Edited By Christine Skopec
Review & Contribution By Dr. Olivia Martinez
An Online Graphic Design Degree provides a comprehensive education in visual communication, blending creativity with technical skills. It offers enhanced careers in design, advertising, and digital media.
Graphic designers operate at the junction of artistic expression and commerce, using their skills to transform intangible ideas into concrete visual representations. They are highly regarded for their ability to enhance the reputation of a company or institution. The ultimate goal of the online graphic design degree is to give students a thorough comprehension of the design field, from traditional print publishing to cutting-edge interface design. Through hands-on assignments, constructive feedback, and analysis of popular culture, students will refine their aesthetic sensibility. Additionally, a graphic design degree online program will equip them with practical competencies crucial in the real-world job market, including media integration, advertising, and branding. Individuals with a natural inclination towards creativity may find this profession particularly enticing. Graphic designers possess a blend of imaginative thinking and creativity and exceptional communication abilities to convey messages effectively.
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Southern New Hampshire University
PROGRAM: BA Graphic Design and Media Arts
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit, accredited institution with more than 3,000 on campus students, over 170,000 online students, making it one of the fastest growing universities in the nation. Founded in 1932, we’ve been relentlessly reinventing higher education ever since and have gained national recognition for our dedication to helping students transform their lives and the lives of those around them.
We’re proud to provide affordable, accessible education that students can pursue on our 300-acre campus in Manchester, NH, or via our innovative online platform.
SNHU has earned the GetEducated.com Best Buy and Best of Business – Best Online Degree awards and is consistently ranked as a top Military Friendly® School by G.I Jobs®.
Find the Best Online Graphic Design Degree Programs
Choosing the best online graphic design degree programs can be challenging, with numerous colleges offering this program. Most of the time, students set their priorities and select the college that falls in that bracket. However, there are a few things to note while choosing a graduate college for themselves, like the college’s reputation, faculties, course structure, placements, and more. Using our set parameters, we have created a list of the best colleges for graphic designing bachelors, making decision-making easier for applicants.
| Univ | Address | Tuition | Grad Rate |
| Southern New Hampshire University | 2500 North River Road, Manchester, New Hampshire 03106 | $16,450 | 41% |
Universities and programs are ranked by various factors, such as affordability, curriculum and coursework, reputation and availability, program length, statistics, the potential of employment, and return on investment for the students. For a more in-depth analysis, please read about our rankings methodology page.
What to Expect from an Online Graphic Design Program
By enrolling in an online bachelor’s degree in graphic design, students can learn to channel their creative potential to meet clients’ demands and create a compelling portfolio of their artwork. These programs expose undergraduates to the latest digital technologies and marketing strategies for selling products through multimedia and visual aids. Core courses in online graphic design degrees often cover foundational topics like drawing and composition, typography and color theory, web design, and electronic publishing. Many bachelor’s programs also include courses on the history of the graphic design industry and branding. Pursuing a graphic design degree online offers working professionals a flexible option, as web-based programs follow similar rigorous curricula to their traditional counterparts and lead to similar career advancement prospects. Additionally, the online format is well-suited for candidates juggling competing responsibilities, such as child or family care, and their work and academic schedules.
Curriculum and Coursework
A typical graphic design bachelor’s degree online covers various foundational and advanced topics. The coursework includes design principles such as color theory, composition, typography, and layout. Students also learn to use digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite to create digital designs and gain knowledge of the basics of web design. Additionally, many programs cover branding, packaging design, and user experience design. Throughout their studies, they work on projects that challenge them to apply their knowledge and creativity to real-world design problems. A bachelor’s degree program in graphic design typically requires students to complete between 120 and 132 credit hours. Some of the common subjects offered are:
Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
In this course, students will master the art of merging reasoning and communication to express their thoughts confidently in front of an audience. They will also acquire essential skills in proficiently creating and presenting compelling presentations to prospective clients or employers.
