In this article, we examine the 15 best affordable colleges for a graphic design degree. A Bachelor’s in Graphic Design is a solid option for students looking to turn their artistic passion and talents into a long-term career. Organizations and businesses of all sizes rely on visual media to:
- convey instructions to employees
- public service announcements to citizens
- information to consumers.
To accomplish these, these companies typically turn to the graphic designer.
Graphic designers are responsible for using computer software or developing visual concepts by hand to communicate ideas that captivate, inform, or inspire consumers. They may also be tasked with creating the production design and overall layout for:
- corporate reports
- magazines
- brochures
- posters
Graphic artists integrate a variety of media such as:
- photography
- digital illustration
- typography
- traditional illustration
Methodology
In the following methodology, we strived to capture the balance between affordability and quality. To do this, we ranked each school based on two key metrics: tuition and student: faculty ratios. Before we could begin awarding points, however, we first needed to gather our initial list of schools by searching for graphic design bachelor’s degrees using the College Navigator tool at the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). We then narrowed down the initial pool of 20 colleges into the top 15 based on the methodology outlined below.
Average Cost of Attendance
Although it can be tempting to choose the cheapest graphic design degree just to save money, it is also important to look at the big picture and consider the school as a whole. We ranked tuition based on how much it would cost an in-state student to attend for one full year and used the average cost of attendance provided by the NCES. We also provided out-of-state tuition rates for your reference.
Points:
Under $7,500: 3 points
$7,500 to $15,000: 2 points
$15,001 and above: 1 point
Student: Faculty Ratio
In this ranking, we awarded points based on each school’s student: faculty ratio, as reported by NCES. Institutions with high ratios may be more likely to offer majors and concentrations not available at smaller schools. Colleges and universities with low ratios may be more likely to offer individualized mentoring, personalized studies, and opportunities for students to develop relationships with their professors and peers. Therefore, we awarded the most points the latter based on the following ranges.
Points:
10:1 or less: 3 points
11:1 to 15:1: 2 points
Greater than 15:1: 1 point
Ranking Top 15 Best Affordable Colleges for a Graphic Design Degree
15. West Texas A&M University
Canyon, Texas
Points: 3
West Texas A&M University is a public institution and a member of the Texas A&M University System. The school’s Department of Art, Theatre and Dance offers an affordable Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design that prepares students to enter this dynamic, in-demand field. Students pursuing this graphic design degree program are required to complete 21 hours in the graphic design major in areas such as:
- illustration
- art history
- graphic design
Students must also complete six hours in a senior project. Foundation coursework covers:
- drawing
- two- and three-dimensional design
- beginner-level art history
Nine hours of computer art, nine hours of art history, and nine hours of art electives are also required for graduation. Areas of study include:
- ceramics
- sculpture
- water media
- painting
- printmaking
- drawing
BFA students must also participate in an art internship to gain practical experiences in the field of graphic design.
Degree Options:
Graphic Design B.F. A.
In-State Tuition: $7,935
Out-of-State Tuition: $9,304
Student: Faculty Ratio: 20:1
14. Northwest Missouri State University
Maryville, Missouri
Points: 3
Program Website
Northwest Missouri State University is a public university. Students looking for an affordable graphic design degree can pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design. The program teaches them to create compelling, powerful design work to meet the needs of their clients. Experienced faculty members teach the fundamentals of art, enabling students to graduate with a diverse portfolio of tools and skills. Core requirements include:
- printmaking
- typography
- computer graphics
- sculpture
- painting
- photography
- drawing
- three-dimensional design
Graphic design requirements consist of coursework in:
- digital illustration
- three-dimensional animation
- package design
- print and digital design
- advanced graphic design
Graphic design majors also work closely with industry professionals. Student engagement offers significant opportunities for experiential learning. Northwest ensures that graphic design students are career-ready on the first day through networking opportunities, field experiences, and internships. Approximately 93 percent of art majors continue their education or find employment within six months of earning their degree. Graduates are prepared for careers as:
- Web designers
- print designers
- creative designers
- graphic designers.
