In today’s digital age, the field of graphic design has become increasingly important as companies strive to stand out from their competitors through branding and visual communication. As a result, more and more students are pursuing a degree in graphic design to take advantage of the growing demand for skilled designers.
However, pursuing a degree in graphic design can be costly, especially if you opt for traditional on-campus programs. Fortunately, many colleges and universities now offer online programs in graphic design, which are often more affordable than their on-campus counterparts.
To help prospective students make informed decisions about which online graphic design program to choose, we have compiled a list of the most affordable online bachelor’s degrees in graphic design. Our rankings are based on a comprehensive methodology that takes into account factors such as tuition, fees, financial aid availability, and program outcomes.
Methodology
To begin our rankings process, we first gathered data on all the online bachelor’s degree programs in graphic design that were available at accredited colleges and universities across the country. We then narrowed down the list to only those programs that were offered entirely online, with no required on-campus visits or residencies.
Once we had our list of eligible programs, we evaluated each one based on its tuition and fees, as well as any available financial aid or scholarships. We also looked at the program’s graduation rate, retention rate, and post-graduation employment outcomes, such as job placement rates and starting salaries.
About Our Ranking
After evaluating all the data, we ranked the most affordable online bachelor’s degrees in graphic design. Our rankings offer prospective students a clear and concise guide to the most affordable and reputable online graphic design programs, helping them make an informed decision about their education and future career prospects.
Overall, our rankings aim to provide prospective students with a comprehensive and unbiased view of the most affordable online bachelor’s degrees in graphic design. By using our rankings as a starting point, students can narrow down their options and find the program that best fits their needs and budget, setting them on a path to a successful career in the field of graphic design.
Most Affordable Online Bachelors Degrees In Graphic Design
Great Basin College
Great Basin College (GBC), located in Elko, Nevada, offers a dynamic online Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, catering to students who seek flexibility and creativity in their education. The program is designed to equip students with the essential skills required in the evolving field of graphic design, combining technical proficiency with artistic innovation.
Students in the program will learn how to utilize industry-standard design software, develop a strong visual aesthetic, and understand the principles of typography, branding, web design, and digital media. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on projects, allowing students to build a robust portfolio that demonstrates their design capabilities.
The program’s online format allows students to work at their own pace, making it an ideal choice for those balancing work or family commitments. Through a combination of online coursework, virtual studio experiences, and remote collaboration with peers and instructors, students gain real-world exposure while receiving personalized attention from faculty members who are experts in the field.
Graduates of the Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design from Great Basin College are prepared for diverse career opportunities in digital media, marketing, advertising, web design, and more. With a comprehensive education and a flexible learning environment, GBC is committed to fostering creativity and technical skills that enable students to succeed in the competitive graphic design industry.
Southern New Hampshire University Online
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an innovative and flexible Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design that equips students with the technical skills and creative expertise needed to succeed in the dynamic field of graphic design. The program combines the artistic elements of design with cutting-edge technology, preparing graduates for various career opportunities in industries such as advertising, marketing, publishing, and digital media.
Students enrolled in SNHU’s online Graphic Design program gain proficiency in design principles, digital illustration, web design, typography, photography, and multimedia, all while learning to use industry-standard software. The curriculum emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving, providing a solid foundation in both traditional and contemporary design techniques. Through project-based coursework, students create an impressive portfolio that showcases their design talents and technical abilities.
One of the standout features of SNHU’s online program is its flexibility, allowing students to complete coursework at their own pace while balancing other personal and professional commitments. With 24/7 access to online resources, students can take advantage of a supportive online community, including faculty with real-world design experience who offer guidance and feedback.
SNHU’s commitment to providing an affordable education with no hidden fees ensures that students can focus on their academic and career goals without financial stress. Upon completion, graduates are well-prepared for various design roles, armed with the knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in today’s competitive digital landscape.
