Learn More about Graphic Design Associate Degree Programs

This guide is all about graphic design associate degree programs. It includes details like program lengths, cost, and curriculum. It also talks about online graphic design associate programs.

For folks willing to bring an eye for aesthetics together with some software solutions, a career in graphic design is a highly profitable career prospect.

A graphic designer is well-positioned in an increasingly digital job market, from TV and film to animating video game assets to carefully curating website design.

So how does one go about gaining experience in graphic design? Are there associate-level degree programs available to get started?

School Name	Program	More Info
Southern New Hampshire University	Online BS in Graphic Design	Visit Site

The Best Associate Degree in Graphic Design Programs for 2024

Gateway Technical College
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Program: Graphic Design associate degree
Tuition: $11,529
Cost per credit: $189 in state | $283 out of state
Credits: 61
Delivery Method: Campus & online
Learn more: Program details
Raritan Valley Community College
Branchburg, New Jersey
Program: Associate of Fine Arts in Graphic and Interactive Design
Tuition: $11,160
Cost per credit: $186 in state | $266 out of state
Credits: 60
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program details
The Pratt Institute
Brooklyn, New York
Program: Graphic Design, AOS
Tuition: $127,380
Cost per credit: $1,930
Credits: 66
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program details
Mission College
Santa Clara, California
Program: Associate of Science in Graphic Design
Tuition: $2,760
Cost per credit: $46 in state | $404 out of state
Credits: 60
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program details
Cuyahoga Community College
Cleveland, Ohio
Program: Associate of Applied Business degree in Visual Communication & Design with a concentration in Graphic Design
Tuition: $6,000
Cost per credit: $100 in state | $233 out of state
Credits: 60
Delivery Method: Campus
Learn more: Program details
Lincoln Land Community College
Springfield, Illinois
Program: Integrated Media Design - Associate in Applied Science
Tuition: $8,357
Cost per credit: $137 in state | $411 out of state
Learn more: Program details
South Hills School Of Business & Technology
State College, Pennsylvania
Program: Graphic Arts AST Degree
Tuition: $36,448
Cost per credit: $305
Learn more: Program details
James Sprunt Community College
Kenansville, North Carolina
Program: Advertising & Graphic Design Associate Degree
Tuition: $5,016
Cost per credit: $76 in state | $268 out of state
Learn more: Program details
North Country Community College
Saranac Lake, New York
Program: AAS: Digital Arts and Design
Tuition: $5,418
Cost per credit: $86 in state | $128 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Senatobia, Mississippi
Program: Graphic Design Technology AAS
Tuition: $4,860
Cost per credit: $81 in state | $138 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Solano Community College
Fairfield, California
Program: Graphic Design & Illustration - Associate In Arts
Tuition: $2,379
Cost per credit: $39 in state | $250 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines, Iowa
Program: Graphic Design, AAS
Tuition: $11,840
Cost per credit: $185 in state | $370 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Academy of Art University
San Francisco, California
Program: Graphic Design (AA)
Tuition: $67,560
Cost per credit: $1,126 in state | $1,272 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Peninsula College
Port Angeles, Washington
Program: Multimedia Communications Graphics, Associate in Applied Science (AAS) Degree
Tuition: $11,160
Cost per credit: $124 in state | $141 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Glendale Community College
Glendale, Arizona
Program: Graphic Design AA Degree
Tuition: $3,404
Cost per credit: $46 in state | $306 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Big Sandy Community and Technical College
Prestonsburg, Kentucky
Program: AAS degree in Visual Communication - Design & Technology
Tuition: $11,718
Cost per credit: $186 in state | $250 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Kingsborough Community College
Brooklyn, New York
Program: Graphic Design and Illustration, A.S.
Tuition: $12,000
Cost per credit: $200 in state | $320 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Program: Design and Graphic Technology - Associate Degree
Tuition: $10,595
Cost per credit: $163 in state | $236 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Miles Community College
Miles City, Montana
Program: A.A.S. Information Technology - Graphic & Web Design
Tuition: $15,240
Cost per credit: $254 in state | $496 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Lakes Region Community College
Laconia, New Hampshire
Program: Associate in Science in Graphic Design
Tuition: $12,900
Cost per credit: $215 in state | $490 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Program: Advertising & Graphic Design’s Associate
Tuition: $5,016
Cost per credit: $76 in state | $268 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Lamar State College Port Arthur
Port Arthur, Texas
Program: Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design
Tuition: $3,000
Cost per credit: $50 in state | $470 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Santa Barbara City College
Santa Barbara, California
Program: Graphic Design and Photography, Associate of Arts (AA): Graphic Design Concentration
Tuition: $2,760
Cost per credit: $46 in state | $351 out of state
Learn more: Program details
Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale, Virginia
Program: Associate Degree in Graphic Design
Tuition: $12,025
Cost per credit: $185 in state | $364 out of state
Learn more: Program details
San Jose City College
San Jose, California
Program: AS in User Experience and Interaction Design
Tuition: $2,806
Cost per credit: $46 in state | $358 out of state
Learn more: Program details

