Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs

Graphic designers use typography, illustration, and photography to create visually engaging content that communicates ideas to a target audience. Branding, logo design, and print newspapers and magazines all use graphic design.

A graphic design program will teach you about the design process in different kinds of media and the role of graphic design in business and branding. It will also help you develop a professional portfolio and become proficient in commonly used industry software.

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Graphic design is not normally considered to be a particularly hard major, but it challenges you to be both tech-savvy and creative. You’ll learn visual design principles and become proficient in design software. A liberal arts education prepares you to work in graphic design roles in a wide variety of industries.

Graphic design is the most common major for aspiring graphic designers. Other majors that pair well with graphic design are those that teach you concepts in business, technology, and audience responses.

Some majors that can prepare you to become a graphic designer are computer science, psychology, and web development.

Yes, you can become a graphic designer without a degree.

That said, you’ll need to develop the skills you’d learn through a degree program on your own. For example, you might enroll in an online bootcamp or read graphic design how-to books to learn more about how to become a successful graphic designer.

Graphic design can be a high-paying job. It depends on the industry you work in, your experience, and the state you live in. Some top-paying industries for graphic designers include software publishing and natural gas distribution, according to the BLS.

You can also find high-paying roles that use many of the skills gained in a graphic design program, such as web developer, animator, and advertising manager.

Graphic designers earned a median annual salary of $50,710 in May 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The top 10% of highest-paid graphic designers earned over $98,260 per year, while the lowest 10% earned less than $31,310.

How much you make as a graphic designer depends on factors like your experience, skills, and location. Some of the highest-paying states for graphic designers include New York, Massachusetts, and Washington.

A graphic design degree can prepare you for careers outside of graphic design as well, such as web design, UX/UI design, and multimedia art.

Graphic designers can advance their careers by becoming art directors. Art directors create visual concepts and oversee teams of graphic designers. These professionals earned a median annual salary of $100,890 in May 2021, according to the BLS.

Graphic design programs train you to create visually engaging material that communicates a message. In a bachelor’s degree program, you’ll take courses in subjects like typography, print design, and digital design.

Here are some sample courses you can expect to take in a graphic design program:

Typically, graphic design degrees include general education requirements in addition to core design courses. Gen ed courses strengthen students’ communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

You’ll likely also need to complete a portfolio, internship, or senior capstone project to graduate.

If you plan to attend a graphic design program, make sure you apply only to accredited schools. Accredited institutions follow the best practices for educating students and ensure you get a quality education and a recognized degree.

In addition, you can’t qualify for federal financial aid unless you attend an accredited school.

Besides institutional accreditation, you should look for programmatic accreditation. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) grants accreditation to graphic design programs.