The field of graphic design has seen dramatic growth over the last decade. With that growth comes better pay and more job opportunities. The best graphic design master’s degrees will put you ahead of the competition and open up new job opportunities. You’ll learn more skills, gain more hands-on experience, and earn higher wages.
Many universities offer a graphic design master’s degree. So, you have many options to choose from, although that also presents a problem. How do you find the degree program that’s right for you? Not to worry, we’ve compiled a list of the master’s degree in Graphic Design options to help you achieve your career goals, and we’ve also listed some top graphic design master’s degree jobs.
Where Can I Get a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
Some of the best schools to get a master’s degree in graphic design are Arizona State University (ASU), Yale University, Southern New Hampshire University, California Institute of Arts, and Boston University.
What Schools Offer the Best Graphic Design Master’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Yale University
- Art Center College of Design
- California Institute of Arts
- Boston University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
The admission requirements for a graphic design master’s degree are an undergraduate degree academic transcript, application fee, letters of recommendation, letter of intent, and work portfolio. However, the exact requirements for graduate applicants will vary from program to program.
While some programs emphasize having a strong portfolio of work, others don’t have a portfolio requirement. Most programs will require an English proficiency test if you are not a native English speaker. Make sure to check with your chosen school and take note of their specific requirements when you’re getting ready to apply.
Graphic Design Degree Admission Requirements
- Academic transcripts
- Application fee
- Statement of purpose
- References
- Portfolio of work
- English proficiency test for non-native speakers
How to Get a Graphic Design Master’s Degree
You get a graphic design master’s degree by meeting all the graduation requirements specified by the program, such as completing 60 credits and a thesis. Every university or program has its specific requirements, which you have to fulfill.
Regardless of these specifics, an essential requirement is meeting the stipulated credits for the program. Completing these credit hours means you have acquired the knowledge and skills that qualify you for your master’s degree.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
You need between 36 and 60 credits for a master’s degree in graphic design. The credits are typically categorized into core courses, studio, electives, and thesis. Some programs also feature preliminary courses for students without a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design or a related field.
Graphic Design Degree Requirements
- Core courses, such as typography and design theory
- Upper-level courses, such as interactive design and the Internet
- Electives, such as letterform design
- Thesis
- Preliminaries, where applicable
Best Graphic Design Master’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Master of Science in Visual Communication Design | Higher Learning Commission |
| Art Center College of Design | Master of Fine Arts in Graduate Graphic Design | National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation |
| Boston University | Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| California Institute of the Arts | Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation |
| Maryland Institute College of Art | Master of Arts in Graphic Design | National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation |
| North Carolina State University | Master of Graphic Design | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Otis College of Art and Design | Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | National Association of Schools of Art and Design, Commission on Accreditation |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Master of Fine Arts in Visual Communication Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Savannah College Of Art And Design | Master of Arts in Graphic Design and Visual Experience | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Yale University | Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
Best Schools for Graphic Design: Top Graphic Design Master’s Degree Programs
Several factors come into play when choosing a graphic design master’s degree program. These factors include program quality, tuition, graduation rate, and job placement. Based on these factors, here are the best graphic design master’s degree programs.
What Is a Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
A graphic design master’s degree is a graduate program that improves your knowledge and skills in graphic design. The advanced-level program comprises courses in typography, user interface, motion graphics, advertising and design, titles, and more. Most graphic design master’s degrees take two years to complete, although there are three-year options.
A master’s degree in graphic design is different from a bachelor’s degree because it allows you to specialize in a particular field, like digital design. So, if any area of graphic design interests you and you already have a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s degree program is your best bet. Plus, you can find in-person, online, and hybrid programs to suit your needs.
How Important Is a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
A master’s degree in graphic design is important because it helps you gain proficiency in the graphic design field. It opens the doors to more job opportunities with a higher average base salary.
However, some people posit that you don’t need a master’s degree to have a rewarding career in graphic design. Still, specialization always gives you a competitive edge in every field.
What Types of Master’s Degrees Can You Get in Graphic Design?
You can get a Master of Arts degree in Graphic Design and a Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design. A Master of Arts degree focuses on research and theoretical learning, while an MFA focuses on professional artistic work within a specialized field. Some programs have thesis options, while others don’t.
In addition, you can get the Master of Science in Graphic Design, as offered by Arizona State University. This type of master’s degree requires a thesis and, in some cases, takes longer than two years to complete. It is also more technical and scientifically theory-based, making it somewhat of a hybrid program incorporating both STEM and arts.
