Best Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs, Jobs, and Salaries
If you want to begin your career in design and want to know where to find the best online design bachelor’s degree programs, jobs, and salaries, then look no further. Our guide on the best online design bachelor’s degrees will help you get started on your journey to building a promising career in design.
As people start searching for more flexible and convenient methods of learning, more have developed online curriculums to accommodate different lifestyles and needs. Here, you’ll find online bachelor’s degrees in design that will lead to design bachelor’s degree jobs postgraduation.
Where Can I Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online?
You can get a design bachelor’s degree online from institutions such as Arizona State University, Bellevue University, Drexel University, Husson University, and Oregon State University.
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What Schools Offer the Best Design Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Bellevue University
- Drexel University
- Husson University
- Oregon State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online design bachelor’s degree include meeting the prerequisite entry terms of each college. While these requirements differ from college to college, they typically include meeting the minimum GPA and test scores, and submitting the application forms and appropriate documents. These documents typically include official transcripts, recommendation letters, your personal statement, and a portfolio of your design work to show proof of your design skills.
Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 – 3.5
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Portfolio
- Completed application
- Application fee
How to Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online
You can get an online design bachelor’s degree by meeting the degree requirements outlined by your program. These generally include earning 120 credits, which may differ in certain colleges, maintaining a certain GPA, and completing a thesis or capstone project.
Design Degree Requirements
- 120 credits, general education and core courses
- Meeting the minimum GPA requirements
- Thesis or capstone project
Best Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bellevue University | Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Husson University | Bachelor of Science in Graphic/Visual Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Penn State World Campus | Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Design: Top Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The schools in the table above offer some of the best online design bachelor’s degree programs. Take a closer look at each school and program below to find out the admissions requirements, program information, and the application process.
Arizona State University
Tempe, AZ
Arizona State University offers upwards of 800 undergraduate and graduate degrees, minors, and certificates to its current and prospective students. Founded in 1985, the university has a total of 135,729 students enrolled across its campuses and has made a name for itself as the most innovative university in the US , according to a US News & World Report report.
Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design
This program offered by Arizona State University teaches students design theories, principles, and techniques such as typography, layout, color, and drawing. Students will learn to apply this knowledge practically, in computer-based projects in design, animation, and motion graphics.
Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $6,009/semester (in state); $7,026/semester (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 24%
Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.50
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $70
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Top 25% in high school graduating class or 3.00 GPA in competency courses, four years of math, four years of English (non-ESL/ELL courses), three years of lab sciences (one year each from biology, chemistry, earth science, integrated sciences or physics), two years of social sciences (including one year American history), two years same second language, and one year fine arts or one year career and technical education
Applying to Arizona State University
- Check competency requirements
- Complete the online application
- Pay the application fee
- Apply for financial aid
- Provide ACT or SAT scores
- Provide high school transcripts
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE
Bellevue University was founded in 1953 and now offers more than 80 programs, all of which are available as a 100% online curriculum with flexible learning options. Bellevue University is currently home to 13,059 enrolled students.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design program at Bellevue University teaches typography, layout, color, branding, messaging, and imagery principles. Learning these concepts readies graphic design students to create design solutions and use various types of media and technology to communicate ideas to different audiences.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $435/credit
- Required Credits: 127 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 23%
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: None
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Bellevue University
- Provide proof of high school completion
- Complete the online application
- Provide high school transcripts
- Provide official transcripts from any college or university previously attended
- Apply for financial aid
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA
Drexel University has a top-ranking Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design program. Drexel was founded in 1891 and offers over 80 majors and minors. Currently, there are 23,589 students enrolled at the institution. Students in this design program at Drexel have been awarded by national and international publications several times which speaks to the quality of education offered at the institution.
Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design
The Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design program at Drexel teaches students how to use the latest applications and technologies for digital and print media. The university’s co-operative education program allows students to get hands-on experience, which makes finding employment opportunities after graduation easier.
Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $1,212/credit hour (Fall term), $1,242/credit hour (Winter, Spring, Summer terms)
- Required Credits: 184 credits
- Program Length: 16 quarters at 11 credits per quarter
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 71%
Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.73
- Standardized Tests: Optional
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Three years of mathematics (algebra I and II, geometry) and at least one year of laboratory science (biology, chemistry, or physics)
Applying to Drexel University
- Review admission prerequisites
- Submit online application
- Pay application fee
- Submit essay
- Provide official transcripts and two letters of recommendation
- Submit a portfolio
Husson University
Bangor, ME
With more than 100 areas of study and 14 online undergraduate programs, Husson University provides its students flexible online program and semester options. Originally founded in 1989, there are currently 3,473 students enrolled at the university.
Bachelor of Science in Graphic/Visual Design
The BS degree in Graphic and Visual Design at Husson University educates its students through a combination of art, design, and technology, and the design processes involved in the development of projects from start to finish. The program prepares students with relevant technical skills and software skills to work in a variety of visual media fields.
Bachelor of Science in Graphic/Visual Design Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $398/credit hour
- Required Credits: 120 - 122 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 58%
Bachelor of Science in Graphic/Visual Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: Optional
- Application Fee: $40
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Husson University
- Complete and submit application form
- Pay application Fee
- Provide high school transcripts
- Provide letter of recommendation
- Submit an essay of 250 words or more that describes your career goals and objectives
Oregon State University
Corvallis, OR
There are more than 200 undergraduate and 100 graduate degree programs offered at Oregon State University through its 11 colleges. The university, which was founded in 1868, offers the state’s largest public research university and has a total of 32,312 students enrolled in its many programs.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design program at Oregon State University teaches students the foundations of graphic design. You will learn about the theory and history of design and the practices involved in marketing to various audiences.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $353/credit
- Required Credits: 180 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 22 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 69%
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: Optional (SAT or ACT)
- Application Fee: $75
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Four years of English, three years of mathematics culminating at the algebra II level or higher, three years of social science, three years of science including one year each of two different sciences (biology, chemistry, physics), one year of lab strongly recommended, two years of a foreign language
Applying to Oregon State University
- Provide high school grades and transcripts from any college or dual-credit courses taken
- Provide proof of high class ranking in high school
- Write personal statement to submit with application form
- Answer one of the application essay prompts
- Submit application and required documents
Penn State World Campus
University Park, PA
Penn State World Campus was founded in 1998 with a current student population of 20,000. It offers its prospective students 175 programs to choose from. The university has played an important role in popularizing online learning and offers one of the best online design bachelor’s degree programs in the country.
Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design
Penn State’s Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program prepares students with technical and creative skills for visual communication and connecting with different types of audiences through ideas, products, branding, storytelling, typography, and UX/UI design.
Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $7,738/semester
- Required Credits: 121 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 29.8%
Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Optional (SAT or ACT)
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: 100% online
Applying to Penn-State World-Campus
- Apply to the pre-graphic design program (AADES)
- Submit the online application
- Submit your high school transcripts
- Apply for financial assistance
Regent University
Virginia Beach, VA
Regent University is a Christian university founded in 1978 and offers top-ranking online bachelor’s programs. There are 60 programs for online students at this liberal arts college, with over 10,000 students enrolled.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts
Regent’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts degree program aims to teach students the technical foundations and skills involved in design and graphic art. You will also learn the basics of digital photography, illustration, web design, and branding.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $450/credit (part-time); $395/credit (full-time)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 61%
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Regent University
- Submit your online application
- Complete the admissions questionnaire
- Provide your high school transcripts
- File your FAFSA
- Provide a copy of your government-issued identification
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private institution with 35,000 students. The university offers over 200 programs and is known for the cutting-edge quality of education it offers.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts program at Southern New Hampshire University has designed its coursework to focus on developing high-quality design work by using the latest design tools and technologies. Students also learn how to examine and apply media messaging strategies that are ethical and culturally sensitive.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $320/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 37%
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to Southern New Hampshire University
- Complete the online application
- Speak to an admissions advisor
- Submit any relevant official transcripts
- Provide proof of completion of a GED or high school
- Apply for financial assistance
Syracuse University
Syracuse, NY
Established in 1870, Syracuse University is a research university that offers 200 majors and 100 minors, with 18 degrees offered 100 percent online. Syracuse University is ranked number 59 on the list of best universities in the nation , according to the US News & World Report. There is a total enrollment of 21,322 students.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications Design
The coursework offered in the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications Design degree program teaches students how to problem-solve and utilize the various skills required in graphic media to be successful in communications design.
