post secondary education for graphic design

Graphic Design

If you're looking for a creative career working in design and technology, Penn Foster's online Graphic Design Certificate can help you take the first steps. With flexible online classes, you can build industry knowledge at your own pace, from homes.  

• Study web graphic arts, electronic publishing, corporate design, typography, photo editing, color theory, and more essential graphic design skills.
• Learn digital arts basics- from layout design to production- using Adobe® software.
• Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.

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• How to identify different career options available to digital artists.
• How to understand the correct use of color and its effectiveness in creating designs.
• How to describe the formal elements of design; including line, shape, form, direction, texture, value, color, and composition.
• How to use Adobe Illustrator® to create graphics illustrations for print, multimedia, and the web.

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing and/or certification requirements for jobs in certain fields are not the same in every state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements beyond those offered by your Penn Foster Program. You should contact the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where you plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in your program. See the State Licensing page  for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

Should I Become A Graphic Designer?

• 1 Proctored Exam

Estimated completion time:

• Fast track = 14 months
• Average time = 18 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times per semester are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from November 2020 - October 2021, excluding withdrawals.

In Penn Foster's online Graphic Design Certificate course curriculum, you'll learn the skills and knowledge needed to prepare for an entry-level job through interactive animations, simulations, and videos. The program is self-paced, meaning you can learn on your own schedule from home. Your online courses include:

• Color Theory
• Introduction to Graphic Design
• Graphic Design and Production
• Photo Image Editing 1+2
• Corporate Design and Web Design 
• Portfolio Development 

Non-US residents: This is a United States-based institution with course materials that are geared toward US job and labor standards. Learners from outside of the US may find that some information and materials will differ from the current standards of their country. Please note, the materials for this program are in English and use the Imperial unit of measurement, not the metric system.

Severina J.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2021

“Being able to do my work on my time let me still be a stay-at-home mom and wife. During my studies I learned so much, which made my confidence boost when starting a new job in that field.”

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• Pay $89 per month
• Start for $129 down
• All major credit and debit cards accepted

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For students outside of the United States, an international shipping and handling surcharge of $75 will be added.

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits, or our refund policy? Find this information and more about tuition and enrollment here.

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• Start anytime
• No exam due dates

Interactive

• Digital study guides
• Presentations and animations
• Simulations and videos
• 24/7 access to online resources
• Online student community
• Dedicated Learner Center
• Expert faculty
• Dedicated student services
• Robust learning resources

Through online graphic design classes, you'll learn how to use Adobe products, design for different brands, and more in our Graphic Design A.S. Degree.

Learn the interior design essentials, from color theory to design elements, to prepare for a job in the industry.

Become an interior decorator on your schedule with our flexible, online classes that cover essential decorating principles.

What qualifications do you need to be a graphic designer?

To become a graphic designer , you’ll typically be required to complete at least entry-level education and produce a beginner's portfolio of your work. Many graphic design professionals learn the foundational knowledge needed for the field through a combination of post-secondary education and hands-on training.

Can I earn a Graphic Design Certificate online?

In Penn Foster's Graphic Design Certificate Program, you can study online, from anywhere, at any time- as long as you have access to the internet. Upon Graduation, you may be able to transfer credits into Penn Fosters Accredited Graphic Design Associate Degree  and continue your studies.

What are the top qualities of a Graphic Designer?

A good graphic designer is someone who is able to combine creative qualities with the ability to use technology proficiently. The top qualities of a graphic designer  include creativity, computer skills with graphic design software, experience with digital design projects, and time management skills.

What are the most popular graphic design career opportunities?

Graphic designers can work as self-employed freelancers, in marketing and advertising agencies, or as employees in a wide array of industries. Graphic designers frequently work in logo and visual identity design, web design , marketing and advertising design, photo-editing, publishing, and layout design, and can serve as creative or art directors.

Disclaimers:

1 Depending on where you live, you may be charged taxes in addition to the total cost of your program.

The completion of a certificate-level program does not typically qualify a student for employment. Completion of this program may assist students who have previous academic or work-related experience improve their chances for promotion or entry-level employment.

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How To Become A Graphic Designer

Stan T. April 28, 2020 Career , Requirements

How Long Does It Take, What Degree Do You Need, and More

Graphic Designers

Graphic Designers design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.

Table of contents

• Steps to become one
• Popular degree levels

How long does it take

Graphic Designers Requirements

Step 1: brush up on your artistic skills in high school.

Graphic Designers require creativity and artistic aptitude. You can start developing these skills and traits in high school by taking art classes. You can also draw and design during your spare time.

Graphic Designers often rely on computer software to illustrate content for websites, marketing material, video games, and other mediums. However, they also start with rough sketches, which require basic drawing skills.

Along with practicing drawing and design, you can learn more about Graphic Design by reading blog articles and completing free online tutorials.

Step 2: Teach Yourself the Basics of Graphic Design

There are several paths to becoming a Graphic Designer, including the self-taught path. Some Graphic Designers do not have any formal training. They develop the necessary skills and knowledge through self-guided learning and practice.

You can teach yourself how to become a Graphic Designer using online courses, tutorials, and blog posts. You should also familiarize yourself with the most-used design software, such as Adobe Photoshop. Those who plan on attending college should also take the time to become more familiar with design techniques and software.

Step 3: Take a Graphic Design Course at a Community College

If you choose the self-taught path, you may expand your skills by taking a Graphic Design course at a local community college. Some colleges also offer technical programs that may only last for a single semester.

Taking courses at a community college is also a suitable option for those who want to earn degrees. Before committing to a two-year or four-year degree program, you can learn more about Graphic Design and ensure that it is the right career path.

Step 4: Earn an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design

Earning a degree can lead to full-time employment as a Graphic Designer. You can either obtain an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design. An Associate’s Degree typically takes two years to complete and covers the basic principles of Graphic Design.

With an Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design, you learn the main skills needed for an entry-level Graphic Design position.

Step 5: Earn a Bachelor’s of Arts in Graphic Design

A Bachelor’s Degree program may take four years to complete. While it takes longer to complete compared to an Associate’s Degree, employers tend to prefer candidates with a Bachelor’s Degree .

Studying for a Bachelor’s Degree also provides a more well-rounded education. Along with the principles of Graphic Design, you are likely to explore related topics and various specializations within this field.

For example, you may take elective courses in Illustration, Web Design, Animation, or Video Game Design. Other common courses include Marketing, Advertising, and Psychology, which help you understand how specific design techniques impact the way that people perceive your work.

You may also transfer credits from previous college courses, such as introductory Graphic Design courses from a community college. Another option is to look for online Bachelor’s Degree programs, which make it easier to earn your education while working.

Step 6: Start Building Your Portfolio

Whether you attended college or taught yourself, you may struggle to find full-time employment as a Graphic Designer without previous work experience. Potential employers typically want to see an extensive portfolio with many examples of your Graphic Design skills.

Start building your portfolio by taking on small freelance projects. There are several ways to obtain your first paid gigs. You can advertise your services on an online job marketplace or actively look for clients in your local area. Another option is to offer your services for free to nonprofits.

Keep copies of the work that you complete and add them to your portfolio. You should keep high-resolution images of your completed projects to showcase your skills.

If you use an online job marketplace to seek freelance jobs, continue to build your online portfolio as well.

Step 7: Start Looking for Entry-Level Graphic Design Positions

After gaining work experience and building a portfolio through freelance projects, you may decide to look for full-time employment. This will be more difficult for those without a degree. However, with enough experience, you may find an entry-level position.

Entry-level positions for Graphic Designers may include Junior Graphic Designer, Design Assistant, Visual Designer, or Production Designer.

What degree do most Graphic Designers have

We did a survey to ask other Graphic Designers what degree they had when they first became one. Here are the results.

The amount of time needed to become a Graphic Designer depends on your educational path. If you decide to skip college, you may start working as a Graphic Designer today. You can offer your freelance Graphic Design services using online job marketplaces. For those who choose to earn degrees, it may take two to four years, depending on whether you obtain an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree.

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How to Become a Graphic Designer

Graphic designers are a key part of everyday life. Graphic designers create visual communications that are seen every minute of every day across the world. Designers create and develop entertainment graphics, advertising items, news, and features in all forms, including print like magazines and brochures. 

Graphic designers also create digital and broadcast media for television, web browsers, social media platforms, and portable devices like a Nintendo Switch or an iPhone. As the world of technology continues to develop and grow more complex, so so the tasks and jobs for graphic designers. 

Find your bootcamp match

Graphic design career basics.

A graphic designer’s job is to inspire and give informative ideas in advertisements and marketing communication materials. Depending on the field, print and digital designers use complex tools to design text, images, colors, and even animations. 

There are many different places that a graphic designer can call home. A graphic designer can work for a specific marketing or design firm where they will be a part of a collaborative team. They can also choose to be self-employed and operate independently by working with their own clients. 

Graphic designers who decide on the self-employed route must be flexible, as they will need to work around their clients’ schedules, who will sometimes need to meet during evening or weekend hours. As with most other industries, customer service is the key to success as a graphic designer. Along with strong and positive customer service, it is important to know how to bid on contracts, learn how to market design services, and develop a steady client base. 

Another characteristic that is imperative to the success of a graphic designer is their communication skills. In contrast to other “art” jobs, graphic designers don’t just create for creation’s sake, they need to get across a specific message through their designs into the real world. 

While having an artistic ability is necessary, they must also have the means to incorporate a call to action through their art or designing brand. Graphic designers will have to integrate communication design along with graphic design to be successful in the industry. 

Typically, graphic designers will work on a computer, but they will need to make sure that their designs are ready for various viewing platforms for both printing or publishing. Additionally, graphic designers can specialize in a specific area of design, but typically, they will want to be well-rounded in order to work with a variety of clients. Some specialties can include logo design, typography, branding and advertising, e-mail blasts and newsletters, and product packaging. 

Steps to Become a Graphic Designer

Start early

When deciding to become a graphic designer, there are a few steps to obtain success. As with many fields, it never hurts to begin early in these efforts. In the field of graphic design, it is a great idea to start in high school. 

