teaches the essentials of Unity and Blender skills to help participants become well-rounded developers; XRStudio: A project that develops a pipeline for giving lectures in VR; and Cross-platform XR Tools: A browser-based tool for designing virtual immersive sonic environments. 

Launched in 1996 as the Media Union, the James and Anne Duderstadt Center houses the DC Visualization Studio; M.I.D.E.N (Michigan Immersive Digital Experience Nexus); the Fabrication Studio; and VizHubs. All studios are equipped with individual and shared workstations; the Vicon Motion Capture System; the Leap Motion System for hand tracking in VR environments; advanced software; and a Perception Neuron Full Body Tracking Suit. 

Graduates of the Computer Science and XR programs at University of Michigan are prepared to pursue in areas such as AR/VR, intelligent and assistive systems, simulation engineering, digital arts and entertainment, applications development, software engineering, and computer systems. U-M alumni have been hired at places such as include Microsoft, Oracle, General Motors, Epic Games, IBM, Google, Amazon, IBM, Facebook, Capital One, Ford Motor Company, and MathWorks.   

Established in 1817, University of Michigan is the oldest higher education institution in the state. The school is also one of the nation’s first public institutions. U-M consists of three campuses (Ann Arbor-main, Dearborn, and Flint) that serve 52,065 students enrolled in more than 275 degree programs across 19 colleges and schools. University of Michigan is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

7. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC-Chapel Hill) houses a number of labs, groups, and clubs that support the study, research, and development of AR/VR. The school also provides degree options that can help students break into the AR/VR industry. 

Students interested in AR/VR at UNC-Chapel Hill have access to the Graphics, Imaging, and Robotics Lab; the Graphics and 3D Vision Laboratory; the UNC Augmented and Virtual Reality Interest Group (UNC AR/VR); and the Carolina Augmented and Virtual Reality Club (CARVR). 

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 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. 

The Carolina Augmented and Virtual Reality Club (CARVR) provides the opportunity to work on extended reality (XR) projects with real clients. The UNC Augmented and Virtual Reality Interest Group (UNC AR/VR) is a collection of more than 250 faculty and students from across campus. The Group focuses on learning, training, research, and entrepreneurship through the use of immersive technologies. 

Across all options, students have access to workshops, panels, research showcases, and more. Projects have included ARt Walk on Franklin; Geometric Algorithms for Modeling, Motion, and Animation Group (GAMMA) Project; the Walkthrough Group, (simulated walkthroughs of architectural models); and the Effective Virtual Environments Project. 

The College of Arts and Sciences at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill houses 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 BS, MS, and PhD degrees in Computer Science. 

Students have the option to select the Computer Graphics or Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) Research Area. Computer Graphics sub-areas include Virtual Environments; Animation and Simulation; and Visualization. HCI sub-areas include Virtual Environments. 

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

Graduates of the Computer Science programs at UNC-Chapel Hill are prepared to pursue advanced roles in areas such as AR/VR, game design and development, software development, AI, HCI, mobile app development, entertainment, computer hardware engineering, architecture, marketing, and healthcare. 

UNC-Chapel Hill alumni have gone on to establish careers at places such as Microsoft, Cisco, Google, Amazon, Lenovo, America Airlines, SAS – Analytics Software & Solutions, Red Hat Software (a subsidiary of IBM), Capital One, and Accenture. 

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established in 1789. The school 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 approximately 32,235 students enrolled in more than 250 degree 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).

8. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Champaign, Illinois
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) houses several degree programs, minors, labs, and studios that support AR/VR studies and research. Supported by the Center for Innovation in Teaching & Learning (CITL) and University Library’s IDEA Lab and Media Commons, the VR@Illinois Lab (VR LAB) is a collaborative initiative that supports AR/VR and extended reality activities at UIUC. 

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

Adjacent to the VR Lab is the Innovation Studio. This active, experimental, and emerging technology studio is equipped with VR headsets, gaming computers, a video wall, and a variety of innovative technologies. Students in all VR/AR-related courses and programs have access to the VR LAB and Innovation Studio. 

Grainger College of Engineering at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign houses the Thomas M. Siebel School of Computing and Data Science. Within the school is a Computer Science (CS) program that’s ideal for students interested in studying AR/VR. Specific pathways include the Computer Science BS, MS, and minor. The 12 credit hour minor can be added most technology-related programs at UIUC. 

Students in the CS BS have may take up to 18 credit hours of technical electives and six hours of CS advanced electives, allowing them to focus in specific area of interest such as AR/VR. Course examples include Virtual Reality; AI for Computer Games; Programming Languages Design; Human-Computer Interaction; Software Design Lab; Applied Machine Learning; User Interface Design; Topics in the Internet of Things; Software Engineering I-II; Simulation; Mobile Interactive Design; and Social Visualization. 

The CS MS at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign 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; Artificial Intelligence (AI); Programming Languages; and Scientific Computing. 

Both CS BS and MS students will work in teams to complete a series of projects throughout each program. This includes a final project and presentation to graduate. 

Graduates of UIUC Grainger College of Engineering are prepared to pursue leadership roles across industries. Grainger alumni have gone on to co-found companies such as PayPal, Yelp, and YouTube. Graduates have also been hired at Fortune 500 companies such as Apple, Microsoft, Google, Amazon, IBM, Meta Platforms, Inc., Caterpillar, Tesla, and ADM. 

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign was established in 1867 as Illinois Industrial University. The second oldest public post-secondary institution in the state, UIUC serves 59,240 students from all 50 U.S. states and 126 countries. The school provides more than 150 undergraduate programs and 100+ graduate and professional programs across 16 colleges and instructional units. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

9. Arizona State University, Tempe, Arizona
Arizona State University

Arizona State University (ASU) launched the Media and Immersive eXperience (MIX) Center in fall 2022. Part of the ASU at Mesa City Center Complex, which also houses The Studios at Mesa City Center and the three-acre Plaza at Mesa City Center, MIX is a collaboration between ASU and the City of Mesa. 

Designed to support emerging media technologies and related academic programs, this state-of-the-art facility houses immersion studios, soundstages, ideation studios, fabrication labs, screening rooms, exhibition spaces, and community rooms. MIX students have opportunities to design new virtual worlds and video games; produce films; and create other immersive media experiences. 

In addition to the MIX Center, ASU is also home to the Center for Narrative and Emerging Media (NEM). Also launched in fall 2022, NEM is a partnership between the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication, and the Sidney Poitier New American Film School/Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts. 

Housed in the ASU California Center in Downtown Los Angeles, NEM provides an MA program (MA-NEM) that focuses on emerging storytelling and immersive experience content creation in AR/VR/XR; virtual production; short-form digital video; animated graphics; streaming; and 360 video. Course examples include AR/VR/XR for Storytelling; Short Form and 360 Video Production; Emerging Media Project Management; Virtual Production for Storytelling; Narrative Development and Pre-Production; Emerging Media for Clients; and Emerging Media Production. 

The Narrative and Emerging Media MA program at ASU culminates with the Applied Project course, worth three credits. Graduates will enter the job market with a professional portfolio of their best work. 

