Graphic design is a vital part of marketing campaigns and advertisements. Brands promote their businesses and attract potential clients through visuals like posters, infographics, and package design. If you want to work in the graphic design industry, you can jumpstart your career by seeking out the cheapest online graphic design degree programs.
This article covers the details about the most affordable online graphic design degree programs in the US, such as online tuition rates, program lengths, and curricula content. You’ll also learn about the different graphic design careers you can pursue after graduating from one of the cheapest online schools for graphic design.
Can I Get a Graphic Design Degree Online?
Yes, you can get a graphic design degree online. Many accredited schools offer associate degree, bachelor’s degree, and master’s degree programs in graphic design that can be completed with full-time or part-time study, with hybrid and online class options. A full-time online student can complete an associate or master’s degree in two years and a bachelor’s degree in four years.
Why Should I Get a Graphic Design Degree Online?
You should get a graphic design degree online because online degree programs are generally more affordable and flexible. Online tuition rates are often cheaper than on-campus tuition, and studying remotely can help you save money on transportation and housing. They are also great choices for working students or professionals who want to learn graphic design on their own schedule.
Online programs are suitable for those who can study independently. You might prefer an in-person program if you learn better through collaboration. Graphic design is also a tech-intensive course, so you might benefit from on-campus facilities. However, anyone with a computer, a stable Internet connection, and a comfortable place to study can learn graphic design online.
What Are the Most Affordable Online Graphic Design Degree Programs in the US?
The most affordable online graphic design degree programs are the associate degree programs at Gateway Technical College and Rasmussen University at Wisconsin and the bachelor’s degree program at Southern New Hampshire University. These schools also offer tuition assistance and financial aid programs that help their students with school expenses.
Cheapest Graphic Design Degree Programs Online That Will Help You Stand Out
- Online AAS in Graphic Design at Gateway Technical College
- Online AAS in Graphic Design at Rasmussen University-Wisconsin
- Online BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts at Southern New Hampshire University
How Much Does an Online Graphic Design Degree Cost?
An online graphic design degree costs between $200 and $1,000 per credit. Associate degrees are generally less expensive than bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees. Part-time programs are often more expensive per credit than full-time programs, but some people find the flexibility of a part-time program worth the extra tuition cost.
Will Getting a Graphic Design Degree Online Save Me Money?
Yes, getting a graphic design degree online will save you money because you won’t have to pay for things like transportation, laboratory fees, meal plans, or non-campus housing at your university. The tuition rate for an online program is often cheaper than on-campus tuition.
Online Graphic Design Programs vs In-Person Graphic Design Programs
Both in-person and online graphic design programs have benefits and drawbacks. Your career goals and existing time commitments will determine what type of program is the best for you. Continue reading to learn about the benefits of both online and in-person graphics design degree programs.
Benefits of an Online Graphic Design Degree
- Learn at your own pace. Many graphic design online courses let you study at your own pace, either giving you all of the materials upfront or working with an asynchronous course schedule. You have the flexibility to fit your coursework into your daily routine, work schedule, and personal hobbies.
- Study from the comfort of home. Since you won’t have to make it to campus in time for classes, you can study anytime and anywhere. You can choose the learning environment that feels most comfortable for you, and you can study at the time of day when you feel most alert.
- Save money. Enrolling in a graphic design online program means you will save money on costs like transportation and housing. Online program tuition rates are often less expensive than on-campus programs as well.
- Keep your day job. Many graphic design online programs are designed for working professionals who seek career advancement. Distance learning gives you the flexibility you need to study without sacrificing your job, thanks to self-paced and part-time programs.
- Avoid the hassle of commuting. We’ve already mentioned that you’ll save on commuting costs, but your time is valuable too. By studying online, you won’t have to spend time on public transit or sitting in traffic on your way to and from class. That means you’ll have more time to study, pursue hobbies, or spend time with your friends.
Benefits of In-Person Graphic Design Degree Programs
- Get the full campus experience. In-person graphic design programs give you the opportunity to join campus activities, such as sports and performing arts. In-person classes are also more interactive and you can learn more by exchanging ideas with your peers. Studying on campus gives you the chance to make friends while you study.