Students with a passion for design should look into taking art classes such as art history, drawing, and if offered, classes like graphic arts and website design. Some clubs or organizations to get involved with are designing and producing the school newspaper or the school yearbook. Being a graphic designer requires a good eye and a creative mind, but the development of practical skills is also key to success. 

Earn a degree

The next step is earning a degree in graphic design. Most employers are looking for graphic designers who have a complete education that comes from attending an accredited college. Designers are more likely to find a quality graphic design position by earning a bachelor’s degree over an associate degree. 

Over 300 institutions in the United States offer degree programs accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. There are many school options for a designer, including small private colleges, prestigious art institutes, and large public universities. 

Students who wish to pursue a bachelor’s degree have a few options, including earning a bachelor of arts or a bachelor of science. Another option is earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts. These degrees usually are 120 to 180 credits and will take four years to complete. A few upper-level course examples can include production for digital and print environments, media management in digital design, graphic designer as an entrepreneur, and portfolio development. 

There are also a growing number of programs that offer online classes. Classes offered in graphic design programs include courses like studio art, commercial graphics, web design, and computer technology. Courses in marketing are typically part of the curriculum since designers must be able to market themselves and know these techniques while designing. 

Additionally, not every college program will require their students to complete an internship, but some will. Regardless of whether it is necessary for the program or not, students who completed an internship as a graphic designer gain more experience, establish professional relationships and build their portfolios. 

This gives an added advantage compared to a student who does not complete an internship. Another advantage of earning a degree in graphic design is the ability to change career paths. With a degree, students can also pursue careers as web developers, multimedia artists, or industrial designers and drafters, to name a few. 

Build a portfolio

A big step in becoming a graphic designer is to create a solid resume and portfolio. Like other candidates, graphic designers require a resume, but unlike other candidates, graphic designers must also have a portfolio. The only way for an employer to understand the prospective designer’s abilities is by seeing their work range as a designer. 

Professional portfolios consist not only of print ads and advertisements, but they include online advertisements, website graphics, television commercial reels if created, and animation demos if needed. For many students who are just beginning their careers, presenting an extensive and filled portfolio can be difficult. 

In this case, they should focus on quality instead of quantity for their examples. Presenting their best design samples is ideal in order to meet a prospective employer’s specific needs. However, students who have earned their bachelor’s degree will get a head start creating their portfolio as frequently this will be a class and requirement for graduation their senior year. 

Stay up-to-date on trends

Keeping up on the trends and current changes in the graphic design field is necessary for every designer. Graphic design is continually changing and developing, and designers must be able to keep up with the trends in design as well as the trends with specialized graphic design software programs. Organizations like the American Institute of Graphic Arts or the Graphic Artists Guild provide their members with updates on new technology, software, and methodology. 

Graphic designers must be able to continuously evolve with the changing market. Returning to school or taking classes is common with graphic designers. These designers choose to advance their skills creatively and thorough knowledge of the field. They may take a graduate degree or take a post-secondary certificate. 

Tools of the trade

Designers will use a variety of design tools to do work for clients or the art world. A designer’s tools can vary on what they are designing and which output will be used. 

Print designers may use Adobe Framemaker, Adobe InDesign, and QuarkXPress. In contrast, digital designers might work in Adobe Illustrator, CorelDraw Graphics Suite, or Adobe Fireworks. Designers who use motion graphics will work in Adobe After Effects or Autodesk Maya. 

How much do graphic designers make? 

Of course, as with all industries, a designer’s salary will vary upon the geographical location, type of employer, education, and years of experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics , a graphic designer’s median salary is $52,110 per year. 

Additionally, the field can expect job growth of three percent to 2028. While this is much slower than many other occupations, designers employed in computer systems design and related services are expected to grow by twenty-four percent due to companies wanting to increase their digital presence and need designers to create visually appealing website layouts. 

Why become a graphic designer? 

• Graphic designers are in demand. Digital media isn’t going anywhere, which means that graphic designers aren’t either. While the industry might be competitive, there will always be room for a designer with the right eye and work ethic. 
• Those who choose graphic design are not stuck in one specific occupation. The beauty of graphic design is that it can be flexible and applicable to many different careers. Those who earn a bachelor’s in graphic design don’t immediately have to translate that into a career as a graphic designer. There are plenty of other jobs that students can choose other than a graphic designer.
• Every day is different. Those who wish to work in a role where no two days are alike might find a graphic designer position extremely satisfying. Each day designers might be working on a different project and a different design, which means that they will continually be doing something different and exciting. 

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Graphic Designers & Illustrators

Learn about this occupation – including typical duties, education required, salary and job outlook information, job boards and more.

Graphic designers translate verbal and abstract concepts into meaningful visual communication. Self-employed (freelance) graphic designers divide their time between studio work and meeting with clients, photographers and other professionals involved in the design process. Some travel may be required. Designers employed by advertising agencies or design studios spend most their time in the agency or studio, occasionally attending meetings with clients. In advertising agencies, account executives or directors may act as liaisons between clients and designers. (alis)

This profile page includes:  Graphic Designer ,  Animator ,  Medical Illustrator ,  Scientific Illustrator .

Occupational profile

Find detailed information about the occupation, including typical duties and working conditions, in the links below:

• National Occupational Classification (NOC) - Canadian occupational descriptions
• O*NET Online - U.S. resource for occupational descriptions and information 
• Graphic Designer (includes video)
•  Animator (includes video) 
• Graphic Designer occupational information from Best Trade Schools
• Graphic Designer profile - from Focus on Information Technology by ICTC 
• Alumni Advice: Graphic Designer - U of M Career Services' Learning to Earning 2012
• Day in the Life of a Graphic Designer - from The Princeton Review (U.S.) 
• Interview: Creative Director in Digital Media - from StudyinCanada.com 
• Interview with a graphic designer - from DesignBoom (digital architecture and design magazine) 
• Graphic Designer
• Illustrator  
• Commercial Artist
• Digital Colourist (film)
• Technical Artist
• Multimedia Animator
• Art Director
• Games Artist
• Video Game Creative Director
• Medical Illustrator - profile from ExploreHealthCareers.org (U.S.)
• What is medical illustration / animation? - Association of Medical Illustrators 
• So, you want to be a medical illustrator?- from University Affairs 
• I am a Medical Illustrator - profile from  Science  careers magazine 
• Video profile of a student pursuing a career in Scientific Illustration - Fisheries & Oceans Canada
• Graphic Designer occupational information - from Best Trade Schools

Most graphic designers have post-secondary education in visual communication design or graphic design. Developing a strong portfolio of work is essential for finding employment as a graphic designer. (alis)

U of M Academic Calendar The Academic Calendar & Catalogue  outlines program admission and course requirements. Use the left menu to navigate to a specific faculty and program. To determine which degree path suits your unique occupational goals, speak with a   Career Consultant . For support with course registration and academic issues, speak with an  Academic Advisor . 

Faculty and Department Homepages Visit U of M's faculty and department homepage to learn about program application deadlines and processes, as well as additional in-house resources and opportunities.

• School of Art - Graphic Design 

Exploring Other Education Options

• Education Programs in Canada - from the Society of Graphic Designers of Canada 
• National Association of Schools of Arts & Design (U.S.) - accredited institutions 
• Association of Independent Colleges of Arts and Design (AICAD) - Canada & U.S. 
• Biomedical Illustration Graduate Programs accredited by the CAAHEP - listing from the Association of Medical Illustrators 
• Search Education Directories

Information for foreign-trained professionals - Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials

Labour market information

Labour market information informs users of supply and demand for specific occupations and sectors. It includes such things as salary and job outlook information. These resources support informed career decision making and job search efforts. 

• Trend Analysis: Job Market Report (Winnipeg Region) - Gov. of Canada Job Bank 
• Occupational Outlook Handbook - Job outlook for the U.S. 
• Canadian Industry Outlook Forecasts - industry reports from ICTC 
• Robert Half Salary Guides - view the Tech & Creative guides for salary and hiring trends 

Professional Associations Professional associations may organize events and provide directories, job postings, career and labour market information. Student membership opportunities may also be available: engage, learn and network! 

• Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC)
• Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators
• Association of Registered Graphic Designers (Canada)
• The Advertising & Design Club of Canada
• Society of Publication Designers
• Society of Illustrators
• American Institute of Graphic Arts (IAGA)
• Association of Medical Illustrators (AMI)

Directories, Industry Associations, and Sector Councils These resources provide industry news, labour market information and a list of potential employers. Remember, there are usually multiple industries worth exploring. 

• New Media Manitoba
• Tech Manitoba - Directory
• Creative Manitoba (formerly the Arts & Cultural Industries Association of Manitoba)
• Mentorship programs
• Canadian Animation Directory - animation companies and industry resources listing created by the Ottawa International Animation Festival

Job Boards Search the industry-specific job boards below to learn about skill requirements, employers, job duties and available jobs. You may also wish to search more general  online job boards . 

• Society of Graphic Designers of Canada - Jobs & Opportunities 
• Creative Manitoba
• New Media Manitoba - Looking for Work
• Motionographer.com - international job board 

Other links

These external resources may provide you with additional information about the occupation and opportunities to build experience: 

• Game Developer (formerly Gamasutra: The Art & Business of Making Games) Resource for careers in the video game industry
• Winnipeg Game Collective (formerly Peg Jam) - Discord group and source of industry information and events from the Winnipeg Game Development Community
• Article: Web design: Taking art from the canvas to an interface -  JobPostings  magazine
• Article: You need a science degree to tackle the art of medical illustration -  Maclean's magazine
• Quickdraw Animation Society (Canada)
• Motionographer - features design and animation stories and work from work from studios, freelancers and students
• Article: How to get a graphic design job right out of school - TalentEgg.ca 
• Technology Career Guide - industry and employer information from TalentEgg.ca 
• Computers & Technology Career Guide - industry facts and articles from JobPostings.ca
• Graphic Arts   Magazine  (Canada)
• Communication Arts - exhibits of work and projects from visual communications specialists, including graphic designers
• Design Tools Monthly  magazine

Related occupations

• Industrial Designer
• Web Designer
• Artists & Artisans
• Fashion Designer
• Interior Designer
• Makeup Artist (NOC)
• Photographer
• Drafting Technician
• Painters, Sculptors, & other Visual Artists
• Film & Video Camera Operator
• Film Technical Coordinators & Support roles
• Set & Exhibit Designers

Last updated: April 21, 2021

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Graphic Design Schools Near You

By Publisher | Last Updated March 11, 2024

Find graphic design schools near you or online. You can choose from a variety of convenient programs for learning a wide range of creative and technical skills. By attending a college, university, or trade school for graphic design, you can become job-ready for a career that provides variety, flexibility, and excellent opportunities for advancement.