Potential job titles include AR/VR/XR Producer, Immersive Storyteller, Media Project Manager, Documentary Film Producer, Independent Filmmaker, and Journalist.  

The Herberger Institute for Design and the Arts at Arizona State University houses the School of Arts, Media and Engineering, and The Design School. Both schools provide additional program options that are ideal for students interested in studying AR/VR. These include the MS in Media Arts and Sciences (Extended Reality Technologies) and the MSD in Design (Experience Design). 

Housed in the School of Arts, Media and Engineering, the Media Arts and Sciences MS is a STEM-designated program that focuses on extended reality and immersive technologies, including human-computer interaction (HCI), experience design, artificial intelligence (AI), visualization, machine learning, computer vision, interaction, and simulation. 

Course examples include Designing Extended-Reality Experiences; Machine Learning for Media Arts; Digital Workflow in the Graphics Industry; Programming for Social and Interactive Media; Movement and Computing; Design for Media Arts; Prototyping Futures; and Creating Interactive Media. 

The ASU Media Arts and Sciences MS requires an internship and culminating applied project to graduate. 

Housed in The Design School, the MSD is a cross-disciplinary program that explores extended and virtual reality, interactive environments, games, themed entertainment, and immersive storytelling. Course examples include Prototyping Futures; Immersive Experience Design; Research Methods; and Emerging Media Colloquium. 

Like the MS program, the MSD require an internship to graduate. Students in this program will also complete a thesis and culminating applied project. 

Graduates of the MA, MS, and MSD programs at Arizona State University are prepared to pursue careers in areas such as AR/VR (across industries), game design and development, 3D modeling and visualization, mobile development, architecture, aerospace, experience design, film and video, web development, healthcare, theme park design, the military, education, advertising, urban planning, exhibit design, and law enforcement training. 

According to the Arizona Board of Regents, Arizona State University serves 145,655 students, making it the largest university in the state and one of the top 10 largest universities in the U.S. Founded in 1885 as the Arizona Territorial Normal School, ASU has four campuses and a digital division that provide more than 900 fully accredited degree programs and majors. ASU programs are housed across 16 colleges and schools. Arizona State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

10. Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas
Texas A&M University

The School of Performance, Visualization and Fine Arts (PVFA) at Texas A&M University (TAMU) provides several ideal pathways to study AR/VR. Options include BS, MS, and MFA degrees in Visualization. A recently launched Virtual Production (VP) minor is also available. 

This new VP minor features courses such as Virtual Reality; Interactive Virtual Environments; Visual Computing; Virtual Production Techniques; Applied Perception; Creating Digital Environments; Game Level Design; Virtual Cinematography and Lighting; Data Visualization; Art Direction for Virtual Production; and Digital Rendering. Students in this 18 credit hour program also have the opportunity to complete a professional internship.

Across all PVFA programs, students also benefit from project-based studios; access to dozens of programming and production courses; interdisciplinary coursework; and collaborative projects. 

The Visualization BS at TAMU provides the opportunity to focus in an area of interest through electives, a minor or concentrations such as Visual Computing, Interactive Design, and Animation and Virtual Production. The Visualization MS features formal focus areas such as Virtual Reality; Augmented Reality; Interactive Design; Data Visualization; Computer Graphics; and Gaming. The MFA in Visualization provides the opportunity to specialize in areas such as Virtual/Augmented Reality; Visual Effects; Visual Storytelling; Gaming; Data Visualization; and User Experience Design. 

The BS program culminates with a capstone project and portfolio. The MS has both thesis and non-thesis options. Thesis students will complete a thesis and project. Non-thesis students will complete a final project. The culminating experience for the Visualization MFA is a complete body of work that focuses on the student's area of specialization.   

The College of Engineering houses the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, which also has several paths to study AR/VR. Options include BS degrees in Computer Science and Computer Engineering; the BA in Computing; a Computer Science minor; and the Game Design and Development minor. 

Consisting of 17 credit hours, the Computer Science minor can be added to any Visualization program. Course examples include Programming Languages; Program Design and Concepts; Discrete Structures for Computing; Data Structures and Algorithms; and Computer Organization. 

Consisting of 16 credit hours, the Game Design and Development minor can be added to any program in the College of Engineering. Course examples include Interactive Virtual Environments; Computer-Human Interaction; Programming; Computer Graphics; Introduction to Program Design and Concepts; and Multimedia Design and Development.

Students in the Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Computing programs have access to dozens of courses that support education and hands-on learning in AR/VR. Examples include Virtual Reality; Game Development; Computer-Human Interaction; Program Design and Concepts; Machine Learning; Artificial Intelligence; Computers and New Media; Data Visualization; Structures of Interactive Information; Robotics and Spatial Intelligence; Computer Graphics; and Computational Data Science.    

Students in all programs have access to several labs that support AR/VR studies, research, and projects. Thes include HCI@VIZ; the recently launched Texas A&M University Virtual and Augmented Reality (TAMUVR); INDIE Lab; Soft Interaction Lab; MAESTRO Lab; the TEILab; and McNamara Lab. 

Housed in the School of Architecture’s Department of Visualization HCI@VIZ is a lab that conducts research in human-computer interaction (HCI), human-centered computing, and interactive systems. 

TAMUVR is an organization that focuses on AR/VR development, research activities, educational opportunities, discussion, and practical experience. 

The INDIE Lab (Interactive Data and Immersive Environments) engages in human-centered research of interactive visualizations. The group actively collaborates with multiple departments and faculty across the university. Research areas include Virtual Reality, 3D Interaction, Visual Analytics, Information Visualization, and Educational Games. 

The Soft Interaction Lab fosters experimentation with physical and virtual experiences, organic materials, and interaction technology. 

MAESTRO Lab houses the MAESTRO VR Studio—an Immersive Mechanics Visualization Lab dedicated Immersive and Intuitive Data Environments projects. Focus areas include AR/VR and 3D Displays. 

The TEILab and McNamara Lab conduct computer graphics and human-computer interaction (HCI) research to advance and enhance the fields of animation, visualization, and computer graphics. 

Soon, Texas A&M University will house a Virtual Production Institute (VPI). This will be the nation’s first institute of its kind to integrate real-world scenarios and the latest AR/VR/XR technology to advance problem-solving across industries. The VPI facility will support large-scale mixed-reality environments; high-performance computing; performance capture; production stages; and technology-infused classrooms. Completion of the facility is set for January 2025. 

Graduates of the College of Engineering and Visualization programs are prepared to pursue advanced roles in fields such as AR/VR, game design and development, software design, programming, UI/UX development, environment modeling, HCI, entertainment, multimedia design, AI, visual effects, and robotics. 

Texas A&M alumni are routinely hired by companies and studios such Lockheed Martin, Industrial Light and Magic (ILM), Samsung, Google, Microsoft, IBM, General Motors, Pixar, Amazon, Oracle, Texas Instruments, DreamWorks Animation, Walt Disney Animation Studios, Electronic Arts (EA), Reel FX, and Tektronix. 

