20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs

An image of a graphic designer for our ranking of 20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs

In this article, we highlight the 20 best online bachelor’s in graphic design programs.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job outlook for graphic designers remains steady and consistent over the next eight years. The BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook suggests that graphic designers will face strong competition for available positions. This means that degrees in graphic design are essential in finding employment and advancing current careers in the field.

Featured Programs

Methodology

We reviewed 74 accredited colleges and universities that offer online graphic design degrees or related programs like:

  • web design
  • visual communication
  • digital media
  • digital arts

We established our original pool of schools by collecting data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator. We then reviewed rankings from major publications like U.S. News & World Report  to retain for consideration only the programs that had received rankings or recognition. From these recognized programs, we narrowed our pool of schools to the 20 online bachelor’s degree programs with the lowest in-state undergraduate tuition price published by NCES College Navigator. We then listed the schools in order of affordability.

20 Best Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design Programs 2017

Ranking the 20 Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Graphic Design

#20 – Savannah College of Art and Design

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Savannah, Georgia

Website

A logo of Savannah College of Art and Design for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design
SCAD – a top choice for bachelor’s in graphic design online degrees.

Undergraduate Tuition: $38,075

Distance education options are available at Savannah College of Art and Design. Select programs allow busy students to take online courses that accommodate working schedules and outside obligations. One available program at SCAD is the online bachelor’s in graphic design. Courses cover applicable topics in graphic design like:

  • core principles of interactive design
  • graphic design media management
  • graphic design studio idea visualization
  • history of graphic design
  • production for print and digital environments
  • typography

Students also have the option of minoring in graphic design if another major is chosen, such as:

  • advertising
  • branded entertainment
  • illustration
  • sequential art

Savannah College ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, recent rankings include #75 in best online bachelor’s programs.

#19 – California Baptist University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design and Digital Media

Riverside, California

Website

A logo of California Baptist University for our ranking of Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
Accredited and ranked, CBU offers online graphic design programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $36,340

California Baptist University offers an accredited online graphic design degree. It’s for individuals with existing careers and life obligations that prevent them from attending traditional classes. Courses are taught by experienced CBU professors. These courses cover a number of career-oriented topics, including:

  • advanced design
  • advanced image
  • history of graphic design
  • intermediate image
  • intermediate typography

At the culmination of the program, a senior capstone project is required. In addition to being fully accredited, California Baptist University ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school #40 in best regional universities in the West and #25 in best value schools.

#18 – Los Angeles Film School

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Hollywood, California

Website

A logo of Los Angeles Film School for our ranking of the 20 Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
LA Film School offers affordable options for on online graphic design degree.

Undergraduate Tuition: $33,100

The Los Angeles Film School offers a versatile graphic design degree. It can lead to opportunities in a variety of industries like entertainment and film. The online bachelor’s degree consists of 120 credits and takes about 36 months to complete. Students enrolled in the graphic design online degree take one class at a time. Each course runs for a four-week period, allowing students to focus on one subject or topic at a time. Online courses cover topics like:

  • design fundamentals
  • digital image making
  • digital literacy
  • photography in design
  • type and layout

LA Film School is accredited and recognized by major publications like U.S. News & World Report.

#17 – Upper Iowa University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Fayette, Iowa

Website

A logo of Upper Iowa University for our ranking of the Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
Ranked and accredited! Upper Iowa’s online bachelor’s in graphic design.

Undergraduate Tuition: $32,945

The online bachelor’s in graphic design program at Upper Iowa University uses the latest digital technologies that can be leveraged to build a versatile career. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same Upper Iowa faculty who teach on campus. Graphic design courses currently offered in the program cover topics like:

  • advertising design
  • digital animation
  • digital photography
  • editing, publication design
  • web publishing and social media

A senior portfolio emphasizing advanced web design techniques fulfills the capstone experience. Upper Iowa is fully accredited. It ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 119th-156th best regional university in the Midwest. Also, the online bachelor’s programs rank #189 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed.

#16 – Lesley University

Online Bachelor’s in Design for User Experience

Cambridge, Massachusetts

Website

A logo of Lesley University for our ranking of 20 Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
Accredited and ranked! Lesley University – a top choice for online graphic design programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $29,950

Lesley University offers an online bachelor’s degree in design for user experience. It’s both affordable and ranked with U.S. News & World Report. The program prepares students for entry-level career opportunities by building a strong foundation in graphic design principles. Students are taught to understand and address the human experience at the center of the design process. Courses cover topics like:

  • advanced web projects
  • elements of interface
  • history of modern design
  • information architecture
  • language of design
  • visual communication

In addition to being a fully accredited institution, Lesley ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 249th best national university and 303rd top performer on social mobility.

