Graphic designers, multimedia artists, and product designers are meeting the need of the hour in the marketing industry. To gain essential design skills, you should consider pursuing one of the best design bachelor’s degrees at an accredited university.
A Bachelor’s Degree in Design will provide you with the necessary qualifications to establish a successful career in the industrial and graphic design fields. Below are some of the best bachelor’s degrees in design, along with their tuition costs and admission requirements. We’ll also cover some of the design bachelor’s degree jobs available to graduates.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Design from academic institutions such as Boston University, University of Florida, Carnegie Mellon University, Drexel University, and Syracuse University. While these universities offer some of the best programs for a Bachelor’s Degree in Design, there are many other institutions you should consider, some of which we’ll cover in this article.
What Schools Offer the Best Design Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Boston University
- Drexel University
- Carnegie Mellon University
- University of Florida
- Syracuse University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Design program include a minimum grade point average (GPA), letters of recommendation from instructors, a high school diploma or equivalent, and official transcripts. Some universities will only admit students that are in the top 25 percent of their graduating classes.
Once you have all the necessary application materials, you’ll have to complete an online application and submit additional documents to be considered for admission to design school. Depending on the school, these documents can include a creative portfolio showcasing your background in art or design, ACT or SAT scores, counselor evaluations, and personal essays.
Design Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Creative portfolio
- Letters of recommendation
- Minimum GPA requirement (varies depending on the school)
- High school diploma or equivalent and official transcripts
- Online application
How to Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree
To get a Bachelor’s Degree in Design, you’ll need to fulfill all of the program’s general credit and design major requirements. The credit requirements will include a set amount of core design, general education, and elective courses.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
You’ll typically need 120 credits to get a design bachelor’s degree. This translates to roughly 40 courses, including general education courses, design-specific courses, and electives. Some programs may also require a capstone project during the final year of the program.
Design Degree Requirements
- 120 credits (varies depending on the school)
- Elective credits
- General education credits
- Design-specific credits
- Capstone project
Best Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Boston University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Carnegie Mellon University | Bachelor of Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Lesley University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | New England Commission of Higher Learning |
| Lynn University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Environmental and Interior Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Cincinnati | Bachelor of Science in Communication Design | Higher Learning Commission |
| University of Florida | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| University of Southern California | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design | WASC Senior College and University Commission |
| Washington University in St. Louis | Bachelor of Fine Arts & Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art and Design | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Design: Top Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
As a prospective student and aspiring designer, you should explore the top design bachelor’s degree programs available in the United States. Below is an overview of 10 of the best design schools you can enroll in.
What Is a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
A design bachelor’s degree is a four-year college program that offers specializations in design, including industrial design, interior design, and graphic design. Its curriculum focuses on building a foundation for learners by teaching them basic design concepts.
After the first two years, students can choose to hone their specialization in different topics depending, on their interests. Unlike a Master’s Degree in Design, this program takes longer and is suitable for high school graduates who have no prior exposure to design.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Design is very important, as it helps students secure great career opportunities in the design field. Its curriculum is based on the demands of the job market, helping students prepare adequately for design roles. A degree will enable you with the important technical and soft skills you need for your ideal career in the field.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Design?
The most common types of bachelor’s degrees include a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design and a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design. Many programs also offer a Bachelor of Arts degree, which involves a broader curriculum for learning about the theoretical and historical elements of design.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Fine Arts or a Bachelor of Science in Design?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design because this degree will be more design-focused as a whole, rather than technologically-focused like a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree would be. The Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design option is best for those who are certain they’d like to work in the technological field of design and need to gain the technical skills to do so. The degree track you choose ultimately depends on the field of design that interests you most.
What Is the Difference Between a Design Bachelor’s Degree and a Design Certificate?
The distinction between a design bachelor’s degree and a certificate is the length of the period of study, and the level of knowledge and skills gained. A certificate is more affordable and provides the primary technical concepts necessary to help you perform basic or specific roles in this field.
A degree exposes you to numerous topics, including introductory and advanced topics, to help you kickstart and establish a successful graphic design career. A degree takes four years, while a certificate or visual design bootcamp can take between three to six months.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
The average cost of a bachelor’s degree program in design is $28,775, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. Keep in mind that all programs will vary in tuition costs, and many institutions offer financial aid options to help students afford to attend. Private universities often charge more in tuition fees than public or state schools do and in-state students will typically pay significantly less for tuition than out-of-state students.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes four years to get a design bachelor’s degree if you study full-time. This means you will cover 30 credits each year, on average. However, part-time students will take longer than four years to complete their bachelor’s degrees, while students in accelerated programs may finish in less than four years.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
It is not hard to get a Bachelor’s Degree in Design. The degree track builds advanced topics on simple concepts, ensuring students have an enhanced learning experience. Attending one of the best design bachelor’s degree programs also provides you with the necessary resources, helping you complete assignments and ace exams with ease.
Why Should You Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
You should get a design bachelor’s degree because it will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to execute responsibilities in the creative field. It prepares you for entrepreneurial opportunities such as fashion design, graphic design, UX design, and art directing. The program also establishes an academic foundation you can build on in the future.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Design?
The core courses you’ll typically need to take in a design bachelor’s degree program explore topics such as drawing, art history, and design fundamentals.
Drawing Course
A drawing course teaches you the basic elements of observational drawing, as it is vital in any design role. It focuses on shapes, the creation of 2D drawings, and composition. In addition, you will be exposed to freehand and mechanical drawing techniques.
