When you buy through affiliate links in our content, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Learn 
Ready to dive into graphic design? Choosing the right school is a crucial first step.
With so many options, it’s essential to find a school that aligns with your interests and hones your skills for a successful career. Whether you’re passionate about branding, digital design, or multimedia arts, the top design schools offer programs tailored to support your talents.
In this article, we explore some of the best graphic design schools in the world. These institutions are renowned for their excellent programs, skilled faculty, cutting-edge equipment, and modern facilities. Beyond technical skills, they nurture your creativity and critical thinking, setting you on the path to your dream job.
Key Takeaways
- Whether through on-campus programs or online courses, finding the right graphic design school is essential for success in the field, as it can significantly influence your career trajectory.
- Top graphic design programs focus on developing both creative and practical skills, preparing students for the real-world challenges of the design industry.
- Many leading design schools offer hands-on experience through real-world projects and have strong industry connections that help students secure internships and job opportunities.
- Schools like University of the Arts London (UK), Parsons School of Design (USA), and Politecnico di Milano (Italy) are recognized as leading institutions for graphic design.
- Aalto University (Finland) and Design Academy Eindhoven (Netherlands) offer lower tuition rates for EU/EEA students, making them accessible and affordable for European students.
7 Best Graphic Design Schools in 2024: On-Campus Programs
If you’re ready to turn your design dreams into reality, these top graphic design schools can help. Whether you’re drawn to traditional art schools or prefer programs at larger universities, you’ll find the perfect place to develop your skills and launch a successful career.
| Rank | University? | Location | Undergraduate Cost of Tuition Per Year, in USD |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of the Arts London | London, England, UK | $11,738 – UK or European Union (EU) nationals
$36,255 – international students |
| 2 | Parsons School of Design at The New School | New York City, New York, USA | $57,978 |
| 3 | Rhode Island School of Design | Providence, Rhode Island, USA | $57,505 |
| 4 | Politecnico di Milano | Milan, Italy | Tuition varies according to the student’s study plan their financial status, as determined by the Indicator of Equivalent Economic Situation |
| 5 | Aalto University | Espoo, Finland | Citizens of an EU or European Economic Area (EEA) member state or Switzerland do not pay tuition fees for degree studies
$13,106 – bachelor’s programs taught in English for students from outside the EU, EEA, or Switzerland |
| 6 | Pratt Institute | Brooklyn, New York, USA | 1–11 undergraduate credits: $1,930 per credit
12–18 undergraduate credits: $59,821 annually 19 or more undergraduate credits: $59,821 + $1,930 per credit |
| 7 | Design Academy Eindhoven | Eindhoven, Netherlands | $2,763 – students from the Netherlands, countries within the EU/EEA, Switzerland, or Suriname
$12,769 – students from a non-EU/EEA country and students who have previously obtained a degree from a Dutch government-funded program |
7. Design Academy Eindhoven, Netherlands
The Design Academy Eindhoven offers a wide range of courses in industrial, graphic, fashion, and conceptual design. Renowned for its progressive teaching methods, it encourages students to develop their own unique styles. With a strong emphasis on real-world projects and teamwork, the school prepares students for careers in the design industry.
The academy’s four-year bachelor’s program allows students to explore various design approaches and research methods, including the concept of “thinking through making.”
According to the school, its graduates excel in creative fields.
6. Pratt Institute, USA
The Pratt Institute School of Design is one of the best schools for graphic design in the world. It blends classic design principles with modern digital tools, teaching students to be creative, think critically, and master design software.
Students work on real-world projects alongside industry leaders, building portfolios that stand out to employers. With strong industry connections and state-of-the-art facilities, Pratt helps students secure jobs after graduation.
The program aims to produce talented designers ready to lead in the creative world, embracing the school’s mission to “teach makers how to think, and critical thinkers how to make.”
5. Aalto University, Finland
The graphic design program at Aalto University seamlessly blends artistic creativity with modern technology, preparing students for the contemporary graphic design landscape. Emphasizing critical thinking and visual communication, the program combines traditional design principles with cutting-edge digital tools.
Students engage in design theory while developing practical skills through hands-on projects and collaboration, equipping them for careers in advertising, branding, and digital media.