#15 – Kentucky Wesleyan College

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Owensboro, Kentucky

Website

A logo of Kentucky Wesleyan College for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design
100% online graphic design program – KWC!

Undergraduate Tuition: $28,540

At Kentucky Wesleyan College, students may earn an online bachelor’s in graphic design that is fully accredited and conveniently designed. The 100% online degree helps qualify individuals for high-skill careers in graphic design and related fields. Students complete a core of art classes where foundations and principles of art and design are taught. Following completion of the core art courses, students begin a set of foundational design and drawing classes. Recent graduates of the program have gone on to pursue their master’s in graphic design or entered the workforce as:

  • graphic designers
  • web designers
  • other related occupations

Kentucky Wesleyan College is a private institution. It ranks with U.S. News & World Report as the 18th best regional college in the South.

#14 – Southeastern University

Online Bachelor’s in Digital Media and Design

Lakeland, Florida

Website

A logo of Southeastern University for our ranking of Best Online Graphic Design Programs
SEU offers 100% online digital media and design programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $27,520

One alternative to a bachelor’s in graphic design online degree is a degree in digital media and design. At Southeastern University, this unique program offers fully online study. It prepares students for careers as:

  • designers
  • marketers
  • web design masters

The online bachelor’s in digital media and design is for busy and working students who can’t attend on-campus classes. All courses are delivered online and cover topics like:

  • advanced design
  • advanced digital imaging
  • advanced illustration
  • digital layout and design
  • magazine design and production
  • writing for digital media
  • Southeastern University is ranked by U.S. News & World Report as the 103rd-133rd best regional university in the South. Additional rankings include #74 in top performers on social mobility and top online bachelor’s programs.

#13 – Full Sail University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Winter Park, Florida

Website

A logo of Full Sail University for our ranking of 20 Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
Accredited and affordable! Full Sail University’s online graphic design programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $25,820

At Full Sail University, students seeking an online bachelor’s in graphic design receive an education that combines art and business. The bachelor’s degree program helps hone real-world skills in areas like:

  • advertising
  • branding
  • integration

The online program takes 29 months to complete, making it one of the fastest programs on our list. Flexible courses cover topics like page layout and digital publishing and typography. In addition to design courses, students take a series of business courses that prepare them for the industry. Full Sail is a fully accredited institution that has earned recognition from major publications like U.S. News & World Report.

#12 – Midway University

Online Bachelor’s in Marketing Communications – Graphic Design

Midway, Kentucky

Website

A logo of Midway University for our ranking of Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
Study marketing communications and graphic design online at Midway University!

Undergraduate Tuition: $24,850

Midway University offers one of the most uniquely designed online bachelor’s in graphic design programs on our list. It’s the marketing and design degree. The fully online, rigorous study trains students by exposing them to various aspects of:

  • branding
  • business
  • communication
  • graphic design

All courses are taught by Midway faculty and cover topics like:

  • animation
  • brand management
  • digital storytelling
  • photoshop
  • social media management

Even in the online courses, Midway keeps their student/faculty ratio low at 15:1. Small class sizes allow students to get to know their professors and peers, even in online classes. Midway is fully accredited. It ranks with U.S. News & World Report. These rankings include #89 in best regional universities in the South and #10 in top performers on social mobility.

#11 – Academy of Art University

Online BFA in Graphic Design

San Francisco, California

Website

A logo of Academy of Art University for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
Earn an online BFA in graphic design at AAU!

Undergraduate Tuition: $24,664

At Academy of Art University, the School of Graphic Design offers an online BFA program that helps students gain superior knowledge in areas of graphic design. While enrolled in the program, students explore topics like:

  • composition of the artist
  • designing careers
  • design technology—visual design tools
  • digital photography
  • introduction to interactive design
  • visual communication

To graduate, students must complete all required courses and maintain a minimum 2.0 GPA. While it is a proprietary institution, AAU is fully accredited. It’s ranked with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, the most recent rankings include #95-#124 in best regional universities in the West.

#10 – Liberty University

Online BFA in Graphic Design

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

A logo of Liberty University for our ranking of Best Online Graphic Design Programs
Affordable options for online graphic design programs – Liberty University.