- Focus on your studies. Sitting in a classroom has fewer distractions than tuning into a class or studying from home. Distance learners sometimes experience unavoidable distractions like loud noises in their homes. It’s also easier to get distracted by television, the internet, or other fun activities when you’re not in the classroom.
- Connect with faculty and students. In-person classes give you a chance to work collaboratively and share knowledge with your peers. You will also have better connections with your professors by meeting them in person, and you can get better coaching from them by attending their office hours.
- Get hands-on experience. Enrolling in an on-campus graphic design program will give you access to the school’s computer labs and arts equipment for hands-on learning. Schools will have the latest software, high-powered computers, and expensive equipment like silk screen presses, all of which can help you become more skilled.
- Avoid technical difficulties. Online students can experience technical issues, like Internet and computer problems. You need good troubleshooting skills if you prefer learning online. If you’re on campus, you can ask the technical support team for help and you won’t miss a whole lecture due to a poor Internet connection.
Online Graphic Design Degree Career Options
Graphic designers can work in a wide variety of fields, like website development, video game development, and advertising. Some of the best career options for graphic design professionals include animation, web design, and art direction. We’ve outlined information about wages and job outlook for graphic designers below.
Graphic Design Job Outlook
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), graphic design jobs are expected to grow at a rate of three percent between 2020 and 2030. While this is lower than the national average, 24,000 new graphic design jobs are still added to the US workforce each year. So long as businesses need to market their products, there will be demand for graphic designers.
Graphic Design Salary
Graphic designers in the US earn $50,710 annually or $24.38 hourly, as reported by BLS. Top companies like Amazon, Apple, Google, Nike, Walt Disney, and Target also offer generous benefits packages to their full-time graphic design staff, like life insurance, health insurance insurance, and 401(K) retirement plans.
Can I Enroll in an Online Graphic Design Program for Free?
No, no graphic design schools offer free tuition, but financial aid could help you pay for your tuition fees and other school expenses. Before applying to a program, you should check out the available financial aid options at your school and submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can also apply for scholarships aside from federal financial aid.
Cheapest Online Graphic Design Degree Programs
| School | Online Degree | Degree Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Gateway Technical College | AAS in Graphic Design | $188.90/credit (in state); $283.35/credit (out of state) |
| Rasmussen College-Wisconsin | AAS in Graphic Design | $260/credit |
| Southern New Hampshire University | BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts | $320/credit |
| Regent University | BFA in Graphic Arts | $395/credit (full time); $450/credit (part time) |
| Bellevue University | BA in Graphic Design | $440/credit |
| Liberty University | MFA in Graphic Design | $565/credit (full time); $615/credit (part time) |
| Savannah College of Art And Design | MA in Graphic Design and Visual Experience | $872/credit |
| Quinnipiac University | MS in Interactive Media and Communications | $980/credit |
| Arizona State University | MFA in Graphic Design | $4,986/semester |
| Full Sail University | BS in Graphic Design | $59,500 total |
Graphic Design Degrees Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Online Graphic Design Programs
We chose the most affordable graphic design degree programs based on tuition and general cost information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
The Cheapest Online Graphic Design Degree Programs: A Deep Dive
For more than 110 years, Gateway Technical College has provided excellent academic programs on its nine campuses in Southeastern Wisconsin. The school has nearly 8,000 students and it offers degree programs in business, architecture, firefighting, and liberal arts. Gateway also provides apprenticeships, community service opportunities, and workforce training.
Gateway Technical College offers an affordable graphic design associate degree program that emphasizes using evolving technologies to enhance your creativity. Students learn visual communication, basic illustration, and communication graphics while using digital design technology like Adobe Illustrator. Students can join the American Institute of Graphic Arts-Wisconsin (AIGA) and attend design shows to boost their portfolios and creative skills.
Gateway Technical College Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $35,160
Online AAS in Graphic Design Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Minimum 2.6 GPA (high school), minimum 2.0 GPA (college), or placement test scores; transcripts; $30 application fee
- Credits Required to Graduate: 61
- Average Graduation Time: Two years
- Core Curriculum: Design Concepts, Design Publishing & Prepress, Advanced Design Concepts
- Key Skills: Design software tools, web page design, design principles
- Areas of Specialization: Advanced Digital Photography, Ethics, Advanced Web Page Design
Who Is the Gateway Technical College’s Online AAS in Graphic Design For?