University of West Alabama
The University of West Alabama (UWA) offers an online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program that combines creativity with technical expertise, preparing students for success in the dynamic world of visual communication. This program emphasizes the development of critical design skills, such as digital imaging, typography, web design, and branding, alongside a deep understanding of visual principles and design theory. UWA’s curriculum integrates hands-on projects with advanced software training to equip students with the tools they need for both traditional and digital design environments.
UWA’s online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design is ideal for self-motivated individuals seeking flexible learning options without compromising on academic quality. The program is designed to cater to diverse learners, whether they are looking to enter the workforce or enhance their existing design knowledge. Students benefit from small class sizes, personalized attention from experienced faculty, and an interactive online learning platform that fosters collaboration and creative exploration.
Throughout the program, students will gain proficiency in industry-standard software, explore the latest design trends, and develop a comprehensive portfolio that showcases their abilities. Graduates of UWA’s online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design are well-prepared to pursue careers in a variety of sectors, including advertising, marketing, web development, and multimedia production. With a strong foundation in both the art and business of graphic design, UWA ensures that students are ready to succeed in a competitive and ever-evolving field.
SUNY Empire State College
SUNY Empire State College offers a flexible and comprehensive Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program designed for students who want to pursue a creative career in visual communication. This degree allows students to develop a solid foundation in design principles, while also gaining expertise in digital tools and technologies that are crucial for today’s design industry.
The program covers a wide range of topics including typography, branding, layout design, web design, and user experience (UX) design. Students also have the opportunity to engage in hands-on projects that reflect current industry trends, preparing them for careers in advertising, marketing, and digital media. SUNY Empire State College’s approach emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, equipping graduates to effectively communicate messages through visual design.
The online format is designed for flexibility, allowing students to complete their coursework from anywhere, on their own schedule. The program provides personalized support from faculty who are experienced industry professionals. Additionally, students can take advantage of the college’s collaborative environment, where they can work alongside peers from diverse backgrounds and gain insights into various creative practices.
Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for roles in graphic design, web design, multimedia production, and other creative fields. SUNY Empire State College’s Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design is a perfect option for those looking to enhance their artistic talents while gaining the technical skills needed for a successful career in design.
Liberty University
Liberty University offers a comprehensive Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the dynamic field of visual communication. With a strong foundation in both design theory and practical application, Liberty’s program emphasizes creativity, technical proficiency, and professional preparation. Students engage with industry-standard tools and software, learning key areas such as typography, branding, web design, and digital imaging, all within a flexible, online format that allows for study at their own pace.
The program integrates Christian values, encouraging students to approach design with a mindset of integrity and purpose. Students also gain experience in creating portfolios that showcase their best work, which is crucial for securing employment after graduation. The curriculum includes courses in design principles, color theory, digital media, 3D modeling, and more, allowing students to develop expertise across various areas of graphic design.
Graduates of Liberty University’s Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program are well-prepared for careers in a variety of industries, including advertising, marketing, publishing, web design, and multimedia production. The program’s focus on both artistic vision and technical ability ensures that students are equipped to meet the demands of a competitive and constantly evolving design landscape. With Liberty’s commitment to academic excellence and flexibility, students have the opportunity to gain a high-quality education that can be tailored to fit their career goals and personal schedules.
Regent University Online
Regent University Online offers a comprehensive and innovative Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design, designed for students who want to blend creativity with technical expertise in a flexible, online learning environment. This program equips students with the skills necessary to design compelling visual media for a wide range of industries, including advertising, digital media, and corporate branding.
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including digital imaging, typography, web design, motion graphics, and user interface design. Students gain hands-on experience using industry-standard software and tools while learning the principles of effective communication through visual design. The program emphasizes creativity, technical proficiency, and problem-solving, preparing graduates for success in the rapidly evolving world of graphic design.
In addition to the technical and creative aspects of graphic design, Regent University Online’s program integrates Christian values, ensuring that students develop a strong ethical foundation that can guide them in both their professional and personal lives. The faculty consists of experienced professionals who provide personalized mentorship and guidance throughout the program.