Graphic Design Training

Benefits of attending graphic design school, length of training.

• Program Options
• Typical Courses

Skills You Can Learn

Licensing & certification, education & training faqs, graphic design schools, graphic design career information, job openings & outlook, key benefits, what a graphic designer does, work settings, specializations, career faqs.

Many graphic design jobs require a degree in this field, particularly those at large or midsized organizations. However, many clients and employers care more about experience and the quality and creativity of work in a graphic designer's portfolio than about their particular education. Technical training in professional design software is also a must. Many inexperienced graphic designers are able to build up their real-world experience through internships, volunteering, or paid freelance work.

Better career prospects: People who get a formal education in graphic design tend to have more and better-paying jobs open to them compared to self-taught people. Even though many employers place more value on designers' portfolios than their educational credentials, a degree, diploma, or certificate in this field is often necessary to get your foot in the door. Formal training also gives you more credibility among other designers.

Free or discounted access to design software: Most graphic design schools have computer labs where students can learn and practice their technical skills at no additional cost. Some schools even provide laptops with all the software you need pre-installed. Also, Adobe's student discounts make getting the required software much more affordable in situations where you need to purchase it yourself.

Built-in mentorship: Going to school for graphic design allows you to learn from teachers who may have years or decades of meaningful experience in the field. Some programs even incorporate workshops where highly talented guest speakers share their insights and tips about the design profession. A school setting provides ample opportunities for learning how to communicate about design, including sharing and constructively accepting criticism.

Although shorter programs are available, most graphic design students complete courses of study that last from 12 to 48 months .*

Graphic Design Program Options

Associate degree programs: By earning an Associate of Arts (AA) or Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree in graphic design, you can qualify for a much wider range of employment opportunities, including jobs with midsized organizations. Usually designed to take about two years, some accelerated programs can be completed in 18 months.* At this level, you typically study the fundamentals of design, learn how to use industry-standard software, complete a variety of projects, take a few general courses like math and English, and develop a professional portfolio.

Bachelor's degree programs: These are the most common courses of study in this field. By earning a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in graphic design, you can pursue jobs with organizations of any size. Programs at this level generally take four years to complete.* They include the widest variety of basic, intermediate, and advanced courses and projects in graphic design as well as classes in several other subject areas that help give you a well-rounded education.

Master's degree programs: You can pursue this education level if you have a bachelor's degree. Graduate programs in graphic design cover this field's key aspects in more depth and typically take an additional two years to complete.* This type of program isn't all that common, but it can be worth taking if you ever want to become a manager or executive in a large organization or teach design at a private college, state university, or other post-secondary school.

Typical Graphic Design Courses

Program coursework can vary a great deal from school to school. A lot depends on the length and depth of the curriculum.

Some schools place a heavy emphasis on developing students' skills with professional graphics software. Others place more focus on design theory and provide the opportunity to develop traditional art skills that aid in the creative process. However, many schools provide a good balance of both. They allow you to learn how to conceptualize a design as well as how to use the tools that help you execute that design.

A basic graphic design curriculum often includes courses that cover areas like:

• Essential design principles
• Color theory
• Identity design
• Visual systems design
• Photography fundamentals
• Digital imaging and photo editing
• Adobe Photoshop
• Adobe Illustrator
• Adobe InDesign
• Print production
• Basic web and digital media design
• Digital asset management and file preparation
• Portfolio development

Many graphic design programs include courses in additional subjects like:

• Life drawing
• Digital illustration
• Motion graphics
• Art and design history
• Cultural issues
• Entrepreneurship
• Business software such as Microsoft Office

• Generating and evaluating new concepts
• Negative space
• Visual hierarchy
• Developing visual brand identities
• Listening to and communicating effectively with stakeholders
• Using Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign
• Staging, taking, and selecting photographs
• Editing digital images
• Creating simple motion graphics
• Using basic HTML or CSS to create website layouts and interfaces
• Designing simple websites with WordPress or similar platforms
• Selecting or creating digital and/or hand-drawn illustrations
• Presenting design mockups
• Revising designs and layouts based on feedback
• Preparing computer files for printing or digital uses
• Selecting appropriate paper stocks and finishes
• Creating a professional portfolio

Graphic designers do not need to be licensed or certified by any organization or government body. However, some designers choose to get certified through Adobe by passing exams that test their knowledge of particular software applications.

It's worth considering that type of voluntary certification if you haven't earned a graphic design degree and don't plan on doing so. In that situation, becoming Adobe-certified may show employers that you have the necessary technical skills for certain design jobs.

Can I learn graphic design on my own?

Some people are able to learn graphic design and achieve success without going to school for it. They read books and design blogs, watch online video tutorials, and practice what they learn by doing a variety of projects.

However, studying on your own isn't always a reliable way to learn everything you need to know for this field. It can also prevent you from being able to pursue the majority of design jobs that require a degree or formal education. And it requires a lot of patience and self-discipline.

Without getting a graphic design education through a trade school, college, or university, you may miss out on:

• Constructive feedback that pushes your talents beyond their current limits
• The experienced guidance of instructors who compel you to learn all of the technical and conceptual subtleties of the field (not just the aspects you find most interesting)
• The camaraderie of other creative students who can challenge, inspire, and encourage you

As a self-taught designer, the quality and originality of work in your portfolio will be even more critical to your success.

Do I have to learn how to draw in order to be a graphic designer?

Not necessarily. Although many graphic designers are also good visual artists, most jobs in this field don't require advanced drawing ability. In some cases, you may just need to be able to communicate preliminary ideas through very simple sketches, which don't have to be beautiful visual art. Some graphic design positions don't require any sketching.

That said, learning how to draw can be beneficial for your career. For one thing, it can allow you to create illustrations when small budgets prevent the hiring of outside illustrators for certain design projects. Drawing can also help you improve your ability to:

• Think creatively and conceptualize solutions
• Design logos that rely more on imagery than type
• Organize and present information
• Notice small visual nuances
• Recognize how visual details fit into an overall image or design

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Graphic designers are part of an exciting and challenging profession that involves much more than creating visually pleasing layouts. The field offers terrific potential for skilled creative professionals to earn good salaries, become self-employed, specialize in cool areas, and move into more advanced roles.

Among graphic designers, the median salary is $57,990 , according to estimates from the Occupational Outlook Handbook (OOH) .** Those at the upper end of the salary range make over $100,920.

Those numbers don't take into account the extra income that you may be able to earn by doing freelance work on the side. Once you've gained enough clients and experience, working full-time as a self-employed graphic designer can also boost your earning potential.

In addition, many graphic designers achieve much higher salaries by specializing in web and digital interface design or by advancing into a senior position like art director.

Between 2022 and 2032, the overall employment of graphic designers is expected to grow by 3 percent .** That's based on projections from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). An average of 22,800 job openings could become available each year as people retire or move into other occupations.

Digital media is on the rise , providing job growth for graphic designers who know how to help craft good visual layouts and optimize the user experience on websites, mobile apps, games, and other electronic projects. However, demand for paper publications like printed books, newspapers, and magazines continues to shrink, resulting in a decline in graphic design employment in print media.

• Career flexibility: Graphic design is a highly portable vocation. After all, good visual communication is necessary in almost every industry and every part of the developed world. You can explore, mix, or bounce between different specializations . You can work from almost anywhere, thanks to the Internet. And you have the option of working for yourself, working for an employer, or doing a mix of both. About 19 percent of graphic designers are self-employed.
• Extraordinary advancement potential: With as little as a few years of full-time experience in this field, you can pursue higher-paying senior positions with titles such as design manager, chief designer, art director, creative director, or design director. By mastering this profession and gaining a graduate-level design education, you can also pursue teaching jobs at art schools or other colleges and universities that offer graphic arts programs.
• Day-to-day enjoyment: Every new project brings a new adventure. The creative design process involves solving interesting challenges, brainstorming fun possibilities, and trying out many options. As you gain momentum behind a great concept, you can experience moments of euphoria and deep satisfaction. Plus, the highly varied tasks that go into completing a design project can stave off boredom and keep you feeling engaged.

The tasks of graphic designers are highly dependent on factors like whether they work alone or as part of a creative team, whether they are in a junior or senior role, the particular kinds of projects they are working on, and which stages those projects are in.

So, depending on those factors, a graphic designer might carry out tasks such as:

Fact-Finding, Idea Generation, and Planning

• Brainstorming ideas and concepts for new design projects within the context of an overall branding, communications, and marketing strategy
• Analyzing problems and gathering information
• Consulting with copywriters, art directors, and clients to nail down a plan for executing a design concept that will most effectively communicate an intended message to a chosen demographic
• Sketching preliminary ideas for logos, layouts, or illustrations
• Assisting with the development of a corporate communications strategy

Project Execution

• Selecting and arranging the most appropriate typefaces, images, color palettes, and other visual elements for a particular design
• Using professional computer graphics software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign to mock up and execute design projects like logos, ads, flyers, posters, brochures, business cards, catalogs, magazine layouts, corporate reports, promotional displays, product packaging, and much more
• Collaborating with copywriters to ensure that any required text works well within an overall design
• Consulting with printers over paper and binding options, costs, timelines, proofs, and more
• Producing illustrations or other custom images for print and/or electronic media using special software, cameras, and computer accessories like digital drawing tablets
• Consulting with web developers and programmers to create the best possible graphical user interface for a particular website or mobile app
• Using software such as Sketch, Figma, Adobe XD, or InVision Studio for web or UI design mockups and prototypes

Revisions, Approval, and File Prep

• Presenting designs to art directors or clients for their approval
• Carrying out any needed revisions
• Preparing appropriate files for a printer or for use in a specific electronic format
• Proofing work for mistakes and compliance with branding guidelines

Self-employed graphic designers also develop new business contacts, market their services, submit proposals to potential clients, and perform various administrative tasks.