- Students with no previous experience in graphic design
- High school graduate considering a career in graphic design
Rasmussen College started in 1900 and now has 23 campuses in states across the US, including Wisconsin. The Wisconsin campus is small, with just over 600 students. The school offers degrees in health sciences, education, technology, and criminal justice. Students also learn through hands-on experience and one-on-one consultations with their instructors.
The online Associate Degree in Graphic Design at Rasmussen teaches all of the basic principles, like experience design, user interface design, portfolio design, photography, audio and video editing, and software like Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign. Earning this degree opens up entry-level job prospects and prepares you for graphic design certification exams.
Rasmussen College-Wisconsin Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Private for-profit institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $35,667
Online AAS in Graphic Design Overview
- Admissions Requirements: High school diploma
- Credits Required to Graduate: 91 credits
- Average Graduation Time: 18 months
- Core Curriculum: Graphic Design in 3D, Graphic Design Tools and Techniques, Responsive Web Design
- Key Skills: Digital photography and image editing, web design fundamentals, web design
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Rasmussen College-Wisconsin’s Online AAS in Graphic Design For?
- Students with no prior experience in the graphic design field
- High school graduate considering a career in graphic design
One of the cheapest online schools for graphic design, Southern New Hampshire University offers a wide range of online and on-campus programs in the sciences, business, technology, and liberal arts. SNHU partners with local high schools to let students take classes for college credit. It also offers a 10 percent online tuition scholarship for students from its community college partners.
The BA in Graphic Design is an undergraduate program that teaches in-demand graphic design skills and different media platforms. Students learn to use cutting-edge design technologies like those in the Adobe Creative Suite. Online students can access learning materials at any time and can transfer 90 credit hours from another school to earn their degrees more quickly.
Southern New Hampshire University Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 94%
- Graduation Rate: 40%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $52,024
Online BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts Overview
- Admissions Requirements: High school transcripts
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Average Graduation Time: Four years
- Core Curriculum: Advanced Digital Imaging, Desktop Publishing, Digital Graphic Design for the Web
- Key Skills: Digital media, web design, design thinking skills
- Areas of Specialization: User Experience Design, Web Design
Who Is the Southern New Hampshire University’s Online BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts For?
- Working students or working industry professionals
- High school graduate considering a career in graphic design
Regent University, formerly the Christian Broadcasting Network University, is a Christian university in Virginia that opened in 1970. The school offers degrees from associate to master’s in fields including fine arts, business, healthcare, technology, and law. The school also holds summer camps where prospective students can explore their programs.
The online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design is an undergraduate degree that enhances students’ creativity through modern technologies. The curriculum includes digital photography, illustration, logo design, web design, and corporate branding. All students at Regent must complete a Christian liberal arts core curriculum as part of their studies.
Regent University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 30%
- US News National Ranking: #277
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $41,712
Online BFA in Graphic Arts Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Transcripts, government-issued ID
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Average Graduation Time: Four years
- Core Curriculum: Fundamentals of Design, Image Manipulation, Web Design
- Key Skills: Visual communication, multi-platform campaigns, web design
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Regent University’s Online Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts For?
- Students with no previous experience in graphic design
- High school graduate considering a career in graphic design
Bellevue University is a private institution in Nebraska with more than 13,000 students. The school has more than 25 years of experience offering distance learning to students. You can enroll in online and on-campus academic programs in fields including the arts, humanities, education, social sciences, and technology.
The undergraduate graphic design degree program at Bellevue teaches graphic design students basic principles like visual communication, web design, and typography, as well as technical skills like designing page layouts, infographics, book jackets, and logos. Students learn to use popular digital tools like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Adobe InDesign.
Bellevue University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $56,762
Online BA in Graphic Design Overview
- Admissions Requirements: $50 application fee, official high school transcript or GED
- Credits Required to Graduate: 127 credits
- Average Graduation Time: Four years
- Core Curriculum: Design Basics, Website Development, Typography
- Key Skills: Creating design solutions, logo design infographics
- Areas of Specialization: NA
Who Is the Bellevue University’s Online BA in Graphic Design For?