Texas A&M University serves more than 71,000 students at its main campus in College Station, and 8,000 students at branch campuses in Galveston TX; Qatar (Middle East); the School of Law in Fort Worth Texas; the Higher Education Center at McAllen Texas; and Health Science Center locations across the state. This makes TAMU the largest university in the state and one the largest in the nation. 

Established in 1876, Texas A&M University is also the state’s first public institution of higher learning. The school provides more than 400 degree programs across 17 colleges and schools. Texas A&M University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

11. Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
Purdue University

Purdue University is home to Purdue Polytechnic Institute, which houses the Department of Computer Graphics Technology (CGT) and the CGT MS program. Students in this program have the option to customize their plan of study by selecting courses from majors such as Game Development; Computer and Information Technology; Artificial Intelligence (AI); and Robotics Engineering Technology. 

This means student have access to a wide range of courses to develop a focus in AR/VR. Course examples include Augmented Reality; Collaborative Virtual and Augmented Environments; Product Development Using Virtual Environments; Computer Graphics Programming; Managing Information Technology Projects; Cognition and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); Systems Programming; Geometric Modeling For Visualization And Communication; Game Development I-II; Visual Intelligence and Perception; Special Topics In Human-Centered Design And Development; Visual Programming; and Advanced Real-Time Computer Graphics. 

All CGT MS students have access to the IDEAS Research Group, which focuses on Metaverse/AR/VR. Students also have access to the Purdue HRD Virtual Lab. Equipment in this state-of-the-art lab includes iMotions software to collect biometric data on facial expression analysis (FEA), eye tracking (ET), electrocardiography (ECG), galvanic skin responses (GSR), and facial electromyography (fEMG); Oculus Rift Virtual Reality Headsets to deliver virtual reality simulations; GoPro Omni and GoPro Hero to create 360-degree training simulation content; and Microsoft HoloLens for augmented reality training simulations.   

Purdue MS CGT students will complete several projects including the Computer Graphics Project, Directed MS Capstone, and Directed MS Project to graduate. Graduates are prepared to seek careers in all industries that utilize AR/VR. Purdue Polytechnic Institute alumni have been hired at places such as Boeing, DreamWorks, Amazon, Lockheed Martin, Mercedes Benz, Google, Delco Electronics, Rolls Royce, Deloitte, Caterpillar, Ford Motor Company, The Raytheon Company, PepsiCo., Toyota, Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, Endeavor Air, Symbol Technologies, Northern Telcom, and Eli Lilly.

Established in 1869, Purdue University serves approximately 57,090 students from all 50 states and 120 countries. The school provides more than 400 programs across 11 colleges and schools. Purdue University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). The Art, Design, and Performance Programs at Purdue are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) and the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST).

12. University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
University of Arizona

University of Arizona (UArizona) is home to the College of Information Science (InfoSci). Formerly known as the School of Information, the ALA-accredited College of InfoSci houses five undergraduate degree programs, four graduate degrees, and certificates and minors in different fields of information sciences.

Several options are ideal for students seeking careers in AR/VR. These include the BA in Information Science and Arts (BA IS&A); the Information Science BS (BSIS); the Game Design and Development BS (BSGDD); and the undergraduate Games and Simulation Certificate (UGCert). The BA IS&A and the BSIS are STEM-Designated.

Across programs, student benefit from hands-on learning, including internships at places such as Amazon, Genentech, Tesla, Intel, Pitney Bowes, Octavia Digital Media, and the Enterprise Technology cross-disciplinary curriculums; participation in events such as the University of Arizona iShowcase; the opportunity to work on multidisciplinary; access to labs and studios that support AR/VR education, research, and projects; and student clubs such as UArizona IEEE Student Branch and the Game Development Club. IEEE is the world's largest technical professional organization dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. The Game Development Club hosts trips, Game Jams, collaborative projects, and more. 

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. 

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. 

The Terry Seligman VR Studio is University of Arizona’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 addition to participating in the labs and studios at University of Arizona, faculty in the College of InfoSci engage in AR/VR and other extended reality (XR) technology research, video game design and development, and human-computer interaction (HCI) to advance these interactive technologies for enhanced performance and user experience. 

In addition to clubs, labs, and studios, students in the BA IS&A, BSIS, and BSGDD programs have access to dozens of AR/VR and AR/VR-related courses. BSIS students may also concentrate in Interactive and Immersive Technologies. 

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

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

Graduates of the College of Information Science at University of Arizona are prepared to pursue careers in AR/VR across industries. Alumni have been hired at places such as Microsoft, Lockheed Martin, Amazon, Raytheon Technologies, Intel Corporation, Texas Instruments, and IBM. 

University of Arizona was established in 1885. According to the Arizona Board of Regents, the school serves approximately 77,355 students enrolled in more than 300 degree programs across 20 colleges and 23 schools. The Graduate College provides more than 100 doctoral programs, 150+ master's programs, and over 60 graduate certificate programs. University of Arizona is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). The school voluntarily resigned its accreditation with the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), effective August 1, 2023.

13. Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa
Iowa State University

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at Iowa State University (Iowa State) houses the Department of Computer Science (CS). In partnership with Iowa State’s Graduate College, the CS Department provides MS and PhD degrees in Computer Science and Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); a Master of Human-Computer Interaction (MHCI); and MS in Artificial Intelligence (AI); and a 12 credit hour HCI graduate certificate. All options are ideal for students seeking advanced roles in AR/VR and related fields. 

The Virtual Reality Applications Center (VRAC) at Iowa State leads the HCI program. This interdisciplinary research center supports the research of students and faculty from Iowa State’s seven colleges, as well as a number of industry partners and collaborators from several federal agencies. VRAC participants have skills and interests in virtual, augmented, and mixed reality (AR/VR/MR); user experience (UX); haptics interaction; developmental robotics; mobile computing; mobile computing; and HCI. Computer Science and AI students also have access to the VRAC.

Across programs, students will take courses such as Virtual Worlds and Applications; Foundations in Game-Based Learning; Python Application Development in HCI; Computer Graphics and Geometric Modeling; Visual Design for HCI; Learning to Speak AI; Developmental Robotics; Computational Perception; Design and Evaluation of Human Computer Interaction; Emerging Practices in Human Computer Interaction; and Computational Implementation and Prototyping. 

Programs culminate with a capstone project, thesis, portfolio, and/or research project. Graduates of the CS, AI, and HCI programs at Iowa State University are prepared to pursue careers in both the private and public sectors. Master’s degree graduates are also prepared to pursue a PhD in any related area. Possible job titles include AR/VR Designer, AR/VR Developer, VR Artist, XR Designer, Software Developer, Programmer, User-Centered Designer, Interaction Designer, and User Experience Designer.  

Founded in 1858, Iowa State University is the nation’s first designated land-grant institution. The school serves approximately 30,430 students enrolled in more than 100 undergraduate majors and over 180 graduate programs, including doctoral degrees, master's degrees, and graduate certificates. Programs are housed across eight colleges and around 150 academic departments. Iowa State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

14. University of California, San Diego, San Diego, California
University of California, San Diego

University of California, San Diego (UC San Diego or UCSD) Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) Virtual Reality Lab (VR Lab) in 2017. Less than a year later, the school hosted its very first Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality Hackathon. Sponsors included Google, Sony, Oculus, and HTC.