There is no standard employment situation or work environment for graphic designers. They can be part of organizations' in-house marketing, design, or production teams. They can work for outside agencies or studios. Or they can be freelancers with clients in multiple industries.

Examples of common work settings include:

• Design studios
• Advertising agencies
• Corporate offices
• Marketing and public relations firms
• Home offices
• Media studios
• Printing facilities
• Government or non-profit offices
• Post-secondary schools

Brand identity: Design logos, business cards, letterheads, and other core assets for companies, organizations, or individuals. Also, draft style rules and guidelines that provide direction on how and when to use (or not use) specific visual elements such as colors, typefaces, and images.

Web and user interface (UI) design: Help create functional and visually appealing layouts, navigational systems, and user experiences for websites, mobile apps, video games, or other forms of digital media.

Print media and communications: Focus on designing attractive and easy-to-read layouts for printed publications like books, magazines, and newspapers as well as marketing collateral such as brochures, flyers, catalogs, newsletters, posters, and more.

Product packaging: Specialize in designing the 3D materials that protect products, get the attention of consumers, and provide factual, useful, and persuasive information about the enclosed goods.

Environmental graphics: Help craft visual systems that catch people's attention and enable them to find their way in new places or gain a heightened understanding or appreciation for particular subjects. Designers in this area often create signage, visual cues, free-standing displays, and interactive design elements for retail environments, public spaces, trade shows, or museum exhibitions.

Data visualization: Turn complex facts and statistics into simplified visuals that are easier to understand (such as charts, diagrams, or other infographics).

Motion graphics: Design animated text or imagery for film, television, video games, websites, online videos, or multimedia projects using software like Cinema 4D or Adobe After Effects.

Why is graphic design important?

From the first cave drawings, visual communication has been a critical component of human interaction. It's part of how we understand each other. But just as the poor use of verbal or written language can cause breakdowns in communication, so can the poor use of visual elements.

That's why graphic design is important. Done well, it clarifies the messages we wish to communicate.

In business, thoughtful design can provide many benefits, including:

• A competitive advantage
• Stronger customer trust and loyalty
• Increased market share
• Clearer differentiation from other brands in the marketplace

Plus, it has the power to enhance our understanding of complex ideas and societal challenges. It can even bring attention and public support to movements for needed social change.

Good visual design enriches the human experience, appeals to our emotional center, and makes much of what we take for granted possible.

What's the difference between a graphic artist and a graphic designer?

In today's visual communications landscape, the two job titles are often interchangeable. However, some professionals, employers, and educational institutions in this field prefer to make clear distinctions. In their view, graphic artists are more focused on creating illustrations that utilize their drawing skills. In contrast, graphic designers create layouts that may utilize a wide variety of imagery, text, and other visual elements that don't necessarily require any drawing.

This wasn't always the case. In many situations, before the widespread use of computers, graphic artists primarily carried out the technical aspects of producing a printed piece, such as physically setting type and screening photos. Also known as a production artist, a graphic artist handled the job's execution under the graphic designer's direction. It was the graphic designer, not the graphic artist, who developed the concept and design.

As with everything, however, there are exceptions. Some employers have retained the old hierarchy. And some have even flipped it, preferring the term "artist" for those who perform more of the conceptual work.

Where should I work when I become a graphic designer?

This field provides a surprising number of career options for those with determination and the creative talent and skills to back it up. Just about all businesses and organizations must adopt a well-crafted communications strategy in order to remain competitive and ensure that their messages get noticed and understood. Here are five of the most popular work options:

• Design studios vary in size, but they are usually small companies. Design studios generally offer such opportunities in abundance for people who love creating logos, brochures, and packaging. Many provide clients with creative solutions for both print and the Web.
• Advertising agencies usually provide more opportunities to do work that will be seen by many people. Although they are often fun places to work, they can also be very demanding due to clients' high expectations. Full-service firms provide their clients with complete brand strategy, design, production, and media buying services for every media type, including print, television, radio, and the Web. Smaller agencies frequently specialize in just one or a few creative services such, as brand development or online marketing.
• In-house marketing departments are integral to the success of many companies and organizations. Graphic designers typically aid in the production of items like brochures, promotional displays, annual reports, catalogs, training materials, and, sometimes, advertising campaigns. The upside to working for an in-house art department is that you only have one client (your employer), so you get to know them very well.
• Publishing and entertainment jobs vary greatly. Publishing includes companies that put out electronic and print magazines, newspapers, books, and business directories. Duties typically involve a lot of typesetting, layout work, photo manipulation, and advertising creation. Many TV, film, and gaming companies employ graphic designers to produce on-screen graphics, including motion graphics for credit and title sequences. Designers are also often responsible for creating various promotional materials.
• Self-employment offers the freedom to select projects, gather your own clients, and set your own schedule. But the freelance lifestyle is not for everyone. It can mean unsteady paychecks, longer work hours, and design that may not always reach a large audience. Those who are self-employed also have the expense of keeping their computers and software packages up to date, networking to find new clients, and handling business administration tasks.

How can I get noticed as a new graphic designer?

First, make sure you have an online portfolio of your best work. You don't necessarily need to have your own website, but your work should be posted where potential clients, employers, and other designers can see it. Check out platforms like Behance and Dribbble for this purpose.

Also, get out and start networking. By attending design conferences and similar events, you can meet successful art directors, senior designers, and other creative professionals who can give you leads on potential opportunities or help point you in the right direction. Look into conferences like Adobe MAX and the Smashing Conference . Or become a member of AIGA and attend events put on by your local chapter.

Volunteering your design services to non-profit groups is another good way to develop contacts and good references.

You can also separate yourself from much of the competition by developing professional writing and editing skills. Or perhaps you have a knack for programming. Acquiring a combination of great design, writing, and coding skills is a sure way to get noticed since it is so rare.

Trade Schools for Graphic Design Make It Easy to Get Started

By checking out graphic design schools near you, you'll follow in the footsteps of many other talented and creative people. A trade school program can help you become a skilled, knowledgeable, and credible graphic designer with good prospects in a career you enjoy.

* Length of training information is based on information from the U.S. Department of Education and a sampling of relevant program lengths from a mix of about 20 public, private non-profit, and private for-profit institutions' websites (visited February 26, 2024).

** Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook (visited February 26, 2024).

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Home » Academics » School of Graphic Design

School of Graphic Design

Learn to use the visual currency that defines our contemporary world. As a student in the School of Graphic Design, you’ll be mentored by faculty members with years of graphic design experience working with brand-name companies and strong ties to the overall industry (AIGA). Using the latest technologies, you will create a well-rounded portfolio that includes branding, experience design, motion design, packaging, and print. You’ll also experience being part of a real design agency, learn to cultivate strong problem-solving skills, and gain an appreciation for how sustainability affects design.

Schedule your consultation today!

Shape the world.

Graphic design plays a large role in how we see the world. When you stop and look, you’ll find the works of graphic designers are all around you every day. From product packaging, to logos and branding, and more – these visual concepts influence consumers and shape your daily experiences.

What We Teach

Simultaneously pervasive and elusive, design’s boundaries are porous and defy categorization. But while design can take virtually any form, it can often be described as existing within one—or more—of these eight forms.

Communication Design How do companies and organizations get ideas across to their customers, audiences, readers, and users? Much of design is about communications—whether printed or online—and making sure people hear what you have to say.

Editorial Design How do we find out about the world around us? Newspapers, magazines, textbooks and publications—both printed and online—provide us with the information critical to our knowledge and understanding.

Environmental Design Design is often used in architectural settings and other physical environments. Museums, galleries, retail environments, exhibits, installations, conference rooms, themed environments all use design for wayfinding and brand reinforcement.

Branding The gut feeling you have about a company, product or service is due to its brand—which makes it an incredibly valuable asset. Much design activity is devoted to building and articulating a brand personality through the creation of logotypes, brand standards, identity systems, and myriad applications in marketing, retail, online, and mobile settings.

Packaging One of the most tangible aspects of branding is how companies and products position themselves in the retail environment with packaging—the part of a brand that you actually touch. The three-dimensional and structural requirements of packaging make this a highly-specialized design undertaking.

Typography Typography is the means by which words take visual form. It comprises a core component within design—combining many of the aesthetic and technical attributes of the discipline. A highly specialized skill, typography is a distinct practice—and business—in and of itself.

Experience Design Often viewed through the lens of interactivity—ie user experience (UX) and user interfaces (UI), experience design is actually a much larger interdisciplinary endeavor that also includes digital product design (left) and motion design. The ongoing proliferation of mobile devices and computers makes this one of the fastest-growing areas of graphic design.

Innovation In today’s world, innovative thinking drives economic growth and defines new possibilities. Design—and design thinking—is asked to address challenges like social progress, service design models, sustainable futures, transition design, generative art (right), and design education to name but a few. Design is limited only by our imaginations.

Communicating Ideas

As a student in the School of Graphic Design, our professional instructors help you develop your innovation, critical thinking, visual literacy, conceptual problem solving, and technical skills to create a competitive portfolio to help you secure the job that you want.

Start Your Career Now

Your dream is within reach. Follow your heart and get started on the career of your dreams.

Facilities & Technology

The latest in software and equipment is essential to preparing you to enter the graphic design work force, which is why we keep up with current advancements in technology and design industry practices. Whatever the pros are doing and whatever the pros are using is what you will find in our classrooms and studios.