Undergraduate Tuition: $21,587

Liberty University’s online bachelor’s in graphic design offers a hands-on learning approach. It focuses on digital arts and visual communication. The entire program is online, with courses taught by experienced faculty. Liberty’s online courses cover topics like:

  • advanced typography
  • digital imaging
  • graphic design
  • history of art
  • interactive publications
  • introduction to typography
  • publication design

In addition to being accredited, Liberty University ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the school as one of the best national universities. The online bachelor’s programs rank #242 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#9 – Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design

Online BFA in Graphic Design

Lakewood, Colorado

Website

A logo of Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design for our ranking of Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
RMCAD offers affordable options for an online bachelor’s in graphic design.

Undergraduate Tuition: $20,725

Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design offers an accredited online bachelor’s in graphic design that can be completed entirely via distance learning. While enrolled in the BFA program, students take classes taught by faculty members who also work as practicing industry professionals. Courses available include:

  • design systems
  • experience design
  • graphic design
  • information visualization
  • rapid visualization and prototyping
  • typographic design

Courses are designed so that students interact with their peers through technology and open communication. Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design is fully accredited. It’s recognized by major publications like U.S. News & World Report as a top art school.

#8 – Regent University

Online BFA in Graphic Arts

Virginia Beach, Virginia

Website

A logo of Regent University for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
A Christian worldview and BFA in graphic design online – Regent University.

Undergraduate Tuition: $18,720

Regent University is a top-ranked, accredited institution. It offers an online BFA in graphic arts that teaches the technical foundations of graphic design through a Christian worldview. In this BFA program, students are mentored by award-winning faculty. In addition to taking relevant design classes, students develop a professional portfolio that highlights skill mastery and artistic talents. Courses offered in the BFA program cover topics like:

  • comparative anatomy and figure drawing
  • digital illustration
  • digital photography
  • graphic symbolism
  • image manipulation
  • print production
  • typography

According to U.S. News & World Report, Regent ranks #298-#389 in best national universities. Also, the school’s online bachelor’s programs ranked #53 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#7 – Grand Canyon University

Online Bachelor’s in Advertising and Graphic Design

Phoenix, Arizona

Website

A logo of Grand Canyon University for our ranking of Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
Flexibility! GCU’s online graphic design programs.

Undergraduate Tuition: $17,800

Grand Canyon University offers an accredited bachelor’s in advertising and graphic design that moves at a rigorous pace. The flexible online program offers seven-week courses that cover contemporary graphic design and advertising topics. Courses offered include:

  • advanced design fundamentals
  • design thinking
  • designing with type
  • digital advertising communication
  • image creation
  • media law and ethics
  • web design

The program requires 120 credits for graduation. However, up to 90 credits may be transferred from an accredited institution. In addition to being accredited, GCU is ranked with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. Recent rankings include #290-#389 in best national universities and #39 in top performers on social mobility.

#6 – Hodges University

Online Bachelor’s in Interdisciplinary Studies – Design and Graphics

Fort Myers, Florida

Website

A logo of Hodges University for our ranking of Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
Study design and graphics online at Hodges University!

Undergraduate Tuition: $14,660

Hodges University offers an accredited online bachelor’s in interdisciplinary studies with a design and graphics track. The program provides students with relevant and career-focused study. It builds high-demand soft skills, such as critical thinking and team collaboration. The degree program is one of the few to have received certification by the American Digital Design Association (ADDA). It’s recognized as one of the top design and graphics programs in the field. Also, Hodges ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report as the 103rd-133rd best regional university in the South.

#5 – PennState World Campus

Online Bachelor’s in Digital Multimedia Design

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

A logo of Pennsylvania State University World Campus for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
At PennState World Campus, study digital multimedia design!

Undergraduate Tuition: $13,988

Pennsylvania State University World Campus is an affordable institution offering an online bachelor’s of design in digital multimedia design. The online degree prepares students for rewarding careers in creative industries, including:

  • marketing
  • media
  • product design
  • technology

Courses, taught by online faculty, cover topics like:

  • basic photography for communications
  • digital multimedia design studio
  • introduction to application development
  • writing for media

In addition to being affordable and accredited, Penn State ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. In fact, recent rankings indicate that Penn State World Campus has among the 10 best online bachelor’s programs in the United States.

