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.
Why Get a Graphic Design Degree?
- Graphic design is a great way to apply your artistic skills to a career.
- You can become proficient in web development, software, and other transferable tech skills.
- You can use graphic design coursework as an opportunity to develop your portfolio.
- A degree in graphic design can increase your employability and earning potential.
- You'll be able to get regular feedback from your instructors, allowing you to hone your artistic eye.
Did You Know?
-
Book designer William Addison Dwiggins coined the term "graphic design" in 1922. -
Some graphic designers are experiential graphic designers — they work with architects, industrial designers, and interior designers to create museum exhibitions, retail spaces, and other interactive design environments. -
The top-paying industry for graphic designers is central bank monetary authorities, with an annual mean salary of $108,260.
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Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
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These rankings include
#1 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
University of Arkansas at Little Rock
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Arkansas at Little Rock reaches learners worldwide through its flexible academic programs, including 41 online programs. The university's 30-credit graphic design technical certificate provides students with transferrable skills and knowledge necessary for graphic design careers. Learners develop a professional portfolio through foundational classes, advanced coursework, and design electives.
Enrollees can complete some design courses remotely. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other institutional resources.
University of Arkansas Little Rock at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 160
Number of Online Programs: 41
Admission Rate: 56%
Graduation Rate: 42%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $8,111
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 43%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $8,647
Average Price After Aid: $12,235
#2 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Delgado Community College
New Orleans, LA - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Located in New Orleans, Delgado Community College educates students in person and online. The school's 60-credit associate of applied science in graphic design builds theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many career paths. Enrollees benefit from personalized study paths, with the opportunity to pursue areas of interest through electives.
Degree-seekers often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. The school offers 26% of its programs fully online. Regardless of learning modality, enrollees can access support resources such as career services and financial aid counseling.
Delgado Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 84
Number of Online Programs: 22
Graduation Rate: 9%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 90%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,381
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 48%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,428
Average Price After Aid: $8,148
#3 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Maine College of Art & Design
Portland, ME - 4 years
- Campus
Based in Portland, Maine College of Art & Design provides educational opportunities in a variety of art disciplines. The school's BFA in graphic design prepares students for design industry careers through foundational and specialized coursework. Degree-seekers benefit from a supportive learning community and customizable study plans. An 8-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio means instructors can give learners individualized attention.
The graphic design program provides flexible study plans, although the college offers no fully online programs. Students can use campus resources such as academic advising and library services.
Maine College of Art & Design at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 70%
Graduation Rate: 52%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 76%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,886
#4 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Glen Oaks Community College
Centreville, MI - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Centreville, Michigan-based Glen Oaks Community College provides competitive educational opportunities to learners from all walks of life. The college's flexible associate of visual arts program lets students choose from three emphases: graphic design, fine art, or commercial photography. Enrollees seeking graphic design careers benefit from a supportive learning community and a customizable curriculum as they develop their design skills and build a portfolio.
Learners considering remote study should know that the school offers only one online program. Degree-seekers benefit from academic and professional guidance through advising, career services, and other campus resources.
Glen Oaks Community College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 34
Number of Online Programs: 1
Graduation Rate: 31%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 86%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,381
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 10%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,421
Average Price After Aid: $6,927
#5 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Daemen College
Amherst, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Daemen College provides diverse learning opportunities from its campus in Amherst, New York. Emphasizing a career-relevant blend of theoretical and practical knowledge, the school's programs help students prepare for roles in many industries. The graphic design BFA program offers an evolving, cutting-edge curriculum with opportunities for specialization. Degree-seekers can access career services and academic advising alongside art-focused resources like the college's center for visual and performing arts.
This private nonprofit institution is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. Online programs make up 5% of the school's degree offerings.
Daemen College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 83
Number of Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 62%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 69%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,627
#6 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Liberty University, a private Christian school, is located in Lynchburg, Virginia. The school's bachelor of arts in graphic design may appeal to learners pursuing design careers. Degree candidates prepare for professional roles through internships, practicums, and collaborative learning opportunities.
Enrollees can attend classes on campus or pursue fully online learning. Liberty specializes in remote instruction, with about 72% of the college's programs offering online options. Throughout their studies, learners can access academic advising, career services, and other student success resources.
Liberty University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 242
Number of Online Programs: 174
Admission Rate: 50%
Graduation Rate: 54%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 55%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,525
#7 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
University of Northwestern - St. Paul
Saint Paul, MN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Northwestern - St. Paul is a Christian institution in Minnesota offering both in-person and online programs. The school's bachelor's in graphic design program lets degree-seekers choose from BA and BS tracks. Students prepare for professional advancement through industry-relevant coursework, lectures, and projects.