What Is an Associate in Graphic Design Degree?

Associate of Arts (AA) degrees are an excellent option for pragmatic professionals, as the time and capital commitment is much lower than a four-year degree program.

While the curriculum contains less depth and detail due to these constraints, an associate-level education is an excellent fit for technical, hands-on learners looking to fast-track their way into a job offer.

Students pursuing an AA in graphic design can expect a professionally oriented artistic education, where the focal point of the degree program revolves around real-world applications of web design, typography, marketing, and the basics of art history.

As graphic design is the study of conveying a message through visual means, the primary objective is to equip students to grasp an organization’s vision and translate that into visually appealing and accurate depictions of digital transmission (usually via websites, ads, or short videos).

The primary reason to get an AA in graphic design is to fulfill that role, either as a professional employee or freelancer. Freelancing is particularly prominent in this field and is an excellent way for the inexperienced to trade their time to gain insights and build a portfolio.

An AA in graphic design is the proper fit for students looking to master the basics and get started in a junior role. The objective is simple: gain the core theory and skills required, build a portfolio, and then use that portfolio to get a lower-level gig or full-time job as a graphic designer.

So why should I get an AA instead of a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)? Isn’t it better to go for a four-year program?

Associate Degree in Graphic Design versus Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design

An AA is a strong decision because it saves two years (and two years’ worth of tuition). After a student obtains their degree, they now have two extra years in the professional world to gain experience compared to the path of the BFA.

The primary consideration for a prospective graphic designer is the value of those two years of experience compared to the depth of study enabled by an extra two years of study.

Picking up a BFA in graphic design is specifically for the artist who intends to develop highly specialized technical capabilities by concentrating their efforts on specific facets of the field.

Some graphic designers will focus on user experience and web development, while others may specialize in in-game asset development or animation. The extra two years also give undecided students time to explore their options and make an informed decision.

Learn more about bachelor’s in graphic design

A BFA also has a broader range of options, many of which come from top-tier institutions like the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) and Yale. Of course, students intent on these high-profile programs better be well-prepared for a highly competitive application process. Many of the strongest programs in the country accept less than 10 percent of applicants.

Deciding between the two program options mostly comes down to how highly one values classroom experience compared to professional expertise and how driven the student is to obtain freelance work or professional job opportunities upon graduation.

Two extra years of working experience can easily rival a BFA, so long as the student is organized, self-motivated, and able to communicate their experiences via an attractive portfolio.

Now that you have what you need to choose between a two-year and four-year program, the next question is typically where exactly to go to get started. Can I obtain my AA online? Are their local community colleges offering strong programs?

Online Associate in Graphic Design Degree

As online education continues to climb to prominence in the higher education industry, it’s no doubt tempting to outsource the classroom to our web browsers. There are some simple pros and cons to this decision, which are fairly intuitive.

Online programs offer excellent flexibility, plenty of cost savings, and a more comprehensive range of institutions. Offline programs benefit from in-person mentorship, live classroom interactions, networking, and much higher degree completion rates.

As a final note, not all institutions offer online learning options, either due to their teaching philosophy or IT limitations. The decision is mostly one of personal preference. Some students are simply well-equipped to learn independently (i.e., online), while others need real-life social reinforcement of material in the classroom.

If an offline degree program sounds like the right fit, the best starting point is a brief Google search of technical and/or community colleges within your area. These programs are often relatively affordable and of similar curriculum design to online programs. The next step is taking a little time to visit these institutions, perhaps even sit in and observe a class or two.