#4 – Wilmington University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

New Castle, Delaware

Website

A logo of Wilmington University for our ranking of Best Online Graphic Design Programs
Wilmington University’s College of Technology offers a bachelor’s in graphic design degree program – ideal for those seeking online programs!

Undergraduate Tuition: $11,480

Wilmington University’s College of Technology offers a bachelor’s in graphic design degree program. It’s open to students who already hold an associate degree or higher. The program offers skill-based preparation for careers in design. Courses are delivered online and taught by the same professors who instruct on campus. These courses cover topics like:

  • design for marketing
  • fundamentals of motion graphics
  • Photoshop and InDesign
  • visual communication

On-the-job skills can also be honed, as students may take part in an optional six-credit cooperative learning experience. Wilmington University ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report as a top national university.

#3 – Arizona State University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Tempe, Arizona

Website

A logo of ASU for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
Affordable and ranked! ASU’s online bachelor’s in graphic design.

Undergraduate Tuition: $11,338

One of the more affordable online graphic design degree programs on our list is the bachelor’s in graphic design at Arizona State University. The online program consists of 26 classes and 120 credits. Classes run between seven and eight weeks in length and move along at a rigorous pace. Courses focus on the visual language of graphic design and visual communication. Here, students learn useful tools and gain advanced skills that they can carry with them into the workplace. Courses cover topics like:

  • design drawing
  • designing life
  • graphic design history
  • principles for graphic design
  • visual communication

In addition to a fully accredited program, ASU has rankings with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. These rankings include #103 in best national universities and sixth out of 1,200 on the list of best online bachelor’s programs.

#2 – Southern New Hampshire University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Manchester, New Hampshire

Website

A logo of Southern New Hampshire University for our ranking of Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design Online Programs
SNHU – a top choice for an online graphic design degree.

Undergraduate Tuition: $9,650

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online bachelor’s in graphic design program  for working and busy students. Accredited by the NECHE, the program also offers two concentrations in unique niches. Concentrations allow students the opportunity to tailor their degree towards specific areas of interest. The two available concentrations are 3D modeling and animation and web design. All classes are delivered online and cover topics like:

  • basic design and color theory
  • digital graphic design for the web
  • graphics and layout in print media
  • introduction to digital imaging
  • language and practice of media arts

It’s one of the most affordable schools on our list.  Southern New Hampshire University ranks #75 in best regional universities in the North by U.S. News & World Report.

#1 – Bellevue University

Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

Bellevue, Nebraska

Website

A logo of Bellevue University for our ranking of Best Online Bachelor's in Graphic Design Programs
#1 most affordable online bachelor’s in graphic design programs – Bellevue University.

Undergraduate Tuition: $7,851

In the #1 position for best online graphic design degree programs is Bellevue University. The school offers an affordable bachelor’s in graphic design that can be completed entirely online. All classes are taught by university professors and industry experts. Classes cover a number of contemporary and career-focused topics like:

  • design basics
  • fundamentals of web design
  • history of contemporary graphic design
  • publication design
  • single page design
  • web page desig

Bellevue University is fully accredited and affordable. It ranks with major publications like U.S. News & World Report. These rankings include #119-#156 in best regional universities in the Midwest and #139 in top performers on social mobility.
______________

Frequently Asked Questions

What can you do with an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that approximately one-fifth of all graphic designers are self-employed. Graphic designers working as freelancers find work in specialized fields like:

  • advertising and public relations
  • printing
  • publishing

Outside of self-employment, there are other avenues to take when seeking a career as a graphic designer.

Below are several different available career paths for individuals with an online bachelor’s in graphic design.

Art director
An art director working in advertising, media productions, or publications manages the artistic and visual elements of a PR campaign and published materials. They are responsible for reviewing work from staff artists and presenting designs to clients and organizational leaders.

Graphic designer
Graphic designers work closely with senior graphic designers and peers to create visuals needed to promote organizations and products. They are familiar with digital platforms and computer programs, although they may work by hand when necessary.

Senior graphic designer
A senior graphic designer has more responsibilities than a graphic designer. The senior role typically means that the graphic designer manages teams or operates as a team leader. The role is reserved for graphic artists and designers with appropriate work experience. Often, a junior associate or freelancer with years of experience can move up in the ranks after joining a company.

What professional associations are available for students enrolled in online bachelor’s in graphic design programs?

While enrolled in an online bachelor’s in graphic design program, you may want to join a professional association. Professional graphic design associations offer many benefits to member students. Below we have outlined three of the top professional associations for aspiring graphic designers. We’ve also  listed some benefits available to their members.