Today, the CSE VR Lab has expanded to include workshops, research opportunities in the field of AR/VR, AR/VR project support, and networking opportunities. The VR Lab also houses the 300+ member VR Club at UC San Diego. 

In addition to the CSE VR Lab, UC San Diego houses the Extended Reality (XR) Lab and the Design Lab. The XR Lab focuses on AR/VR/MR (Mixed Reality). The XR Lab works with faculty, staff, and student's faculties on XR project development and brainstorming. Participants come from many departments within UC San Diego’s colleges. 

The Design Lab houses collaborative studios; the MakerSpace; the Human-Centered Design minor and graduate specialization; and the Basement, which focuses on start-up incubators, entrepreneurial workshops, design and innovation programs, and leadership opportunities. 

In addition to the minor and graduate specialization in Human-Centered Design, students seeking an AR/VR-related degree can earn a BS, MS, BS/MS, or PhD in Computer Science (CS), or Virtual Reality App Development certificate. Provided by UCSanDiegoX, the certificate can be added to any degree program or taken alone. Courses include Creating Virtual Reality Apps; How Virtual Reality Works; and Computer Graphics. 

The CS degree programs are housed in the Department of CSE in Jacobs School of Engineering. Required electives for each program allow students to customize a focus area 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 Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), AI Programming Languages, Graphics and Vision, Robotics, Software Engineering, or Compilers. 

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 formal area of interest. Examples of CSE focus areas include AI, HCI, Robotics, Programming Systems, Software Engineering, and Visual Computing (Computer Graphics and Computer Vision). 

Graduates of the CS and Virtual Reality App Development certificate programs at University of California, San Diego are prepared to pursue positions in AR/VR across industries. Examples of possible job titles include AR/VR Developer, XR Gameplay and Tools Engineer, Software Developer, Graphics Engineer, AR/VR Technician, Design Engineer, and AR/VR Maintenance and Support. 

While University of California, San Diego was founded on November 18, 1960, the campus dates back to the late 1800s, when zoologists at UC Berkeley chose La Jolla as a location for a marine field station. The school enrolled its first undergraduates in 1964. Today, UC San Diego serves approximately 43,000 students enrolled in hundreds of programs across all degree levels and eight colleges. University of California San Diego is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).  

15. University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
University of Maryland

University of Maryland (UMD) provides several paths to study AR/VR in the College of Arts and Humanities (ARHU) and the College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences (CMNS). The school also houses a number of labs, centers, and clubs that support AR/VR education, projects, and research. 

The College of 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 access to programs and research opportunities that explore areas such as graphics, visualization, and VR/AR; IoT wearables technology; AI and robotics; programming languages and software engineering; and human-computer interaction (HCI). 

In addition to a variety of AR/VR-related courses, the CS Department also provides internship opportunities; an honors program; and study abroad experiences. 

Ideal program options for AR/VR students include the BA or BS in Immersive Media Design (IMD) in the College of ARHU. College of CMNS programs include BS, MS, BS/MS, or PhD degrees in Computer Science. Students in all programs learn to create, code, and collaborate using the most current digital technologies and tools. 

Computer Science students can focus in AR/VR through required courses and electives. IMD BS students may select the Computing-Creative Coders track, which focuses on the computer science methods used immersive media.  

Across programs, students have access to the UMD Graphics and Visual Informatics Laboratory (GVIL); the Mixed/Augmented/Virtual Reality Innovation Center (MAVRIC); and the Maryland Blended Reality Center (MBRC). 

The GVIL was established in 2000 by the Department of Computer Science and the University of Maryland Institute for Advanced Computer Studies. Through research and education, the lab focuses on areas such as virtual environments, computer graphics, and scientific visualization. 

Past and current projects focus on applications for next-generation AR/VR, including augmented navigation, immersive education, and virtual manufacturing. 

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

Launched in 2017, MBRC is a multidisciplinary partnership initially funded by the University of Maryland Strategic Partnership: MPowering the State. The center partners with the federal government, industry leaders, and other academic institutions to explore and develop AR/VR/MR (mixed reality) as well as other visual computing applications and tools based on immersive technologies.

In addition to GVIL, MAVRIC, and MBRC, Computer Science and Immersive Media Design students have access to the XR Club, which hosts workshops that explore AR/VR development, Oculus, 3D modeling, and Unity; the Extended Reality Flight Simulation and Control Lab, which combines VR/AR, wearable devices, and motion-base systems to create immersive, extended reality (XR) piloted flight simulations; the collaborative and multidisciplinary Center for Machine Learning (ML); and Human-Computer Interaction Lab (HCIL), where students, faculty, and staff engage in HCI research and teaching. 

Graduates of the Computer Science, IMD, and other programs at University of Maryland are prepared to pursue careers in area such as computer science/technology, defense, law, transportation, industrial training and design, advertising, game design and development, medicine, financial technology, architecture, manufacturing, entertainment, marketing, healthcare, and education. CS and IMD alumni have been hired at places such as Google, Amazon, the NSA, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and the CIA. 

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).

16. University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
University of Utah

University of Utah (The U) houses several labs, groups, and spaces that support AR/VR education, projects, and research. This includes the Quantitative Experience Design (QED) Lab, XR Utah, and the XR Classroom. In addition, The U’s Kahlert School of Computing (KSoC) provides several paths to study AR/VR including BS and MS degrees in Computer Science (CS); MS and PhD degrees in CS or Computing; a STEM-designated Master of Software Development (MSD); and a combined CS BS/MS. This option allows students to complete the BS and MS in five years by taking undergraduate- and graduate-level courses in their senior year. 

Founded in 1965 as the Computer Science Department, KSoC also houses research areas such as Human-Centered Computing/Virtual Reality; Visual Computing; Robotics, Programming Languages/Software Engineering; Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning; and High Performance Computing. 

The QED Lab is an interdisciplinary research group that explores virtual worlds, narrative and game discourse (interface), experience design, and human-centered artificial intelligence (HCAI). The Lab is affiliated with the School of Computing and the Entertainment Arts and Engineering program. 

XR Utah is an interdisciplinary research partnership led by The U’s Spencer S. Eccles Health Sciences Library (EHSEB). Artists, educators, computer scientists, and psychologists across more than 16 departments at the University of Utah engage in research that helps develop new ways to learn and discover through the use virtual reality technologies. 

The XR Classroom helps support projects that utilize projects using AR/VR. Also led by the EHSEB, this state-of-the-art classroom and lab provides spaces where individuals can develop customized experiences involving interactive displays, education lessons, and simulations. 

The Computer Science BS provides an emphasis in Entertainment Arts and Engineering with multiple focus areas including Human Centered Computing (HCC); Infrastructure; Artificial Intelligence/Analytics; and Core Fundamentals. To complete a focus, students must select two or more courses from any area. Course examples across areas include Virtual Reality; Designing Human-Centered Experiences; Machine Learning; Mobile Application Programming; Artificial Intelligence; and Computer Graphics. 