Our faculty makes the difference. They are graphic design industry veterans who help bridge the needs of the industry with the curriculum and experience our students get.

Five Keys Logo Re-Branding

Non-profit organization Five Keys gives transitional-aged youth and adults a chance at a fresh start through their accredited charter schools. In turn, Graphic Design students from the Academy gave them a fresh start by re-branding their logo. Student Celina Oh even took on an internship to help Five Keys with their brand integration efforts.

Student Work

Cathryn Guevarra Graphic Design

Jiarong Jane Lu Graphic Design

Julia Fernandez Graphic Design

Kay Shehata Graphic Design

Kiersten Kerch Graphic Design

Koyama Lee Graphic Design

Michelle Busy Graphic Design

Yu Liu Graphic Design

An Huang Graphic Design

Anya Widyawati Graphic Design

Jay Jeon Graphic Design

Jonathan Biehl Graphic Design

Silvia Abruzzese Graphic Design

Xin Du Graphic Design

Yvonne Anaya Graphic Design

Emilie Garnier Graphic Design

Alumni Success

Featured Alumni

The industry insight and thesis development at the MFA program set me up for a successful career in graphic design. The faculty helped me develop my formal and conceptual skills, and also the practical skills like presenting to groups, critiquing work, and writing a design proposal.

Adobe Systems

In a collaborative effort between Adobe Systems and Academy of Art University, students Julia Lemke and Michael Taylor were asked to develop the concept and visuals for the Adobe Creative Cloud educational campaign with the guidance of Tolleson Design Creative Director (and Academy alum) Jamie Calderon.

Careers in Graphic Design

As one of the top art and design schools in the country, Academy of Art University graphic design graduates have a range of opportunities to choose from. Our facilities, faculty, and hands-on learning approach are designed to provide you with the tools you need to succeed in this exciting industry. Explore AI in graphic design to stay ahead in the field.

VIEW ALL CAREERS

Creative/Art Director As a creative director, you'll work with copywriters, designers, and creative directors to produce creative solutions which meet branding objectives, while setting a high bar for creativity within your organization. You'll be responsible for setting and presenting high-level vision for projects and managing teams to achieve brand and client success.

Graphic Designer Graphic designers work within companies and institutions of all kinds, as well as in advertising and design studios, large and small. Graphic designers work on a wide range of projects which includes branding, editorial, interactive, environmental, advertising, and information design. Although the designer’s role will vary by organization it will always be tasked with producing creative, effective, and elegant graphic solutions, both print and digital.

Product Designer Product designers use UX design tools and methods along with type, color, layout and motion, design and iconography systems to create interactive experiences that resonate with users. Product designers integrate and cross between the role of UX and Visual designer depending on their role in an organization. They work with front-end developers and are responsible for all (or part) of the usability, functionality and visual design of a digital product such as an app, website or social media platform.

User Experience (UX) Designer UX designers work with product designers and visual designers as well as front-end developers, and clients to create interactive experiences that resonate with users. They document and present UX ideas and solutions to team members and clients. UX designers utilize research methods and user testing to architect the structure and navigation flow of digital products such as apps and websites and other interactive experiences.

COMPANIES THAT HAVE HIRED OUR GRADUATES

Learn Online

Our revolutionary online courses provide the same rigorous education that we offer on campus with greater flexibility. Our online programs are purpose-built to deliver art and design courses. Study on your own time, at your own pace. Combine online and on-site classes.

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• Best Online Graphic Design Degrees

Best Online Graphic Design Degrees 2024

Updated: Jun 12, 2024, 12:59pm

A career in graphic design allows creative professionals to use their artistic skills to create logos, campaigns and other business-related items. Graphic designers generally benefit from flexible schedules and stimulating work. Nevertheless, it takes hard work and considerable skill to launch a career as a designer. A graphic design bachelor’s degree is a great place to start.

Broadly speaking, graphic design is less regulated than more traditional academic fields. As such, it can be tough to distinguish between similar-looking programs. To help you navigate these sometimes murky waters, we’ve researched and ranked the 10 best schools currently offering online graphic design programs. Read on to learn more.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 11 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering online graphic design bachelor’s degrees in the U.S. using 17 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes, student experience and application process.

We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of February 2024.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes:

• Graduation rate within eight years of normal time
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation
• Pell Grant recipient graduation rate within eight years of normal time
• Retention rate
• Pell Grant graduation rate vs. overall graduation rate

Affordability:

• Average in-state tuition rate and fees
• Median federal student loan debt
• Student loan default rate
• Percentage of students who take out loans

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Program’s coursework (excluding student orientations, field experiences and labs) is available 100% online
• Proportion of undergraduate students enrolled in at least some distance learning courses

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Nonprofit status

Application Process:

• Acceptance rate
• Uses Common App

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 66% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Key Takeaways

Should you enroll in an online graphic design program, accreditation for online graphic design degrees, how to find the right online bachelor’s degree in graphic design for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online graphic design degrees.

• Graphic design degrees aren’t always necessary to get jobs, but they provide comprehensive, immersive education options.
• Graphic design degrees usually cover art history, color theory, two-dimensional design and various Adobe tools.
• Very few online graphic design programs include in-person requirements.

Best Online Graphic Design Degree Options

Troy university, lindenwood university, liberty university, southern new hampshire university, bellevue university, wilmington university, savannah college of art and design, arizona state university digital immersion, kentucky wesleyan college, lesley university.

Program Tuition Rate

$424/credit

Student Retention Rate

Graduation Rate

Located in Troy, Alabama, Troy University offers several online degrees, including a bachelor’s program in graphic design. The program core consists of 41 credits and includes studies in foundational areas like graphic design history, user experience design, typography, and the business of art and design. Students must complete a client-focused design studio course and a thesis exhibition showcasing their original work and research.

Troy delivers online coursework asynchronously through Canvas for maximum flexibility.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on Your Schedule
• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $30
• Degree Credit Requirements: 120 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Graphic design history, exhibition techniques
• Concentrations Available: N/A
• In-Person Requirements: No

$495/credit

Located in St. Charles, Missouri, Lindenwood University is among the oldest universities west of the Mississippi River. Lindenwood offers an online Bachelor of Fine Arts in art and design with a graphic design emphasis. Students can complete the 69-credit program without ever visiting campus.

The curriculum covers drag-and-drop web design, motion graphics, and imaging and illustration. All students also gain certification in Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator. Learners get practical experience through an internship or team-based design firm course.

Lindenwood uses the Canvas platform to deliver most of its online coursework asynchronously.

• School Type: Private
• Program Enrollment Options: Full time, part time
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Drag and drop web design; motion graphics

$390/credit

Based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University enrolls more than 135,000 students, mostly remotely. The university’s online Bachelor of Fine Arts program in graphic design requires 120 credits, and full-time learners generally graduate in four years. The curriculum covers digital imaging, art history and introduction to graphic design, and all students gain experience with Adobe Photoshop and InDesign.

Liberty delivers online coursework for this program asynchronously.

• Application Fee: $50
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Digital imaging, introduction to 3D graphics
• In-Person Requirements: Practicum and internship required

$330/credit

Located in Manchester, New Hampshire, Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an online Bachelor of Arts in graphic design and media arts with two concentration options: user experience design and web design. The program’s 120-credit curriculum covers digital design tools and design fundamentals. Online students also take a course in personal branding and self-promotion to learn how to market their skills and services after graduation.

SNHU delivers all program coursework asynchronously to provide maximum flexibility.

• Application Fee: Free
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Design thinking for graphic designers, multi-channel advertising design
• Concentrations Available: User experience design, web design
• In-Person Requirements: Optional internship

$449/credit

Located in suburban Omaha, Nebraska, Bellevue University primarily focuses on distance learning. The university’s online Bachelor of Arts in graphic design requires 127 credits and usually takes four years of full-time study to complete. The curriculum includes courses in branding and identity design, web development, and interactivity. All students assemble a portfolio and craft a résumé before graduation.

Bellevue University delivers most online coursework asynchronously. Students never need to visit campus to earn their graphic design degrees.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 127 credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Branding, identity design

$409/credit

Located in New Castle, Delaware, Wilmington University provides an online Bachelor of Science in graphic design that includes 63 credits of core coursework. The program introduces students to Adobe tools like InDesign and Photoshop and covers vector drawing, concept development, illustration and the business of freelancing.

WilmU’s graphic design program does not include any in-person requirements, but students can choose to complete an internship. Online courses may be synchronous or asynchronous.

• Application Fee: $35
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Basic InDesign, visual communication

$914/credit

Located in Georgia, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) has expanded its distance learning presence in recent years through the SCADnow platform. The college’s online Bachelor of Arts in graphic design requires 180 quarter credits and covers production for digital environments, typography, and business fundamentals and economic principles. All students compile a professional portfolio before they graduate.

Learners can also complete an optional internship or take an additional elective course.

• Application Fee: $100
• Degree Credit Requirements: 180 quarter credits
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Production for digital environments, graphic design professional portfolio

$563/credit

• Application Fee: $70
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Designing life, graphic design history
• In-Person Requirements: Internship required

$475/credit

Based out of Owensboro, Kentucky Wesleyan College (KWC) is a private, Methodist-affiliated university that has expanded its distance learning profile in recent years. The university’s online Bachelor of Arts in graphic design requires 120 credits, and the curriculum delves into advanced digital photography techniques, two-dimensional design and digital painting. All students also complete a relevant graphic design internship in the field.

KWC’s flexible online courses allow students to complete work in their own time. Learners can contact their professors anytime.

• Example Major-Specific Courses: Advanced digital photography techniques, two-dimensional design
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, internship required

$525/credit

Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Lesley is a relatively small, private university that offers several online programs, including UX design. The primarily project-based Bachelor of Science requires 120 credits. During the program, students delve into graphic design, interface elements and UX design business practices.

Students can enroll in the program full time or part time. Distance learners never need to visit campus.