Language and Practice of Media Arts
Enrolling in this course can acquire a shared vocabulary for designing and evaluating visual content. Throughout the course, students will explore concepts related to production design, technology, and various techniques to enhance their visual media literacy proficiency.
Graphics and Layout in Print Media
Combining theoretical instruction and practical computer-based assignments, this course can equip students with the skills to utilize leading visual software tools. Through hands-on experience, students gain expertise in shape grouping, letterform shape creation, figure manipulation, and other fundamental graphic design elements.
Desktop Publishing
This course offers an opportunity to understand the foundational principles of desktop publishing. It covers using page layout software to create digital or printed content, such as books, newsletters, business cards, and advertisements.
Introduction to Digital Imaging
This course allows to develop the skills needed to create, edit, and enhance digital images. Additionally, students will understand the basics of image processing, compression, storage, printing, and display.
Some more widely taken-up courses are as follows:
- Designing Life
- Graphic Designing History
- Principles of Graphic Design
- Visual Communication
- Letter Form
- Typography
- Technology for Design
- Design Rhetoric
- Motion Graphics and Interaction Design
- Advance Media
- Advance Interaction Design
- Exhibit Design
- Interaction Design Theory
- Design Drawing
Learning Outcomes and Skills Gained
After completing a bachelor’s in graphic design, students will be equipped with the skills that will help them take up specific design jobs. In four years, they gain enough knowledge of the required tools and techniques to excel in the domain. Here are some of the learning outcomes of the program, including an undergraduate ability to
- create effective print and digital communications and enhance user experiences through industry best practices;
- apply visual design, color theory, information hierarchy, and typography elements to successfully communicate narratives, concepts, emotions, and identities across various media;
- develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills for project planning, design, and creation;
- communicate clearly in visual, verbal, and written forms tailored to the intended audience;
- participate as a team member and make collaborative decisions towards shared objectives with professionalism and interpersonal skills;
- understand how design elements enhance viewer comprehension and extraction of meaning from a designed piece;
- explore the impact of design’s ethical, environmental, legal, and social on the larger global community.
Types of Degrees Graphic Design Students Can Obtain
Students taking graphic design online degrees can earn the degree under different names. The content and knowledge imparted remain, more or less, the same. The two degrees that students can opt for are a BS in Graphic Design and a BA in Graphic Design.
Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design
A Bachelor of Science degree in Graphic Design generally emphasizes the technical and practical aspects of the field, including digital tools, software, and production techniques. Students pursuing this degree may also take courses in related areas such as mathematics, computer science, and engineering.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
A Bachelor of Arts degree in Graphic Design typically emphasizes the field’s artistic and conceptual aspects, including visual communication, design history, and design theory. Students pursuing a BA in Graphic Design may also take courses in related areas such as art history, visual studies, and philosophy.
Areas of Specialization for Graphic Design Students
Taking up specializations is crucial because it enables students to gain knowledge in a particular area of the profession and can result in improved employment possibilities and higher wages. It may increase their value to employers searching for subject matter specialists and give them chances to freelance or launch their own design companies. Below are some concentrations students can choose while pursuing an online graphic design bachelor’s:
| Area of Specialization | Description | Career Options |
|---|---|---|
| User Experience Design | This program concentration focuses on developing the necessary skills and knowledge to create compelling and inclusive user experiences. It emphasizes the importance of collaboration and students’ role in working with various stakeholders during the user experience design process. | UX Designer, Interaction Designer, User Experience Researcher, Information Architect, Usability Analyst, and Product Designer |
| Animation | The animation concentration in graphic design focuses on teaching students the skills to create animated graphics, characters, and stories. Students learn various techniques and software to design and develop engaging and interactive animations for multiple media, including film, television, advertising, and video games. | Animator, Story Board Artist, Concept Artist, and 3D Modeler |
| Multimedia Design | Multimedia design concentration in graphic designing focuses on combining different media types, such as text, graphics, video, and sound, to create engaging and interactive digital experiences. It involves designing and developing multimedia content for various platforms, including websites, mobile devices, and interactive installations. | Multimedia Designer, Digital Media Specialist, Interactive Designer, and Web Designer |
| Web Design | Web design concentration in graphic design involves learning how to create and design websites, including user interface and user experience design, layout, typography, and web programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Students also learn how to optimize websites for search engines and integrate multimedia elements such as images, video, and audio. | Web Designer, Front-End Developer, and User Experience (UX) Designer |
Full-Time and Part-Time Programs
Students who enroll in a full-time bachelor’s in graphic design online usually are expected to take a full course load each semester, typically 12 to 18 credits. It typically means attending school for four years and earning the degree within the typical timeframe. Full-timers could have a more rigid schedule and fewer options to work outside class or pursue other hobbies simultaneously. Those who enroll in a part-time bachelor’s in graphic design online take fewer courses each semester. On average, the program will often last for five to six years or longer. Part-timers get more freedom to work, pursue extracurricular activities, or take longer breaks between semesters.