Other course examples for the BS program include Traditional Game Development; Digital Content Creation; Programming Language Concepts; Software Practice I-II; Interactive Machinima; Alternative Game Development; Models of Computation; and Asset Pipeline. 

MS students may select a track such as Graphics and Visualization; HCC; Scientific Computing; Robotics; Computer Engineering; or Artificial Intelligence. MSD students will take courses such as Computer Programing; Data Analytics and Visualization; Applications Systems Design; Data Structures and Algorithms; Software Engineering; and Introduction to Software Development. 

Culminating experiences across programs include final projects, capstones, portfolios, research papers, thesis projects, and presentations. 

Graduates of the CS and MSD programs at University of Utah work in fields such as AR/VR technology, game design and development, engineering, software development, animation, HCI, television and film, aerospace, defense, artificial intelligence, education, advertising and marketing, law, web design, manufacturing, art and design, medicine, architecture, transportation, healthcare, and energy.   

Founded in 1850, University of Utah is the state’s flagship institution of higher learning. Founded in 1850 the school is classified by the Carnegie Foundation among the 137 research universities with the “highest research activity.” Serving approximately 35,235 students, The U provides more than 200 programs across 17 colleges and schools. University of Utah is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU) and accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).

17. The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
The Ohio State University

The Ohio State University (Ohio State) houses several labs and programs that allow students to pursue studies in AR/VR. Labs include 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, performance design, motion capture, and media production. 

The ETS provides AR/VR experiences that simulate real-world and otherworldly scenes. VR technology and resources 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. 

Programs for AR/VR students are housed in the College of Arts and Sciences’ Department of Design. Established in 1968, the department has an interdisciplinary Design MFA program with a Digital Animation and Interactive Media (DAIM) track. This allows students to select 12 studio elective credits in any area.

Provided in collaboration with the Advanced Computing Center for the Arts and Design (ACCAD), the 60 credit hour MFA/DAIM program also features core design courses and open electives in the themes of studio/lab; history/theory/criticism; and collaborative/interdisciplinary studio. The DAIM track explores virtual environments, real time graphics, performance animation, game art, responsive and interactive media, and installations. 

Specific course examples include Mobile Handset Systems and Networking; Virtual Modeling; Designing Immersive Virtual Environments; Computer Vision for Human-Computer Interaction; Virtual Modeling; Scripting for Animation in Maya; Motion Capture Production and Experimentation; Computer Game and Design; Survey of Artificial Intelligence I: Basic Techniques; Aspects of Art and Technology II; INT Technology; Emerging Trends in Data Visualization; Design DAIM Seminar; Experimental Scripting for Animation in Maya; Programming Concepts and Applications for Artists and Designers, Integrated Tech Lab; UI/UX,; and Interactive Arts Media II. 

The MFA/DAIM program at Ohio State culminates with the Project Exhibition and Oral Defense (Thesis Defense). This culminating experience is completed over two full semesters (fall and spring). 

Graduates are prepared to pursue titles such as Augmented Reality Designer or Developer, Virtual Reality Designer or Developer, Human-Computer Interaction Designer, Experiential Designer, Mixed Reality Designer, Visualization Specialist, Motion Graphics Designer, CG Specialist, Multimedia Designer, and Game Developer. 

The Ohio State University was established in 1870 as Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. The school serves approximately 65,405 students across six Ohio campuses including Columbus (main), Lima, Mansfield, Marion, Newark, and the Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster. More than 200 majors, minors, and specializations are provided across 18 colleges and schools. The Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

18. University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida
University of Florida

University of Florida (UF) is home to the College of the Art. Established in 1925, the college houses seven divisions that provide dozens of degree programs, minors, and certificate programs fully accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the National Association of Schools of Music (NASM), the National Association of Schools of Theatre (NAST), and the National Association of Schools of Dance (NASD). 

One of the seven divisions in the College of the Arts is the Digital Worlds Institute. This interdisciplinary center for digital arts and technology houses a graduate level program that’s ideal for students seeking careers in AR/VR. The Master’s in Digital Arts and Sciences (MiDAS) is a one-year, accelerated program that explores emerging technologies, specifically AR/VR, as well as interactive media and innovation. Individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.   

The MiDAS program curriculum is divided into three areas including Technical Skills; Design and Interactivity; and Professional Skills. The Technical Skills area focuses on game engines and development (i.e. Unity 3D), and software and hardware integration. 

The Design and Interactivity area focuses on visual design tools/tech, 3D for AR/VR, UI-UX, audio, digital compositing, and digital storytelling. In the Professional Skills area students will learn to create project proposals, navigate production pipelines, conduct project management activities, and develop critical thinking and analysis skills. 

Other MiDAS program features include learning that takes place in high-tech classrooms; opportunities to work on real-world projects in the industry; personal attention from faculty and content area experts; a collaborative environment; and portfolio development. 

UF MiDAS students also have access to the UF Reality Lab at the Digital Worlds Institute. This in-demand facility explores and promotes projects, research, and education in AR/VR. Students in the Lab have access to courses such as Production of Immersive Environments; Movement, Media, and Machines; Digital Storytelling; and Interdisciplinary Research Seminar. 

Past UF Reality Lab student projects include Animate Using Your Hands in Virtual Reality; Metrolia VR Multiplayer Mech Duel; HoloTouch; Space Mail; WonderLab, and SpArc: ScootVR. 

Graduates of the MiDAS and other related programs have been hired at places such as the U.S. Department of Defense, Boeing, ESPN, Walt Disney, GE Digital-Meridium, Cox Media Group, the U.S. Navy, Glaxo Smith Klein, Spirit Airlines, Aramark, Reed Exhibitions, and 22squared.   

University of Florida was founded in 1858 as Gainesville Academy. When it opened, the Academy has just a few students. Today, UF serves approximately 60,4980 students making it one of the five largest universities in Florida, and one of the 20 largest universities in the U.S. More than 300 programs are available at UF, across 16 colleges and schools. University of Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).

19. University of Colorado Boulder, Boulder, Colorado
University of Colorado Boulder

University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is home to the Alliance for Technology, Learning and Society (ATLAS) Institute. Founded in 1997, this interdisciplinary institute houses a number of labs, studios, and centers designed to support research and projects in traditional and emerging areas of technology, including AR/VR. 

Examples of past and current projects include POPO (Pop On Pop Off): VR Programming Language; Augmented Reality and Autonomous Systems (ARIAS); Smart VR Paintbrush; RoomShift; Virtual Surrogate Robot; Virtual-to-Real-World Transfer Learning; Augmented Reality Informs Human-Robot Interaction; Biolage Reactor; AR Drum Circle; What Design Can Learn from ASMR; and Haptic VR Wizard. 

Housed in the 66,000-square foot Roser ATLAS Center, the institute is home to the B2 Center for Media Arts and Performance; THING Lab; the ACME Lab; Whaaat!? Lab; Living Matter Lab; Unstable Design Lab; the Blow Things Up (BTU) Lab; Helio Lab; and the Sound Lab. 

The ATLAS Institute also houses the Creative Technology and Design (CTD) program, with core courses taught in the Roser ATLAS Center, and degrees granted through the College of Engineering and Applied Science. Pathways for students interested in AR/VR include the BS, MS, PhD, and minor in CTD. 