Learners benefit from customizable study plans, a supportive learning community, and opportunities for Christian fellowship. Remote students can choose from one of 14 fully online programs. Enrollees can access library services, tutoring, and other campus resources.
University of Northwestern - St. Paul at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 71
Number of Online Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 92%
Graduation Rate: 69%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 100%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 36%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,143
#8 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
West Kentucky Community and Technical College
Paducah, KY - 2 years
- Online + Campus
West Kentucky Community and Technical College connects learners with challenging educational opportunities through in-person and online programs. The public college's 30-credit certificate in visual communication program equips learners with industry-specific knowledge, transferrable skills, and learning experiences that prepare them for the workforce. Students complete coursework, attend industry-relevant lectures, and create portfolio-worthy projects.
Of the school's programs, 29% accommodate remote learning. Students seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's career services and academic advising resources.
West Kentucky Community and Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 87
Number of Online Programs: 25
Graduation Rate: 51%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $5,296
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 12%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,789
Average Price After Aid: $7,780
#9 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public university, North Carolina State University provides educational opportunities to Raleigh-based students and distance learners. The university's bachelor's in graphic and experience design program boasts world-class faculty and holds accreditation from the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. This collaborative program features studio projects and internships that provide hands-on industry experience.
The school offers 23% of its programs entirely online. Degree candidates benefit from institutional resources like academic advising and career services.
North Carolina State University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 322
Number of Online Programs: 73
Admission Rate: 46%
Graduation Rate: 84%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 68%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,595
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 37%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,004
Average Price After Aid: $14,600
#10 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Ashland University
Ashland, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Ohio-based Ashland University, a private Christian school, offers a bachelor's in graphic design. Learners can choose from BA and BS tracks. Structured to mimic real-world work environments, the curriculum develops industry-specific knowledge and cutting-edge design skills. Degree-seekers can pursue collaborative learning opportunities to supplement their education.
Distance learners can choose from 22 fully online programs. All enrollees can access institutional resources, benefiting from academic and career advising, library services, and more.
Ashland University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 123
Number of Online Programs: 22
Admission Rate: 74%
Graduation Rate: 62%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 55%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,285
#11 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Susquehanna University
Selinsgrove, PA - 4 years
- Campus
Susquehanna University, a private liberal arts institution, educates students in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania. The school's programs, including the BFA in graphic design, blend theoretical and practical knowledge. Students benefit from learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. They can pursue hands-on experiences such as faculty-driven research, study-abroad programs, and internships. The school's BFA in graphic design caters to learners seeking careers in both graphic design and UX/UI design.
Degree-seekers can access campus resources like financial aid advising, library services, and tutoring. The school offers programs exclusively on campus, with no online degrees available.
Susquehanna University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 64
Admission Rate: 73%
Graduation Rate: 75%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 95%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 73%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,658
#12 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Southern Utah University
Cedar City, UT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Southern Utah University, a public university based in Cedar City, enrolls learners from all walks of life. The school's bachelor of fine arts in graphic design combines general education courses and electives with a rigorous graphic design curriculum. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, this program offers a supportive learning community, customizable study, and a 23-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio. Learners seeking further study opportunities can pursue internships or collaborate with faculty on special projects.
The college offers 26% of its programs fully online. Enrollees can take advantage of institutional resources like academic advising and career services.
Southern Utah University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 90
Number of Online Programs: 23
Admission Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 46%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,412
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 47%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,750
Average Price After Aid: $13,432
#13 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Kansas City Art Institute
Kansas City, MO - 4 years
- Campus
Kansas City Art Institute connects learners with competitive educational opportunities in a variety of art disciplines. The school's BFA in graphic design shares a broad-based first year curriculum with all programs, ensuring a common foundation in basic art principles. Graphic design majors then move on to industry-specific coursework that prepares them to pursue careers in the field. Students can take part in experiential learning opportunities such as internships to supplement their learning.
The school focuses on in-person instruction, with no fully online programs. The school's student resources include academic and career advising, social activities, and health services.
Kansas City Art Institute at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 14
Admission Rate: 59%
Graduation Rate: 57%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 63%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $4,306
#14 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
SUNY College of Technology at Alfred
Alfred, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
SUNY College of Technology at Alfred serves a diverse student body on its campus in Alfred, New York. The public college offers stackable associate and bachelor's degrees in graphic and media design. After completing the associate-level program, graduates can continue their studies in the bachelor's in graphic and media design program. Enrollees benefit from a close-knit learning community and customizable study plans.
The college supports in-person and online study, offering about 5% of its programs online. Degree candidates benefit from academic and professional guidance through campus resources like tutoring and career counseling.
