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Subject · 482 verified programs

Graphic Design degrees

Degrees in designing visual communication such as identities, publications, packaging, posters and digital interfaces.

Also called: Communication Design, Graphic Communication, Visual Design, Graphic Arts, Grafikdesign.

213 BFA · 97 BA / BA (Hons) · 77 Other bachelor’s award · 31 MFA · 26 Other master’s award · 22 MA · 13 BDes · 3 MDes · 358 dedicated degree, 25 named major, 98 official concentration, 1 documented pathway

482 programs

How results are ordered: alphabetically by institution, or by most recently checked when you choose that sort. There is no price ranking, because tuition in different currencies, fee categories and bases (per year, per credit, whole program) is not comparable. A program appears under a subject only through a verified link (dedicated degree, major, concentration or documented pathway). A value we could not verify is shown as “not published”, never as “no”. Items marked Sponsored are paid placements; they never change verification or order. Online programs are not counted as physically located in a state or city, and an institution’s location does not tell you whether it enrols students from your country.

About graphic design study

Graphic design is the practice of organizing type, image, color and layout to communicate a message or give form to an identity. Degree study teaches students to analyze a brief, research an audience, develop concepts and produce finished work for print, screen and physical environments. Typography and composition are usually central, alongside the history and ethics of communication.

Programs typically combine studio projects, technical instruction in design software and production methods, and critique. Students work on areas such as branding, editorial design, packaging, poster and publication design, motion graphics and interface layouts. Many courses also include research methods, writing about design and some collaborative or client-style projects.

Graphic design is a communication-oriented design field. It overlaps with visual communication design, a name some institutions use for a broader or more interdisciplinary version, and with illustration and photography, which supply images rather than organizing systems. It differs from fine arts, where work is generally self-directed rather than brief-driven, and from industrial design, which concerns physical products.

What study typically involves

  • Typography and layout
  • Identity and branding systems
  • Editorial, packaging and poster design
  • Design software and production for print and screen
  • Motion or interaction design in many programs
  • Research methods and design history
  • Portfolio development and professional practice

Award titles. Graphic design is commonly studied within BA, BA (Hons), BFA or BDes degrees and, at postgraduate level, MA, MFA or MDes programs. Research degrees including practice-based PhDs may exist in some countries. Titles vary internationally, so confirm exact award names on the official program page.

Graphic design often appears as a major in a design or art degree, or as a pathway within visual communication. The directory lists a program under this subject only with a verified dedicated degree, major, official concentration or documented pathway.

Portfolio and admissions guidance

Requirements differ for every program. Always check the official admissions page; this directory cannot guarantee acceptance.

Applicants to graphic design programs are often asked for a portfolio showing drawing, creative thinking and any design work, though many programs do not expect prior software skills at entry level. Sketchbooks, process work and personal projects can matter as much as polished pieces.

Requirements vary by country and program. Some ask for a set number of digital images, a design task, a written response or an interview, and some use entrance tests. Postgraduate applications generally expect a body of work, a statement and sometimes evidence of research interests.

Confirm formats, limits and deadlines on each program’s official admissions page. Admission is never guaranteed, and this directory does not set a universal template.

See also the guide to preparing an art portfolio.

Funding and costs

At MFA and PhD level, some programs offer teaching assistantships, studio or lab roles, tuition remission or competitive scholarships. Assistantships may involve teaching introductory design or typography courses.

Terms vary by program, country and year, and many students receive partial or no support. Verify details directly with the program and funding bodies.

Costs beyond tuition. Students commonly pay for design software or subscriptions, a capable computer, printing and mounting, paper and materials, and sometimes fonts or production costs for projects.