The CTD BS at CU Boulder requires 128-130 credit hours of study. The MS requires 33 credit hours and the minor requires 21 credits, including electives. The PhD is a research-based program that allows students to select their own focus area for required research, the thesis, and the dissertation. 

BS students may create a focus area through electives. Focus area examples include Augmented and Virtual Reality; Interactive Computing; User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design; Game Design; Physical Computing; Robotics; and Sound Design. 

Other program features include creative projects; workshops; regular professional development opportunities; guest speakers; internships with industry partners such as Micron Technology, NOAA, Lockheed Martin, Discovery Learning, and Meadowlark Optics; employment in the CTD research and student labs; and portfolio development.  

To complete the major, CTD BS students will take a two-semester capstone sequence, which includes the production of one major culminating project. 

The CTD MS has a Creative Industries track. The project-based curriculum for this program also allows students to build their own focus area. Some popular options include Virtual and Augmented Reality; UI/UX, and Learning and Education; Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); Game Design and Development; Interactive Product Design and Development; and Arts and Media Production.   

Graduate level classes, visiting speakers, studios, and workshops provide the opportunity to work directly with industry professionals on real-world issues. Workshops are free and may include topics such as Adobe Creative Suite; Programming in Python and R; Figma; Project Management; UI/UX; and Motion Graphics. 

Graduates of the CTD programs at University of Colorado Boulder are prepared to pursue advanced roles in technology across all industries, as well as art and entertainment, education, and healthcare. MS graduates also work in research in all industries and in many departments and agencies of the U.S. government.

Graduates of the CTD programs and College of Engineering and Applied Science at CU Boulder are routinely hired by some of the world’s leading companies and organizations. Examples include NASA, Lockheed Martin, IBM, Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, Walt Disney, Ball Aerospace, Nike, Google, General Motors, Hitachi, Medtronic, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Raytheon Technologies, Chevron, Tesla, Western Digital, Starz Entertainment, Panavision, L3 Harris Technologies, Philips 66, and CBS Studio Center. 

Founded in 1876, University of Colorado Boulder is the flagship university of the four-campus University of Colorado (CU) System. The school serves approximately 38,430 students, making it the largest campus in the CU System. More than 90 degree programs and 3,600+ courses are provided across eight colleges and schools, Continuing Education and Professional Studies, and several centers. University of Colorado Boulder is one of just 35 public research institutions in the U.S. in the Association of American Universities (AAU). The school has also been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1913.

20. University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
University of Illinois Chicago

The College of Engineering at University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) houses several departments and labs that support education, research, and projects that explore AR/VR. Labs include Electronic Visualization Laboratory (EVL) and the Human-in-Mind Engineering Research Lab (HiMER). 

Established in 1973, the EVL is an interdisciplinary research laboratory in the College of Engineering’s Department of Computer Science. Specialization areas include virtual reality; advanced computing and networking infrastructure; collaborative visualization; and visual data science. The EVL is supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, the National Science Foundation (NSF), Argonne National Laboratory, The Joseph and Bessie Feinberg Foundation, and the State of Illinois. 

The HiMER Lab highlights recently funded research in AR/VR; Human-System Interaction; Data Analytics; Human Performance Modeling; 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. 

In partnership with the School of Public Health’s Center for Healthy Work, the HiMer Lab also hosts the ongoing project: Development of Human-Robot Interaction and Collaboration Systems Using Augmented Reality and Deep Learning. 

The Department of Computer Science (CS) is the fastest growing program at UIC. Pathways for students interested in studying AR/VR include the Computer Science and Design BS, which is the only such program at a public university; a CS MS; CS combined BS/MS (which takes just five years to complete instead of six); and the CS minor. A CS PhD is also available for students who like pursue leadership roles in AR/VR, research, or education at the university level. 

Across programs, students will explore AR/VR design; designing and developing digital interfaces; creative coding; media design; human-centered computing; and computer graphics through a combination of studio courses, electives, and required technical courses. Coursework also allows students to collaborate on projects and research. 

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

The CS MS consists of 36 credit hours with coursework only, project (capstone), and thesis options (research or PhD preparation). Course examples include Virtual Reality; Virtual, Augmented, and Mixed Reality VR/AR/MR); Wearables and Nearables Technology Laboratory; Human-Computer Interaction; Creative Coding; Video Game Design and Development; Applied Artificial Intelligence; Design of Mobile Apps; Advanced Machine Learning; Multimedia Systems; Software Engineering; Programming Language Design; and Deep Learning for Computer Vision.

Graduates of the Computer Science Programs at University of Illinois Chicago are prepared to pursue advanced roles in the tech industry, aerospace, health, entertainment, architecture, medicine, and education. Program alumni have been hired at places such as Cisco, Microsoft, Adobe, Amazon, HP, Google, Blue Cross Blue Shield, LG, Apple, Meta Platforms, Inc., 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 more than 33,500 students enrolled, UIC is the largest university in the Chicago area and its only public Carnegie Research 1 institution. The school provides approximately 335 degree and certificate programs across 16 academic colleges, University of Illinois Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

21. Ohio University, Athens, Ohio
Ohio University

Ohio University provides several labs and programs that support education and research in the field of AR/VR. Labs include the Game Research and Immersive Design Lab (GRID Lab). Established in 2005, the GRID Lab was originally an initiative of Scripps College of Communication that was developed by the School of Media Arts and Studies. 

Today, the lab is housed in the J. Warren McClure School of Emerging Communication Technologies (ECT). Faculty and students in the GRID Lab conduct advanced research and produce content focused on augmented, virtual, mixed reality, and digital games. Students in all McClure programs may participate in GRID Lab. 

Part of Scripps College, the McClure School of ECT also houses a Virtual Reality and Game Development (VRGD) BS and a flexible Information and Telecommunications BS (ITS BS). The ITS program allows students to create an area of concentration (AoC) by selecting five related courses from an area outside ITS. This includes AR/VR. Examples of requirements and electives for the ITS major include Computer Programming in JAVA; Scripting Projects; Communication and New Technology; Data Networking; and Engineering Programming. ITS students will complete a capstone project to graduate. 

The VRGD BS is a flexible 120 program with a virtual reality and game development core. Course examples include Understanding Virtual Reality Technology; Digital Tools for Virtual Reality and Game Development; Virtual Reality Critical Analysis and Evaluation; Computer Programming in JAVA; Virtual Reality Production: cineVR; Scripting Projects; Engineering Programming; Virtual Reality Production: Interactive; Storytelling, Technology and Digital Media in Theme Parks; and Virtual Reality Production: Immersive Audio. 

Electives allow students to enhance the degree by providing advanced training in areas such as animation, new media, digital game design, networking, and more. Elective examples include Animation I-II; Data Networking; Composing in New Media; Special Topics in VR and Game Development; Digital Game Design: World Creation; Transmedia Storytelling; and Internet Applications and Network Systems. 

VRGD BS students are also required to declare a Business or Communication Studies minor. Across minors, course examples include Communication and New Technology; Business Information Systems; Communication in Interpersonal Relationships; Marketing Principles; and Rhetoric in Electronic Media. The program culminates with a final project (capstone) and portfolio. 