The teachers in the school’s graphic design programs help students find their own unique design styles.
4. Politecnico di Milano, Italy
The Politecnico di Milano School of Design is one of the best graphic design schools globally, offering a curriculum focused on design principles, methods, and practical applications. The program combines classroom learning with real-world experience, preparing students for careers in the design industry.
With specialized tracks in industrial, fashion, interior, and other design fields, students can tailor their studies to match their interests and career goals.
Politecnico di Milano’s strong connections with Italy’s design and manufacturing industries provide students with valuable internship opportunities and avenues for career advancement.
3. Parsons School of Design at The New School, USA
The Parsons School of Design at The New School offers a graphic design program that aims to teach students to be creative as well as practical. Students learn the fundamentals of design while exploring various visual techniques, from classic to advanced.
Parsons views design as a problem-solving tool, encouraging students to collaborate on projects, participate in internships, and take courses that mimic real-world job experiences. The faculty, comprised of industry professionals, helps students develop their skills and build strong portfolios.
Located in New York City, Parsons provides students with the advantage of connecting with a vibrant creative community.
2. Rhode Island School of Design, USA
The Rhode Island School of Design is one of the top colleges with graphic design majors worldwide. The school’s graphic design program mixes creativity with serious skills. Students start by learning the nuts and bolts of design, such as how to use fonts and digital tools. Then they explore more advanced topics, such as branding and making moving graphics. Students also get to work on real projects for actual clients. It’s like getting on-the-job training. Students also benefit from modern facilities and equipment and teachers who are successful designers themselves. And when they’re not in class, students can join design clubs or work on projects with students from other fields.
The Rhode Island School of Design is one of the top colleges for graphic design majors. The program blends creativity with essential skills, starting with the fundamentals of design, including typography and digital tools. As students progress, they delve into advanced topics like branding and motion graphics.
The program offers hands-on experience through real projects for actual clients, providing practical, on-the-job training. Students benefit from modern facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, and instruction from successful designers.
Outside the classroom, they can join design clubs or collaborate on projects with peers from other disciplines.
1. University of the Arts London, UK
The University of the Arts London Camberwell College of Arts graphic design curriculum helps students discover their artistic voices while encouraging them to experiment with a variety of creative tools and ideas.
The college focuses on developing students into creative, practical designers who can solve problems and make a meaningful impact. Through collaboration on real-world projects with classmates and industry professionals, students gain valuable experience.
The Camberwell College of Arts aims to help students become creative designers so they can land jobs in advertising, branding, digital media, and more.
If you’d prefer to study graphic design remotely, here are seven top online graphic design schools to help you start your search.
7 Best Graphic Design Schools in 2024: Online Programs
| Rank | University | Location/Online | Undergraduate Cost of Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Southern New Hampshire University | USA | $330 per credit hour, 120 credit hours |
| 2 | Arizona State University | USA | $7,495 per academic year |
| 3 | London School of Design and Marketing | UK | Total cost: $14,647 |
| 4 | University of Hertfordshire | UK | Full time:
UK Students: $11,890 EU Students: $19,940 International Students: $19,940 |
| 5 | Sessions College for Professional Design | USA | $300 per credit hour, 120 credit hours |
| 6 | Bellevue University | USA | $449 per credit hour, 127 credit hours |
| 7 | Liberty University | USA | Full time:
$390 per credit hour; 120 credit hours Part time: $455 per credit hour, 120 credit hours |
7. Liberty University, USA
Liberty University‘s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design program aims to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to pursue a career in visual communication. You’ll learn to use professional tools like InDesign and Photoshop to create eye-catching designs.
The program begins with foundational courses in art and design, where you’ll explore color theory, typography, and visual arrangement. As you progress, you’ll take more specialized classes in areas such as digital media, branding, and interactive content design.
You’ll also work on real-world projects, allowing you to build a portfolio to showcase to potential employers.
6. Bellevue University, USA
The Bellevue University Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design degree program is tailored specifically for adult learners. It covers a broad range of skills, from design theory and typography to color theory and digital imaging.
