If you have a passion for creative storytelling, art, and design, an online bachelor’s in graphic design can prepare you for a career as a graphic designer, web designer, or user experience (UX) designer.
An online graphic design degree program involves learning about design fundamentals, such as typography, brand identity, web design, web development, visual communication, and creative thinking, which you can apply across several disciplines, including marketing, advertising, and e-commerce.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects job growth of 3% for graphic designers from 2022 to 2032, with a median annual salary of $58,910. Web developers and digital designers have a projected job growth of 16%, with a median annual salary of $92,750.
A bachelor’s degree generally takes about four years for graphic design majors to complete, but this can vary depending on the number of credits you take per semester or academic year. Many schools require 120 to 132 credits to graduate, but some, such as Kentucky Wesleyan College, require as many as 184 credits. As for the cost of an online graphic design program, the average tuition for an undergraduate degree is $14,688.
Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 15 Online Graphic Design Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
University of Maryland Global Campus
Intelligent Score: 99.91In-state: $8,824
Out-of-state: $34,936
In-state: $13,158
Out-of-state: $13,158
SAT: 1270-1480
ACT: 30-34
In-State: $324
Out-of-State: $499
Online, Hybrid
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
120
Southern New Hampshire University
Intelligent Score: 99.28In-state: $9,600
Out-of-state: $9,600
In-state: $18,810
Out-of-state: $18,810
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
At Southern New Hampshire University, students can choose between two different concentration options to earn their Bachelor in Graphic Design, User Experience Design, or Web Design. While students specializing in User Experience Design (UX Design) focus on creating interfaces that are accessible and user-friendly, students pursuing Web Design focus on opportunities for advertising and marketing or e-commerce. Both concentrations help students build diverse portfolios, making graduates of their program competitive hires in the industry. With tuition at $320 per credit hour, Southern New Hampshire University is relatively affordable compared to similar programs. To apply, students must submit the online application along with relevant transcripts.
$330
Online, On-Campus
New England Commission of Higher Education
120
Bellevue University
Intelligent Score: 98.99In-state: $7,176
Out-of-state: $7,176
In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $10,710
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Students earning their Bachelor of Graphic Design at Bellevue University benefit from a robust curriculum geared toward developing marketable skills and discovering solution-based concepts. Their curriculum consists of 37 general integrative credits, 49 graphic design credits, and 41 elective credits, giving students the freedom to pursue their interests or deepen their graphic design knowledge as they see fit. For students that struggle with general integrative courses, Bellevue University has structured its core curriculum in clusters, so students can take three courses at a time that share a common theme. With the visual learner in mind, Bellevue University has a student showcase directly accessible through its homepage, so prospective students can easily view student work and learning outcomes. To apply, students must submit an online application and show proof of high school education. They may request your transcripts.
$449
Online
Higher Learning Commission
127
Maryville University
Intelligent Score: 98.32In-state: $24,766
Out-of-state: $24,766
In-state: $14,346
Out-of-state: $14,346
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$540
Online
Higher Learning Commission
128
UMass Lowell
Intelligent Score: 97.62In-state: $15,791
Out-of-state: $35,779
In-state: $14,014
Out-of-state: $14,014
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 27-32
$385
Online, On-Campus
New England Commission of Higher Education
120-122
University of West Alabama
Intelligent Score: 97.43In-state: $9,100
Out-of-state: $18,200
In-state: $6,678
Out-of-state: $6,678
SAT: N/A
ACT: 17-22
$325
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Kentucky Wesleyan College
Intelligent Score: 96.49In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
In-state: NA
Out-of-state: NA
SAT: 910-1090
ACT: 18-25
$475
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 95.20In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
$574
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
120
Upper Iowa University
Intelligent Score: 94.46In-state: $31,950
Out-of-state: $31,950
In-state: $19,152
Out-of-state: $19,152
SAT: 860-1046
ACT: 18-23
$505
Online, On-Campus
Higher Learning Commission
127-128
California Baptist University
Intelligent Score: 93.02In-state: $33,930
Out-of-state: $33,930
In-state: $13,410
Out-of-state: $13,410
SAT: 960-1150
ACT: 18-25
$520
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
124
Savannah College of Art and Design
Intelligent Score: 90.82In-state: $37,575
Out-of-state: $37,575
In-state: $38,475
Out-of-state: $38,475
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
$914
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Liberty University