Degree Options:
B.F.A. Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $7,844
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,166
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 21:1
13. Bellevue University
Bellevue, Nebraska
Points: 3
Program Website
Established in 1966, Bellevue University is a nonprofit, private university. It one of the most affordable colleges for a graphic design degree. Students pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design at Bellevue University will learn how to use various technologies and media for Web and print design. They will also learn to understand how typography, layout, images, color, and other principles influence messaging, branding, and design. The 127-hour top-value degree program is comprised of:
- 36 credits in general education
- 42 credits in electives
- 49 credits in major requirements
Subjects include:
- Web and print design
- the history of graphic design
- problem-solving and idea generation
- branding
- website development
- Web page design
- identity design
Bellevue also requires all undergraduates to complete nine credits in its Kirkpatrick Signature Series. It involves the study of freedom and responsibility, tradition and change, and the American vision and values. Students develop a professional portfolio they may use as preparation for graduate study or to showcase their skills to prospective clients or employers. Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of industries in:
- product packaging design
- advertising
- communications
- marketing
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $7,827
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,827
Student: Faculty Ratio: 40:1
12. Peru State College
Peru, Nebraska
Points: 3
Program Website
Peru State College was founded in 1865 by members of the Methodist Episcopal Church. PSC provides an affordable art program. It’s designed to prepare graduates to be successful teachers, designers, and artists. Students can choose from options in:
- fine arts
- teaching
- graphic design
Within the graphic design concentration, students may pursue either a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts degree. Both help students develop a broad range of digital and traditional skills in the visual arts. Core classes include:
- illustration
- animation
- print and Web design
- ceramics
- sculpture
- printmaking
- drawing
- painting
Specifically, the graphic design option includes 24 credits in:
- design studio
- motion graphics
- Web design
- visual identity
- illustration
- typography
Small class sizes allow for one-on-one mentorship by art faculty. Spacious studios and design laboratories provide ample room for students to explore their creative interests. Peru State is recognized among the top affordable colleges for a graphic design degree. As a bonus, it’s only an hour’s drive from galleries, museums, and cultural events hosted throughout Lincoln and Omaha.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science (BS) in Art, Graphic Design Option
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art, Graphic Design Option
In-State Tuition: $7,512
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,512
Student: Faculty Ratio: 21:1
11. Park University
Parkville, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Park University was founded in 1875 and has grown into one of the most affordable universities for a graphic design degree. Students pursuing the Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design are exposed to:
- photography
- three-dimensional animation
- illustration
- layout
- typography
- identity and branding
- visual communication.
This top-value degree in graphic design is delivered in a face-to-face format and requires a minimum of 122 credit hours of study. This includes approved electives in a concentration and 66 hours of degree-specific core requirements. The portfolio component demonstrates inventiveness and risk-taking in concept and form. Students must select examples of their best work to submit to their major advisers as part of the Senior Seminar requirement. In addition to the portfolio, students may wish to gain additional experience through internships, specialized topics, and independent studies. Graduates are prepared for careers in:
- environmental graphic design
- motion design
- editorial design
- commercial design
- corporate identity and branding.
Park University also offers related degrees in:
- multimedia journalism and public relations
- computer information systems
- interior design
- visual communication.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $11,572
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,572
Student: Faculty Ratio: 15:1
10. Doane University
Crete, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
Doane University is a private liberal arts college. Students seeking a cost-effective graphic design degree can pursue this major in which they are immersed in an interdisciplinary, unique approach to the field. Areas of study include:
- two- and three-dimensional design
- basic video production
- graphic design
- digital media
- Western art history
- visual arts
- intercultural communication
Students spend most of their time in computer laboratories and art studios. They use pace-setting and industry-standard technologies such as Adobe Creative Cloud. Students may access the graphic design lab 24 hours a day, seven days a week, whenever their creative juices are flowing. From typography and photography to Web design and motion graphics, students develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the professional world. Students are also prepared to continue their studies in a graduate school setting.