SUNY College of Technology at Alfred at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 87
Number of Online Programs: 4
Admission Rate: 72%
Graduation Rate: 58%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 96%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $7,958
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 66%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,232
Average Price After Aid: $17,047
#15 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Columbia College Chicago
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Campus
A private institution, Columbia College Chicago focuses on creative and media arts. The school's Graphic Design programs build theoretical and practical knowledge, preparing candidates for many career paths in the field. With BA and BFA tracks available in the major, learners benefit from rigorous coursework and opportunities to collaborate with faculty and peers.
Columbia educates students in person, with no fully online degree programs available. Campus resources include academic advising, health services, student organizations, and the school's career center. Columbia holds institutional accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission.
Columbia College Chicago at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 75
Admission Rate: 90%
Graduation Rate: 50%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 98%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 62%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,763
#16 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Madison Area Technical College
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Wisconsin-based Madison Area Technical College provides a well-rounded design education through its associate in graphic design program. This program includes both online and on-campus instruction. Full-time enrollees usually complete their degrees in two years, The public college's 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio means that learners can receive plenty of personal attention. Associate degree-holders can launch their careers or advance to a bachelor's program.
Customizable paths are designed to fit working students' schedules. The school offers 6% of its programs fully online. Students seeking academic and career guidance can benefit from the college's many resources, such as career services and academic advising.
Madison Area Technical College at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 182
Number of Online Programs: 11
Graduation Rate: 24%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 55%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $4,950
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 22%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,173
Average Price After Aid: $9,328
#17 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
University of New Haven
West Haven, CT - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Aspiring graphic and digital design professionals can earn a BFA through the University of New Haven, a private institution. The West Haven, Connecticut-based school provides learning opportunities within and beyond the classroom. Design majors study fundamental design principles, learn the latest industry technology, participate in internships, and build professional portfolios.
New Haven enrollees can often take advantage of online and hybrid offerings, which add flexibility for working students. Of the university's degree programs, 6% allow for fully online study. While enrolled, students can access campus resources like academic advising, career development services, and financial aid counseling.
University of New Haven at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 161
Number of Online Programs: 10
Admission Rate: 91%
Graduation Rate: 65%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 83%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,804
#18 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Methodist University
Fayetteville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Affiliated with the United Methodist Church, Methodist University educates learners from all walks of life. Based in Fayetteville, North Carolina, this private institution prioritizes flexibility and affordability. The school's bachelor's in graphic design melds a liberal arts core with experiential learning opportunities and courses in art history. Enrollees also receive advanced training in graphic design practices, principles, and technology.
The institution is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and offers several fully online programs. Academic advising, career services, and other campus resources can help students make the most of their education.
Methodist University at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 79
Admission Rate: 76%
Graduation Rate: 39%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 99%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 53%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,790
#19 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Design majors at the University of Pennsylvania study graphic, digital, and UX/UI design. The private university's BA in design helps prepare students for future careers through foundational and specialized coursework. Learners benefit from a rigorous curriculum and opportunities to collaborate with cohort members and instructors.
Degree candidates can pursue online and on-campus study, depending on their scheduling needs. The institution offers 4% of its programs online. Both remote and in-person students can use campus resources such as academic advising and library services.
University of Pennsylvania at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 367
Number of Online Programs: 15
Admission Rate: 9%
Graduation Rate: 96%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 57%
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 12%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $6,836
#20 Best Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
University of the District of Columbia
Washington, DC - 4 years
- Campus
A historically Black institution, the University of the District of Columbia offers an associate in graphic design through its community college division. Taught on campus, this flexible, collaborative program helps prepare students for design careers through coursework that evolves with the industry. Graduates can enter the workforce directly or transfer to the university's BFA in graphic design program.
Degree candidates can access institutional resources and receive career and academic guidance. The university is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
University of the District of Columbia at a Glance:
Total Academic Programs: 89
Graduation Rate: 23%
Percent of Students Awarded Aid: 87%
Average Amount of Aid Awarded: $6,745
Percent of Students Awarded Loans: 35%
Average Amount of Loans Awarded: $7,298
Average Price After Aid: $16,125
Frequently Asked Questions About Graphic Design Programs and Jobs
Is graphic design a hard major?
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.
Which degree is best for graphic design?
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.
Can I be a graphic designer without a degree?
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.
Is a career in graphic design worth it?
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.
How Much Can You Make With a Graphic Design Degree?
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.
What Do You Learn in a Graphic Design Program?
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:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Book design
- Color theory
- Fundamentals of drawing
- History of art
- Illustration
- Introduction to graphic design
- Package design
- UX/UI design
- Web design
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.
Does Accreditation Matter for Graphic Design Programs?
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.