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications Design Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $58,440/year (full-time), $695.00/credit (part-time)
- Required Credits: 126 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 83%
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications Design Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $85
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Portfolio
Applying to Syracuse University
- Provide official secondary school transcript
- Submit senior year grade report
- Submit online application
- Submit portfolio
- Take secondary school counselor evaluation
- Submit two academic recommendations
University of Maryland Global Campus Adelphi, MD
The University of Maryland Global Campus was founded in 1947 and is the largest online public university in the US . The institution has a total enrollment of 58,526 students, for which it provides the flexible option of online classes worldwide.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication online degree program offered at UMGC helps students build the skills and expertise required to work in the real world. In this course, you will develop analytical, collaborative, and technical skills. You will also learn to apply principles of composition, color theory, layout, and context.
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $312/credit (in state); $499/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
- NCES School Graduation Rate: 18%
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication Admission Requirements
- GPA: 2.0
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: None
Applying to University of Maryland Global Campus
- Complete the online application form
- Submit an official high school transcript
- Pay the application fee
- Apply for financial aid
What Is an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
An online design bachelor’s degree is a degree you earn to work in careers that harness skills and techniques in creativity, technology, and illustration. A degree in visual arts can lead you to career paths in graphic design, creative directing, and project management.
An online design bachelor’s degree can be obtained online, or through a hybrid method that combines both online and in-person learning. You have the option to choose which of those options works for you.
Online vs In-Person Design Degrees
For the most part, online vs in-person design degrees are the same when it comes to the quality of education. The main differences between the two are the learning methods and schedules that each offers. The benefits of online design degrees vs the benefits of in-person degrees are listed below to help you decide what fits your lifestyle and needs better.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Design
- Learn at your own speed. Being able to learn at your own pace is a huge advantage of distance learning. There is less pressure on you to keep up with other students if you’re struggling to grasp a concept.
- Choose where you study. As an online student, you have the option of choosing to study in a place that is conducive to your personal study methods.
- Choose when you study. Online programs offer you the freedom to choose a flexible study schedule, which can fit into your life more comfortably, especially for those with jobs and families.
- Cheaper tuition. Most online programs offer lower tuition rates than traditional, in-person programs.
- More options. Not having to physically attend classes also means not having to factor in traveling distance to school. This opens up more options for distance learners in terms of schooling and the ability to juggle personal commitments or a job.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Design
- Readily accessible resources. One of the top benefits of being on campus is all the resources you get immediate access to, such as libraries and computer laboratories for research purposes.
- Opportunities for interaction. Attending in-person classes allows you to be surrounded by your peers, which provides great opportunities for motivation and socialization.
- Office hours. Most professors have office hours which gives students a chance to get one-on-one attention and assistance with their coursework. Being on campus allows you to make the most of that time.
- Focused learning environment. Most people find that formal environments like college classrooms are easier to focus in than casual environments such as your home which offer more distractions.
- Student services. Although student services are available to both distance learners and on-campus students, the benefit of being on campus is that you have direct access to faculty members and can get information faster.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Online Design?
The types of online bachelor’s degrees design you can get include a Bachelor of Science in Design, a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor of Design in Design?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree if you’re interested in the discipline and technical aspects and application of visual art. A Bachelor of Design in Design degree, on the other hand, is better for students that want to focus on the development of design. While the two share some similarities, they each allow you to pursue different career paths.
How Much Does a Design Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
A four-year undergraduate degree from a public university costs approximately $14,900 for first-time, full-time undergraduate students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The US News & World Report shares that the price of tuition for an online bachelor’s degree varies depending on whether the institution is private, public, for-profit, or non-profit.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes four years to get a design bachelor’s degree online. The curriculum may include core courses, general education courses, and elective courses. The courses you take will depend on the institution you attend, as different programs offer different curriculums. Most colleges, however, require you to earn a minimum of 120 credits before you can graduate and get your degree.
