What do you learn when you get a bachelor’s in graphic design?
Graphic design is a broad discipline that encompasses many areas including art and design, visual communication and production, information design, and technology.
A graphic designer is a person who creates a visual representation of a company’s brand, often working with many different mediums and tools to create something that represents the company, from logos to marketing materials, from websites to social media posts.
Graphic designers create and design graphics, including logos, brochures, advertisements, and websites.
Graphic designers consider many aspects of a design and the way it relates to a company, such as color psychology and other aspects of design to make sure that any piece they create for a client will evoke the right emotion and communicate brand messaging, visual propositions, and even make user experiences better.
They use a variety of tools and software to accomplish this. They need to be skilled in many different types of media, including drawing, photography, computer graphics, typography, and color theory.
Graphic designers typically work in a team setting to create logos and other brand identity elements for companies or organizations. Other adjacent teams they typically work with include copywriters, UX Designers, illustrators, department editors, and product owners.
A bachelor’s degree in graphic design trains future graphic design professionals in the process of translating ideas into visual communication. More than just how to perform graphic design, bachelor’s degrees in graphic design also prepare students to enter the real world and work on teams.
Best Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs for 2024
Lindenwood University
Saint Charles, Missouri
Program: Online Bachelor’s in Art & Design with Graphic Design emphasis
Tuition: $59,400
Cost per credit: $495
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsKentucky Wesleyan College
Owensboro, KentuckyProgram: Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
Tuition: $57,000
Cost per credit: $475
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsLiberty University
Lynchburg, VirginiaProgram: Graphic Design Degree Online – Bachelor of Fine Arts
Tuition: $46,800
Cost per credit: $390
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsArkansas State University
Jonesboro, ArkansasProgram: Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology & Design with a Concentration in Graphic Communications
Tuition: $33,120
Cost per credit: $276
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsRegent University Online
Virginia Beach, VirginiaProgram: BFA in Graphic Design
Tuition: $47,400
Cost per credit: $395
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsCalifornia Baptist University
Riverside, CaliforniaProgram: Graphic Design and Digital Media, B.A. (Online)
Tuition: $64,480
Cost per credit: $520
Credits: 124
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsSavannah College of Arts and Design
Savannah, GeorgiaProgram: B.A. in Graphic Design
Tuition: $160,380
Cost per credit: $891
Credits: 180
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsSouthern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New HampshireProgram: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Graphic Design and Media Arts
Tuition: $39,600
Cost per credit: $330
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsArizona State University
Tempe, ArizonaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design
Tuition: $76,080
Cost per credit: $634
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program detailsUpper Iowa University
Fayette, IowaProgram: Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design
Tuition: $60,600
Cost per credit: $505
Credits: 120
Delivery Method: Online
Learn more: Program details
A Career as a Designer in the Tech Industry
A graphic design degree prepares students for a career in tech by delivering a deep understanding of the interplay of how design can make technology more user-friendly and more applicable to everyday lives.
A degree in graphic design can also increase a student’s job prospects. In fact, according to the career site Zippia, 68 percent of graphic designers hold a degree.
In a graphic design program, students will learn about all kinds of different tools and software that are used in today’s design workflows including:
Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Understanding how to use software like Illustrator and Photoshop will help students be able to make early designs quickly so they can test them out before spending time on final products.
They learn to use technology to create a wide variety of visual content including logos, websites, posters and advertisements, magazines and other publications, and television commercials.
Students who complete most of their education through classes focused on design will build skills in iteration, prototyping, and user testing to find solutions that work toward a company’s overall defined goals. They will learn how to apply new technologies to help create more efficient ways of working with visual creativity.
Attending a graphic design program that teaches these skills will often save students thousands of dollars down the road by making them competitive candidates in the ever-evolving job market. These students also generally make report higher earnings during the course of their careers according toe Investopedia.
Formal graphic design programs provide students with an education in visual communication including research, problem-solving, critical thinking, design process, and visual analysis and evaluation. Students can choose to focus on either fine art or a commercial approach to graphic design with an emphasis on either print or digital media.
Online Graphic Design Degree
The advantages of getting a bachelor’s degree in graphic design online include the convenience and flexibility that comes from taking classes from home.
Reducing the time and cost of traveling between home and school is another obvious benefit of becoming a certified graphic designer from an online program.
Many online graphic degree programs also allow the student to do the work at their own time and pace while receiving the same quality education that they would receive if they were going to a traditional school. It’s also possible to take classes when they’re convenient for students and their schedules. Students can work at their own pace with fewer distractions and can study from anywhere with access to the internet. This allows students to juggle work or family obligations.