Degree Options:
Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $11,370
Out-of-State Tuition: $11,370
Student: Faculty Ratio: 14:1
9. Missouri Western State University
Saint Joseph, Missouri
Points: 4
Program Website
Missouri Western State University is a public university. The Department of Art offers an affordable four-year Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in graphic design. Students are required to complete 120 credit hours of study. Topics include:
- two- and three-dimensional design
- art history
- drawing
- sculpture
- ceramics
- motion graphics
- printmaking
- design software applications
- graphic design
Students are also exposed to:
- typography
- illustration
- painting
- photography
As part of the graduation requirements, students are required to participate in a senior seminar and exhibit in which and present their personal work for critique and review. All students pursuing the graphic design degree at MWSU are required to complete internships to gain practical experience. Internships can be with:
- organizations
- advertising agencies
- design firms
- businesses
Students may choose to intern nationally, regionally, locally, or on-campus. Graduates are prepared to work with:
- small or large advertising agencies
- in-house creative departments
- publishers
- design firms
- freelance.
Degree Options:
B.F.A. Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $7,960
Out-of-State Tuition: $13,835
Student: Faculty Ratio: 16:1
8. Southwestern Oklahoma State University
Weatherford, Oklahoma
Points: 4
Program Website
Southwestern Oklahoma State University is a public institution and an affordable university for a graphic design degree. The school’s low-cost Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design prepares students to enter the dynamic, in-demand field of digital communication design. Students learn to effectively communicate through visuals while developing personal design and aesthetic values. Coursework teaches the development of a visual language utilizing digital and traditional imagery as well as typography. Students learn effective methods for creating communications across different media formats such as:
- interactive media
- exhibitions
- packages
- posters
- books
- Web-delivered content
- motion and sequential film
Graduates who complete this economical graphic design degree program are prepared to work with:
- the creative staffs of corporate communications departments
- publishing houses
- design studies,
- advertising agencies
Graduates are prepared for entry-level positions such as production artist for a design staff, graphic designer, or as a junior art director.
Degree Options:
B.F.A. in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $7,335
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,235
Student: Faculty Ratio: 21:1
7. Arkansas Tech University
Russellville, Arkansas
Points: 4
Program Website
Recognized as an affordable accredited university for a graphic design degree, Arkansas Tech University is a public institution . Students may pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design offered through the Department of Art. They will develop the techniques and skills they need to be successful in various fields of advertising art. Coursework includes general education requirements as well as topics in:
- two- and three-dimensional design
- color design
- animation techniques
- drawing
- digital skills
- package design
- digital illustration
Students are also exposed to Web design and production design, printmaking, and typography and layout. During the senior year, students participate in a graphic design exhibition. They present a professional portfolio that showcases the best examples of their work.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $7,254
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,678
Student: Faculty Ratio: 19:1
6. Wayne State College
Wayne, Nebraska
Points: 4
Program Website
Ranked among the most affordable colleges for a graphic design degree in the U.S., Wayne State College is a four-year public college. It’s a member of the Nebraska State College System. WSC offers two low-cost options for students looking for a low cost graphic design degree– Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science. Both require 120 credits of study. Students receive training on the latest design software as well as the methods, procedures, and techniques that make up the design process. Topics of study include:
- graphic design
- digital imaging
- art history
- typography
- app design and prototyping
- Web design
- interaction design
All students must complete an internship before graduating. WSC supplements the curriculum through:
- on-campus clubs and organizations
- on- and off-campus shows and exhibits
- opportunities for students to sell their own artwork
- study-abroad programs
- workshops and critiques
- trips to local museums, galleries, and design firms
WSC also offers related programs in electronic media, studio art, and PreK-12 art education.
Degree Options:
B.A. in Graphic Design
B.S. in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $7,172
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,602
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
5. Brigham Young University-Provo
Provo, Utah
Points: 4
Program Website
Brigham Young University is a nonprofit, private research university. Owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU offers a best-value graphic design degree with one of the lowest tuition rates in the country. The school limits enrollment in its Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design to 40 students. Those accepted must first complete foundational courses before applying for the high-value BFA professional program through a portfolio review. Students are required to complete coursework in:
- design
- media design
- typography
- motion
- interaction design
Students may select three courses from areas such as:
- branding
- design thinking
- three-dimensional design
- portfolio.