- Applicants with no prior experience in this field
- High school graduate considering a career in graphic design
With nearly 95,000 students, Liberty University is one of the largest Christian universities in the world. The school offers online and on-campus degree programs in fields including aeronautics, healthcare administration, informatics, and military studies. Students also have access to international internship opportunities with the school’s organizational partners around the world.
Liberty University’s graduate-level graphic design online degree teaches graphic design skills through a Christian viewpoint. The school emphasizes real-world experience, and online students can enhance their coursework with field experience including teaching and internships. Students complete a portfolio to graduate, which can be shown to prospective employers.
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Liberty University Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 50%
- Graduation Rate: 34%
- US News National Ranking: #299-391
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $42,394
Online Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Transcripts, artist statement, MFA portfolio
- Credits Required to Graduate: 60 credits
- Average Graduation Time: Two years
- Core Curriculum: Advanced Typography, Web & New Media, 3D Graphics
- Key Skills: Digital imaging, visualization illustration, interactive design
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Liberty University’s Online MFA in Graphic Design For?
- Students who want to learn graphic design at a Christian university
- Working professionals who want to level up their careers
Savannah College of Art and Design is a private institution in Georgia that offers over 100 degree programs in fine arts, media, and entertainment. As one of the top arts schools in the US, it consistently receives awards in competitions such as the Communication Arts Photography Competition and the GDUSA Health and Wellness Design Competition.
The online Master of Arts in Graphic Design at SCAD lets students develop their artistic skills using sophisticated technologies like those in Adobe Creative Cloud. Students learn from industry professionals and international influencers in the arts through workshops and lectures. SCAD’s graphic design students often earn recognition and awards in global competitions.
Savannah College of Art and Design Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 78%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $44,071
Online MA in Graphic Design and Visual Experience Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, portfolio, resume
- Credits Required to Graduate: 45 credits
- Average Graduation Time: Two years
- Core Curriculum: Methods of Contextual Research, Visual Analysis of Static Content, Professional Practice for Visual Design
- Key Skills: Printing, visual design, typography
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Savannah College of Art and Design’s Online Master of Arts in Graphic Design and Visual Experience For?
- Students with Bachelor’s Degrees in Graphic Design or other art fields
- Professionals who want to pursue career advancement
Quinnipiac University is a private school in Connecticut that opened in 1929. Currently, this university has nearly 10,000 students and offers degree programs in the arts, computing, law, medicine, and engineering. The school frequently receives recognition from organizations such as US News & World Report and Forbes for its top-notch academic programs.
This online graphic design degree program at Quinnipiac teaches not only on art and design principles, but critical thinking skills and digital storytelling. The curriculum is made up of intensive communications and graphic design classes. Students must complete capstone projects to demonstrate their skills, which can be used as professional portfolios.
Quinnipiac University Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 76%
- US News National Ranking: #148
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $75,575
Online MS in Interactive Media and Communications Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s degree, personal statement, official transcripts
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credits
- Average Graduation Time: Two years
- Core Curriculum: Visual Design, Writing for Interactive Media, Master's Capstone
- Key Skills: Content creation, UX/UI design, social media, media production
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Quinnipiac University’s Online MS in Interactive Media and Communications For?
- Working professionals who want to enhance their graphic design skills
- Students with an educational background in graphic design
Arizona State University is a public research university based in Tempe, Arizona. With more than 130,000 students, the school is known for its highly-ranked programs in engineering, accounting, management information systems, and nursing.
The online graduate degree in graphic information technology at ASU combines modern visual design with digital media distribution. The curriculum focuses on building technical skills in research and new technologies. Students enrolled in the online option can choose between compiling a portfolio or a written thesis as their final project.
Arizona State University Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Type of School: Public institution
- Admissions Rate: 88%
- Graduation Rate: 64%
- US News National Ranking: #117
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $55,749
Online MS in Graphic Information Technology Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design or related field, transcripts, recommendation letters, cumulative 3.00 undergraduate GPA
- Credits Required to Graduate: 30 credits
- Average Graduation Time: 18-24 months
- Core Curriculum: Cross-Media Design Solutions, Digital Workflow, Usability and User Experience
- Key Skills: Digital graphics, multimedia, print technology
- Areas of Specialization: N/A
Who Is the Arizona State University’s Online MS in Graphic Information Technology For?