Another advantage of obtaining a graphic design degree online is location: for students living in rural areas, or in areas with limited access to the programs they desire, they will be able to obtain their degree virtually when moving is not an option.
The disadvantages of getting an online degree in graphic design include the fact that students will have less engagement with the professor than if the program took place on campus or at a brick-and-mortar location. Some students may prefer to also make friends in person at an educational program. If a student prefers this type of hands-on learning, an in-person graphic design program may make more sense.
Overall, deciding whether to pursue a graphic design degree online, the advantages seem to outweigh the disadvantages. Students can connect with other students who are taking the same courses as they are in a virtual setting. They can collaborate virtually with other students on projects, share resources, and ask for advice about how best to approach different types of projects or assignments. They can even form virtual study groups if there is a particular area where they’d like more help.
Find the Right Degree Program
While the field a student wishes to enter upon graduation will ultimately determine whether it makes more sense to get a certificate in graphic design or a bachelor’s degree, both options offer plentiful opportunities online.
With a constantly evolving educational landscape, especially through consistent technology improvements, online graphic design bachelor’s degree programs are quite common. The number of schools offering online degrees for graphic design has increased over the last few years, making it easier than ever for aspiring artists to earn a degree.
Students will be able to pursue a degree in graphic design from a wide range of online bachelor’s level programs. The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design is designed for students who want to learn the skills needed to find jobs right after graduation in industries ranging from advertising and marketing, visual communications and publications, to computer software and games development.
Each of these programs has highly rated online programs. These programs offer customization to help students earn a degree that meets their needs.
The list above is only a small sample of the myriad of available online degree programs in graphic design.
The program that is the best fit for a student should be decided based on the individual student’s life, goals, financial budget, and other important factors.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design Requirements
The key components of a bachelor’s degree in a graphic design program include foundational skills such as art and design principles, drawing, printmaking and typography, color theory, and color applications.
A bachelor’s degree in graphic design also requires an introduction to computer graphics such as vector graphics and image editing techniques.
Internships can be done locally, even if a student’s school is across the country. Graphic design internship opportunities that can be done partially or fully remotely are also a great option for students entering the workforce and are readily available in today’s workforce.
Internships help prepare students for the employment landscape through building critical skills such as building a resume, submitting an application, providing referrals, and including portfolio samples of their graphic design work.
To become a graphic design intern, students most likely will need to be enrolled in a design school or university or have recently graduated from one. A student could do an internship while in school or after graduating.
What is the curriculum like? What other courses will students have to take to complete an online degree?
Graphic Design is a creative field that can lead to a wide range of opportunities. The curriculum for graphic design includes courses and projects centered on aesthetics, color theory, and typography.
Courses in an online graphic design program or degree explore the principles of effective communication through visual content and will introduce ideas like graphic hierarchy, color theory, layout types, and more. The curriculum is based on communication, technology, and design principles. You will learn how to communicate effectively across digital and print channels.
Online Graphic Design Degree Cost
The cost of tuition for an online bachelor’s of graphic design degree depends on where the college or university is located, and the type of degree offered. Online colleges typically charge their students less than traditional brick-and-mortar schools in order to compete with them.
However, most online schools offer financial aid packages based on need, which include federal and state loans as well as scholarships and grants.
Aspiring graphic designers have access to many online schools that provide high-quality education and training at a fraction of the cost of an on-campus program.
Career Paths for Graphic Designers in Tech
A BA in Graphic Design focuses on communication design and visual culture. Students often choose to focus their studies on one or more specializations, including digital media, identity design, package design, typography and type design, exhibition design, and graphic novel creation.
Graphic design is an exciting field that allows students to use their creativity and technical skills to create visual designs for all kinds of different projects. The more education a student has, the better their career opportunities will be, so earning a bachelor’s degree in graphic design will allow them to take on more complex projects and earn higher wages.
A bachelor’s degree in graphic design is a versatile degree that will open many doors. It prepares students for creative careers in advertising, marketing, and publishing; art education; illustration and painting; design management; designing for digital media production; or simply being an artist.
The range of compensation for the most popular Graphic Designer positions typically falls between $50,914 and $150,677. Salary ranges can vary widely depending on position, education, certifications, and experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic design online is increasingly a common and convenient option. Students will get the same quality education as a traditional on-campus program, with more flexibility as to how they can complete their coursework. Numerous graphic design programs are offered online, ranging from professional certificates to master’s degrees. Online graphic design degree programs are suitable for students of all ages and levels of experience, as well as professionals seeking to advance their careers. Some colleges and universities offer graphic design degree programs that are entirely online, while others offer only some of the courses in their program as online classes.
