The Art Career Project

Graphic Design Schools

Unleash your creative potential with graphic design schools, your gateway to a dynamic and visually captivating profession.
Graphic Design Schools
Graphic design is a creative and versatile field that involves the creation of visual content to communicate ideas, messages, or information. It can be used in virtually any industry – from advertising and publishing to web design – providing endless career possibilities to those who want to make a living by expressing their creativity through visual storytelling. In this post, we’ll go into detail about what you can expect when attending a graphic design program, explore a list of the best graphic design schools in the U.S., and discuss factors you should consider before making your choice.

What Is a Graphic Design School?

At the college and university levels, a graphic design school is rarely a standalone institution. Rather, it is usually a department or academic unit within a larger liberal arts college, art school, art institute, or art university that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in graphic design.

Graphic design schools generally develop their curricula to not only teach the fundamentals of art and design but also give students a holistic understanding of how graphic design principles can be applied across a range of industries such as advertising, marketing, website development, publishing, communication design, education, the media arts and more. Thus, in addition to theory-based courses on topics like color theory or typography, they typically offer practical classes that help students hone their artistic skills, with both traditional tools (like drawing pencils) and digital software programs like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator or 3D modeling applications like SketchUp Pro.

What You Learn in a Graphic Design Program

Embarking on a journey through a graphic design program is more than just an academic pursuit; it’s a transformative experience that lays the foundation for a lifelong creative career. The importance of a graphic design education lies not only in the knowledge you acquire but in the cultivation of a designer’s mindset. It’s about learning to see the world through the lens of graphic design, where everything from a street sign to a website layout becomes a canvas for your creative expression.

Core Principles of Graphic Design

Graphic design education revolves around key principles. Visual Communication is about crafting compelling visual narratives, while Color Theory delves into the emotional impact of colors in visual communication. Typography covers text aesthetics and readability, and Layout and Composition focus on arranging visual elements for balance and clarity. These principles are the foundation of effective graphic design programs, enabling graphic designers to convey messages, employ color meaningfully, select typefaces, and create well-structured layouts.

Design Software Proficiency

Graphic design programs are a designer’s toolkit. Adobe Creative Suite is the industry standard for user interface design, comprising Illustrator for vector graphics, Photoshop for image editing, and InDesign for layout. Proficiency with these tools is a must for modern graphic designers everywhere, allowing them to create stunning visuals, manipulate images, and produce well-structured layouts. Mastery of Adobe Creative Suite is a core competence for graphic designers, enabling them to craft professional designs across various mediums.

Design History and Theory

Exploring the evolution of design through different art movements provides valuable context for contemporary design. Semiotics, the study of visual language, helps designers convey meaning effectively. Additionally, a solid understanding of design ethics and copyright ensures communication design work aligns with industry standards. This foundational knowledge in design history and theory equips designers with a rich historical perspective and ethical awareness essential for crafting impactful designs.

Professional Skills

A big part of earning a graphic design degree includes honing business and professional skills that are critical for a successful graphic design career. It encompasses building a compelling portfolio, mastering presentation and pitch skills, collaborating effectively in teams, and the practical skills for managing time and projects efficiently. Developing these professional and technical skills toegether is crucial for making a mark in the competitive field of graphic design.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Graphic Design Program

Choosing a graphic design school is a crucial step in your career as a designer. It’s important to choose a school that aligns with your interests and career goals, but also one that provides a quality education that will prepare you for the workforce. Here are some additional factors to consider when choosing a graphic design school:

Accreditation and Reputation

Accreditation is an important factor to consider when choosing a graphic design school. Accreditation ensures that the school has met rigorous standards of education and that its graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge. Look for the graphic design programs at schools that are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) or other recognized accrediting bodies.

When researching schools, it’s also important to consider a school’s reputation within the design industry. Look for schools that have a strong reputation and a track record of placing graduates in successful careers. You can research a school’s reputation by reading reviews and talking to alumni.

Curriculum and Specializations

When considering a school’s curriculum, it’s important to determine if it aligns with your interests and career goals. Look for schools with a graphic design focus that offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as branding, advertising, digital media, or web development and web design.

It’s also important to consider the balance between technical skills and conceptual learning. A good graphic design program should encourage interdisciplinary and collaborative approaches to its graphic design students. Look for schools that offer courses in business, marketing, and visual communication design, as these are important skills for a successful career in graphic design.