The McClure School at Ohio University has the highest job placement rate in the Scripps College of Communication. Graduates of the VRGD and ITS BS programs are routinely recruited by Fortune 500 companies and other leading companies across the U.S. Examples include Microsoft, Walt Disney Imagineering, IBM, Sony Playstation, Booz Allen Hamilton, Google, Unity, Warner Brothers, Ubisoft, Electronic Arts (EA), Cisco Systems, Apple, Riot Games, Marathon Petroleum, Activision Blizzard, Bungie, Time Warner Telecom, Progressive Insurance, PowerNet Global, Deloitte, Verizon, and XO Communications. 

McClure alumni are also employed in branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and with state and federal government offices. 

Ohio University is the state’s first public university. Established in 1804, the school opened with just one building, three students, and one professor. Today Ohio University’s 1,700+ faculty members serve more than 28,000 enrolled in 250+ academic programs across six campuses, 11 colleges, and 16 schools. and OHIO University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC). 

22. North Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina
North Carolina State University

North Carolina State University (NC State) is home to several colleges that provide a number of paths to study AR/VR. These colleges also house several labs that support AR/VR education, experimentation, research, and development. These include the Experience Design (IX) Lab and Mixed Reality (MxR) Lab in the College of Design; the Virtual and Augmented Reality Lab (VARL) in the College of Engineering’s Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering (ISE); and the Gaming and VR Studio at the D.H. Hill Jr. Library. 

The College of Design’s IX Lab is a cross-disciplinary community of artists, designers, scientists, and engineers that focus on expanding worlds through AR/VR and other new and emerging technologies. The college’s MxR Lab consists of designers, engineers, and individuals interested in experimentation. This Lab focuses on AR/VR/MxR technologies. Past projects include Pop’n’Play, Axe One, and Morphaces. 

The Edward P. Fitts Department of Industrial and Systems Engineering is one of just five ISE departments in the United States. In the department’s VARL, researchers study the interaction between humans and AR/VR. Projects are funded by the National Science Foundation and 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. 

VARL 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 Gaming and VR Studio is a collaborative space designed for experimentation with virtual and mixed reality hardware; engaging in an extensive catalog of VR experiences; and developing interactive media experiences. The studio houses virtual reality, game development, and illustration and modeling workstations, as well as exhibits, a libraries channel for livestreaming, and drop-in consultation services. 

Degree programs for students interested in AR/VR are housed in the College of Design’s Department of Media Arts, Design and Technology. Options include BA and MA degrees in Art and Design, and a 16 credit hour Art and Design minor with a customizable curriculum. All programs provide access to the schools IX, MxR, and VARL labs, and the Gaming and VR Studio. 

The interdisciplinary, studio-based Art and Design BA program provides the opportunity to develop creative portfolios in a variety of areas. Examples include AR/VR, game design, interactive and computational media, graphic and interactive narratives, 3D modeling, visual effects (VFX), and motion graphics. Students interested in AR/VR may also select the concentration in Gaming + Interaction Design or create a focus area through required free electives totaling 12 credit hours. 

Elective examples include Advanced Digital Techniques; Art and Design Laboratory; and Digital Representation. Course examples for the program include Visualization; Creative Technology Studio I-II; Digital Imaging; Animation; Digital Motion; Art and Design Laboratory I-II; Digital Representation; and Advanced Digital Techniques.  

The Art and Design 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 Graduate Studio: Immersive and Experimental Narratives; Coding for Designers; Sequential Imaging; Special Effects; Dynamic Data; Visualizing Narratives; Digital Motion; Animation; and Digital Modeling. 

Final projects for the M.A.D. program may explore AR/VR, VFX, interactive and computational media, visual composition, graphic and interactive narratives, and motion graphics, among others.   

Graduates of the Art and Design programs at North Carolina State University are prepared to pursue careers in areas such as AR/VR, software design, SFX and VFX, game design and development, and multimedia design. Some NC State Art and Design graduates go on to launch their own studios or freelance businesses 

Graduates of NC State’s College of Design and College of Engineering are routinely hired by major companies and organizations such as Microsoft, Booz Allen Hamilton, Google, IBM, Amazon, Boeing, Apple, Cisco Systems, General Electric, Lenovo, Tesla, Dell, the US Army, Meta Platforms, Inc., Volvo, SAS Institute, John Deere Corporation, Intel, Caterpillar, AT&T, and Raytheon. 

North Carolina State University is 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 serves approximately 38,440 students enrolled in 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).

23. University of California, Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz, California
University of California, Santa Cruz

University of California, Santa Cruz (UC Santa Cruz or UCSC) is home to the Jack Baskin School of Engineering. Founded in 1997 as the first professional school at UC Santa Cruz, Baskin Engineering provides a number of programs that feature collaborative projects, faculty and student research, and opportunities to work with Silicon Valley companies such as Amazon, Google, HP, and Samsung. 

UCSC also provides a number of programs and labs that support AR/VR education, projects, and research. Labs include the VizLab and the Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE) Lab.

The VizLab hosts workshops, class sessions, and project development meetings. The lab also provides access to high-end VR equipment that can be used to develop AR/VR content and interact with imaginary worlds. Equipment includes VIVE headsets, Google Cardboard, 360 cameras, Gear VR, video cameras, GoPros, DSLR cameras, and other media capture devices. 

The Cave Automatic Virtual Environment (CAVE) Lab 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. Students in the CAVE can create 3D virtual environments that allow multiple users to interact at the same time. 

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

Baskin School of Engineering houses the Computational Media Department (CM) and the Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) Department. The CM Department houses interdisciplinary programs such as the Computational Media MS; Human Computer Interaction MS; and Computational Media PhD. The Computer Science Department houses interdisciplinary programs such as the Computer Science BA, BS, and minor; Computer Engineering BS and minor; Computer Science and Engineering BS/MS Pathway; Computer Science and Engineering MS; and the Computer Science and Engineering PhD. 

Students in all programs may study AR/VR by selecting courses such as Introduction to Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality; Immersive Analytics; Mobile Sensing and Interaction; Human-Computer Interaction (HCI); Artificial Intelligence (AI); Interactive Narrative; User Experience for Interactive Games; Seminar in Player Experience and Modeling; Game AI; Data Programming for Visualization; Creative Coding; Rapid Prototyping; Human Centered AI; C Programming; Advanced Computer Graphics and Animation Lab; Programming Abstractions: Python; Data Visualization and Statistical Programming in R; Interaction Design Studio; Advanced Topics in Human-Robot Interaction; Game Technologies; Applied Machine Learning; Software Engineering; Advanced Topics in Machine Learning; and Game Systems. 

Across all programs, students will complete a variety of projects, both assigned and in a specific area selected by the student. Graduate students will also complete a thesis OR additional project with written report.

For students in other programs across UC Santa Cruz or professionals looking to develop skills in AR/VR, the school has a number of certificate programs provided through UCSC Silicon Valley Extension. Examples include User Experience and Web Design; Mobile Application Development; and Software Engineering and Quality. 