Art and Design History
This course covers the historical changes that have occurred in art and design. In this course, you will cover the evolution of key artists, design principles, art forms, and materials. You will also learn about the impact of these alterations on culture, society, and industry.
Design Fundamentals
This course exposes you to basic design elements, for instance, 2D design development, which is crucial in any project. The course explores color, texture, line, shape, and space. In addition, you will familiarize yourself with organizational principles to help you design and build exceptional visuals, plans, or products.
Color
Color is primary in any design role, whether you’re an aspiring fashion designer, graphic designer, or architect. Learning concepts such as analogous and complementary colors enables you to create stunning visual compositions, producing products that appeal to the target audience.
Introduction to Design
Depending on the design program you choose, you will take introductory courses that cover what graphic design, industrial design, and environment design entail.
Continuing Education Paths for Design Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Once you obtain your Bachelor’s Degree in Design, you can explore some of the best master’s degree options. After obtaining a master’s degree, you can even go on to earn a doctorate degree in design. Certificates are another option for those that want to expand on a certain skillset or concept in design without pursuing a degree.
Related Design Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Accreditation, cost, and learning format are all important things to consider in the program you choose for design. Below are some of the key things to evaluate when looking for the best design bachelor’s degree programs.
Accreditation
Accredited universities are acknowledged nationwide or globally by a set of standards, making them respectable educational institutions. When you obtain a degree from such institutions, employers view you as certified and adequately prepared for any design role. Be sure to check if and how your program or university is accredited when searching for a degree program.
Cost
If you’re a working student attending to numerous financial responsibilities, you’ll want to look for a program that is affordable. When exploring the numerous options available, ensure that the tuition, accommodation, fees, and other costs work for your personal budget. Financial aid options are often offered by the school or federal government, such as FAFSA, to help.
Learning Format
The learning format that is best for you will depend on whether or not you wish to live on campus, work full or part-time, or wish to attend the program from your own home. Researching the program’s learning options, such as online or hybrid formats, will help guide your decision.
Employability
Getting your first employment opportunity is often difficult, as graduates have little professional experience. It is important to choose a school that assists design students in obtaining jobs, whether through partnerships with employers or internship opportunities. This will help you smoothly transition into the industry.
Student-to-Faculty Ratio
The student-to-faculty ratio determines how much individualized attention students get in their programs. You should look for a program that allows every student to access professional help when needed, as you may need to consult professors about complex topics. Having this access to instructors can often result in higher grades, which will give you an advantage in your employability after graduation.
What Is the Most Affordable Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The University of Florida offers the most affordable design bachelor’s degree. The university’s graphic design program is offered for just $6,380 per year for Florida residents, making the degree $25,520 in total. This tuition rate and the overall degree cost calculation do not include other miscellaneous fees.
Salary and Job Outlook for Design Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
A design role is a creative, satisfying career option in the increasingly digitized economy. The employment of design professionals is expected to grow by four percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Continue reading for an overview of the job prospects available in the field after graduation.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
It isn’t hard to get a job with a design bachelor’s degree. However, career opportunities vary based on location and degree specialization. For instance, with the relatively high employment rate of industrial designers, according to BLS, you can easily find numerous career opportunities. However, graphic design can pose challenges since its job outlook is three percent, which is lower than the national average for all occupations.
What’s the Average Design Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a design bachelor’s degree is $63,000 per year, according to PayScale. This amount varies depending on the location, company, and experience of the candidate.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The types of jobs you can get with a design bachelor’s degree are interior designer, art director, and product designer. You can also become a graphic designer or a UX designer. Design bachelor’s degrees offer employment opportunities across design specializations like product design, user experience (UX) design, art directing, graphic design, interior design, and creative design.
Design Degree Jobs
- Graphic Designer
- UX Designer
- Interior Designer
- Art Director
- Product Designer
Potential Careers With a Design Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Design?
You can make between $86,000 and $123,000 annually with a design bachelor’s degree. Enrolling in the best design bachelor’s degree program will secure you a range of top-paying jobs to choose from. In addition to a high salary, you can look forward to competitive benefits and a positive job outlook.
Highest-Paying Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Senior Product Designer | $122,822 |
| Senior UX Designer | $106,056 |
| Creative Director | $90,847 |
| Product Designer | $86,477 |
| Graphic Designer | $47,445 |
Best Jobs for Design Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for design bachelor’s degree graduates offer numerous benefits, including medical insurance, paid vacation, career development, and exclusive perks. Continue reading for a closer look at some of the best opportunities you can apply for once you graduate.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Design Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Design is worth it, as it provides you with a wide range of academic and career opportunities in the design field. Whether you’re passionate about creating company logos or designing consumer products, this degree track can help you establish a successful, satisfying, and creative career.
Additional Reading About Design
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Design Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
The best schools to study fashion design at include Boston University, the University of Florida, and the University of Southern California.
You should pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Architecture and Interior Design, Digital and Interaction Design, Communication Design, Product Design, or Fashion Design. Many schools offer a wide range of degree programs with opportunities to specialize in an area that interests you most.
Yes, you can get a top-quality online design bachelor’s degree at accredited universities, such as Arizona State University, University of Florida, Academy of Art University, and Southern New Hampshire University.
You can enroll in many different design short online courses from top providers for free on online learning platforms such as Coursera, Canva, and Udemy.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