Faculty and Alumni

A strong faculty with real-world experience is essential for a quality education in a graphic design program. Look for schools with accomplished faculty members who are active in the graphic design industry and have connections to leading graphic design graduates and firms. Connecting with alumni can also provide valuable insights into a school’s network and track record of success. Alumni can provide information on job opportunities, internships, and industry events.

Facilities and Resources

The facilities and resources of a top art school can greatly impact your educational experience. Look for art schools with up-to-date technology, ample studio space, and access to resources such as design libraries and workshops.

Schools with strong industry connections may also offer opportunities for internships and partnerships with leading design firms. Look for schools that have a strong career center or job placement program, as this can greatly increase your chances of finding a job after graduation.

Location and Cost

The location of a school can impact your access to internships, job opportunities, and industry events. Consider whether a school is located in a design hub such as New York City or Los Angeles, or in a smaller city or rural area.

Cost is also an important factor to consider when choosing a graphic design school. Look into financial aid options and scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition. It’s important to find a school that provides a quality education, but also one that is affordable and fits within your budget.

The Best Graphic Design Schools in the U.S.

Each year, our experts review and analyze public and private data from hundreds of qualifying art schools to produce a ranking of the best graphic design schools in the U.S.

The graphic design programs listed here earned exceptional marks in all eight pillars of our ranking methodology: Academic excellence, student selectivity, graduation rate performance (the school’s ability to retain and graduate students), financial aid, faculty resources, early career success, post-graduate success (alumni achievements), and value

1. Rhode Island School of Design

20 Washington Place, Providence, RI 02903

★★★★★ 4.8/5
Founded in 1877, the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is a prestigious college and museum located in Providence, Rhode Island that consistently ranks near the top in graphic design school rankings year in and year out. RISD boasts a diverse community of over 2,600 students enrolled in 44 full-time bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. With the guidance of a dedicated faculty and the support of a global network of over 31,000 alumni, RISD fosters expansive and innovative thinking among artists, designers, and scholars.

2. Parsons School of Design

66 West 12th Street, New York, NY 10011

★★★★★ 4.7/5
Parsons School of Design, driven by a century-long commitment to design’s transformative power, stands as a premier design school in the U.S. and a global top-three. Nestled within The New School, Parsons leverages interdisciplinary education, the vibrant New York City campus, and a Paris branch campus. It nurtures creative leaders, fostering real-world learning, critical thinking, and innovation to address contemporary challenges.

3. Pratt Institute

200 Willoughby Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11205

★★★★★ 4.7/5
Pratt Institute, a globally renowned college, offers diverse programs spanning art, design, architecture, liberal arts, sciences, and information studies, encompassing nearly 50 undergraduate and graduate degrees. Beyond its Brooklyn campus, Pratt Institute extends its impact to innovative facilities across New York, including Manhattan and Utica. Pratt’s involvement in climate change research and the Research Yard underscores its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges.

4. Virginia Commonwealth University

907 Floyd Ave, Richmond, VA 23284

★★★★★ 4.4/5
Virginia Commonwealth University School of the Arts is an integral part of VCU’s mission to promote knowledge and student achievement. With a focus on engaged learning, the school fosters innovation and inquiry within a student-centric environment. Through research, creative expression, and interdisciplinary cooperation, its departments and programs push the boundaries of knowledge.

5. ArtCenter College of Design

1700 Lida Street, Pasadena, CA 91103

★★★★★ 4.4/5
ArtCenter College of Design pioneers a 21st-century model for art and design education. Guided by their mission to create and influence change, their visionary approach encompasses a conservatory-style education, fostering intercultural and transdisciplinary dialogue. Innovative learning and making spaces empower students on their creative journey.

6. Carnegie Mellon University School of Art

5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213

★★★★★ 4.4/5
Carnegie Mellon University School of Art fosters a community of renowned artists and professionals across various disciplines. Their commitment to critical inquiry and creativity enriches society and culture, spanning multiple schools and associated programs within the College of Fine Arts.