• Application Fee: N/A
• Example Major-Specific Courses: Information architecture, sketching for interactive design

Graphic design generally lends itself well to distance learning. However, online degrees suit a specific kind of student. To determine if that’s you, ask yourself a few key questions.

• How much flexibility do you need? Flexibility is the biggest selling point of distance learning. If you are a parent or plan to work while earning your degree, you might benefit from enrolling in an asynchronous online program, which will not include any scheduled class times. This delivery method can help you manage a busy schedule.
• What’s your budget? Online learning is often more affordable than on-campus learning, as online students generally avoid paying college housing and transportation costs. Additionally, some public universities allow out-of-state online students to pay discounted or in-state tuition rates.
• What’s your learning style? Online learning generally works for self-motivated, disciplined and organized students. Students who prefer in-person support or face-to-face interaction to stay on track might opt for on-campus learning.

When searching for online programs, look for two types of accreditation: institutional and programmatic. Institutional accreditation is an essential marker of a school’s credibility.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee regional agencies that handle institutional accreditation. These agencies vet schools for the quality of their faculty, finances and programs. You should only enroll at institutionally accredited schools; otherwise, you won’t be eligible for federal financial aid, and employers and professional organizations may not recognize your degree.

To check a school’s accreditation status, you can visit its accreditation webpage or check the directory on CHEA’s website .

Programmatic accreditation provides similar quality assurance in specific fields. However, this distinction isn’t very prevalent in graphic design. Instead, just make sure the school you attend is institutionally accredited. Each school on our list has earned accreditation.

The best online graphic design program depends on your long-term goals and budget. When narrowing down your options, consider these factors.

Consider Your Future Goals

Before enrolling in an online graphic design degree, it’s important to articulate your career goals and ensure the program aligns with your aspirations.

The first consideration is whether or not you need to earn a four-year degree. Employers in graphic design are generally more concerned with your skills than your education. You may be able to learn the required skills through a certificate or graphic design associate degree . These options could save you a significant amount of money.

That said, bachelor’s degrees in graphic design are more comprehensive. A well-rounded program can help you develop all the skills you need to become a graphic designer , including personal branding, good business practices and technical certifications. If an immersive, comprehensive education appeals to you, a bachelor’s in graphic design may be the right choice.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Excluding the one major outlier, per-credit tuition rates for the programs in our guide ranged from $330 to $563. Over the course of a 120-credit bachelor’s degree, this translates to approximately $40,000 to $67,500 in total tuition.

For a point of comparison, the National Center for Education Statistics found that in the 2022–23 academic year, the average four-year public school charged $9,750 in tuition and fees. Private, nonprofit colleges cost an average of $38,421 per year. For a typical bachelor’s degree, this translates to $39,000 and $153,684, respectively.

To lower your total cost, your first step should be to fill out the FAFSA. This helps you access scholarships, loans, grants and work-study opportunities. You can pursue similar financial aid options through schools and nonprofit organizations.

Are online graphic design degrees worth it?

It depends on your goals and circumstances. But if you work full time or balance family responsibilities, an online graphic design degree might be worth it. The digital, computer-based field lends itself well to online study.

Can I study graphic design online?

Yes, you can! All of the programs ranked in this guide can be completed online, though some require an internship.

Can you be a graphic designer online?

Yes, many graphic designers primarily interact and do business online.

Which degree is best for graphic design?

A bachelor’s degree in graphic design helps you learn artistic, technical and business skills. However, not all design jobs require a bachelor’s degree, especially if you choose to freelance. A one-year certificate or two-year associate degree can also be good options.

Mikeie Reiland is a writer who has written features for Oxford American, Bitter Southerner, Gravy, and SB Nation, among other publications. He received a James Beard nomination for a feature he wrote in 2023.

2024 Design Contest Winners

Visit us in booth c4318 attend september 12-14, 2024 free expo pass with code: 871593, 2024 -2025 scholarship applications, pgsf directory of schools, review and download our 2023 edition, graphic communications career guide, discover your passion in print & graphics, get involved, you will build the future, investing in the future, changing lives since 1956, the foundation, along with its donors and sponsors, are working to build the future workforce of the graphic communications industry..

The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) is a not-for-profit organization that offers undergraduate college and technical school scholarships, educational use grants and graduate fellowship assistance to individual interested in graphic communication careers.

PGSF through a variety of programs focuses on attracting young people to the industry. We use a variety of communication and community building avenues to inform students as well as their community, parents, school administration, instructors and advisors, of the wide variety of career opportunities available. Individuals currently working and looking to pursue post-secondary education in order to seek a path into print, packaging and related industries are also eligible for financial assistance , even if they attend school part time.

Our educational use grant program is open to institutions and instructors directly engaged in Graphic Communication, Visual and Design Technology and Print-centric educational programs. High schools, trade schools, junior and community college associate programs, four-year colleges, and universities, along with Masters and Doctorate Degree programs can apply.

Testimonials

“I think of this past semester as a foundation for my graphic design skills, which is hugely important. I plan to study abroad in London next spring, and have internships lined up for this summer, all thanks to the skills I've learned this year and the help from PGSF!”

– Julia Banks, Harold Gegenheimer and Madeline McClure Gegenheimer Scholarship

“I want to thank everyone for their work in helping students like me be able to pursue and achieve our educational goals. It means a lot to me, my family, and the students I've been able to work with throughout my career. I will continue to promote these scholarship programs as I know it makes a big difference to so many students. Thank you for any part you play, and everything you do!!”

– Kalani Ferguson, Illinois Education Fund Fellowship recipient

“Without having to worry as much about finances towards my education and the quality of my supplies, I can focus more on my actual learning and spend more time improving my skills.”

– Abigail Rodriguez-Colón, Georgia Southern University

"I am honored to have received a PGSF scholarship because it shows that my education is valuable to more than just me and that I am supported in my career goals."

– Hannah Peterson, University of Wisconsin Stout

"To be recognized by PGSF is very validating to me as a collegiate designer. Receiving this award has helped greatly in easing the financial burden of obtaining a higher education. But above all, it encourages me to keep pursuing a career as a graphic designer. I feel very honored to have been selected for a PGSF scholarship."

– Chandler Bess, Oklahoma State University - School of Technology

"The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation has been a tremendous blessing to me and my family. Its financial support has allowed me to live out my dream of playing college basketball without having to worry about working to afford college. Going into my senior year, I’m still just as thankful to be a PGSF Scholar as when I was first selected. "

– Marcus Richardson, UNC Chapel Hill

BUILDING THE FUTURE WORKFORCE OF THE GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY

Scholarship awards vary in amount from $1,000 to $5,000 per academic year, in most cases, for up to four years. Financial assistance is also available for current employees in the industry who are taking part time classes to advance their career.

Change the life of someone going to school by providing them the extra support they need to achieve their goals.

Whether you are aware of it or not, graphic communications is all around you. It is an industry that has establishments in every state and nearly every city or town. And it offers a wide range of positions from production to administrative.

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Create meaningful solutions in Ringling College of Art and Design’s Graphic Design BFA program . Join award-winning faculty and students and learn to apply your design to a broad spectrum of 2D, 3D, and screen-based media. Specialize in branding, packaging, or interactive design. Apply now!

Top 5 Graphic Design School Programs in Missouri - 2024 College Rankings

What are the top Missouri graphic design colleges for 2024?

Our 2024 ranking of the top 5 graphic design school programs in Missouri. For an explanation of the ranking criteria,  click here .

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is home to the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts, which houses the College of Architecture; the Graduate School of Art; the Graduate School of Architecture and Urban Design; and Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum. Together, these academic divisions provide access to numerous maker spaces and exhibitions; a dedicated art and architecture library; one of the nation’s first Master of Urban Design programs; and approximately 3,500 significant pieces of art and installations by 19th-, 20th- and 21st-century American and European artists. 

Sam Fox also provides dozens of degree programs, including a Design BA with a Communication concentration, and a Communication Design BFA. All first-year students will take Digital Studio and two courses such as 2D Design, Drawing, or 3D Design. Electives from the Sam Fox School and advanced studio courses allow students to create an area of focus. 

The BA program is designed for students seeking a liberal arts curriculum within the studio major, while the BFA provides an immersive studio experience. Students in both programs benefit from low student-to-faculty ratios allowing opportunities to work one on one with instructors; internship opportunities; and study abroad for a summer or semester in Florence. 

Across programs, students have access to courses such as Global Topics in Visual Communication; Design in Social Systems; Type as Image: The Design of Books; UX Research methods for Design; Applied Illustration; Letterpress Printing; Programming Design; image and Meaning; Multimedia Design: Time/Sound/Space; Content to Cover: The Design of Books; and Printing Propaganda: The Letterpress Poster. Courses for the BA and BFA programs at Washington University in St. Louis are supplemented by seminars and readings. 

The BA program culminates with a final project. BFA students will complete the BFA Capstone + Thesis Exhibition to graduate. Students in both programs will take Professional Practice Seminars highlighting portfolio development, CV creation, interviewing, public speaking, and developing job search skills. 

The BA and BFA programs at Washington University in St. Louis are accredited by the College Art Association of America (CAA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). 

Graduates are prepared to pursue roles across all areas of design. Recent Sam Fox alumni have been hired at places such as Pixar, Walt Disney Imagineering, Google, IBM Design, The Atlantic , Nickelodeon, YouTube, Isaac Mizrahi, New York Magazine , Meta, Guggenheim Museum, Levi Strauss & Co., American Museum of Natural History, Pentagram, Princeton University Press, National Gallery of Art, and Gensler. 

Founded in 1853, Washington University in St. Louis serves approximately 15,190 students enrolled in more than 300 academic programs across seven schools. The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts was founded in 2006 after the merging of Architecture and Art, and the WashU Museum. Washington University in St. Louis has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1913.

Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) has multiple paths to study Graphic Design. This includes the traditional Graphic Design BFA; double majors in Graphic Design and Art History, and Graphic Design and Creative Writing; an Art History major with a Graphic Design Minor; and a Creative Writing major with a Graphic Design minor. 