Is It Better to Get a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Graphic Design?
There are no metrics to rank a Master of Arts in Graphic Design over a Master of Science in Graphic Design, and vice versa. Both programs involve an intensive study of core graphic design courses.
However, the Master of Arts option is the most common program of the two. Some schools also offer a research option for individuals looking to go into arts and design education.
What Is the Difference Between a Graphic Design Master’s Degree and a Graphic Design Graduate Certificate?
The difference between a graphic design master’s degree and a graphic design graduate certificate is the curriculum and level of award. A graduate certificate in graphic design typically has courses in studio skills, design theory, and software skills like Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator.
A graphic design master’s degree typically entails a deep study of graphic design, with emphasis on hands-on experience. Some programs offer graduate internship or fellowship, which helps students build a strong portfolio. Also, graduate certificate programs offer open enrolment. Meanwhile, master’s programs in graphic design have a strict admission process.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
The average cost of a master’s degree in graphic design is $19,314, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, this cost varies by program and institution. Public institutions generally charge less than private institutions.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
Typically, it takes two years to get a graphic design master’s degree. With a complementary undergraduate degree in arts, design, and related fields, you only need four semesters to complete the two-year graduate program. However, some programs take three years if you’re new to graphic design.
You need to complete 60 credits in a graphic design master’s program. The number of credits per semester varies by school. However, expect the second year to be more intensive.
How Hard Is It to Get a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
It is not very hard to get a master’s degree in graphic design. If you already have a complementary undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, then most courses in the graduate program will not be very difficult for you. However, the student sessions might present a problem if you don’t have prior design experience.
Why Should You Get a Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
You should get a graphic design master’s degree because it focuses on advanced aspects of design and presents you with an opportunity for mentorship. In addition, graduating from a graphic design master’s degree program qualifies you for higher salaries, and you can find lucrative roles as a graphic designer, art director, industrial designer, and animator.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Master’s Degree Program in Graphic Design?
During a graphic design master’s program in graphic design, you will typically need to take courses such as design theory, design history, typography, design studio, and visual design. Let’s take a look at these five courses in more detail.
Design Theory
Design theory deals with the basics of visual communication and other art types. In this course, students learn how to understand design principles and analyze design practice. Students are taught the fundamental design principles that allow them to produce practical design solutions.
Typography
In arts and communication, typology aims to create effective designs that can pass information succinctly. So, there is a focus on font types, font sizes, line-spacing, letter-tracking, and typefaces.
Design History
Design history is a typical course in all graphic design master’s degree programs. The course deals with the study of design elements in their stylistic and historical context. Students will learn about the cultural, social, economic, and even political contexts of various design objects.
Design Studio
Design studio is an advanced workshop where students create complex design projects. There are usually different design studio courses throughout a graphic design master’s degree program.
Visual Literacy
The visual literacy course teaches students how to glean information from visual texts. This course helps improve students’ visual perception cues. They will be able to learn how to get meaning from visual texts.
Continuing Education Paths for Graphic Design Master’s Degree Graduates
Graphic design master’s degree graduates can pursue a doctorate to earn a PhD. A PhD is worth it if they are pursuing a career in academia or looking to teach graphic design at the university level. Otherwise, graduates can pursue professional certification in different aspects of graphic design if they don’t already have them.
Some professional certification options include UI/UX Design Specialization, Adobe Certified Associate, Certified Digital Designer, and Certified Graphics Communications Manager. Still, after graduate school, graduate students can explore different career options to begin building their portfolios.
Related Graphic Design Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Graphic Design Master’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best graphic design master’s degree programs are accreditation, format, cost, career services, employment outcomes, program reputation, and electives. We will examine five of these qualities in more detail below.
Accreditation
Most graduate programs in the United States are accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Attending a program with the right accreditation will add credibility to your degree and help you reach your professional goals faster. No matter the level of education, you don’t want to have a degree from an unaccredited program.
Flexibility
When it comes to the graduate degree level, flexibility is important because of work schedules. Online programs that allow you to learn essential technical skills in graphic design are great if you don’t want to travel to attend graduate school. You should also check if there are options for a hybrid program or part-time options.
Cost
Prospective students need to check if they can afford the tuition and extra costs of their program of choice. If you go for an online learning option, your cost can be significantly lower because you won’t have to pay for accommodation or transport. So, you should consider getting a graphic design online degree or a degree from a public university to lower tuition costs.