7. Savannah College of Art and Design

516 Drayton St, Savannah, GA 31401

★★★★★ 4.3/5
Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) distinguishes itself by offering a comprehensive array of degree programs and specialized fields of study, positioning students for successful careers in the creative industries. Whether you aspire to be an artist, designer, or creative professional, SCAD’s expansive curriculum and resources provide a platform for your creative journey.

8. School of Visual Arts

209 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10010

★★★★★ 4.2/5
For over seven decades, the School of Visual Arts (SVA) has been at the forefront of nurturing artists, designers, and creative visionaries. Fueled by a faculty of accomplished industry professionals, top creative directors, a vibrant curriculum, and a commitment to critical thinking, SVA continues to drive innovation and promote social responsibility in the realm of visual arts and design education.

9. Maryland Institute College of Art

1300 W Mount Royal Ave, Baltimore, Maryland, 21217

★★★★★ 4.1/5
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) is a nationally acclaimed institution in art, media arts, and design education. With a focus on fostering innovative, entrepreneurial, and socially conscious artists, MICA is reshaping the role of creatives as catalysts for social, cultural, and economic progress. As the nation’s oldest degree-granting college of art and design, MICA’s deep community engagement makes it a pivotal contributor to the regional creative economy, producing globally recognized artists and designers.

10. Minneapolis College of Art & Design

2501 Stevens Ave, Minneapolis, MN 55404

★★★★★ 4/5
Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD), an art school founded in 1886, is a nationally and internationally recognized institution in the heart of the Twin Cities’ vibrant art and design community. MCAD’s innovative approach to education encompasses a wide range of disciplines, offering bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as continuing education. With an interdisciplinary program, a diverse student body, and accomplished alumni, including Emmy-winning art directors, and Guggenheim fellows, MCAD is a hub for creative excellence and professional success.

Graphic Design Schools Near Me

Over 350 colleges and universities across the country offer various graphic design degrees, programs, and courses that prepare students for careers in graphic design. To help you find a top graphic design program and school that fits your needs and academic goals, we’ve compiled a list of the best graphic design programs and schools in each state.

AlabamaAlaska
ArizonaArkansas
CaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelaware
FloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdaho
IllinoisIndianaIowaKansas
KentuckyLouisianaMaineMaryland
MassachusettsMichiganMinnesotaMississippi
MissouriMontanaNebraskaNevada
New HampshireNew JerseyNew MexicoNew York
North CarolinaNorth DakotaOhioOklahoma
OregonPennsylvaniaRhode IslandSouth Carolina
South DakotaTennesseeTexasUtah
VermontVirginiaWashingtonWest Virginia
WisconsinWyoming

Additional Resources for Graphic Designers

Graphic Design Schools FAQ

Which degree is best for graphic design?

A bachelor’s degree in graphic design, or a related field such as web design, visual communications, motion design, computer science, and animation, typically provides the best foundation for a career as a professional graphic designer. Students who pursue a degree in any of these areas will gain an understanding of the graphic design process, build practical skills, and complete projects that are similar to what they would encounter working for design firms and major companies.

Is it worth going to school for graphic design?

Yes, a degree in graphic design can result in career opportunities beyond what can be expected without one. While it’s true that there are many successful graphic designers and web designers who are self-taught and without a degree, it’s also true that many skills are difficult to learn on your own. Pursuing a BFA in graphic design can help you develop skills such as critical thinking, conceptual problem-solving, teamwork, and technical proficiency. These skills are important not just for graphic designers but for any profession.

How long is schooling for a graphic designer?

It depends on the graphic design program, but a BFA in graphic design usually takes about four years. While some students complete their graphic design degree programs in less time by pursuing an associate’s degree (a two-year degree program), most graphic design students opt for a bachelor’s degree program, as it typically provides a better foundation for a career in the field.

Can you become a graphic designer without a degree?

Yes, you can become a professional graphic designer without a degree. Although most companies prefer to hire graphic designers with degrees, it is possible to work your way up in the field without one or pursue a career as a freelance designer. Self-taught graphic designers and creative professionals can be just as capable and experienced as those who have completed graphic design programs, but their experience will often lack the professional structure and guidance that comes with a degree.

What is most important when graphic design school choosing?

When choosing a graphic design school, prioritize factors like accreditation, program specialization, faculty qualifications, resources, alumni success, location, cost, class size, internship opportunities, and the school’s reputation. These elements ensure a well-rounded education and can help align your choice with your career goals.

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