All students will complete the first-year Foundation program along with courses and requirements such as Graphic Design Histories; Social  Innovation; Branding and Identity; Visual Inquiry; Information and Data Visualization; Type and Image; Self-Directed Inquiry; Interaction; Research and Process; and Professional Practices. 

Additional courses for the Graphic Design/Art History program Courses may include Contemporary Art; Global/Comparative Art; Modern Art; Baroque Art; and Art History Seminar. Students in the Graphic Design/Creative Writing program will complete 15 credit hours of literature courses and 12 credits in Creative Writing Workshop. Writing Seminar and Critical Studies I-II are also part of this program. 

Across programs, students benefit from interactions with visiting artists; faculty-led travel to places such as Peru, France, Thailand, Argentina, and Vietnam; and the opportunity to complete a professional internship in Missouri, the U.S. or abroad. 

The culminating experience for all programs is the final project and a professional portfolio of the student's best work. Graduates of the Design programs at Kansas City Art Institute have been hired to work in a variety of design roles at places such as Nickelodeon, Fossil, The Getty Museum, Pentagram, Hallmark, R/GA, Airbnb, Salesforce, VML, Radius, Hyperakt, Design Army, Populous, and Barkley. 

Kansas City Art Institute was established in 1885 as a Sketch Club. Situated just steps from the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art within Kansas City’s arts corridor, this four-year art and design college serves more than 700 students enrolled in 13 studio majors across 15 program areas. Kansas City Art Institute is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Missouri State University (MSU) is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). The school is also home to the Judith Enyeart Reynolds College of Arts and Letters, which houses the Art and Design Department. Within the department is a Design BFA program with tracks in Graphic Design; Graphic Design and Illustration; Sequential Art; and Illustration. 

The Graphic Design track explores areas such as publication design, interactive new media, web design, information architecture, editorial design, and information graphics. Course examples for this 18-credit hour focus area include Communication Design/Methodology; Advanced Graphics; Web Design for Design Majors; Image Design; Advanced Typography; and Basic New Media Design. 

In the Graphic Design and Illustration track, students explore traditional illustration techniques, information graphics, web design, and more. Students in this 33 credit hour focus area will take 15 credit hours in graphic design along with nine hours in illustration, six hours in special topics, and three hours of design electives. In addition to the courses for the Graphic Design track, students in this track will take courses such as Materials and Techniques for Illustration; Illustration; and Intermediate Illustration.

In the special topics courses, students will have the opportunity to explore a range of topics such as comic book illustration, book arts, letterpress printing, scientific illustration, art direction, and history of the book. Students in the Graphic Design track may take a special topics course to satisfy the three-credit hour design course requirement. 

All students have the opportunity to complete a design internship, where they will work with outside organizations under the supervision of a Design faculty member. 

The final semester of the Design BFA program includes the Professional Design Practicum course. In this design workshop, students will produce materials for their senior portfolio. Projects will include works for a non-profit organization (or a selected design issue), a related written thesis, and a public presentation. 

Graduates of the Design BFA program at Missouri State University are prepared to pursue careers in areas such as computer graphic design, advertising, book publishing, entertainment, web development, Newspaper and magazine publishing, journalism, consulting, scientific illustration, comic book publishing, exhibit design, public relations, consulting, education, and design research. Some program alumni also go on to launch their own design studios or freelance businesses.     

Missouri State University graduates have been hired at places such as Mercy Health System, The Walt Disney Company, Boeing, CoxHealth, Apple, Bass Pro Shops, Amazon, and O’Reilly Auto Parts. 

Founded in 1905, Missouri State University has four physical campuses including three in Missouri (Springfield, West Plains, and Mountain Grove) and one in Dalian, China. The school also houses the Fruit Experiment Station at Mountain Grove and Missouri State Outreach (online courses and programs). More than 24,000 MSU students also have access to over 160 degree programs with 270+ options across eight colleges. Missouri State University has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1915.

Webster University (Webster) is home to the Leigh Gerdine College of Fine Arts, which provides more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs across four departments. This includes the Department of Art, Design and Art History (DADAH), which hosts public lectures, art exhibitions, workshops, and more. DADAH is also home to the Graphic Design program leading to a BFA or a minor. 

Webster University also has a Motion Graphic Design (MGD) certificate program jointly managed by the Department of Art, Design and Art History and the School of Communications’ Media Arts Department. The program combines typography and design techniques with film, video, and animation. Consisting of 18 credit hours, the program requires the following courses: Time Studio; StoryLab or Production Hours; Type Dialogues; Graphics and Effects; Motion Graphics; and Design Concepts. 

Upon completion of the MGD certificate program, students will be prepared to work on projects for interactive environments, animation, television, film, and more.   

Also consisting of 18 credit hours, the Graphic Design minor at Webster University requires Introduction to Drawing; Digital Visualization; and Design Concepts. Students can select the remaining credits from elective options such as Book Arts and Letterpress; Design for UX/UI; Color Photographics; Type Dialogues; Screenprinting; and Design for Digital Portfolios. The Graphic Design minor can be added to most majors with department approval. Upon completion of the minor, graduates are prepared to pursue entry-level positions in graphic design. 

The Graphic Design BFA at Webster University is a studio-based program that requires 36 credit hours in the major. The program begins with core courses such as Current Art; Digital Visualizations; Materials and Making; and Creative Strategies. Upper division course examples include Design Theory and Methods; Topis in Design; Printmaking Concepts and Techniques; Design for Good; Professional Practice for Graphic Design; Early Renaissance Art; Keystone Seminar; and Short-Term Study Abroad Venice or Florence. 

The Graphic Design BFA program at Webster University culminates with the DADAH BA and BFA Exhibition held in the Arcade Contemporary Art Projects Gallery. Students will have the opportunity to design, manage, and execute this group art exhibition from beginning to end. 

Graduates are prepared to pursue advanced studies at Webster and other top universities, launch their own design studios or creative agencies, or seek design positions across industries. Webster alumni have been hired at places such as The Walt Disney Company, AT&T, the World Health Organization (WHO), Nestle, Octo Consulting Group (an IBM company), Booz Allen Hamilton, MasterCard, KPMG, Smithsonian Institution, and MRHFM Law Firm. 

Webster University was founded in 1915 as Loretto College by the Sisters of Loretto. When it opened, the school became the first senior Catholic college for women in Missouri and one of the first Catholic women’s colleges west of the Mississippi River. Today, Webster serves a co-ed population of  approximately 13,450 students enrolled in more than 160 programs across five colleges and schools. Webster University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

University of Missouri (Mizzou or MU) is home to the College of Arts and Science (C&S). Established in 1841 and housing 40 departments, the C&S is the oldest and largest academic division at Mizzou. 

Within the C&S is the School of Visual Studies (SVS)—home to the Department of Art and the Graphic Design program. Leading to a BA or BFA, the program provides access to state-of-the-art facilities and studios, such as designated graphic design facilities and a media production studio; opportunities to get involved with the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) Student Chapter; workshops and seminars; internships; and study abroad experiences in places such as the UK, Spain, Dublin, and Austria. 

Internships can be completed on or off campus. Mizzou students have interned at places such as Veterans United, Hallmark, Outdoor Brands, the Kansas City Royals, Mizzou Athletics, the Kansas City Chiefs, University Hospital, Robert J. Trulaske, Sr. College of Business at MU, Rachel Ray Magazine in New York, and MU Career Center. 

The Graphic Design BA and BFA programs at University of Missouri require 120 credit hours. Both programs begin with a sequence of five courses that prepare students for the major. In the major, students will explore design history, corporate identity, letterpress printing, packaging design, and hand lettering. 

Course examples include Digital Tools and Concepts; The History of Graphic Design; Interactive Media; Design Methods and Production; Packaging Design Systems; Design for Corporate Identity and Branding; Design Systems; Calligraphy and Hand Lettering; Introduction Typography; and Art History. 

In the fourth year of the Mizzou Graphic Design program, students will complete the Design Senior Seminar and Portfolio Development course. Graduates are prepared to pursue design roles across industries. Examples include Graphic Designer, Multimedia Artist, Creative Director, Product Designer, Marketing Specialist, User Experience (UX Designer), Animation Designer, Production Artist, User Interface (UI) Designer, Art Director, and Digital Designer. 

Program alumni have been hired at places such as Leo Burnett, Microsoft, VML Advertising, Nestle Purina, MCA records (Los Angeles), Hallmark, Cosmopolitan Magazine (NYC), Warner Music Group, Miami Dolphins, Salesforce, Arizona Cardinals, HGTV Magazine, and Kansas City Royals.   

Some Mizzou Graphic Design alumni have also gone on to launch their own creative agencies or freelance business that serve clients in the U.S. and around the world. 

Established in 1839, University of Missouri is one of only 64 universities across the U.S. and Canada to be a member of the Association of American Universities. The school serves approximately 31,120 students enrolled in more than 300 degree programs across eight colleges and schools. University of Missouri is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

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How to Become a Graphic Designer after 12th: Careers, Courses, Eligibility, Entrance Exams, Top Colleges, Skills, Benefits, Salary

Ahana Bhaduri

Content Writer

Candidates aspiring to become a graphic designer after class 12 can enrol across the specific degree, certificate, or diploma programs that place an emphasis on the overall development of candidates' graphic designing abilities. Aspirants can also opt for a master of arts (MA) in graphic design or MDes in graphic design for better opportunities and exposure. 

The average annual salary of a  Graphic Designer  in India is INR 3 LPA with the highest salary being INR 6.5 LPA. The monthly income of a graphic designer in India ranges between INR 21,498 to INR 23,139.  Check:   Graphic Designer Govt Jobs

Diploma in Graphic and Web Design, BDes in Graphic Design, MDes Graphic Design, BSc in Animation and Graphic Design, Certificate Course in Graphic Design, etc. are some of the popular graphic design courses for candidates looking to become graphic designers in India. Candidates can also opt for certificate and diploma courses that cover the fundamentals of the graphic designer profession and teach them the essential skills for launching a lucrative career. TCS, Deloitte, Google, Amazon, Accenture, etc. are some of the top employers offering  Graphic Designer Jobs  in India. The average annual  Salary of a Graphic Designer  at IndiGo is INR 14.72 LPA.