Intelligent Score: 88.09In-state: $14,791
Out-of-state: $14,791
In-state: $7,935
Out-of-state: $7,935
SAT: 1040-1250
ACT: 21-29
$390
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Midway University
Intelligent Score: 87.60In-state: $24,500
Out-of-state: $24,500
In-state: $6,240
Out-of-state: $6,240
SAT: 990-1170
ACT: 18-24
$395
Online, On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
Regent University
Intelligent Score: 87.59In-state: $17,220
Out-of-state: $17,220
In-state: $15,552
Out-of-state: $15,552
SAT: 940-1220
ACT: 21-29
$395 - $450
Online
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
California Institute of the Arts
Intelligent Score: 85.44In-state: $77,308
Out-of-state: $77,308
In-state: $78,444
Out-of-state: $78,444
SAT: 1160
ACT: 19-24
$1,943
Online
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission
120
How to Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Depending on which school you attend, a bachelor’s degree in graphic design may be available as a Bachelor of Arts (BA), Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), or Bachelor of Science (BS). BA and BFA programs prepare students for careers in the arts. A BS program will emphasize more technical training, including motion graphics, interactive design, and 3D modeling.
Also, an online graphic design program will often allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field, such as print design, web design, or marketing. If you already know what you would like to do after you graduate, look for graphic design programs that closely match these career goals.
Research schools and programs
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your online graphic design degree program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). This programmatic accrediting organization has particularly high standards for art education.
Beyond the accreditation status, you’ll also want to note the school’s support services for online students, such as career counseling, mentorship programs, and library services. See if their online learning programs have networking opportunities to make industry connections, perhaps through an alumni association.
To learn more about any graphic design program that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Each graphic design degree program varies in its application requirements and process. However, most bachelor’s degree programs in graphic design require:
- Official high school transcripts
- Standardized test scores, such as from the SAT or ACT
- A personal statement outlining your interest and relevant achievements in graphic design
- Letter(s) of recommendation from former teachers or employers
Depending on the online graphic design degree program you’re applying to, there might be other prerequisites, such as a minimum GPA or presenting a portfolio of your work. For instance, the ArtCenter College of Design in Pasadena, California requires applicants to submit a professional portfolio of six to ten creative projects showing how they communicate ideas through layout, images, and typography.
Always contact the school’s admissions office to confirm you have the most accurate information regarding application requirements and deadlines.
Select your program
Some students apply to a single graphic design degree program tailored to their needs and goals, while others submit multiple applications to boost their chances of acceptance.
Whatever you decide to do, most schools charge an application fee, a cost that can add up if you apply to several graphic design programs. Contact the school for a fee waiver if you’re concerned about these costs.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your online graphic design degree program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous graphic design courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous graphic design courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two learning formats do you prefer? Your online education program should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Every school with an online bachelor’s in graphic design program specifies the financial aid students can receive, including work-study, scholarships, fellowships, assistantships, and grants. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines your eligibility for federal student loans and need-based institutional aid.
If you’re already working, your employer may cover some costs through employer tuition assistance benefits, especially if your graphic design degree relates to your current job. Talk with your school’s financial aid office for more detailed information about how to pay for your online courses.
What Can You Expect from an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Degree Program?
The online coursework for a bachelor’s in graphic design program will vary based on the school. Generally, those earning a graphic designer degree online will gain an in-depth understanding of how to use digital tools to create print and digital advertisements, logos, flyers, websites, digital videos, and other materials for companies and clients.
Students interested in traditional graphic design receive training in using visual elements, such as color and typography, to appeal to consumers and communicate ideas. Their graphic design coursework will also cover creating layouts for print and online publications and designing materials for advertising and marketing campaigns.