The options become much broader and more difficult to filter for those in favor of the online approach. A strong starting point is to seek out some reliable sources that rank the quality of AA in Graphic Design programs.

While some of these may be limited to offline programs, most of them will have online options worth looking at. Other resources offer ranked lists of online AA programs specifically designed for the digital learner. A few online programs that often receive high ratings include The Academy of Art University and The University of Phoenix.

Once you have your shortlist of programs, the next consideration is the curriculum, internship opportunities, and general degree scope.

Graphic Design Curriculum

The AA student is studying to be a functional specialist right out of the gates. That means a hands-on curriculum combining art theory, software skills, marketing know-how, and sometimes a bit of psychology regarding how users will experience certain visual environments.

The objective of the curriculum is to build a customized portfolio for each student, both proofing and demonstrating the technical abilities required to succeed in the workplace. It’s worth touching on each of the main points in the curriculum in detail.

To start, the graphic designer must demonstrate the ability to produce art via their computer. Whether you craft up your content through mouse and keyboard shortcuts or a drawing tablet, the ability to craft assets is central to a solid graphic design curriculum.

This means learning all of the theories any traditional artist will need to know, such as spatial dynamics, conceptions of color theory, lighting, and perspective. Courses such as art history, drawing, typography, and composition will be a part of most curricula.

The next category is the technical and software elements. As most visual content is geared towards enhancing a company’s web presence, a basic understanding of front-end development is extremely useful. All graphics will have to fit the size and structure requirements of the tech team.

These assets will be crafted using tools like Adobe, Maya, and GI M P, each of which will have its pros, cons, benefits, and frustrations. Courses like visual design tools, web development, and UX/UI are fairly common in this regard.

Once these foundations are established, AA students will have some flexibility regarding optional coursework, such as 3D modeling or animation, and the pursuit of internships and work-study programs.

During the final six months of the program, the goal is to transition students from an academic approach to a professional one, and capitalizing on this stage is a great way to turn school into a job.

Maintaining and updating an attractive and professional portfolio is also a significant aspect of passing the degree program and getting your first gig. Upon completing the program, employers will focus more on your portfolio than anything else (even your resume). The proof is in the portfolio!

Associate Design Degree Cost

Speaking of job interviews, the next consideration is whether the time, effort, and cost are worth the payoff. How much does a two-year degree in graphic design typically cost? Are there ways to save some money?

For starters, universities and colleges tend to run off a credit system. Most courses are worth three credits and completed degree programs require between 45-60 completed course credits. That means the easiest measure of cost is on a per-credit basis.

Higher-end degree programs can run as high as $1,000/credit hour, which comes out to a whopping $45-60k for a completed program. Median costs per credit are around $400-500 per credit hour, which means an AA could be achieved for less than $30k.

It’s worth noting that community colleges are often cheaper than that, with a media cost-per-credit coming in at a low $141. Multiplying this by an assumption of 60 credit hours, the total costs of an AA in graphic design could be as low as $8500!

Staying local is an excellent option for conservative spenders, and there are plenty of community colleges offering online options if there are no options nearby. At $8500 for the entire degree, it’s easy to develop a positive cost-benefit analysis if the student spends their time wisely and builds their skills.

To get that bill even lower, it’s always worth browsing the scholarships on offer at any given moment. While some will be limited to specific demographics, regions, or degree levels (undergraduate or graduate, for example), there are always good options regardless of your circumstances.

With the costs out of the way, what are the benefits? What type of career expectations can an associate degree holder anticipate? How about median salaries?

Learn more about scholarships

Career Paths

There is an extensive range of roles for professionals who occupy the space between art and design, with annual incomes ranging from $49k to $120k per year.