Table of Contents

How to Become a Graphic Designer after 12th: Quick Facts

Eligibility to become a graphic designer after 12th, steps to become a graphic designer after 12th.

• Courses to Become a Graphic Designer after 12th

4.1 Entrance Exams

• Top Graphic Design Colleges

Skills Required to Become a Graphic Designer after 12th

Benefits of becoming a graphic designer after 12th, salary of a graphic designer, how to become a graphic designer after 12th: faqs.

In order to become a graphic designer, specific eligibility criteria are required to be met. Additionally, different companies have varying eligibility standards. The following are typical requirements for becoming a graphic designer:

• Candidates must have cleared class 12 with a minimum of 45% to 50% of marks from a recognized board. Some institutions also allow a candidate who has passed class 10, for a diploma in graphic design.
• Candidates must have cleared a 10+2 or 10+3 diploma with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks for a BDes in graphic design. Additionally, candidates may also be required to take entrance exams like SEED (for SID) and MH CET, CUCET, or any other examination conducted by the relevant universities.
• Candidates must have cleared 10+2 with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks from any stream in order to be eligible for a bachelor of arts (BA Hons) in graphic design and visual communication.
• Candidates must have cleared 10+2 with a minimum of 45% to 50% marks from the science stream in order to be eligible for a bachelor of science (BSc) in graphics, advertising, and digital design.
• Candidates must have cleared graduation or equivalent degree in design to be eligible for an MDes in graphic design. Additionally, candidates may also be required to take entrance exams like AIEED, SEED, or any other test of design ability followed by a studio test and/or an individual interview.
• Candidates must have cleared class 12 or class 10 for a short-term certificate course in graphic design.

To become a graphic designer, candidates can directly apply to graphic design colleges or private training institutes in India. Candidates have the option of enrolling in full-time degrees, short-term certification, or diploma programs. The basic steps that can be taken to become a graphic designer in India are as follows.

• Pursue a relevant course -  To become a graphic designer, a candidate can pursue a degree or certificate course in Graphic design. This can generally be pursued after qualifying for higher secondary (10+2).
• Apply for Graphic Design colleges/institutes -  Candidates must be admitted to degree colleges or training institutes in order to learn and develop the skills necessary to become an established graphic designer.
• Improve understanding of Graphic Design Tools -  Graphic designers commonly use a variety of design software namely Adobe Creative Cloud, Adobe PhotoShop, Adobe Illustrator, and InDesign. One must learn and improve the understanding of these basic tools to get started.
• Create a Portfolio -  After having a strong grasp of graphic designing skills, one must develop a portfolio to include their personal and professional projects. The portfolio will serve as a potential aid to showcase their skills to future employers and clients.
• Apply to Graphic Design jobs and postings -  Candidates should routinely monitor the websites of companies for job openings and submit their applications accordingly. Their resume needs to be modified to match the criteria of the recruiters they are applying to. Some of the top recruiters of graphic designers in India are TCS, Deloitte, Google, Amazon, Accenture, etc.

Graphic Design Courses after 12th

Graphic Design courses after class 12  generally consist of degree courses or certificate and diploma courses through which students build up knowledge in fundamental aspects of the graphic designing field. Candidates can go for full-time courses like BSc, BA, BDes, or  MDes  in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Communication Design, Advertising, etc., or a short-term certificate or diploma course.

The following table lists the specifics of the most popular courses:

Entrance Exams

The majority of applicants are admitted to graphic design programs based on merit. Students must take entrance tests like the SEED, MAH BDesign-CET, CEED, AIEED, etc. to be admitted to full-time programs. The table below includes information on some of the top entrance tests.

Top Graphic Designer Colleges

Graphic design courses are offered by many top colleges in India. The table below includes information about some of the top colleges for graphic design courses in India.

Candidates are required to have a combination of skills to become a graphic designer in India. The most important skills required to become a graphic designer are listed below for reference:

The profession of graphic design offers the following benefits:

• The freedom to fully express creative abilities and imagination is the main perk of working as a graphic designer.
• The core of the job requires designers to regularly exhibit their creativity. This career enables one to try out creative ideas and concepts.
• Typography, web design, illustration, user experience design, and 3D packaging, are some of the areas where graphic designers can focus their expertise.
• One can work in a number of settings, but many graphic designers also discover that they prefer the independence of running their own freelance firm. This not only allows one to work from home but also choose the preferable rates and working hours.
• Numerous reputable organizations are looking for somebody with strong graphic design skills who can provide eye-catching graphics that match their company's identity and mission.

The average annual salary of a graphic designer in India is INR 5 LPA. With time and experience, it has been observed that most recruiters raise the salary of graphic designers as well. The salary of a graphic designer is also likely to depend on whether one works as a freelancer or is employed in an industry. As a freelancer, a graphic designer is allowed to demand a favourable amount from a client.

A graphic designer's beginning pay in India ranges from INR 2.5 LPA to INR 10.3 LPA, depending on experience. In the table below, salaries for places that are comparable to a graphic designer are listed.

Ques. What are the education requirements to become a graphic designer in India?

Ans.  Graphic design as a career can be pursued after class 12 by enrolling in specific degree, certificate, or diploma programs. Aspirants can also opt for a master of arts (MA) in graphic design or MDes in graphic design for better career prospects and exposure.

Ques. What is the age limit to become a graphic designer in India?

Ans.  There is no specific age limit per se to become a graphic designer in India. However, candidates may be required to be at least 18 years of age to be eligible for a graphic design course.

Ques. What skills are necessary to become a graphic designer in India?

Ans.  The top skills that are required to become a graphic designer in India are Photoshop skills, editing, creativity, visual communication, and software skills, to name a few.

Ques. How can I apply for a job as a graphic designer?

Ans.  Candidates can apply for job postings of graphic designers offered by various companies. They should keep looking for job postings on the official websites of the top recruiters of the post.

Ques. Can I work as a freelance graphic designer?

Ans.  Yes. One of the most important benefits is that one can work in a number of settings, but many graphic designers also discover that they prefer the independence of running their own freelance firm. This not only allows one to work from home but also choose the preferable rates and working hours.

Ques. What are the career prospects of a graphic designer in India?

Ans.  Graphic designers can search for a fulfilling career with room for advancement. They can advance to positions like senior graphic designer or senior visual designer with experience.

Ques. What is the average salary of a graphic designer in India?

Ans.  The average annual salary of a graphic designer in India is INR 3 LPA with the highest salary being INR 6.5 LPA. The monthly income of a graphic designer in India ranges between INR 21,498 to INR 23,139.

Ques. Can I do a graphic design course without a science background?

Ans.  Yes. There are several graphic design courses available where a science background isn't necessary. Some of these courses are Diploma in Graphic Design, BA Hons in Graphic Design, and Certificate in Graphic Design.

Ques. How to get started as a graphic designer in India?

Ans.  Candidates should routinely monitor the websites of companies for job openings and submit their applications accordingly. The first step to becoming a graphic designer is to create a resume and a portfolio. Their resume must be modified to meet the requirements of the recruiters they are applying to. The portfolio will serve as a potential aid to showcase their skills to future employers and clients.

Ques. What are the top recruiters of graphic designers in India?

Ans.  Some of the top recruiters of graphic design in India are TCS, Deloitte, Google, Amazon, Accenture, etc.

Master of Arts [MA] (Graphic Design) : 8 answered questions

Ques. how do i get my ignou id card after taking admission in the ma programme.

● Top Answer By Aasif Dar on 20 Oct 22

Ques. How much can an average student score in an MA programme at IGNOU?

● Top Answer By Ram Achal on 03 Nov 22

Ques. Is it worth joining the IGNOU M.A. course for the UPSC optional subject during preparation?

● Top Answer By Sarvesh Mittal on 28 Oct 22

Ques. What are the benefits of an MA from IGNOU?

● Top Answer By Saheli Ray on 03 Nov 22

Ques. Is it valuable doing MA after Bsc from IGNOU?

● Top Answer By Renuka Mahesh on 03 Nov 22

Ques. Why should one prefer MA as a career option?

● Top Answer By Mihir Jain on 28 Aug 20

Ques. How is MA in development studies in IIT guwahati and Whats the procedure to apply ?

● Top Answer By Manpreet Singh on 24 Jan 24

Ques. What is the process for selection in MIT-WPU for MA?

● Top Answer By Lakshita Kapur on 28 Aug 20

Master of Arts [MA] (English)

Master of arts [ma] (economics), master of arts [ma] (history), master of arts [ma] (political science), master of arts [ma] (hindi), master of arts [ma] (graphic design) colleges in india.

Sacred Heart College - [SHC]

Mahatma Gandhi University - [MGU]

Apeejay Stya University - [ASU]

Apeejay Institute of Design - [AID]

School of Design and Visual Arts, Apeejay Stya University -[SDVA]

St Joseph College of Communication - [SJCC]

Yeldo Mar Baselios College - [YMBC]

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Career Videos

What education do you need to become a Graphic Designers and Illustrators?

This is what you typically need for the job:

• A university degree in visual arts with specialization in graphic design, commercial art, graphic communications or cartooning or Completion of a college diploma program in graphic arts is required.
• Experience or training in multimedia design at a post-secondary, college or technical institution may be required.
• In addition to the arts, training in biology, engineering, architecture or a scientific field is usually required for medical, technical and scientific illustrators.
• Creative ability and artistic talent, as demonstrated by a portfolio of work, are required for graphic designers and illustrators.

Career Related Questions

• What education do you need to become a Graphic Designers and Illustrators? This is what you typically need for the job:A university degree in visual arts with specialization in graphic design, commercial art, graphic communications or cartooning or Completion... more

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