A graphic design degree provides students with the skills and knowledge to create engaging visuals for digital and print media. Students gain an understanding of visual communication and design, which prepares them for careers as graphic designers, web designers, brand marketing specialists, and product designers. Advertising agencies, marketing firms, online publishers, and organizations in a range of industries employ graphic design graduates.
The median annual wage for a graphic designer is $58,910. However, this will vary depending on the position, industry, and work environment. 19% of graphic designers are self-employed, allowing them to set their rates for clients and projects. The top 10 percent earn over $100,4500 annually, while the bottom 10 percent earn less than $36,420 annually.
Most undergraduate degrees in graphic design require four years of full-time study and 120 to 180 credits to graduate. Part-time and asynchronous programs are also available and allow students to complete the degree at their own pace. The average annual tuition and fees for a bachelor’s degree is $16,618, but it varies by institution. Students who require room and board pay an additional average of $12,415 per year.
How to Choose a Graphic Design Program
Choose your area of study
Graphic design degrees are available as associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs. These degree levels differ in length, curriculum, and career outlook.
An associate degree provides foundational knowledge of graphic design and often requires two years of full-time study. Graduates are hired in entry-level positions or pursue a bachelor’s degree to continue their studies.
Bachelor’s degrees in graphic design are often offered as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and take four years of full-time study to complete. A BA provides a general understanding of graphic design using theory-based learning, while a BFA often delves deeper into advanced techniques and provides hands-on experience in graphic design.
A master’s degree requires a bachelor’s degree and one to two years of full-time study, providing students with an advanced understanding of graphic design. Students graduate with skills and experience to enter leadership or teaching positions.
Students can choose a specialization during their graphic design degree that tailors elective coursework to their interests or career goals. Specializations include print media, motion graphics, user experience design, advertising, and digital design.
Research schools and programs
When researching prospective schools, confirm that they have received accreditation from recognized institutions like the New England Commission of Higher Education, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, or Higher Learning Commission. Schools receive accreditation at a regional or national level to certify that they meet a quality standard established by the Department of Education. Attending a regionally accredited school will assist in transferring credits, receiving government aid, and employment after graduation.
Learn more about schools using the various in-person and online research methods available, including visiting them in person, attending open houses, browsing their websites, and following them on social media. You can also speak with an admissions advisor to gain more insight into the culture, admissions process, and program offerings.
Prepare for tests and applications
As you prepare for applications, keep track of deadlines and required materials for each school. Requirements will vary by institution; however, most will ask you to submit the following:
Many graphic design programs require you to provide a work portfolio demonstrating your experience and skills. Speak with an admissions advisor before submitting your application to review the process and ensure you have the correct materials.
Select your program
If accepted to multiple programs, narrow your options by reviewing your career goals and logistical needs. Ask the following:
- Is the program online or in-person?
- Is it full-time or part-time?
- Are there housing options?
- Does the cost fit my budget?
- What specialization options are available?
Choose the program that best aligns with your needs and will set you up for success in your future career. For additional guidance, speak with an academic advisor — they’ll review your options and help you find the best fit.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Outline your academic and living costs to determine whether you can finance your education independently or require financial assistance. Include the annual tuition, fees, supplies, housing, and transportation costs in your total.
Apply through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) website to reveal the financial assistance you can receive, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study funds. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for workers enrolled in studies that contribute to their professional development.
Best 50 Accredited Graphic Design Degree Programs
Discover More Options
How we rank schools
This list features some of the best graphic design degree programs at top colleges across the country. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for postsecondary education. The programs on this list are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), a reputable organization that assesses visual arts programs for educational excellence.
We evaluated each school’s program on admission, retention, and graduation rates as well as tuition costs, faculty, reputation, and the resources provided for on-campus students. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100. Read more about our ranking methodology.
Next, we compared this comprehensive list of graphic design degree programs to a list of aggregated college rankings from reputable publications like U.S. News & World Report, among others, to simplify a student’s college search. We pored through these rankings so students don’t have to.
What Can You Expect From a Graphic Design Program?
Throughout a graphic design degree program, students become versed in the principles, theories, and communication of visual communication. Programs often begin with two years of core studies that introduce foundational design skills and knowledge of techniques, design programs, and the industry. Students can then select from elective coursework that delves deeper into their interests and can be tailored to their chosen specialization.
The curriculum will cover various topics, including design theory, art history, web design, digital communication, and media management. Students gain hands-on experience and develop skills using numerous learning methods, including exams, lectures, projects, workshops, and studio courses. Some programs also offer the option for internships or freelance projects where students can gain real-world knowledge and experience in graphic design.
Potential courses you’ll take in a graphic design program
- 3D Design. Students learn the process, concepts, and vocabulary to create three-dimensional forms. Focus areas include the structure of form and the development of space through various materials.
- Digital Media. This course covers computer graphic applications and how to use them to generate images. Students will learn foundational knowledge of two-dimensional design, graphic design, visual communication, and illustration.
- Typography. Students explore type-centered visual communication, including the anatomy of type, typography systems, type classification, and visual problem-solving.
- Introduction to Illustration. Students are introduced to the creative techniques, processes, and business aspects of illustration and focus on the effects of images, color, composition, and techniques used in visual design.
- Foundations of Motion and Interaction. This course investigates the experimentation, sketching, exploration, prototyping, and iteration of motion and interaction in media.
Graphic Design Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to a graphic design degree program?
Visit the program website for application deadlines, requirements, and fees. The required materials will vary by school, but most will ask you to submit your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, a personal essay, letter(s) of recommendation, and a portfolio highlighting your best work. Speak with an admissions advisor before applying to review the process and ensure you meet the requirements.
How much does a graphic design degree cost?
The average annual cost for an undergraduate degree in graphic design is $16,618, but it varies by school and program. Students should also consider additional expenses such as housing, supplies, transportation, and extracurriculars that may increase their annual costs. Students enrolled in part-time or online studies may incur lower costs due to reduced credits and overhead expenses.
How long does it take to earn a graphic design degree?
A bachelor’s degree in graphic design typically requires four years of full-time study and 120 to 180 credits to graduate. Associate and master’s programs often require two years of full-time study. Part-time and asynchronous options offer flexible learning options for students who want to complete the degree at their own pace.