- Students who want to learn graphic design through a technological approach
- Graphic design professionals who are seeking career advancement
Full Sail University is a private university in Florida. The school started in 1979 in Ohio before moving to Florida in 1989. With almost 25,000 students, the school is known for its media, arts, and entertainment programs. It also has an esports organization called Full Sail Armada, through which students can join esports competitions and tournaments.
The online graphic design bachelor’s degree at Full Sail University develops students’ technical and artistic skills via hands-on experience in publishing, advertising, and interface design. The curriculum includes rigorous coursework, projects, and seminars. Unlike the typical semester-based degree, the online classes in this program last for one month each.
Full Sail University Overview
- Accreditation: Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges
- Type of School: Private institution
- Admissions Rate: 100%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Post-Grad Median Salary: $44,344
Online BS in Graphic Design Overview
- Admissions Requirements: Government-issued ID, high school diploma or GED, $200 deposit
- Credits Required to Graduate: 120 credits
- Average Graduation Time: 29 months
- Core Curriculum: Design Tools,, Design and Art Theory, Graphic Web Design, Digital Publishing
- Key Skills: Digital media, page layout, typography
- Areas of Specialization: Print and 2D, Motion Graphics, Interactive Design,
Who Is the Full Sail University’s Online Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design For?
- Applicants with no prior experience in this field
- High school graduate considering a career in graphic design
Common Online Graphic Design Degree Courses
The common online graphic design courses in most degree programs teach you about the creative process and fundamental skills in graphic design, like creativity, branding, and typography. Courses like Web Design, Principles of Design, Branding, Digital Photography, and your final Graphic Design Portfolio are designed to prepare you for your graphic design career.
Web Design
Web design courses teach students concepts and techniques for creating interactive web content, including how to design web pages using HTML and CSS coding. These courses also cover dynamic web page design principles, digital publishing, web typography, web authoring and editing environments, user interface (UI), and user experience (UX).
Principles of Design
This course helps students learn the basic principles of design, including rhythm, pattern, white space, contrast, proportion, and balance. Students sharpen your creativity while learning graphic design theory and how to create compelling graphic design solutions. This course may also cover digital tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud.
Branding
This course teaches about brand identity and basic principles needed to work in advertising and package design. Branding courses teach how to design logos, product packaging, fonts, and other designs related to product brands. Students also learn about the creative process at the corporate or agency level and how to conceptualize and implement brand designs.
Digital Photography
Digital photography courses teach the basic principles of digital photography and editing. Students learn the ins and outs of digital cameras and how to use different digital tools for photo editing and manipulation, like Adobe Photoshop. Some schools offering this course may require that you buy or rent a digital camera that meets their standards.
Graphic Design Portfolio
The graphic design portfolio course is a capstone project for graphic design students, where they create projects to showcase their competencies in the field. This helps them finetune their skills through practical application. This course also helps students prepare for professional work, since they finish with a portfolio they can show to prospective employers.
Can I Apply for Federal Aid to Finance My Online Graphic Design Degree?
Yes, you can apply for federal aid to finance your online graphic design degree. As you fill out your application to a school or program, you should fill out and submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Based on the information you provide, FAFSA will determine your eligibility for financial aid.
Options to Help Pay for an Online Graphic Design Degree
Applying to affordable colleges is just one way to save money on your graphic design online degree. Some other ways to decrease your tuition costs include federal and state grants, federal and private loans, and work-study programs. You can also apply for art scholarships offered by your university, state, or local organizations.
Federal and State Grants
Grants are need-based financial aid that students do not need to repay. Grants can come from the federal government or state government. To get federal grants, you must submit your FAFSA form, which includes information about your finances. Some other financial aid and scholarship programs use your FAFSA information to measure eligibility for their awards.
State grants are financial aid awarded to resident students by their state. Examples of these include the Tuition Aid Grant (TAG) for New Jersey residents, Ohio College Opportunity Grant (OCOG), and Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG). Most states offer grants, so you should research and see which grants are available based on your residency.