AIGA

With a representation of over 25,000 members across 70-plus national chapters, the AIGA is easily the largest professional organization for graphic designers. AIGA hosts monthly events in the U.S. It’s responsible for creating initiatives aimed at boosting diversity in the graphic design industry.

Graphic Artists Guild (GAG)

GAG or Graphic Artists Guild invites graphic design professionals and students to join its extensive network. For  $75 per year, students may join GAG and gain access to online resources. These resources include:

  • guides for licensing
  • negotiating contracts,
  • submitting work for competitions

International Council for Design

The International Council for Design was founded in London in 1963. It’s one of the oldest professional associations in graphic design. The council offers:

  • design achievement awards
  • conference and exhibition awards
  • an extensive mentorship program for students and entry-level professionals

As with all professional associations in graphic design, the International Council for Design offers networking opportunities that provide and promote access to careers in the graphic design industry.

How much money can I earn with an online bachelor’s in graphic design?

The median annual wage for graphic designers varies by industry and geographic location. However, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median annual wage for graphic designers is approximately $53,300. The lowest 10 percent of earners in this occupation made less than $31,720. The highest 10 percent of earners brought in over $93,400.

As stated above, industry type impacts earnings. According to BLS, there are four top-paying industries for graphic designers. The highest-paying industry is advertising, public relations, and related services. Graphic designers in this industry earn a median annual wage of $55,800, slightly higher than the median annual wage for all graphic designers.

The second-highest-paying industry for this occupation is specialized design services. In this industry, graphic designers, according to BLS, earn a median annual wage of $54,840. Again, the annual wage for graphic designers working in specialized design services is slightly higher than the average annual wage for all graphic designers.

The remaining two top-paying industries, as reported by BLS, are:

  • newspaper, periodical, book
  • directory publishers and printing and related support activities.

Another thing that has an impact on earnings for graphic designers is geographic location. The May 2020 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics information published by BLS reveals that the five top-paying places for graphic designers are:

  • the District of Columbia
  • Washington
  • Massachusetts
  • New York
  • Virginia

What is the job outlook for individuals with an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree?

The BLS reports a slow decline of four percent in the employment of graphic designers over the next eight years. Due to the projected decline, graphic designers will face strong competition for jobs. But there are ways to stand out against competition and make you a more favorable candidate.

According to BLS, the overall employment for graphic designers is expected to decrease, but specific industries show different projections. The greatest employment decline for graphic designers is expected in industries like publishing. For example, book, directory, newspaper, and periodical publishers show a significant decline in employment for graphic designers and graphic artists. However, employment for this occupation is expected to grow in computer systems design. Companies are increasing their digital presence and online brand. Graphic designers will be needed to assist in creating visually appealing and effective layouts of company websites.

With an overall decrease in job prospects for this occupation, strong competition is expected for available openings. Prospects will be the best for individuals who keep up with the latest design trends and technologies. Earning a certificate or having specialty knowledge in an area that is in high demand will help you to become a favorable candidate.

In addition to an online bachelor’s in graphic design degree, what qualities should I have for career entry and/or advancement?

While education and training are important for graphic designers, a number of equally important qualities ensure success on the job. These qualities are not always taught in the classroom and are considered soft skills. Hard skills are those gained through coursework and practice. Critical soft skills for graphic designers are as follows:

Analytical skills – An important aspect of the job as a graphic designer is to interpret what the client wants and needs while viewing their work through the consumer’s perspective. Having strong analytical skills helps a graphic designer convey the right message to both their client and the consumer.

Artistic ability – Graphic designers are artists. They create artistic designs that are aesthetically pleasing and appealing to clients and consumers. Often, a graphic designer will produce rough sketches or illustrations by hand or by using a computer program.

Communication skills – Communicating with clients, customers, and teams made up of other graphic designers is an important aspect of the job. Being able to convey information and expectations clearly is helpful in this occupation.

Creativity – A creative graphic designer thinks of new and exciting ways to promote ideas. Graphic designers should be able to develop ideas and convey them creatively to clients.

Solid time management skills – Since graphic designers often work on multiple projects at a time, strong time management skills are important.

Related Resources:

This concludes our article on the 20 best online bachelor’s programs in graphic design.

Brenda Rufener
Author

Julie McCaulley
Expert

Carrie Sealey-Morris
Editor-in-Chief