Here are a few examples of great starting points for the recent AA in graphic design graduate:

Illustrator: Simple, straightforward, and highly rewarding for the true artistic type, an illustrator uses tools like Adobe Illustrator and Gimp to create original art assets for their clients. Some clients will request logos or website imagery, while others need more comprehensive work like animated short films and game objects. Illustrators can expect to make around $49k per year.
Web Design: The web designer’s role is more towards the technical side than an illustrator, integrating basic front-end development skills with an aesthetic eye. Understanding the various elements of a web page, the appropriate image sizes and file types, and how to work in basic web development platforms like WordPress. Annual salaries tend to hover around $51k per year, with plenty of room for professional growth.
Animator: Animation work is a gratifying career path for the illustrator with immense patience and a knack for timing. Whether it’s short-form animated GIFs or the latest and greatest Pixar film, animators combine a sense of timing and behavioral motion with their aesthetic and technical abilities. The median salary clocks in at around $57k/year.
User Experience (UX) Designer: For the web developer and graphic designer who brings a good eye for marketing to the table, the role of UX designer is a great option. The demand for this particular skill set is on the rise, as many digital products and services require professionals with an eye for aesthetics to analyze the full customer experience from start to finish. This role pulls in a median salary of $78k/year but may require some previous marketing experience to qualify.

With an associate degree in graphic design, the best starting point is a bit of freelancing to see where you might fit best. Freelance rates around $21.76 per hour are fairly common, with tons of job boards to explore for short-term commitments.

The best place to start is by choosing an affordable AA program and building out that all-important portfolio. After that, you may very well achieve the dream job of being a not-at-all-starving artist!

Frequently Asked Questions

How competitive are these graphic design programs, anyway?

At the associate level, these programs are pretty open to new students with limited experience in art. The typical process will be the submission of a portfolio, as much as to understand your level and to determine if you’ll be a good fit for the program.

How much can I make with a graphic design associate degree?

Holding an AA in graphic design at the lower end will likely translate to either $40-50k per year or $20-25 per hour. This will depend mainly on the quality of your portfolio and the area in which you live (and presumably work).

What kinds of jobs are available for graphic designers in tech?

The interplay between art and tech is rich in job opportunities, ranging from simpler work like graphic design to more specialized animation and UX design. Someone with an AA in graphic design and interest in the tech industries should focus on filling gaps between the IT team and the creative team. That’s where the jobs are most available!

Do online graphic design associate degree programs exist?

There are plenty of online options for the aspiring digital artist, with top-ranked online AA programs only a quick Google search away. The next best approach is to contact your local universities, community colleges, and technical schools to see if they offer an entirely online curriculum. Many most likely will offer either fully online or hybrid options.