Accelerated Graphic Design Programs
An Accelerated Graphic Design Program reduces the time required to finish a degree compared to standard programs. Most colleges do not label this program but encourage students to finish the course quickly. Condensed education can be completed via year-round scheduling, intensive classes, or other strategies. These programs appeal to those who wish to accelerate their career starts or save time and money on their schooling. The fact that accelerated programs could include more rigorous work and a faster pace, which may be taxing for some applicants, must be considered. Some institutions provide such accelerated online graphic design programs, include:
Admission Requirements for Online Graphic Design Degree Programs
To enroll in a program, students must meet all admission requirements for online graphic design degree programs. The requirements are usually simple, but keeping things sorted is a good idea. They are likely to change a little from university to university. Here are the documents that are asked for by almost all universities.
- High school transcripts: it’s important to note that the chosen university will require proof of completion and, in some cases, meeting the minimum GPA requirement.
- When applying for transfer credits, official transcripts or degree certificates from any previous universities attended must be included.
- Those who have completed their GED will need to understand their university’s GED policy, which may require the submission of official high school transcripts, GED score reports, and diplomas.
- Although some universities are becoming test-optional, completing an SAT or ACT may still be necessary, particularly when applying for scholarships or grants.
- Additionally, an application fee may be required when submitting their university application.
- International students should know they may need to prove their English proficiency by taking the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
How to Ensure an Online Graphic Design Degree Is Accredited
Accreditation is like proof that the degree offered by that college is authentic and widely acceptable. To get accreditation, a university must meet specific quality standards such as campus size, student-teacher ratio, an evolved curriculum, and basic student amenities like food and lodging. A graphic design bachelor’s degree online must be accredited by one of the following:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) [3]
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) [4]
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC) [5]
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) [6]
- Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) [7]
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) [8]
- Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) [9]
Programmatic accreditation for online graphic design programs are provided by:
For more information on accreditation do read the guide to college accreditation.
Free Graphic Design Courses
Students must keep updated and try to gain knowledge from more sources than just their college degrees. There are numerous free graphic design courses available online. Students must get enrolled in these and give their knowledge an extra edge. Such free online courses benefit skill enhancement, career advancement, and personal growth. Employers are also looking for employees with more than just a degree program. Here are some courses to explore:
| Course | Description | Provided by |
|---|---|---|
| Graphic design specialization program [12] | In this course, students learn graphic design through four modules that cover the fundamental skills of process, historical context, image-making, and typography. They complete the sequence with a capstone project that showcases their skills in a finished branding project for their professional portfolio. | Coursera |
| Graphic Design Basics [13] | This course teaches design in detail and elaborates why design is essential. With this program, everyone can learn to think like a designer. | Canva |
| Udemy’s Logo Design Fundamentals [14] | This course assists students in grasping the foundations of logo design, the entire logo layout, the step-by-step procedure to complete a branded logo, and preparing the final product for the client and print. | Udemy |
Ways to Pay for an Online Graphic Design Degree Program
Bearing the cost of the program is not accessible for everyone. Most of the time, students are in search of ways in which they can incur the expense. Scholarships and grants help pay fees and complete their higher studies. Some ways in which students of graphic design bachelor degree online can pay for the program are listed below:
Federal Work-Study
Undergraduates who participate in federal work-study programs will be given part-time jobs, enabling them to pay for their degrees while working and studying simultaneously. Students studying philosophy have tremendous networking opportunities because of these programs.