With the flexibility of online classes, students can pursue their degree from anywhere, making it a perfect choice for working professionals or those with other commitments. Upon completion of the program, graduates are prepared to enter the workforce with a well-rounded portfolio and the confidence to make an impact in the graphic design industry.
Bellevue University
Bellevue University offers a dynamic and comprehensive Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design that empowers students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the ever-evolving world of visual communication. The program blends creative design principles with modern technology, providing students with a strong foundation in design theory, typography, digital media, and visual storytelling. With a focus on practical, hands-on experience, students gain expertise in industry-standard design software and techniques, preparing them for careers in advertising, marketing, web design, and more.
Through Bellevue University’s online platform, students enjoy the flexibility to complete coursework at their own pace while benefiting from an interactive, supportive learning environment. The curriculum is designed to foster creativity and critical thinking, ensuring that graduates are ready to meet the demands of the professional world. Students will work on real-world projects, portfolio development, and collaborative assignments, which help hone their skills and demonstrate their abilities to future employers.
The program is designed for those who wish to pursue a career in graphic design, whether they are beginners or individuals seeking to advance their current skills. Bellevue University’s faculty members are experienced professionals in the design field, offering valuable insight and guidance throughout the program. Graduates of this online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design are well-prepared for roles in various sectors, from branding to interactive media, with a deep understanding of design aesthetics, technology, and trends.
Kentucky Wesleyan College
Kentucky Wesleyan College (KWC), located in Owensboro, Kentucky, offers a dynamic and flexible Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program designed to prepare students for a successful career in the creative and digital arts industries. The program is structured to provide students with a robust foundation in both traditional and digital design principles, while also offering the flexibility of online learning to accommodate diverse schedules and geographic locations.
Through KWC’s comprehensive curriculum, students engage in a range of creative courses, including digital imaging, typography, web design, branding, illustration, and visual communication. The program is designed to hone both the technical and conceptual skills necessary for the modern graphic designer. Students gain proficiency in industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, while also developing a strong understanding of design theory and the visual storytelling essential for effective communication in today’s media landscape.
Kentucky Wesleyan’s online program is highly interactive, with a focus on practical, real-world projects that allow students to build a professional portfolio. The college fosters a supportive learning environment through close interactions with experienced faculty who are actively engaged in the graphic design industry. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in advertising, digital media, web design, corporate branding, and more.
KWC’s online Graphic Design degree offers a flexible, affordable, and academically rigorous path for students to earn their degree and advance in the ever-evolving field of graphic design.
Upper Iowa University
Upper Iowa University (UIU) offers an innovative and flexible Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design, designed to equip students with the skills necessary to thrive in the competitive design industry. With a focus on both creativity and technology, this program combines artistic principles with practical digital tools, preparing graduates to work in a wide range of design fields, including advertising, web design, branding, and multimedia production.
The online format allows students to balance their academic and personal commitments while receiving a high-quality education. UIU’s curriculum covers essential design areas such as typography, color theory, digital media, and user experience design. Students will also learn software proficiency in industry-standard tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, alongside developing critical problem-solving, communication, and collaboration skills.
UIU is committed to fostering a supportive learning environment, offering access to experienced faculty members who bring real-world design expertise into the virtual classroom. Students will engage in hands-on projects, building a professional portfolio that showcases their creative and technical abilities to potential employers.
Graduates of the Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design from Upper Iowa University are well-prepared for careers as graphic designers, art directors, web designers, and other creative positions. The program is ideal for individuals seeking a flexible, affordable path to a career in the ever-evolving world of graphic design.
University of Maryland Global Campus
The University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) offers an innovative Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program, designed to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the ever-evolving field of visual communication. The program combines artistic creativity with technical proficiency, providing a solid foundation in design principles, digital media, typography, and branding. As an online student, you will gain access to a flexible and accessible learning environment that allows you to complete coursework from anywhere, on your own schedule.