Across options, students have access to courses such as Designing User Experience for AR, Smart Things, Virtual Reality, and Wearable Technology; Data Structures and Algorithms Using Python; and Mobile Interface Design. Students in the certificate programs at UCSC Silicon Valley Extension also benefit from hands-on projects; guest speaker events; and a variety of AR/VR-related study topics. Examples include Augmented Reality - UX Design; Designing Glasses for AR; Visual Design; Design Implementation; Virtual Reality - UX/UI Design (Oculus Rift and Samsung Gear VR); Software Engineering; and Interface Design. 

The certificate programs at UCSC Silicon Valley Extension culminate with a professional portfolio of the student's best projects and research.

Graduates of the certificate, Computer Science and Engineering, and Computational Media programs at University of California, Santa Cruz are prepared to pursue technology careers across industries. Possible job titles include AR/VR Developer, AR/VR Researcher, AR/VR Capture Systems Engineer, XR Gameplay and Tools Engineer, AR/VR Maintenance and Support, Software Developer, Senior Software Engineer, and Design/Graphics Engineer. 

UC Santa Cruz graduates have been hired at places such as Adobe, Microsoft, Apple, Google, Amazon, Cisco, Meta Platforms, Inc., Kaiser Permanente, NVIDIA, Tesla, LinkedIn, and Baskin Engineering at UCSC.  

Established in 1965, University of California, Santa Cruz opened with 652 students. Today, the school’s Santa Cruz and Silicon Valley campuses serve more than 19,000 students enrolled 130+ programs across 10 colleges and the Graduate Division. University of California, Santa Cruz is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC).

24. University at Buffalo, Buffalo, New York
University at Buffalo

University at Buffalo (UB) provides a number of labs and degree programs that support AR/VR education, projects, and research. Programs are part of the Department of Media Study (DMS) in the College of Arts and Sciences, and the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) in the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences. 

Labs include the DMS Virtual Reality Studio, which explores emerging immersive technologies, gaming, design issues, simulations, interactive fiction, and more. Undergraduate and graduate students are invited to work with faculty and researchers to experiment with immersive and VR gaming, simulations, interactive fiction/drama, responsive installations, interface design, and game design. 

At the undergraduate level, the DMS houses the Media Study: Production BA, and a Game Studies certificate. Graduate options include the Media Arts Production MFA (interactive media, computational media, physical computing); the Media Arts and Architecture Program (MAAP) with a MFA + Architecture MS track; and the Media Study PhD, which includes interactive media, physical computing, production, and digital  media. 

At all degree levels, DMS programs explore AR/VR, robotics, games, experimental film, interactive, fiction, and other areas. Examples of research areas for DMS faculty include Games and Virtual Reality; Emerging Media; Music and Sound; and Film and Video. Games and Virtual Reality researchers study and build mixed reality experiences, virtual worlds, games, intermedia performances, and responsive installations. 

Examples of current projects include the VR drama with intelligent agents—The Trial The Trail; Human Trials—a networked VR drama; The Thing Growing—a VR drama with interactive agents; the VR art installation Art Flying In and Out of Space; PAAPAB—a VR Disco; and A Bit of Handwiring—a VR environment. 

Across all degree programs, coursework is AR/VR heavy. Course examples include Virtual Worlds I-II; Performative Action; Media Robotics; Programming Graphics I-II; Game Design; Physical Computing; Programming for Digital Art; Machines, Codes, and Cultures; Computational Media; Sound and Space; Emerging Technologies; Green Media; Electronic Literature; Sound Design; Interactive Fiction; Game and Animation Workshop; Time-Based Concepts; Designed Play; and Video Workshop. 

Other DMS features include small class sizes (15-18 students); collaborative projects; internships; and study abroad experiences. 

Program options in the Department of CSE at UB include the Computer Science BA; the Computer Science BS/MBA; the Computer Science BS/Computer Science and Engineering MS; the Computer Engineering MS; and the Mechanical Engineering BS. 

Course examples across programs include Intro to Artificial Intelligence; Programming in Python; Computer Vision and Image Processing; Coding Theory; Software Engineering; Applied Human-Robotic Algorithms; Computer Programming I-II; Digital Image Processing; Systems Programming; Modern Networking Concepts; Computer Interaction and Interface Design; Real-Time and Embedded Operating Systems; Digital Systems; Algorithms for Modern Computing Systems; and Data Intensive Computing. 

The DMS and Computer Science programs at University at Buffalo culminate with a final project, a portfolio of the student's best projects, a thesis, or all of the above. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers across all industries that utilize AR/VR.

Program alumni are routinely hired at places such as Lockheed Martin, Amazon, IBM, Apple, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Google, Carleton Technologies, Eli Lilly, and Fisher-Price. 

Founded in 1846, University at Buffalo is the flagship institution of the State University of New York (SUNY) System. With 64 campuses, SUNY is the nation’s largest university system. UB serves approximately 30,380 students enrolled in more than 500 programs across 13 colleges and schools, making it the largest campus the SUNY System. With more than 1,000 study abroad opportunities across seven continents, UB also has one of the largest overseas education programs in the U.S. 

University at Buffalo is a member of the Association of American Universities and it is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE).

25. University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Minneapolis, Minnesota
University of Minnesota Twin Cities

University of Minnesota Twin Cities (UMN Twin Cities) houses the Illusioneering Lab, which focuses on advancing immersive technologies, developing leading-edge spatial interaction techniques, and creating powerful experiences in AR/VR through research, collaborations, and projects. Students in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering (CS&E), the Department so Math, Science, and Technology, and other related departments may participate in the Illusioneering Lab. 

The Math, Science, and Technology Department also provides a BS in Software Engineering that focuses on virtual reality, game design, and software applications. The program also has a Gaming, 3D Modeling, and Simulation emphasis area. Students will take courses such as 3D Simulation Programming; Gaming and Games Development; Software Engineering Approach to Human Computer Interaction; Software Design and Architecture; Object-Oriented Programming; and Advanced Web Application Development. 

Other program benefits include project-based courses, workshops, and labs; the option to add a minor such as Information Technology Management; and internship opportunities at local, regional, and national companies. 

The Software Engineering BS program at University of Minnesota Twin Cities culminates with a senior project completed across two courses. For this individual project students will work with a faculty advisor within their area of specialization. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers at some of the world’s top tech companies and many others. 

Across campuses, program alumni have gone on to land positions at places such as Microsoft, Amazon, NASA, Medtronic, and Thrivent Financial. 

University of Minnesota Twin Cities is the flagship institution of the University of Minnesota System and the state’s only land-grant university. Founded in 1851, UMN Twin Cities is also the largest of the four University of Minnesota campuses; the state land-grant university and the Minnesota’s primary research university; and one of just five universities in the U.S. with agricultural, engineering, law, medical, and veterinary medicine schools—all on one campus. 

Around 20,000 faculty and staff at UMN Twin Cities serve approximately 50,000 students enrolled in more than 100 bachelor’s degree programs, over 200 master’s degree programs, and 100 doctoral degree programs across 16 colleges and schools. University of Minnesota Twin Cities has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1913.

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