Graphic design is a field with a wide range of possibilities. Students can work on everything from publications and websites to advertisements and logos. Some graphic designers work in print media like magazines and newspapers. Designing layouts, writing headlines, or even taking photos for the publication. Other graphic designers work in the digital realm—including website creation and apps for companies. Some graphic designers focus on branding and identity design; they work with companies to develop their brand identity through logos and other images that represent them as an organization or product. When choosing a program to obtain an online bachelor’s degree in graphic design, students should make sure the program has a tech focus to keep up with changing and increasing job requirements. Graphic designers use software like photoshop, illustrator sketch, etc. to create visual images that are very different from the older techniques. Adopting a tech-focused curriculum is the next frontier for graphic design education. This can be done by also incorporating more software programs.
The average graphic designer’s salary in the United States is $100,796 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Graphic designers can specialize in various areas and may work for many different types of companies. Some common job titles include industrial designer, interior designer, art director, merchandiser, and fashion consultant. Graphic designers are employed by a variety of different organizations, including advertising firms, magazines and newspapers, corporations, schools and universities, public agencies, and local governments. Graphic designers often work in teams with other professionals such as art directors and copywriters. Graphic designers work in a wide variety of fields, and they’re often required to travel. Some graphic design jobs require a particular set of skills, while others require a general knowledge of design principles. Many graphic designers find employment in advertising agencies or as freelancers or self-employed individuals who take on short-term projects for various clients. Graphic designers also may be employed by businesses, government agencies, and schools where visual communication strategies are important.
Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs
Academy of Art University
San Francisco, CaliforniaProgram: Graphic Design (BFA)
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $135,120 in-state | $152,640 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1126 in-state | $1272 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsArizona State University
Tempe, ArizonaProgram: Online Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $79,560
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $663
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsArkansas State University
Jonesboro, ArkansasProgram: Bachelor of Science in Digital Technology & Design with a Concentration in Graphic Communications
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $33,840
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $282
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsBellevue University
Bellevue, NebraskaProgram: Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $57,023
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $449
Credits: 127
Learn more: Program detailsCalifornia Baptist University
Riverside, CaliforniaProgram: Graphic Design and Digital Media, B.A. (Online)
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $156,339
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $1,797
Credits: 87
Learn more: Program detailsDePaul University
Chicago, IllinoisProgram: BFA in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $165,568
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $796
Credits: 208
Learn more: Program detailsEastern Michigan University
Ypsilanti, MichiganProgram: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA)
Delivery method: Campus & hybrid
Total tuition: $80,160
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $668
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsFull Sail University
Winter Park, FloridaProgram: Visual Arts Bachelor of Science with Graphic Design Concentration
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $57,960
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $483
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsKentucky Wesleyan College
Owensboro, KentuckyProgram: Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $59,400
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $495
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsLA Film School
Hollywood, CaliforniaProgram: Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $60,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $500
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsLiberty University
Lynchburg, VirginiaProgram: Graphic Design Degree Online – Bachelor of Fine Arts
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $46,800
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $390
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsLindenwood University
Saint Charles, MissouriProgram: Online Bachelor’s in Art & Design with Graphic Design emphasis
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $54,945
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $495
Credits: 111
Learn more: Program detailsMidway University
Midway, KentuckyProgram: BS in Graphic Design (Marketing Communications)
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $47,400
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $395
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsRegent University Online
Virginia Beach, VirginiaProgram: BFA in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $47,400
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $395
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsRocky Mountain College of Art and Design
Lakewood, ColoradoProgram: Online Graphic Design Degree
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $91,020
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $740
Credits: 123
Learn more: Program detailsSavannah College of Arts and Design
Savannah, GeorgiaProgram: B.A. in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $164,520
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $914
Credits: 180
Learn more: Program detailsSessions College for Professional Design
Tempe, ArizonaProgram: BFA in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $36,000
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $300
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsSouthern New Hampshire University
Manchester, New HampshireProgram: Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Graphic Design and Media Arts
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $39,600
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $330
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUniversity of Maryland Global Campus
Adelphi, MarylandProgram: Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication
Delivery method: Online
Total tuition: $38,880 in-state | $59,880 out-of-state
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $324 in-state | $499 out-of-state
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsUpper Iowa University
Fayette, IowaProgram: Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $36,960 Campus | $60,600 Online
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $308 Campus | $505 Online
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program detailsWilmington University
New Castle, DelawareProgram: Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design
Delivery method: Online & campus
Total tuition: $50,280
2024/2025 Cost per credit: $419
Credits: 120
Learn more: Program details