Throughout the program, students learn to develop and refine their design portfolios using industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, while exploring design theory, color theory, web design, and interactive design. The curriculum also emphasizes the development of problem-solving and critical thinking skills, preparing graduates to tackle real-world challenges in the design industry. Faculty members are experienced professionals who bring valuable industry insights, ensuring that the education you receive is both current and applicable to today’s job market.
UMGC’s online bachelor’s in graphic design prepares students for a wide range of career opportunities, including positions as graphic designers, web designers, art directors, and multimedia artists. With a focus on practical application and creativity, the program ensures that graduates are ready to make an impact in industries such as advertising, publishing, entertainment, and digital marketing. UMGC’s strong network of alumni and industry connections further enhances job prospects and career growth opportunities for graduates of the program.
Maryville University
Maryville University offers an online Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design that combines creativity, technical expertise, and a deep understanding of design principles. This program is designed to help students develop the skills necessary to succeed in the fast-paced world of digital media, branding, and visual communication. The curriculum focuses on a blend of artistic innovation and practical application, covering areas such as typography, illustration, digital media, branding, web design, and interactive media.
Students in the program have access to industry-standard software and tools, allowing them to build a portfolio that showcases their work. The program is flexible, offering online courses that cater to working professionals and students with busy schedules. Faculty members are experienced professionals in the graphic design field, bringing real-world expertise and insights into the classroom.
Graduates of the program are prepared for careers in various industries, including advertising, publishing, web development, and digital media. The online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design from Maryville University provides students with a comprehensive education, creative freedom, and the technical skills necessary to thrive in the competitive design industry.
Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design
Rocky Mountain College of Art + Design (RMCAD) offers an innovative Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program that prepares students to become leaders in the creative industry. RMCAD, a well-established art and design college in Denver, Colorado, is renowned for its focus on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills. The online graphic design program offers the flexibility for students to pursue their degree while balancing personal and professional commitments.
This program emphasizes a strong foundation in design principles, typography, digital media, visual communication, and branding, combined with advanced techniques in illustration, interactive design, and web design. Through interactive, online coursework, students engage with experienced faculty members who provide mentorship and industry insights. The curriculum includes practical assignments, collaborative projects, and real-world applications to develop a diverse portfolio of work that is essential for success in the graphic design field.
RMCAD’s Online BFA in Graphic Design also incorporates exposure to design theory, research, and innovation, helping students stay ahead of trends and technological advances. Graduates of this program leave equipped with the technical proficiency and creative vision necessary to pursue careers in a variety of fields, including advertising, digital media, publishing, branding, and web design.
Whether you’re looking to launch a new career or enhance your current design skills, RMCAD’s online program offers a comprehensive, flexible education that supports your individual goals and prepares you for a rewarding career in graphic design.
California Baptist University
California Baptist University (CBU) offers a robust Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program designed to equip students with the essential skills needed to thrive in the dynamic and ever-evolving world of visual communication. This fully online program combines the flexibility of distance learning with a comprehensive curriculum that covers key areas such as design principles, digital media, typography, web design, and brand identity. Students have the opportunity to develop a deep understanding of both the creative and technical aspects of graphic design, preparing them for careers in various industries including advertising, marketing, and digital media.
The program emphasizes hands-on experience, allowing students to build a professional portfolio that showcases their design abilities and creative vision. In addition to traditional design methods, students will explore cutting-edge software tools and technologies, ensuring they stay ahead of industry trends. CBU’s faculty members are experienced professionals with extensive knowledge in the field, providing personalized instruction and mentorship to help students succeed.
CBU is committed to providing a faith-based education that integrates Christian values, offering students a unique perspective on how to use their design skills to impact the world positively. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue a range of career opportunities, whether in freelance design, agency work, or corporate environments. With a focus on creativity, innovation, and professional growth, California Baptist University’s Online Bachelor’s in Graphic Design is an ideal choice for aspiring designers.