Career Services
Graphic design schools with top-notch career services are always preferable. You should get a mentor to help you build a strong portfolio, even without prior professional experience in visual arts or graphic design. The goal is to get all the assistance you need to succeed in the graphic design industry. Graphic design students who are mentored find it easier to find jobs.
Program Reputation
Whether it’s an online degree program or an advanced degree program from a public university, reputation is key. Learning what other students say about a school’s academic programs can help you avoid enrolling in a less-than-excellent program. You want a program that pays attention to the design process and enables you to build a professional portfolio.
What Is the Most Affordable Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
The most affordable graphic design master’s degree is the Master of Graphic Design offered by North Carolina State University in Raleigh, North Carolina. Attending the program costs $9,095 per year, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This means that the full tuition cost will be around $18,190 for this degree.
Salary and Job Outlook for Graphic Design Master’s Degree Graduates
Graduates of graphic design master’s programs enjoy a great job outlook with competitive salaries. A graduate graphic design degree means you can execute high-level design requirements and work in different career paths, such as visual animation and game design.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
It is not very hard to get a job with a graphic design master’s degree. The typical design program teaches students the fundamentals of the design process, plus includes courses in interaction design, game design, studio art, and more. Students have to take design studio courses where they put their design skills to the test.
In addition, some graduate programs have a mentorship program where students are primed to develop a design portfolio. Regardless of the students’ design backgrounds, the goal of each graphic design and visual experience program is to coach creative professionals. These factors combine to make it easy for graduates to get jobs post-graduation.
What’s the Average Graphic Design Master’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with a graphic design master’s degree is $67,000 annually, according to PayScale. However, depending on the career path, your salary can be higher or lower than the typical average. Graphic designers earn the lowest, with an annual average of $59,970, compared to UX designers, who make $75,742 per year, according to PayScale.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With a Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
The jobs you can do with a graphic design master’s degree include careers within the fields of graphic design, craft and fine arts, game design, animation, and more. This cross-disciplinary field of study allows you to use your professional skills in different areas.
Graphic Design Degree Jobs
- Graphic Designer
- Visual Animator
- Industrial Designer
- Art Director
- Design Director
Potential Careers With a Graphic Design Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design?
You can make between $60,000 and $115,000 with a master’s degree in graphic design. Earning a master’s degree in graphic design opens you up to high-paying job opportunities. For example, landing a Vice President of Design role will get you an average of $170,735 annually, according to PayScale.
However, several factors decide what you earn with a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design. Some of these factors include location, career path, experience, and work portfolio.
Highest-Paying Graphic Design Master’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Graphic Design Master’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Art Director | $115,430 |
| Digital Interface Designer | $95,460 |
| Special Effects Artists and Animator | $86,220 |
| Industrial Designer | $79,680 |
| Graphic Designer | $59,970 |
Best Jobs for Graphic Design Master’s Degree Grads
Graduates from a reputable arts college can find the best graphic design master’s degree jobs. In addition to educational experience from a school of art, a strong portfolio will make you outstanding in the applicant pool. Here are the best jobs you can land after graphic design studies in a postgraduate program.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is a Master’s Degree in Graphic Design Worth It?
Yes, a master’s degree in graphic design is worth it if you want to land high-paying graphic design jobs or specialize in a unique design field. A graphic design master’s degree program will improve your knowledge and skills in the field and help you build a professional portfolio with its mentorship and graduate internship offers.
Graduates are positioned for better job opportunities in graphic design and other related industries. Also, in addition to being able to work on rewarding projects, they tend to earn better salaries as master’s degree holders.
Additional Reading About Graphic Design
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Graphic Design Master’s Degree FAQ
Most graphic design master’s degrees take two years to complete. However, some programs are much faster, with some taking only a year. You can also find three-year options, especially if you don’t have a background in graphic design.
Yes, getting a degree in graphic design is worth it. A degree will qualify you for many job roles in the graphic design industry. There are some job opportunities you won’t even be qualified for if you don’t have the required formal education, regardless of the skills you may have gained somewhere else.
Yes, you can do a master’s degree in graphic design online. Many programs offer this flexible study option, which allows you to deepen your understanding of graphic design fundamentals anywhere you are.
Some of the best schools that offer a master’s degree in graphic design include the Rochester Institute of Technology, Arizona State University, Yale University, Boston University, and California Institute of Arts.
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.