Private Student Loans
Banks and other financial entities provide interest-bearing private student loans. Although loans must be paid back, they are an alternative to consider if students do not qualify for other financial aid.
Scholarships
Deserving students receive scholarships in recognition of their academic success. While some scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, others are based on success in activities such as athletics, music, theater, etc. They need to work hard towards how to find scholarships.
FAFSA
Filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid, or FAFSA, can help students learn more about the financial aid they are qualified for. The FAFSA student aid manual thoroughly explains this.
Grants
Funds are typically awarded to students based more on need than talent. Grant money can cover tuition and other educational costs, including travel, textbooks, and lodging.
Online Graphic Design Degree Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded to students based on their merit or needs. They make it easier for them to pursue higher education, help reduce financial obstacles, and boost their academic and professional ambitions. Receiving a scholarship eliminates financial worries. Hence, it provides more opportunities to learn, gain information, and achieve better scores. Some of the graphic design degree online scholarships are listed below:
| Scholarship | Description | Award/Amount | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Support Creativity World Scholarship [15] | The Support Creativity World Scholarship is intended for enthusiastic designers, animators, editors, shooters, artists, artists, and painters who want to advance their careers in New York City’s higher education institutions. Applicants must be Dreamers, demonstrate financial need, and be undergraduates or recent graduates. No minimum GPA is required. | $1,000 | May 1st |
| Against the Grain Artistic Scholarship [16] | Through the Against the Grain Artistic Scholarship, Asian American college students majoring in performing, visual, journalism, or public communication receive financial support and professional recognition. | $1,000 | May |
| The Chelsy Tomashoff Memorial Scholarship for Print Design Excellence [17] | Chelsy Tomashoff, a member of the Thomas Group Printing family, inspired the establishment of the Chelsy Tomashoff Memorial Scholarship. This award recognizes excellence in print design to pay tribute to Chelsy, who intensely believed in giving back and helping print design students realize their dream of attending college. | $1,500 | July |
Career Opportunities and Salaries for Online Graphic Degree Students After Graduating
Every candidate desires an excellent job after completing their studies and so do graphic designing students. There is a lot of scope for those with graphic design online degrees. According to the Bureau of Labour Statistics, there will be a 5% growth in this field until 2026. Here is a list of potential careers for individuals with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design:
- Advertising Designer
- Brand Identity Designer
- Content Creator
- Digital Media Specialist
- E-learning Designer
- Front-End Developer
- Graphic Designer
- Illustrator
- Layout Artist
- Marketing Designer
- Motion Graphics Designer
- Multimedia Designer
- Packaging Designer
- Prepress Technician
- Presentation Designer
- Print Production Specialist
- Production Artist
- Social Media Graphic Designer
- UI/UX Designer
- Web Designer
Below are some career options that online graphic design degree undergraduates can explore:
| Occupation | Skills Required | Median Annual Salary | Job Growth (up to 2032) | Job Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Art Director [18] | Communication skills, creativity, resourcefulness, and time-management | $105,180 per year | 6% (faster than average) | Art directors oversee the visual style and images featured in magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and film and television productions. They coordinate with creative teams to ensure cohesive and impactful visual representations. |
| Special Effects Artists and Animators [19] | Artistic talent, communication skills, creativity, and computer skills | $98,950 per year | 8% (faster than average) | Special effects artists and animators create moving images and visual effects for various media and entertainment platforms. They employ artistic skills and cutting-edge technology to produce captivating visual experiences. |
| Web Developers and Digital Designers [20] | Detail-oriented, problem-solving, communication skills, and creativity | $80,730 per year | 16% (much faster than average) | Web developers are responsible for creating and maintaining websites. At the same time, digital designers focus on developing, creating, and testing website or interface layouts, functions, and navigation to ensure optimal usability and user experience. They play a crucial role in shaping the digital presence of businesses and organizations. |
| Graphic Designers [21] | Analytical skills, artistic ability, critical thinking, creativity | $57,990 per year | 3% (as fast as average) | Graphic designers utilize computer software or traditional methods to develop visual concepts that convey ideas to consumers effectively. Their work inspires, informs, and captivates audiences, appearing in various media such as magazines, newspapers, product packaging, and digital platforms. |
Certifications and Licensing for Online Graphic Design Degree Graduates
A professional certificate program has many advantages. One is that it boosts chances of getting promoted or paid more at a current company while creating new work options. As a result, upgrading skills is advantageous for working professionals and recent grads. Here are some professional certifications that will fit the needs of online degree holders in graphic design:
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) [22]
An Adobe Certified Associate’s certification verifies their mastery of essential basic skills for devising, creating, implementing, and overseeing successful communication through diverse digital media formats.
