Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Many people think of graphic design as a single discipline. However, this field has a lot of specializations. Some graphic designers work in marketing departments while others work as part of a web design team. There are a lot of different industries that need graphic designers.

To enter this field, you can get a degree to learn the graphic design skills you’ll need to thrive in the field. In this guide, we will help streamline your search by listing the best graphic design bachelor’s degrees available, including both online and in-person options.

Graphic designers

are vital to today’s digital world. They create beautiful designs and images that are seen on product packing, billboards, social media posts, Internet advertisements, print advertisements, and more. Many enter the workforce with a bachelor of graphic design.

Without these graphic designers, most media you see would be boring. Their expertise and knowledge allow them to create stunning designs that attract the attention of an audience.

Getting a higher education to become a graphic designer is a great idea. You’ll learn how to create engaging pieces of art step-by-step and grow your skills. In school, you’ll begin building your portfolio, looking for internships, and making connections that can help advance your career.

If you are keen to be a graphic designer, then read on to learn more about earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design, where you can find the best programs and what careers you can land upon graduation.

What Is Graphic Design?

Graphic design involves the use of graphics to communicate ideas and solve problems through imagery, typography, and color. There are different specializations in this field and each one requires special design techniques and skills.

What Is a Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree?

A graphic design

bachelor’s degree

is earned after a four-year program that teaches students all they need to know about the field. They achieve mastery in subjects like page layout, typography, and learn how to use industry-specific software.

This field has several subfields such as visual communication, creative app development, interactive design, and illustration. In most cases, bachelor’s degree programs cover key graphic design principles that relate to shapes, colors, spacing, and order. Some universities offer internship programs to help students gain real-world experience.

​​A Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design program helps students learn the ins and outs of graphic design. You will learn how to use computer software to create engaging visuals and animations using different colors and designs. While in school, you will determine what graphic design field you want to pursue as a career.

While some schools may not require it, others may have students complete an internship. Even if your school does not require it, it is a good idea to do an internship to gain experience in a professional setting, build your portfolio, and network with professionals in the graphic design industry.

Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

The prerequisites to start a degree in graphic design may differ between schools. However, most universities will require a GED or high school diploma. Some art experience may be required but this isn’t always the case.

Some universities may also require a portfolio to be submitted along with a recommendation letter. In addition to the standard coursework, most students enrolled in the program may create a design portfolio or participate in an internship.

How Much Does a Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES),

tuition at a public university costs

$16,647 per year on average. Tuition costs vary depending on the institution and whether the program is offered online or in person.

Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Graphic Design Degree

There are a lot of payment options available to students who want to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. You can apply for federal or private student loans. There are also scholarship opportunities offered by universities, non-profit organizations, and occasionally athletic programs.

What Can I Expect to Learn in a Graphic Design School?

In school, you will learn a variety of skills to help you become a successful graphic designer. Some of these skills will include:

• Adobe Creative Suite Apps. This includes Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, etc.
• Typography
• Ideation
• Knowing the Design Principles
• Color Theory
• Branding

Essential Graphic Designer Skills

Along with learning skills in school, there are a few skills that graphic designers should have before going into school. These include:

• Time management
• Understanding the latest trends
• While you will learn this in school, it is a good idea to know the basic foundations of Adobe Creative Suites so you are not lost when starting your classes
• Be creative and innovative

Best Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Graphic Design: Top Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs

The best colleges for graphic design are accredited so you know you’ll get the best education for your money. Accreditation ensures that they meet the standard of education in the region. Some schools offer bachelor of arts degrees while others offer bachelor of science degrees. The best option for you will depend on your interests and long-term career goals.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | ArtCenter College of Design

This specialized college offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design degree. Students learn to build solutions to create brands and graphic identities. It involves hands-on training, and students work on digital magazines, books, packaging, apps, and 3D motion graphics. The coursework generally focuses on packaging, visual interaction, print, and trans-media design.