An internship, BFA capstone project, and design seminar are also required for graduation. At the culmination of the program, students will have developed skills and knowledge in the areas of:
- design across media types
- design impact and sustainability
- professional practice
- design thinking
- effective communication through design
- cultural change, context, and audience.
Degree Options:
Graphic Design BFA
In-State Tuition: $5,620
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,620
Student: Faculty Ratio: 20:1
4. University of Arkansas-Fort Smith
Fort Smith, Arkansas
Points: 4
Program Website
The University of Arkansas-Fort Smith is a four-year, public university and one of 13 campuses that make up the University of Arkansas System. UAFS offers an affordable Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design through the Department of Art and Graphic Design. The program emphasizes technical and creative solutions to design problems, including:
- illustration
- digital media
- photography direction
- copywriting
- identity design and advertising
- package
- brochure
- logo
Students also receive training in printing, pre-press, and production issues. Undergraduate research opportunities include the UAFS Undergraduate Research Symposium. Students will develop a portfolio in preparation for employment in:
- corporate design firms
- television stations
- design studios
- advertising agencies
- other graphics-related industries.
Degree Options:
BS – Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $5,593
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,666
Student: Faculty Ratio: 18:1
3. Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Laie, Hawaii
Points: 4
Program Website
Brigham Young University-Hawaii was established in 1955 as the Church College of Hawaii. Today, the school is owned and operated by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The Department of Visual Arts at BYU-Hawaii offers an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Art and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Art, each with a graphic design track. TheB.A. in Art involves coursework in:
- three-dimensional concepts
- design principles
- drawing concepts
- readings in aesthetics
- the history of graphic design
- global art history
Students following the graphic design track are required to complete 27 hours in areas such as:
- packaging design
- motion graphics
- publication design
- Web for designers
- branding
- typography
- digital photography
- digital tools
- fundamentals of Web design and technology.
The economical B.F.A. option includes 66 hours of study. All candidates must complete an additional 12 hours of thesis-level coursework. Graphic design students are also required to participate in an internship to earn their B.F.A.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $5,560
Out-of-State Tuition: $5,560
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17:1
2. Elizabeth City State University
Elizabeth City, North Carolina
Points: 5
Program Website
With the lowest tuition on our list, Elizabeth City State University has earned its place as one of the most affordable universities for a graphic design degree. Established in 1891, this public HBCU is a member-institution of the University of North Carolina System. Students may pursue a Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design at ECSU. The 124- to 125-semester-hour program includes 46 to 47 hours of general education core classes. Students are required to complete 60 hours of major core courses in areas such as:
- graphic design
- photography
- typography
- drawing
- foundations of art
The top-value curriculum allows students to further focus their degree through six semester hours of related courses. Available options include:
- ancient art
- Medieval art
- Renaissance art
- African-American art
- 19th-century art
- 20th-century art
Students round out their degree with 18 hours in minor electives. The program also includes an internship in graphic design as well as a senior portfolio and show.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design
In-State Tuition: $3,194
Out-of-State Tuition: $7,194
Student: Faculty Ratio: 14:1
1. University of the District of Columbia
Washington, D.C.
Points: 6
Program Website
The University of the District of Columbia, our best affordable college for a graphic design degree, is a public HBCU. Established in 1851, it is one of the few urban land-grant universities in the nation. Students interested in the visual arts can earn an affordable Bachelor of Arts in Art with a concentration in graphic design. Offered through the College of Arts and Sciences, the curriculum includes courses in:
- digital media
- photography
- design
- drawing
- conceptual thinking
Art history and advanced studio courses help students synthesize diverse art theories and techniques. The 120-credit graphic design concentration also includes communication design courses that explore:
- animation
- illustration
- Web design
- digital typography
- posters
- logos.