Are Online Design Degrees Respected?
Yes, online design degrees are respected. Degrees obtained from accredited online institutions hold the same weight as degrees obtained through taking traditional, in-person classes. It is the quality of education that matters, not the location where the education was received.
Is Design Hard to Learn Online?
No, design is not hard to learn online because the online program you choose will have been specifically tailored to be studied online. With this in mind, your university will provide you with your best shot at succeeding and you will be made aware of any extra requirements before your studies begin.
Why You Should Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get a design bachelor’s degree online if studying at your own pace, having a flexible schedule, and cutting back on costs are factors that appeal to you. These are just some of the benefits of choosing an online degree instead of an in-person degree.
If you have concerns about the validity of an online degree, do some research and find out if the institution you are considering attending is accredited. If it is, then your degree will be just as credible as one earned traditionally.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Design?
The courses in an online bachelor’s degree program in design typically include digital media, graphic design theory, illustration, visual communication theory, and typography and layout. Below are five of the typical courses for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Design.
Digital Media
The digital media course teaches students how to utilize current technologies for image creation and animation, as well as how to integrate text with graphics through each production stage. Students are taught advanced digital media illustration techniques.
Graphic Design
In this course, you will learn about basic designs and the various technical aspects that go into graphic design. The course aims to teach students about visual aesthetics and the evolution of graphic design up to this point.
Illustration
The illustration course focuses on drawing, creating animations, narration, and communicating to the audience through art. You will also learn about the software required to accomplish all of this, and the use of resolution and layers.
Visual Communication Theory
The visual communication theory course teaches students about the different types of graphics used in design. Students also learn how to design and edit for specific audiences and the software tools used in this process.
Typography and Layout
The typography and layout course focuses on teaching students about the compositional tools used in constructing graphic communications. Students learn how to assess and determine which typefaces are appropriate typefaces and how to best use topographical skills in the design layout.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The continuing education path you should take after an online design bachelor’s degree is getting an online Master’s Degree in Graphic Design. You could also opt to get a Master of Science in 3D Design if you have a specific interest in that niche.
Related Online Design Degrees
What to Look For in the Best Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best design bachelor’s degree programs online include accreditation, curricular content for professional experience, flexibility, employment outcomes, and student services. These make up some of the most important things to consider when choosing a degree program.
Accreditation
Choosing an accredited institution gives you your best shot at getting a high-quality education and being hireable upon the completion of your degree. While searching for an online design program, be sure to research the institution’s accreditation to ensure you will earn an education from a reputable source.
Curricular Content
The subjects that you will take throughout the course are important in determining not only what career paths are open to you after graduation, but also whether or not you enjoy your studies. Curricular content should be high on the list of priorities when you select a program as getting real-world experience in the industry is essential.
Flexibility
One of the biggest appeals of online schools and degree programs is the flexibility they offer. Not all online programs are built the same, however, and some are more flexible than others. When making your choice, consider what is most feasible and convenient for your lifestyle.
Employment Outcomes
Good career opportunities for students after graduation are often contingent on the employment outcome of the degree you choose. The best degrees to choose are the ones that are in high demand and have promising estimated growth projection rates. You should also review the school’s graduation rate to see what percentage of students successfully finish their program.
Student Services
Student services are there to provide you with support and guidance every step of the way. College is exciting but it can also be confusing, so having the option to talk to reach out to advisors and faculty during your studies will help get you the support you need to succeed.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online design bachelor’s degree program is the one offered at the University of Maryland Global Campus, which costs $7,704 annually. When looking for affordable online degree options, ensure you consider any additional fees, especially if you are an out-of-state or international student.