Bachelor of Design (BDes) in Communication |  Carnegie Mellon University

This program offers three concentrations for students to choose from. These include communications, products, and environments. The communications concentration focuses on graphic design. Before the program ends, students work on self-defined projects as well as group projects that focus on service design to prepare them for graphic design careers.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design & Visual Communication | Champlain College

This program has a graphic design and communication concentration and its focus is on motion graphics and publishing. The motion graphics coursework covers 3D and 2D animation, motion graphics, conceptualization, storytelling, web design, and typography. The publishing coursework covers the process of working with clients in project publishing.

Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design | Full Sail University

Students in this bachelor’s in graphic design program can graduate within 29 months with the accelerated feature. The academic program covers the creation, editing, management, and design of professional websites. Some common courses include digital publishing, art theory, typography, and design.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Judson University

Judson University offers an internship experience when you complete your second year of school, which can help you build a professional portfolio. When you graduate, the school will help you find a job through its student chapter of The Professional Association for Design.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Lesley University

This graphic design program from Lesley University focuses on design thinking, visual effects, and conceptual problem-solving. Students gain hands-on experience and make meaningful connections through internship positions. Some common organizations where interns are placed include New Balance, Hasbro, Arnold Worldwide, Puma, and Rue La La.

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design | Mercyhurst University

This university offers high-tech software and gear to teach students how to use modern tools for graphic design. The graphic design courses cover both print and web design to allow students to choose from a wide range of careers after graduating. Students will put together a portfolio before graduation.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Michigan State University

Michigan State University (MSU) allows students to apply for the graphic design program after they have completed a few specific courses and one semester at MSU. To apply for the program, you’ll need to have a completed portfolio compiled of projects completed at MSU.

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design | Rhode Island School of Design

This program focuses on technical, analytical, sensory, and formal design experiences. Courses cover visual principles of image, form, typography, and color. Students also learn about visual systems, communication theory, and information design. Students also learn about design applications and can customize their degrees to include other areas of graphic design.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | University of Florida

Each graphic design student is required to complete 120 credits to earn this degree. The coursework emphasizes coming up with new designs as well as getting ready for the professional world. Students build a portfolio during the program. To graduate, you’ll have to maintain at least a C average.

Best Online Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Graphic Design: Top Online Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs

If you have a job or a family right now, a full-time program may be too overwhelming. Luckily, online education is becoming more popular and affordable and you can earn your graphic design bachelor’s degree on your own time. Read on if you’re interested in

how online learning works

.

Bachelor of Science in Graphic Information Technology | Arizona State University

This online bachelor’s degree program focuses on digital publishing, printing, front end web design, 2D and 3D animation, videography, and commercial photography. Students take part in hands-on lab practice and learn the theoretical aspects of graphic design. The program is ideal for people who want to work in digital media, advertising, web design, and UX/UI.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Berkeley College

This graphic design degree from Berkeley College focuses on digital, traditional, and emerging media. Students learn how to use software and hardware used by professionals in the graphic design field. Some topics from the coursework include digital filmmaking, illustration, web design, digital photography, user interface, motion graphics, and animation.

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Digital Media | California Baptist University

This bachelor’s in graphic design is a blend of digital media and digital design. Students take online courses in both concentrations to prepare themselves for the workforce. The coursework of this program is centered on web design and graphic design principles. Students learn the principles of imaging, typography, design, scripting, web design, and photography.

Bachelor of Arts Online Degree in Graphic Design | Kentucky Wesleyan College

This online bachelor’s degree program offers discussion boards and virtual group assignments to help students build relationships while learning remotely. Students take foundation design courses and the coursework focuses on web design, publication, animation, branding design, and typography.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Liberty University

This graphic arts degree program from Liberty University helps students to sharpen their digital artwork skills and creative abilities. The university offers students access to industry-standard tools like Adobe Creative Cloud, InDesign, and Photoshop. Students also complete graphic design projects and receive feedback from professors and peers.