Associate in Graphic Design Program Listings

Academy of Art University
San Francisco, California
Program: Graphic Design (AA)
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $24,780 in-state | $29,280 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $413 in-state | $488 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Aims Community College
Greeley, Colorado
Program: Associate Degree in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $7,442 in-state | $28,121 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $122 in-state | $461 out-of-state
Credits: 61
Learn more: Program details
Art Academy of Cincinnati
Cincinnati, Ohio
Program: A.S. in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $77,280
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,288
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Big Sandy Community and Technical College
Prestonsburg, Kentucky
Program: AAS degree in Visual Communication - Design & Technology
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $11,340 in-state | $15,600 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $189 in-state | $260 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Blinn College
Brenham, Texas
Program: Graphic Design AAS Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $3,840 in-state | $16,740 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $64 in-state | $279 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Broward College
Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Program: (A.S.) in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $7,552 in-state | $23,872 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $118 in-state | $373 out-of-state
Credits: 64
Learn more: Program details
Bryant & Stratton College
Amherst, Henrietta & Syracuse, New York
Program: Graphic Design Associate Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $39,300
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $655
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Carroll Community College
Westminster, Maryland
Program: Computer Graphics, A.A.S.
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,520 in-state | $14,460 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $142 in-state | $241 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Central Piedmont Community College
Charlotte, North Carolina
Program: Advertising and Graphic Design, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $5,320 in-state | $18,760 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state
Credits: 70
Learn more: Program details
Chippewa Valley Technical College
Eau Claire, Wisconsin
Program: Associate Degree - Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $11,700
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $195
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
City College of San Francisco
San Francisco, California
Program: Graphic Design AA Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,944 in-state | $28,928 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $452 out-of-state
Credits: 64
Learn more: Program details
College of DuPage
Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Program: Graphic Design, A.A.S.
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $10,640 in-state | $29,750 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $152 in-state | $425 out-of-state
Credits: 66
Learn more: Program details
College of San Mateo
San Mateo, California
Program: Graphic Design Associate in Arts Degree Program
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: Free for in-state | $24,780 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: Free for in-state | $413 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Community College of Denver
Denver, Colorado
Program: Graphic Design AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $17,955 in-state | $43,722 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $285 in-state | $694 out-of-state
Credits: 61
Learn more: Program details
Connecticut State Community College
Asnuntuck, Gateway, Housatonic, Manchester, Norwalk, Three Rivers & Tunxis, Connecticut
Program: Graphic Design, AS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,096 in-state | $36,414 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $192 in-state | $578 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Cuyahoga Community College
Cleveland, Ohio
Program: Visual Communication & Design, AAS - Graphic Design concentration
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $6,480 in-state | $14,520 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $108 in-state | $242 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Delta College
University Center, Michigan
Program: Art + Design - Associate in Fine Arts
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,379 in-state | $14,805 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $133 in-state | $235 out-of-state
Credits: 63
Learn more: Program details
Des Moines Area Community College
Des Moines, Iowa
Program: Graphic Design, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,352
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $193
Credits: 64
Learn more: Program details
Diablo Valley College
Pleasant Hill, California
Program: A.A. in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,760 in-state | $25,740 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $429 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Fayetteville Technical Community College
Fayetteville, North Carolina
Program: Advertising & Graphic Design’s Associate
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $4,560 in-state | $16,080 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Foothill College
Los Altos Hills, California
Program: AA in Graphic & Interactive Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $2,790 in-state | $22,050 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $31 in-state | $245 out-of-state
Credits: 90
Learn more: Program details
Front Range Community College
Westminster, Longmont & Fort Collins, Colorado
Program: AAS in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $17,100 in-state | $41,640 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $285 in-state | $694 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Full Sail University
Winter Park, Florida
Program: Associate of Applied Science Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $53,010
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $855
Credits: 62
Learn more: Program details
Gateway Technical College
Kenosha, Wisconsin
Program: Graphic Design associate degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $10,248
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $168
Credits: 61
Learn more: Program details
Glendale Community College
Glendale, Arizona
Program: Graphic Design AA Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $3,220 in-state | $28,420 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $406 out-of-state
Credits: 70
Learn more: Program details
Harford Community College
Bel Air, Maryland
Program: Graphic Design, Area of Concentration in Art + Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,540 in-state | $20,740 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $140 in-state | $340 out-of-state
Credits: 61
Learn more: Program details
James Sprunt Community College
Kenansville, North Carolina
Program: Advertising & Graphic Design Associate Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $5,016 in-state | $17,688 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state
Credits: 66
Learn more: Program details
Keiser University
West Palm Beach, Florida
Program: Graphic Arts and Design, AS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $70,560
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,176
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Kellogg Community College
Battle Creek, Michigan
Program: Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,308 in-state | $19,034 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $134 in-state | $307 out-of-state
Credits: 62
Learn more: Program details
Kingsborough Community College
Brooklyn, New York
Program: Graphic Design and Illustration, A.S.
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $9,600 in-state | $19,200 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $160 in-state | $320 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
LaGuardia Community College
Long Island City, New York
Program: Fine Arts, AS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $9,600 in-state | $19,200 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $160 in-state | $320 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Lakes Region Community College
Laconia, New Hampshire
Program: Associate in Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,900 in-state | $29,400 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $215 in-state | $490 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Lamar State College Port Arthur
Port Arthur, Texas
Program: Associate of Applied Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $3,000 in-state | $28,200 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $50 in-state | $470 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Lane Community College
Eugene, Oregon
Program: Graphic Design, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $13,050 in-state | $30,240 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $145 in-state | $336 out-of-state
Credits: 90
Learn more: Program details
Lincoln Land Community College
Springfield, Illinois
Program: Integrated Media Design - Associate in Applied Science
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,540 in-state | $25,620 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $140 in-state | $420 out-of-state
Credits: 61
Learn more: Program details
Los Angeles Valley College
Los Angeles, California
Program: Art: Graphic Design Associate in Arts
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,760 in-state | $24,300 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $405 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Madison College
Madison, Wisconsin
Program: Graphic Design, Associate Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $9,900 in-state | $14,784 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $150 in-state | $224 out-of-state
Credits: 66
Learn more: Program details
Mesa Community College
Mesa, Arizona
Program: Associate in Applied Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $6,596 in-state | $25,296 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $97 in-state | $372 out-of-state
Credits: 61
Learn more: Program details
Miles Community College
Miles City, Montana
Program: A.A.S. Information Technology - Graphic & Web Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $6,180 in-state | $17,880 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $103 in-state | $298 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Mission College
Santa Clara, California
Program: Associate of Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,898 in-state | $25,452 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $404 out-of-state
Credits: 63
Learn more: Program details
Monroe Community College
Rochester, New York
Program: Graphic Design A.A.S
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $10,416 in-state | $20,894 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $168 in-state | $337 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