Students have many opportunities to display their work in Gallery 42. The Photo Club and the Art Student Union bring undergraduates together to listen to guest lecturers, take field trips, exchange ideas, and network. Graduates are prepared for careers as professional web and print designers for:
- government agencies
- design studios
- freelance clients
- commercial institutions.
Degree Options:
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Art
In-State Tuition: $5,888
Out-of-State Tuition: $12,416
Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Career Options for a Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Degree?
After some thought and careful consideration, you have decided that a graphic design career might be the right path for you. However, before you commit money and time to a formal program, it is important to understand what your job prospects will be after you graduate. Although the answer “graphic designer” certainly applies here, and it is the most popular career option for a graduate who has earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, there is much more to the field than one occupation. In fact, graphic design programs teach useful, usable skills that can be applied to a variety of careers in different industries, including:
- digital effects
- interactive publishing the business of digital media
- project management
- design theory
- animation
- motion graphics
- portfolio development.
Below are 10 common positions for students who have earned a Bachelor’s in Graphic Design:
- Art Director
- Multimedia Artist and Animator
- Web Developer
- Marketing Specialist
- Graphic Designer
- Product Developer
- Production Artist
- User Interface (UI) Designer
- User Experience (UX) Designer
- Creative Director
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment of graphic designers across all occupations is projected to increase 4 percent between 2016 and 2026, slower than the average for all occupations. This may initially seem like the job outlook is poor compared to other occupations that are growing at a more rapid rate. The projected change of employment will vary depending on the industry in which a graphic designer works. For instance, employment of graphic designers working with a directory, book, periodical, or newspaper publisher is expected to decrease 22 percent, while employment of graphic designers working with computer systems design and related services will grow 20 percent over the same timeframe. Since companies are continually increasing their digital presence, they turn to graphic designers to help create effective and visually appealing website layouts.
What is the Salary Potential for a Graphic Design Degree?
You have the drive, creative spirit, and maybe one or two technical skills. When it comes to graphic design, however, you might be plagued by one major concern: How much money will you make in this field? Keep in mind that, while salary is important and your career should meet your financial needs, your occupation should also fit your lifestyle, skills, and personality. If you have done some soul-searching and you are convinced that a graphic design career is right for you, check out the following salary information, courtesy of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
The BLS reports that the annual mean wagefor graphic designers was $50,370 per year, or $24.21 per hour, as of May 2018. The highest 10 percent earned more than $85,760, while the lowest 10 percent earned less than $29,610. The BLS also indicates that the median annual wages for graphic designers were the highest in the following industries:
- Advertising, public relations, and related services: $51,380
- Specialized design services: $51,320
- Newspaper, book, periodical, and directory publishers: $43,450
- Printing and related support activities
What Courses and Concentrations Are Available in a Graphic Design Degree Program?
The courses you can expect to take in a Bachelor’s in Graphic Design will depend on the school you are attending, but they are generally a combination of technical and creative classes. This applies for both on-campus and online programs. Although each school is different and provides its own set curriculum that allows students to meet certain objectives, there are five fundamental graphic design courses found at most post-secondary institutions:
- Web Graphics
- Typography
- Multimedia Animation
- Digital Photography
- Desktop Publishing
Despite being a specialized field, graphic design is also multifaceted. Students may choose to focus on developing designs for traditional media such as television and print or for the digital market. Graphic designers may also be tasked with developing interactive websites, implementing advertising campaigns, and designing commercial packaging products. Five concentrations that may be available depending on the institution you attend include:
- marketing and advertising
- design
- game design
- illustration
- sustainable design.
Depending on the program, students can expect to spend four years fulfilling the degree requirements to earn a Bachelor’s in Graphic Design. Most programs are comprised of about 40 courses or 120 credit hours of study. Some schools may offer an accelerated option for students looking to complete their degree in reduced time. Regardless of the program or school you choose, we hope that the above list of the top 15 best affordable colleges for a graphic design degree is helpful as you narrow down your options and select an institution for your studies.
AS Staff
This concludes our ranking of the top 15 best affordable graphic design degree Programs.
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