Federal and Private Loans
Student loans are money borrowed from the government or private loan companies that help students pay for their educational expenses. Loans, unlike grants, require that you repay the money you borrowed, and loans accrue interest while you study. It is important that you read and consider all of the terms and conditions of any loan you consider.
Federal loans are offered by the government and often have fixed or lower interest rates than private loans. The amount you can borrow is set by the government and may not cover all your expenses. Private loans, on the other hand, are loans from banks and student loan firms. These types of loans may have higher interest rates. Federal loans offer income-based repayment plans, which makes repayment more affordable.
Work-Study
Work-study programs allow students to work and earn money to pay their tuition and other expenses. These are part-time jobs for students who demonstrate financial need, and they are offered through the Federal Work-Study program. Students can often get a work-study job related to their major.
Cheapest Graphic Design Degree Programs Online
Are you wondering about the most affordable online graphic design degree programs at a specific degree level? Keep reading to learn about the cheapest online graphic design associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and master’s degrees.
Most Affordable Online Graphic Design Associate Degrees
- Gateway Technical College | AAS in Graphic Design. This program at Gateway Technical College covers the basic principles of graphic design. Gateway has transfer agreements with other colleges, so AAS graduates can transfer credits to four-year degree programs and enroll as juniors.
- Rasmussen College-Wisconsin | AAS in Graphic Design. Rasmussen offers an associate degree as part of their laddered graphic design program. Students can apply all of their credits from their associate degree towards their bachelor’s degree, allowing them to earn their bachelor’s in a shorter timeframe.
- Remington College | AAA in Digital Graphic Art. This program consists of 92 credit hours that full-time students can complete in 18 months. Students learn about and get hands-on experience in digital press operations, website design, and typography.
- Columbus State Community College | AAS in Digital Design and Graphics. This associate degree requires 65 credits to complete. The curriculum includes digital photography, WordPress, storyboarding, and branding.
- Wake Tech Community College | AAS in Advertising & Graphic Design. This 71-credit program teaches how to use graphic design in different contexts, such as social media, web development, multimedia, advertising, and printing.
Most Affordable Online Graphic Design Bachelor’s Degrees
- Southern New Hampshire University | BA in Graphic Design and Media Arts. This program is easier to get into since it doesn’t require test scores or an application fee to apply. Students coming in from associate degree programs or transferring from other schools can transfer up to 90 credits towards this undergraduate degree.
- Regent University | BFA in Graphic Arts. Choosing a BFA over a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Graphic Design is a great choice if you want to spend more time developing your artistic and technical skills. Regent University combines art theory and basic principles of design with plenty of practical application.
- Bellevue University | BA in Graphic Design. Bellevue University’s BA in Graphic Design has a transfer policy that allows students to use credits from their associate degrees. The program also includes general education courses that build soft skills, such as reasoning, analytical thinking, and leadership skills.
- Full Sail University | BS in Graphic Design. This program allows students to earn a bachelor’s degree and begin their graphic design careers faster than traditional academic programs because of their accelerated curriculum. Online students can earn their bachelor’s degree in 29 months rather than four years.
- University of Maryland-Global Campus | BA in Graphic Communication. University of Maryland’s Global Campus offers a bachelor’s degree in graphic design that consists of 120 credits. Since UMD is a public institution, Maryland residents get discounted, in-state tuition.
Most Affordable Online Graphic Design Master’s Degrees
- Arizona State University | MS in Graphic Information Technology. The MS in Graphic Information Technology from ASU teaches visual design and how to make content for different applications, including social media, web development, motion graphics, and digital media production.
- Liberty University | MFA in Graphic Design. Liberty University’s MFA in Graphic Design refines students’ skills in 3D graphics, game design, illustration, and digital arts using cutting-edge technologies.
- Savannah College of Art and Design | MA in Graphic Design and Visual Experience. This program includes graduate internships and coursework. This graduate degree qualifies for the school’s accelerated BA/MA program, which allows students to get both a bachelor’s and Master’s Degree in Graphic Design in four years.
- Quinnipiac University | MS in Interactive Media and Communications. Enrolling in this program lets students learn graphic design and technical skills from the school’s industry-expert faculty. To earn this degree, you must maintain a 3.0 while earning 30 credits.
