Best Online Graphic Design Degrees & Programs 2024

Calling all artsy types: Turn your talent into a satisfying career with one of these top-notch online graphic design degree programs.
Meg Embry
By
Edited by
Updated December 3, 2024
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Graphic design is one of the rare careers where you get paid to be creative. Graphic designers use design principles, visual arts, and typography to connect and communicate with their audience.

Great graphic design is fundamentally human: It’s about making something that strikes a chord with other people. This is why, even as AI may change how graphic designers do their jobs in the future, it won’t replace them altogether. According to the Bureau for Labor Statistics (BLS), graphic design jobs will continue to grow through 2033.

Today, you can break into the field without ever leaving your house by enrolling in one of these top online graphic design programs.

What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Program?

Unsurprisingly, most graphic designers are visually creative. However, they are also gifted communicators, capable of expressing themselves through their work and in conversations with clients. Graphic designers are also comfortable with technology and familiar with the latest software applications and coding languages.

There are many different types of graphic design bachelor’s programs for students to choose from. Depending on the school, graphic design students can earn a bachelor of science (BS), bachelor of arts (BA), bachelor of fine arts (BFA), or bachelor of science in design (BSD).

In general, BA programs include more liberal arts courses than either BS or BFA programs. BS and BSD programs emphasize more technical training, while BFA programs are most suitable for students committed to pursuing careers in the arts.

Both on-campus and online bachelor’s programs consist of at least 120 credits of coursework, including core curriculum courses and major requirements. Most bachelor’s programs take full-time students about four years to complete.

Some online graphic design programs offer concentrations such as 3D modeling, web design, motion graphics, and interactive design. Some also provide internship opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable experience in the field. Graduating students often create a portfolio of their work, which they can then present to prospective employers.

Featured Online Graphic Design Programs

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

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Best Accredited Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs

#1

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE4 yearCampus + Online

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Acceptance Rate

95%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,980

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,980

Retention Rate

72%

Students Enrolled

11,902

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,560

Bellevue University

Bellevue, NE4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$7,560

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$7,560

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment

95%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$10,980

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$10,980

Retention Rate

72%

Students Enrolled

11,902

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

#2

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH4 yearCampus + Online

$15,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$15,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

92%

Acceptance Rate

96%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$18,900

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$18,900

Retention Rate

62%

Students Enrolled

145,533

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$15,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$15,000

Southern New Hampshire University

Manchester, NH4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$15,000

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$15,000

Acceptance Rate

92%

Online Enrollment

96%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$18,900

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$18,900

Retention Rate

62%

Students Enrolled

145,533

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

#3

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ4 yearOnline

$10,710

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$12,984

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

70%

Acceptance Rate

N/A

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,774

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$9,774

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

57,848

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,710

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,984

Arizona State University Digital Immersion

Scottsdale, AZ4 yearOnline

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$10,710

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$12,984

Acceptance Rate

70%

Online Enrollment

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

$9,774

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

$9,774

Retention Rate

N/A

Students Enrolled

57,848

Institution Type

Public

Accreditation

Yes

#4

Kentucky Wesleyan College

Owensboro, KY4 yearCampus + Online

$28,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

67%

Acceptance Rate

32%

Online Enrollment
Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

55%

Students Enrolled

811

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,400

Kentucky Wesleyan College

Owensboro, KY4 yearCampus + Online

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, In-State

$28,400

Avg. Undergrad Tuition, Out-of-state

$28,400

Acceptance Rate

67%

Online Enrollment

32%

Avg. Grad Tuition, In-State

N/A

Avg. Grad Tuition, Out-of-state

N/A

Retention Rate

55%

Students Enrolled

811

Institution Type

Private

Accreditation

Yes

Why Should I Pursue an Online Graphic Design Degree?

There are several good reasons to get your graphic design degree online.

Online programs let you choose when and where to study, making it easier to balance school with other responsibilities and commitments.

The digital nature of graphic design makes it especially well suited for online learning. Great online programs equip you with all the relevant industry skills (like design principles, layout, color theory, illustration, and digital imaging) while also strengthening your competence with digital collaboration tools and design software.

An online degree can also help you build a comprehensive design portfolio, develop a professional network, and qualify for skilled graphic design careers across industries.

What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Program?

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    Motion Design

    In classes on motion design, students learn how to create motion graphics for film, television, video games, and the web. They work on various projects, incorporating motion graphics into closed captions, rolling credit sequences, and opening titles.
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    Fundamentals of Web Design

    This course covers the basics of web design, including web standards, user interface design principles, and pattern libraries to create digital products. Students also learn about stylesheet and markup languages, such as HTML and CSS.
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    Publication Design

    Students planning to go into book, magazine, newspaper, or digital publishing can learn about page layout and other aspects of publication design. They tackle hands-on projects, develop their design skills, and learn how to address common problems.
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    Branding

    Students learn about the role of graphic design in branding. Through print-based and digital projects, they develop branding strategies and apply them in their work. Learners also study research methods used to address design problems in branding.
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    Logos and Symbols

    Logos and symbols play critical roles in marketing and branding initiatives. In courses on these topics, students learn what makes a well-designed logo and how to combine typography and graphic elements to leave a lasting impression on consumers.

How Is the Online Learning Experience for Graphic Design Programs?

Thanks in part to the pandemic, remote learning has become the default for many students, and schools that offer high-quality online degree programs report excellent student experiences and outcomes.