UX Design Professional Certificate [23]
Start the voyage into the fast-growing user experience (UX) design field by obtaining the Google UX Design professional certificate. Learn the fundamental principles of UX design, including understanding user needs, creating wireframes and prototypes, and conducting research to assess the effectiveness of your designs.
Additional Resources for Online Graphic Design Degree Graduates
Getting associated with professional associations offers the students additional exposure. Working with professionals in the designing domain provides a broader spectrum of knowledge not available in the classroom. Moreover, it also prepares them to take up real-world challenges much better. Here are some professional associations that those pursuing a bachelor’s degree in graphic design online can be a part of:
| Title/Resource | Description |
|---|---|
| AIGA [24] | With over 25,000 members spread across over 70 national chapters, AIGA is among the most prominent professional organizations for graphic designers. The institute arranges multiple events throughout the United States each month and has led various initiatives to enhance diversity and inclusivity within the industry. |
| The Graphic Artist Guild [25] | Designers, animators, cartoonists, illustrators, digital artists, and other professionals are welcome to join the GAG. The guild’s website provides a comprehensive collection of online resources, including guidance on licensing, contract negotiations, copyright registration, and art competition submissions. |
| International Council of Design [26] | Since its establishment in London in 1963, ico-D has been committed to representing and promoting design professionals worldwide. The council runs a mentorship program, designs achievement awards in collaboration with Adobe, and endorses competitions, exhibitions, and conferences. |
| Registered Graphic Designers [27] | The RGD facilitates the exchange of ideas among Canadian designers, offers education and inspiration, establishes professional standards, and fosters a robust and supportive community that advocates for the value of design. |
| Society of Illustrators [28] | The Society of Illustrators is dedicated to advancing the art of illustration by showcasing its history and evolution through exhibitions, lectures, and education. Additionally, the society encourages its members to serve the community at large. |
FAQs About Online Graphic Design Degree Programs
Can you get a graphic design degree online?
Yes, getting a graphic design degree online is possible. Post-pandemic, the world has gotten used to the online way of life. It is more convenient for students to take up this program online as it surpasses the limitations of location. Most of the USA’s reputed universities offer online bachelor’s in graphic design.
What can you do with a graphic design bachelor’s degree online?
How much does an online bachelor’s in graphic design cost?
Is an online degree in graphic design worth it?
What qualities and skills should a good graphic designer have?
What to look for in an excellent graphic design college?
Citations:
Southern New Hampshire University
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC)
Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)
National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Design (ACCGD)
Graphic design specialization program-Coursera
Udemy’s Logo Design Fundamentals-Udemy
Support Creativity World Scholarship
Against the Grain Artistic Scholarship
The Chelsy Tomashoff Memorial Scholarship for Print Design Excellence
Special Effects Artists and Animators
Web Developers and Digital Designers
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)
UX Design Professional Certificate