- Radford University | MFA in Design Thinking. This is a terminal graduate degree that can be earned in two years with full-time study and four years with part-time study. The is a 60-credit program teaches design management, design history, and design research.
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-bachelors-degrees
Best Online Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees
Most In-Demand Graphic Design Jobs With an Online Graphic Design Degree
| Graphic Design Job | Required Education | Job Outlook |
|---|---|---|
| Animator | Bachelor’s degree | 16% growth |
| Web Designer | Bachelor’s degree | 13% growth |
| Art Director | Bachelor’s degree | 11% growth |
| Product Designer | Bachelor’s degree | 6% growth |
| Graphic Designer | Bachelor’s degree | 3% growth |
Best Jobs With an Online Graphic Design Degree Explained
The cheapest online graphic design degree programs teach the essential skills needed to land a great job in this field. Graphic designers can work in a variety of industries such as advertising, manufacturing, and publishing. Here, we’ve included essential details about each of the best graphic design jobs included in the table above.
Animators are digital artists that create special effects for advertisements, movies, and video games. Animators can work as video game designers, background artists, 2D animators, or 3D animators. Animators should be creative, detail-oriented, and have skills in motion design and animation software.
- Average Salary: $78,790
- Highest-paying States: Connecticut, California, and Washington
- Minimum Experience in Field: N/A
Web designers create the interfaces of websites. They can also be UX or UI designers. They design controls like the buttons and textboxes webpages and are responsible for coding website navigation. To become a web designer, you must have skills in visual design, proficiency in coding languages like HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, and good communication skills.
- Average Salary: $77,200
- Highest-paying States: Washington, New York, and Iowa
- Minimum Experience in Field: N/A
Art directors are responsible for creating compelling visual languages and images in magazines, product packaging, and advertisements. They provide guidelines and directions to staff and ensure that their team is functioning well. Art directors should have project management skills, organizational skills, and communication skills.
- Average Salary: $100,890
- Highest-paying States: California, New York, and New Jersey
- Minimum Experience in Field: 5 years
Product designers create consumer products. They devise solutions to customers’ needs, aiming for a positive user experience. Product designers also improve on existing product designs. They should be knowledgeable in UI/UX design, CAD software, visual design, and user research. They also need excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
- Average Salary: $86,446
- Highest-paying States: Virginia, Arizona, Kansas
- Minimum Experience in Field: N/A
Graphic designers conceptualize and create visuals for products and advertisements. They use different design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and Canva to create their designs. Graphic designers create posters, infographics, product packaging, and logos that directly communicate with consumers.
- Average Salary: $50,710
- Highest-paying States: District of Columbia, Washington, and New York
- Minimum Experience in Field: N/A
Is an Online Graphic Design Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online graphic design degree is worth it, as it’s an affordable way to get the skills you need to work in graphic design. While there are benefits to studying on campus, there are many affordable online graphic design programs that let students tailor their schedules, making them great options for working professionals and full-time students alike.
Additional Reading About Graphic Design
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/start-a-graphic-design-career-masters-design-lab/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/graphic-design-discord-servers/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/best-laptops-for-graphic-designers/
Cheapest Online Graphic Design Degrees FAQ
Yes, you can work as a graphic designer without a degree. Self-taught graphic designers and bootcamp graduates with strong portfolios can be qualified for entry-level graphic design jobs. However, many prospective employers will prefer applicants who have degrees.
Many prestigious companies hire graphic designers such as Amazon, Microsoft, and Google. You can search for available graphic design jobs on the official websites of these companies, or you can use other job sites such as LinkedIn, MediaBistro, Indeed, and Glassdoor.
Yes, you can learn graphic design at home. Many useful YouTube tutorials are available for software like Adobe Photoshop. Graphic design courses, bootcamps, and online degree programs also allow you to study graphic design at home. Online learning requires you to work independently, which means you should have good computer and time-management skills.
You can learn graphic design using various free, online materials for beginners. You should first learn the basics of art and design, such as drawing, color, lines, shape, texture, and scale. You should also make sure that you have the necessary materials and software used in the design process.
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.