As an online graphic design student, you can expect to spend your days designing, drafting, experimenting, illustrating, problem-solving, and even copywriting. Coursework can be intensive, creatively demanding, and require a good amount of independent learning.

But you won’t have to do it all on your own: The excellent online programs we’ve ranked on this page provide a great deal of instruction, structure, and support to make sure students thrive and succeed.

What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Program?

In general, admission requirements for online and on-campus bachelor’s programs are the same. Bachelor’s programs require prospective students to submit a completed application and official academic transcripts. Some also request that applicants submit standardized test scores, essays, and letters of recommendation. Applicants to graphic design programs may be required to share a portfolio of their creative work.

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    Application

    Academic programs require prospective students to submit a completed application. Over 900 schools accept the Common Application, which is an online platform that allows students to manage college applications to multiple schools. Most schools charge students a fee to apply.
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    Test Scores

    Many colleges request college entrance exam scores from applicants. U.S. schools generally accept SAT and ACT scores and do not prefer one exam over the other. The format and subject matter covered in the ACT and SAT exams differ somewhat. When choosing which to take, consider which exam will best showcase your academic strengths.
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    Letters of Recommendation

    Admissions departments may ask you to submit 1-3 letters of recommendation in support of your application. If you’re a high school student, ask for recommendations from teachers from your junior or senior year. You may also consider submitting letters from coaches, advisors, or employers.
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    Essays

    The programs you apply to may require you to write college application essays. Many schools ask applicants to respond to one or more prompts in around 200-600 words. You may wish to discuss your interest in graphic design in your essay. However, only do so if it fits the prompt.
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    Official Transcripts

    Most undergraduate programs request official transcripts from applicants. Typically, high school guidance counselors can submit academic transcripts to colleges on a student’s behalf. You should also send transcripts from any postsecondary schools you’ve attended. Many schools accept transfer credits from applicants who have completed undergraduate coursework at other colleges or universities.

What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Degree?

Career Outlook for Graphic Designers

Job Growth | 2023-2033
+2%

Average Annual Salary | 2023
$50,530

Sources: BLS, Payscale

The visual and performing arts, including graphic design, are popular majors among students. During the 2020-2021 academic year, over 90,000 undergrads earned a visual and performing arts degree, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.

Studying graphic design can be a fun and rewarding way to explore your creative side. However, before choosing it as your major, you should consider the job market for graphic designers. The BLS projects that the graphic design field will see 6,600 job openings each year from 2023-2033, which would represent 2% growth — about as fast as the national average for all occupations.

However, many graphic design graduates also work in fast-growing industries, such as web design and advertising. The BLS projects that jobs for web developers and designers will increase 8% over the next decade — faster than average.

According to Payscale, graphic designers earned an average annual salary of $50,530 as of December 2023. Web designers made slightly more, earning an average income of $55,510 per year, as did marketing specialists ($56,100 per year).

Career Paths

Continuing Education

You don’t need a graduate degree to succeed as a graphic designer. However, some graduates of bachelor’s in graphic design programs pursue master’s degrees or doctorates.

Master’s in graphic design programs provide bachelor’s degree-holders with further training, which can help them improve their design skills and stand out to potential employers. In contrast, Ph.D. programs in graphic design typically emphasize research. Degree-seekers study design theory and history and write about various subjects, such as sustainability in design and design in urban environments.

Often, individuals who earn a Ph.D. in graphic design pursue academic careers.

How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Program?

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    Cost

    Tuition and fees for online bachelor’s in graphic design programs vary. In general, public universities charge lower tuition rates than private schools. If students are concerned about keeping costs low, they should look at public schools located in their state. They can also consider earning an associate degree at a community college and then transferring to a four-year institution to finish their program. When choosing an online bachelor’s in graphic design program, compare the cost of enrolling in an online program versus attending classes on campus. Although online programs are sometimes more affordable — by avoiding on-campus student fees and travel costs — several factors affect the overall or “true cost” of earning a degree remotely.
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    Program Format

    Synchronous online programs require students to attend classes virtually at specific times. Alternatively, asynchronous options permit students to complete course requirements at any time. When choosing a bachelor’s in graphic design program, consider which online learning format you prefer. Also, some schools offer accelerated bachelor’s programs, allowing students to earn their degrees in less than four years.
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    Location

    The location of your school can also matter, even if you choose to go to college online. For instance, if you attend a school in your home state, you may be eligible for in-state tuition rates. Also, some programs require online students to visit campus to complete specific requirements. If you’re unable or unwilling to travel, make sure potential programs don’t have any in-person components.
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    Accreditation

    Look for an online bachelor’s in graphic design program offered by an independently accredited school. Accreditation helps ensure that you receive a high-quality education. Also, if you decide to transfer, enrolling at an accredited school and program increases the likelihood that the courses you’ve completed will transfer to your new school. Many colleges and universities only accept transfer credits from regionally accredited schools.
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    Student Support

    When choosing an online program, consider options that provide student services like online tutoring, faculty mentorship opportunities, and career services. Also, look for programs offering internship opportunities, as these can help you gain valuable industry experience and expand your professional network.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs

Indeed it is. There are a number of excellent online graphic design degree programs that can prepare you for a career in the field. There are also many non-degree courses online to help you hone specific skills and develop a robust portfolio.

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