Montgomery College
Rockville, Maryland
Program: Graphic Design AAS
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $12,180 in-state | $28,500 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $203 in-state | $475 out-of-state
Credits: 60
Learn more: Program details
New York City College of Technology
Brooklyn, New York
Program: Communication Design, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $13,860 in-state | $37,200 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $231 in-state | $620 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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North Country Community College
Saranac Lake, New York
Program: AAS: Digital Arts and Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $10,773 in-state | $16,191 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $171 in-state | $257 out-of-state
Credits: 63
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Northeast Wisconsin Technical College
Green Bay, Wisconsin
Program: Design and Graphic Technology, Associate Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $10,985 in-state | $15,860 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $169 in-state | $244 out-of-state
Credits: 65
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Northern Virginia Community College
Annandale, Virginia
Program: Associate Degree in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,160 in-state | $24,448 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $190 in-state | $382 out-of-state
Credits: 64
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Northwest Mississippi Community College
Senatobia, Mississippi
Program: Graphic Design Technology AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,580 in-state | $14,160 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $143 in-state | $236 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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Oklahoma State University
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Program: AAS in Graphic Design Technology
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $27,880 in-state | $95,530 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $340 in-state | $1165 out-of-state
Credits: 82
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Ozarks Technical Community College
Springfield, Missouri
Program: Graphic Design Technology (A.A.S.)
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $8,515 in-state | $16,055 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $131 in-state | $247 out-of-state
Credits: 65
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Parsons School of Design
New York, New York
Program: AAS Communication Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $144,960
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $2,416
Credits: 60
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Peninsula College
Port Angeles, Washington
Program: Multimedia Communications Graphics, AAS
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $11,520 in-state | $13,140 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $128 in-state | $146 out-of-state
Credits: 90
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Pierce College
Lakewood, Washington
Program: Graphic Design, Associate in Arts
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $7,936 in-state | $20,336 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $128 in-state | $328 out-of-state
Credits: 62
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Portland Community College
Portland, Oregon
Program: Graphic Design, Associate Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,236 in-state | $25,576 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $133 in-state | $278 out-of-state
Credits: 92
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Raritan Valley Community College
Branchburg, New Jersey
Program: Associate of Fine Arts in Graphic and Interactive Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $11,160 in-state | $15,960 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $186 in-state | $266 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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Rasmussen College
Bloomington, Minnesota
Program: Graphic Design Associate's Degree
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $26,026
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $286
Credits: 91
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Remington College
Dallas, Texas
Program: Digital Graphic Art Associate of Applied Art Program
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $56,212
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $611
Credits: 92
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Riverside City College
Riverside, California
Program: Associate of Science Degree in Graphic Design and Digital Media
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,070 in-state | $20,745 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $461 out-of-state
Credits: 45
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Saddleback College
Mission Viejo, California
Program: Associate of Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,760 in-state | $26,760 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $446 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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San Diego City College
San Diego, California
Program: Associate Degree in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $23,760 in-state | $32,640 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $396 in-state | $544 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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San Jose City College
San Jose, California
Program: AS in User Experience and Interaction Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $20,460
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $341
Credits: 60
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Santa Barbara City College
Santa Barbara, California
Program: Graphic Design and Photography, AA: Graphic Design Concentration
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,760 in-state | $24,420 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $407 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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Santa Monica College
Santa Monica, California
Program: Graphic Design (AS)
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,760 in-state | $22,440 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $46 in-state | $374 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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Shoreline Communiy College
Shoreline, Washington
Program: Graphic Design AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $14,112 in-state | $27,552 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $126 in-state | $246 out-of-state
Credits: 112
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Solano Community College
Fairfield, California
Program: Graphic Design & Illustration - Associate In Arts
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $2,340
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $39
Credits: 60
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South Hills School of Business & Technology
State College, Pennsylvania
Program: Graphic Arts AST Degree
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $48,039
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $402
Credits: 119.5
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Southeast Community College
Beatrice, Lincoln & Milford, Nebraska
Program: Graphic Design AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $6,930 in-state | $8,316 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $105 in-state | $126 out-of-state
Credits: 66
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Spokane Falls Community College
Spokane, Washington
Program: Associate in Applied Science - Graphic Design
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $20,493 in-state | $36,630 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $207 in-state | $370 out-of-state
Credits: 99
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St. Charles Community College
Cottleville, Missouri
Program: Graphic Design, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $6,893 in-state | $14,640 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $113 in-state | $240 out-of-state
Credits: 61
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St. Clair County Community College
Port Huron, Michigan
Program: Graphic Design, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,063 in-state | $20,250 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $193 in-state | $324 out-of-state
Credits: 62.5
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Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology
Lancaster, Pennsylvania
Program: Graphic Communications & Printing Technology
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $18,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $250
Credits: 72
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The Pratt Institute
Brooklyn, New York
Program: Graphic Design/Illustration, AAS
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $119,616
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,869
Credits: 64
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Tidewater Community College
Norfolk, Virginia
Program: Graphic Design, Associate of Applied Science
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $10,560 in-state | $22,656 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $165 in-state | $354 out-of-state
Credits: 62
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UCNJ Union College of Union County, NJ
Cranford, Elizabeth, Plainfield, & Scotch Plains, New Jersey
Program: Graphic Design, A.A.
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $12,840 in-state | $23,100 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $214 in-state | $385 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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University of the District of Columbia
Washington, District of Columbia
Program: Graphic Design – AA
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $21,060 in-state | $44,200 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $324 in-state | $680 out-of-state
Credits: 65
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Valencia College
Orlando, Florida
Program: AS Graphic Design Specialization
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $6,592 in-state | $24,960 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $103 in-state | $390 out-of-state
Credits: 64
Learn more: Program details
Wake Technical Community College
Raleigh, North Carolina
Program: Graphic Design AAS
Delivery method: Online, campus & hybrid
Total tuition: $5,396 in-state | $19,028 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $76 in-state | $268 out-of-state
Credits: 71
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Wright State University
Dayton, Ohio
Program: Graphic and Multimedia Design, AAB
Delivery method: Campus
Total tuition: $30,960 in-state | $57,780 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $516 in-state | $963 out-of-state
Credits: 60
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The Best Associate Degree in Graphic Design Programs for 2024