Those interested in multimedia might learn about designing 3D environments for video games or crafting set designs for film and television. Others might study different software and programming languages to determine the feel, look, and functionality of websites, making them easy to navigate.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree program
History of Graphic Design
In a graphic design history course, students will learn about the development of visual communication from its origins through the twentieth century. This course examines the significant social, technological, and industrial influences of graphic design.
Publication Design
Students interested in print and digital publishing learn about page layout and other visual communication aspects of publication design. They’ll develop their skills through hands-on projects and discuss how to address common design challenges.
Branding
A course like this covers the role of graphic design in branding, analyzing branding strategies and applying design principles to print and digital projects.
Web Design Fundamentals
Here, graphic design students learn the basics of web design and web development, such as user interface design principles, web standards, pattern libraries, and other tools used to create digital products. A course like this typically covers stylesheets and markup languages, such as CSS and HTML.
Motion Design
This online graphic design course covers how to design motion graphics for video games, the internet, film, and television. Projects might include opening titles and rolling credit sequences.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Degree?
Career outlook
Graphic designers convey ideas and information through images and design. Therefore, these creative professionals play a key role in communication on both a small and large scale.
Work environments for graphic designers vary. Some graphic designers work independently as freelancers, while others work for graphic design firms that contract their services to clients. Other industry professionals work as in-house graphic designers for magazines, book publishers, film and TV production studios, advertising agencies, or public relations firms. Graphic designers can work in both print and digital media, although some may choose to focus on one or the other.
A bachelor’s degree is typically sufficient to qualify individuals for entry- and mid-level graphic design positions. Those with more experience can work their way up to management positions, like art director.
While a graduate degree in graphic design isn’t usually required for high-level positions, additional online education can help individuals polish their skills and stay current with new graphic design software and technology.
- Graphic designer — Create visual concepts, using computer software like Adobe Creative Cloud or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers through brochures, advertisements, magazines, and more.
- Median annual salary: $58,910
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New jobs projected: 22,800 per year
- Web developer or digital designer — Develop and test layouts, functions, and navigation in order to improve a website’s look and usability.
- Median annual salary: $92,750
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 16%
- New jobs projected: 19,000 per year
- Art director — Oversee the visual style of magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and movie and television productions by creating the overall design and directing others who develop artwork or layouts.
- Median annual salary: $106,500
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 6%
- New jobs projected: 13,800 per year
Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree program?
Application requirements vary by school. Some graphic design programs have an online portal for accepting applications; others might still use traditional mail. Streamlined admissions systems such as the Common Application, or Common App, enable students to apply to multiple schools through one central hub.
If you submit electronically, be sure to have digital or electronic versions of all the required information, such as test scores, college transcripts, work experience, letters of recommendation, and portfolio examples to demonstrate your graphic design skills. Talk with an admissions counselor to verify you have everything the school needs in the correct format and file size.
How much does an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree cost?
The average cost of undergraduate tuition is $7,998 per year for public institutions and $34,923 per year for private institutions. Costs also vary depending on fees, the number of credits required, and other expenses, such as books and course-specific software. You might need to purchase specific design programs or upgrade your home computer to accommodate this software and your coursework.
How long does it take to earn an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree?
While this depends on the curriculum and the school, most schools say their online bachelor’s programs in graphic design take about four years to complete. Attending part-time or full-time affects that timetable, as does the total number of credits involved. Also, some schools offer asynchronous learning, allowing students to complete assignments at their own pace — this is a viable option if you’re juggling many responsibilities or want to move through the program more quickly.
Is an online bachelor's in graphic design worth it?
Studying graphic design at the postsecondary level can help students develop their visual art and design vocabulary and familiarize them with industry-standard software and technologies. They will also create a portfolio of work that they can show to potential employers to demonstrate their capabilities and creativity.
From a financial standpoint, students pursuing a graphic design degree should be mindful that the median annual wage for graphic designers is $58,910, which is slightly above the overall median annual wage for all occupations. While top earners in the field can make over $100,000, choosing an affordable graphic design bachelor’s degree program will likely help set up students for a better return on investment.
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