Bachelor of Science in Marketing Communications with a Concentration in Graphic Design | Midway University

This online program coursework contains courses like Photoshop, digital storytelling, social media management, animation, and brand management. The curriculum covers communication, marketing, business, and graphic design techniques to give students a well-rounded education. The program can be completed in four years.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

This art-centered program focuses on design methodologies, visual graphics theories, and an understanding of research. The curriculum includes subjects from humanities, history, literature, and social sciences. Students also learn to use design tools like Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe Illustrator. It requires 123 credit units to complete.

Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Savannah College of Arts and Design

This graphic design major program emphasizes mobile technology, entrepreneurship, packaging design, user experience, and interface design. To complete this online program, students need to complete 180 credit hours. Also, they will build a portfolio as they learn technical skills for visual and branding marketing.

Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts | Southern New Hampshire University

SNHU offers two concentrations in its graphic design program. They include web design or 3D modeling and animation. The total credit unit requirement for this program is 120. The coursework covers the basics of creative problem solving and aesthetics. Students learn to use modern design technology as well.

Bachelor Of Arts In Graphic Communication | University of Maryland Global Campus

This program offers computer graphics, graphic art and design, business-oriented writing, communication, and publication courses. Online students learn to use in-demand tools such as Flash, InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop, and After Effect. The curriculum covers mobile applications, effective visual communication, web design, and motion graphics.

What’s the Average Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Salary?

Annual wages depend on your particular field, level of experience, and location. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics,

the average salary of a graphic designer

is $53,380, however, the highest 10 percent of earners make over $93,400.

Top Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs Explained

The graphic design industry is a competitive field. Most employers look for prospects with a bachelor’s degree. Throughout college, you must build your portfolio, possibly complete an internship, and learn the necessary skills for you to pursue your career.

Once you’re ready to enter the job market, the jobs listed below are some of the best available to graduates of a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design program.

User interface (UI) Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $104,879
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  13%
  
  *
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia, Massachusetts

UI designers are responsible for building interfaces for devices and software. The main focus of these experts is the style or look of the product. They create interfaces that users can use easily and enjoy using. Their role covers voice-controlled interfaces as well.

Art Director

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $97,270
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  11%
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  98,500
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  New York, California, New Jersey, Oregon

Art directors are responsible for making high-level creative decisions when it comes to products, advertisements, or logos. They may also act as copywriters and lead designers. These professionals must have strong communication skills and creative skills.

User Experience (UX) Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $91,990
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  13%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  199,400
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, Georgia, Massachusetts

UX designers

are responsible for making technology and products usable. They help make the product pleasing to use and look at. These experts are part of a wider team that bridges the gap between the development team, the user, and business stakeholders.

Product Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $84,316
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  6%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  31,500
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Arizona, California, New York, North Carolina

Product designers make sure products are designed in a way that will make people want to buy them. They do this by conducting market research and figuring out how the product should look to grab the attention of the consumer.

Fashion Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $75,810
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  3%***
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  254,100
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington DC, Washington, Massachusetts, New York

While it may not be the first job you think of when you get your graphic design degree, you can actually use your graphic design skills to create stylish clothing. You can use your newfound expertise in color theory, saturation, and scale to digitally create looks for individual clients, or even for a whole company.

Video Game Animator

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $66,435
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  16%**
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  62,400
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Connecticut, California, New York, Oregon

If you’re already familiar with computer animation, then when you get your bachelor’s degree in graphic design, you can use both skills for this job. You will create animated characters that are interesting and either cartoon-like or realistic, depending on the instruction of your client.

Production Artist

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $50,800
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  11%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  98,500
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  New York, California, New Jersey, Oregon

Production artists work with design teams to produce packaging, print, advertising, and digital graphics. Their role also includes processing, checking, and uploading files. They use their knowledge of graphic design to help companies produce products that are visually appealing.