You’ll gain hands-on experience working on projects across various media, including mobile, web, and print. The program emphasizes visual design, user experience design, and interactive media.
You’ll work on real-world projects, learn the latest design tools, and may even have the opportunity to intern for additional hands-on experience.
5. Sessions College for Professional Design, USA
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design program offered by Sessions College for Professional Design is designed to teach you graphic design step-by-step. You’ll begin with the basics, such as design principles, Photoshop, and typography.
As you progress, you’ll learn to design logos and websites, focusing on usability and creating a strong brand image.
The program also allows you to choose electives and projects in specialized areas like motion graphics or product packaging design.
4. University of Hertfordshire, UK
The BA (Hons) Graphic Design program at the University of Hertfordshire is an undergraduate degree designed to equip you with the skills to create visually appealing and effective designs. You’ll start with the fundamentals of design, including typography, layout, and visual storytelling.
As you advance, you’ll explore more specialized topics such as digital design, branding, and interactive media. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, allowing you to work on real projects and collaborate with others.
The curriculum includes modules on user experience design, motion graphics, print and publishing, and more.
3. London School of Design and Marketing, UK
In the BA (Hons) Design degree program at the London School of Design and Marketing, you’ll primarily focus on graphic design. You’ll start by mastering the basics, such as effective use of colors and fonts, and you’ll gain hands-on experience with popular design software like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
The program also covers the latest design trends and equips you with the skills needed to pursue a career in the field.
In your final year, you’ll complete a major project that showcases everything you’ve learned.
2. ASU Online (Arizona State University), USA
In the Online Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design at Arizona State University, you’ll begin with the basics, such as design principles, color theory, and typography, while learning to use design software like Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. You’ll also study how to design user-friendly interfaces and explore motion graphics for animations and videos.
The program covers designing for websites and apps, as well as creating and managing brand identities.
Throughout the program, you’ll complete projects and receive feedback from instructors to help you refine your skills.
1. Southern New Hampshire University, USA
In Southern New Hampshire University‘s Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design program, you’ll learn the fundamentals of both traditional art and modern design. You’ll begin with core concepts like color theory, typography, and digital drawing, then progress to web design, branding, and multimedia.
The program also trains you in the use of essential design tools, such as Adobe Creative Suite, which are crucial in the industry.
Additionally, you’ll work on projects that foster creative thinking and problem-solving, providing you with valuable hands-on experience.
Online vs. On-Campus Graphic Design Programs: Pros & Cons
Studying Graphic Design Online
- Often more affordable than on-campus programs.
- Access courses from anywhere.
- Use a wide range of online tools and resources.
- Limited access to physical resources.
- Less opportunity for in-person networking.
- Potential distractions from home environment.
Studying Graphic Design On Campus
- Direct access to professional tools and studios.
- Opportunities for face-to-face collaboration.
- More disciplined and immersive environment.
- Fixed schedules and location requirements.
- Higher tuition, accommodation, and travel costs.
- Time and money spent on commuting.
The Bottom Line
As you explore graphic design colleges and universities, remember that your choice can shape your career. Consider what matters most to you in a program. Try visiting some campuses, chatting with current students and alumni, and picturing yourself there that environment.
If you prefer remote learning, you might choose to explore some of the best online graphic design schools discussed above.
FAQs
What university has the best graphic design program?
What is the #1 design school in the US?
What is the best degree for graphic design?
Is college worth it for a graphic designer?
References
- Design Academy Eindhoven (Designacademy)
- Homepage – School of Design (Pratt)
- Aalto University (Aalto)
- Home – Design (Design.polimi)
- Parsons School of Design | The New School (Newschool)
- Rhode Island School of Design (Risd)
- Camberwell (Arts.ac)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts Online | Graphic Design | Liberty University (Liberty)
- Online Graphic Design Degree | Bellevue University (Bellevue)
- Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design | Sessions College (Sessions)
- Graphic Design | Courses | Uni of Herts (Herts.ac)
- BA Design – London School of Design & Marketing (Lsdmlondon)
- Bachelor’s in Graphic Design | ASU Online (Start.asuonline.asu)
- Online Graphic Design Degree Program | SNHU (Snhu)