Gateway Technical College

Raritan Valley Community College

The Pratt Institute

Mission College

Cuyahoga Community College

Lincoln Land Community College

South Hills School Of Business & Technology

James Sprunt Community College

North Country Community College

Northwest Mississippi Community College

Solano Community College

Des Moines Area Community College

Academy of Art University

Peninsula College

Glendale Community College

Big Sandy Community and Technical College

Kingsborough Community College

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

Miles Community College

Lakes Region Community College

Fayetteville Technical Community College

Lamar State College Port Arthur

Santa Barbara City College

Northern Virginia Community College

San Jose City College

What Is an Associate in Graphic Design Degree?

Associate Degree in Graphic Design versus Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design

Online Associate in Graphic Design Degree

Graphic Design Curriculum

Associate Design Degree Cost

Career Paths

Frequently Asked Questions

Associate in Graphic Design Program Listings

Academy of Art University

Aims Community College

Art Academy of Cincinnati

Big Sandy Community and Technical College

Blinn College

Broward College

Bryant & Stratton College

Carroll Community College

Central Piedmont Community College

Chippewa Valley Technical College

City College of San Francisco

College of DuPage

College of San Mateo

Community College of Denver

Connecticut State Community College

Cuyahoga Community College

Delta College

Des Moines Area Community College

Diablo Valley College

Fayetteville Technical Community College

Foothill College

Front Range Community College

Full Sail University

Gateway Technical College

Glendale Community College

Harford Community College

James Sprunt Community College

Keiser University

Kellogg Community College

Kingsborough Community College

LaGuardia Community College

Lakes Region Community College

Lamar State College Port Arthur

Lane Community College

Lincoln Land Community College

Los Angeles Valley College

Madison College

Mesa Community College

Miles Community College

Mission College

Monroe Community College

Montgomery College

New York City College of Technology

North Country Community College

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

Northern Virginia Community College