Graphic Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $48,283
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  3%***
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  254,100
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington DC, Washington, Massachusetts, New York

Graphic designers

are responsible for creating visual concepts with the help of graphic design software. The graphics they create are used for informing, inspiring, and captivating customers. These experts also develop production design and overall layout for different applications such as magazines, advertisements, and reports.

Greeting Card Designer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $48,283
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  3%
  
  ***
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  254,100
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington DC, Washington, Massachusetts, New York

Greeting card designers can incorporate photography as well as graphic design into their projects. The cards need to be simple, yet eye-catching and the skills you’ll learn when you earn your graphic design bachelor’s degree will give you plenty of knowledge to draw from.

Multimedia Artist or Animator

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $44,921
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  16%
  
  **
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  62,400
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Connecticut, California, New York, Oregon

Multimedia artists and animators come up with design settings and characters for a story. These experts have also developed storyboards for iconic movie scenes. Multimedia artists may specialize in video game animation or visual effect development.

*Data was taken from the BLS listing for web developers and digital designers.

**Data was taken from the BLS listing for special effects artists and animators.

***Data was taken from the BLS listing for Graphic Designer.

Graphic Design Bootcamp vs Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

The best option when it comes to a bachelor’s degree and a coding bootcamp depends on your needs and preferences. A graphic design bootcamp will help you develop specific job-ready skills in a short time. A college degree provides a more comprehensive understanding of the field. Below are some benefits of both programs.

Benefits of a Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree

• 
  Hands-on learning.
  
  Most graphic design degrees are practical-based and students build portfolios before the program ends. This makes it easier for them to apply for higher-paying jobs.
• 
  Accredited.
  
  Since universities that award graphic design degrees are accredited, potential employers often have a higher respect for traditional bachelor’s degrees.
• 
  Networking.
  
  Graphic design degree programs are a great way to meet experts in the field that can help you succeed in your career down the road.
• 
  The degree covers multiple fields.
  
  Most graphic design degrees cover multiple fields such as web design, digital, media, and communications. This allows you to pursue different career paths.
• 
  Students can access financial aid.
  
  Most students at accredited universities are eligible to receive financial aid from the federal government. This can ensure that anyone who wants to get a degree is able to.

Benefits of a Graphic Design Bootcamp

• 
  Affordable.
  
  Graphic design coding bootcamps are affordable, especially when they are compared to the cost of university degrees. You can spend less than $20,000 to get in-demand training to start your career.
• 
  Job support.
  
  Most coding bootcamps offer job support services to enable students to find jobs after graduation. They take part in mock interviews and receive help designing their resumes.
• 
  Flexible learning.
  
  Most graphic design bootcamps offer a flexible learning system where students can choose to learn remotely and choose the pace of the program. This helps working professionals to maintain their job while learning.
• 
  Practical-based learning.
  
  The learning in bootcamps is hands-on. Students take part in group and individual projects as they build their portfolios.
• 
  Multiple payment options.
  
  Bootcamps often offer multiple payment options to help students of all backgrounds access education. Bootcamps often offer scholarships to offset the tuition bill.

Should You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design?

Yes, you should get a bachelor’s degree in graphic design if you have artistic ability and you want to be in a field that gives you creative power. The field allows you to pursue several career paths in entertainment, business, and tech industries.

A bachelor’s degree increases your chances of getting hired because prospective employers often prefer candidates with these credentials. A degree proves you have a strong understanding of the principles of design, the design process, and impressive critical-thinking skills.

If you are interested in graphic design and want to learn more, earning your bachelor’s degree is the best decision you can make. The work opportunities after you receive your degree are endless and you are able to get a job anywhere you please. With the world becoming digitized more and more each year, the need for beautiful visuals is increasing.

The road ahead of you is yours to figure out. Reading this article again will ensure you have a great overview of bachelor’s degree programs in graphic design, specifically the best graphic design schools in the United States. Are you ready to start learning and start your graphic design career?

Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degree FAQ