Can I Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a design bachelor’s degree online for free. If you require financial aid options to help you get your degree, there are some that are available, including scholarship programs.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
If you are passionate about design and want to take the steps towards making a career out of it, then an online bachelor’s degree is a viable option. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in the graphic design field is projected to grow by three percent over the next decade , which means you are likely to find work within the field after graduation.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a design bachelor’s degree as there are many options a graduate can pursue. Graduates with a Bachelor’s Degree in Design can work in fields such as product design and development, video production, interactive design, user experience design and development, marketing, and advertising.
What’s the Median Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The median salary for an online graphic designer in the US is $50,710 per year, according to BLS. Top earners make $71,310 as a median wage , while those on the lower end of the salary range make $40,160 per year.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online design bachelor’s degree include animator, art director, digital designer, and fashion designer. Of course, you can also become a graphic designer with this degree.
Design Degree Jobs
- Animator
- Art director
- Digital designer
- Fashion designer
- Graphic designer
Potential Careers With an Online Design Degree
How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
You can make between $50,710 and $100,890 per year working in this field with an online design or graphic design degree. As you can see in the list below, there is quite a wide range between the lowest-paying career option and the highest-paying career option.
Highest-Paying Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Art director | $100,890 |
| Animator | $78,790 |
| Fashion designer | $77,450 |
| Digital designer | $77,200 |
| Graphic designer | $50,710 |
Best Jobs for Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online design bachelor’s degree grads are the jobs that are also in demand. Jobs that are in high demand are an indication of a skillset that is not easily available. If you’re among the online students in design, possessing in-demand skills that the industry lacks makes you highly sought-after and gives you more job opportunities to choose from.
Art Director
Average Salary: $100,890
As an art director or creative director, you are in charge of the images and visual style of publications such as magazines and newspapers, product packaging, or movie and television productions.
- Average Salary: $100,890
- Job Outlook: 11% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 98,500
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, New Jersey
Animator
Average Salary: $78,790
As an animator, your job includes creating images and animations, whilst being involved in the storytelling process. This includes working with designers and voice actors to create various forms of on-screen entertainment.
- Average Salary: $78,790 per year
- Job Outlook: 16% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 9,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Connecticut
Fashion Designer
Average Salary: $77,450
Fashion designers are responsible for creating designs and assisting with the production of clothing items and accessories. Their job is to identify trends and styles, then select fabrics and prints for collections based on that information.
- Average Salary: $77,450 per year
- Job Outlook: No growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 27,800
- Highest-Paying States: New York, California, Oregon
Digital Designer
Average Salary: $77,200
Digital designers are involved in the creation of multimedia designs and graphics projects. Such projects include creating websites, apps, social media, and video games. They use digital technology and design techniques to bring designs to life.
- Average Salary: $77,200 per year
- Job Outlook: 13% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 25,500
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Virginia, Maryland
Graphic Designer
Average Salary: $50,710
Graphic designers use computer software to create visual text and imagery concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. A graphic designer also creates packaging, posters, and billboards using colors, shapes, and typography to communicate narratives and ideas to an audience.
- Average Salary: $50,710 per year
- Job Outlook: 3% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 254,100
- Highest-Paying States: New York, Washington, District of Columbia
Best Jobs According to Your Major
Is an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online design bachelor’s degree is worth it. Not only does it open many doors for creative people, but depending on the job you land, you could be among some of the highest salary earners in the country. With an online design bachelor’s degree, you can pursue your creative passions on a flexible schedule and set yourself up for high-paying job offers.
Additional Reading About Design
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Online Design Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
The difference between graphic design and digital design is that graphic design is mainly focused on static designs, whereas digital design is centered around movement and animation.
No, a college degree isn’t the only way to become a designer, but it definitely helps. A college degree gives you a leg up when applying for jobs. Students can also gain the right skills and experience through bootcamps or certification programs designed to get them a job as a designer.
Yes, hands-on experience is important in graphic design degrees because that is how you build a portfolio. When working in the arts, you need to be able to show your skills off using your portfolio before you can be considered for a job, since employers want to see what skills and talent you possess.
Technical skills such as design, typography, and branding are very useful graphic design skills. Other non-technical skills that are also useful include creativity, problem-solving, and communication.
