collageIf you are among the luckier ones and have technical and graphics skills, and you are ready for an intense graduate program, online graphic design master’s degrees could be just the right choice. Certainly, the field of graphic design has been drastically altered, making job growth appear negative. However, the bulk of the decline has been for traditional print media. While this is undoubtedly a sad turn of events, positive growth in computer-based design seems on par with parallel technical careers.
What are those careers? Demand for video and instructional design appears to be doing well. In particular, mobile programming has had a recent surge. You may note the fairly high “affordable” tuition rates–this is a trend for online graduate programs; however, much can be offset with a range of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid.
To get into programs, you may need to have some 2-D or other similar backgrounds. Also, you will need to be able to demonstrate your skills in writing and/or design. To stay, you will likely be expected to do some level of residency, though limited. Expect a thesis or applied projects as well.
This list of the top 8 affordable online master’s programs in graphic design has been ranked based on the two particular criteria: cost per credit hour and the Payscale.com salary report ranking for that institution. Other factors taken into account were regional accreditation and special program accreditation by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
Cost per Credit Hour:
- $700 and under – 5 points
- $800 and under – 4 points
- $900 and under – 3 points
- $1,000 and under – 2 points
- $1,400 and under – 1 point
Payscale.com Salary Report Ranking
- Top 100 – 5 points
- Top 400 – 4 points
- Top 800 – 3 points
- Top 1,100 – 2 points
- Top 1,500 – 1 point
Regional Accreditation: 5 points
NASAD Accreditation: 5 points
(NASAD is the National Association for Schools of Art and Design).
#8 – Savannah College of Art and Design
Savannah, Georgia
MA in Graphic Design Online
Hourly Tuition Rate: $855
Payscale Ranking: 1,213th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 9
School Profile
Savannah College of Art and Design features a Master of Arts in Graphic Design online that is 45 quarter hours long, though additional graduate-level intensive courses may be assigned at the time of admission. A GRE score is not required for admission consideration in this program, but it is recommended for students with less compelling academic histories. The Savannah College of Art and Design MA in Graphic Design online calls for an application fee of $40. Courses in the program include visual analysis of static content, typographic voice and visual narrative, and professional practices for visual design.
#7 – Quinnipiac University
Quinnipiac, Connecticut
MS in Interactive Media and Communication Online
Hourly Tuition Rate: $940
Payscale Ranking: 372nd
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 11
School Profile
Quinnipiac University’s Master of Science in Interactive Media and Communication online contains 30 credits and requires a capstone experience. On average, completing the degree takes about 21 months. The school also developed a combined five-year bachelor’s/master’s program. The Quinnipiac University MS in Interactive Media and Communication Online proffers two admit dates per year, and applicants must provide two letters of recommendation, a 500-word personal statement, a current resume, a professional writing sample, and a $45 fee. An online portfolio must be submitted, providing a web address, showing your abilities as a writer, artist, journalist, etc, in the field.
#6 – Liberty University
Lynchburg, Virginia
MFA in Graphic Design Online
Hourly Tuition Rate: $615
Payscale Ranking: 1,010th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 12
School Profile
The 60 credit hour Liberty University Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design is offered 100% online and can be completed in just thirty months, in the form of 8-week courses. There is no on-campus component to this program. To be considered for acceptance, submit an artistic portfolio and artist’s statement and application fee of $50. A maximum of 30 credit hours may be transferred into Liberty. Coursework includes History of Graphic Design, Publication Design, and Interactive Design. Graduation from Liberty University’s MFA in Graphic Design online requires a thesis or portfolio project, an internship or practicum experience, and an oral examination.
#5 – Harvard University Extension School
Cambridge, Massachusetts
Master of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design Online
Hourly Tuition Rate: $710
Payscale Ranking: 5th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 14
School Profile
Harvard University’s Extension School offers a 48 credit hour, online Master of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design degree that requires twelve courses and at least one on-campus course. Before applying, you must take two stipulated degree courses, earning a minimum grade of B in each one. The curriculum includes the following course: Introduction to the Challenges and Opportunities of Big Data, the Internet of Things, and Cybersecurity. Your capstone will be the production of an innovative, digital media prototype and presentation to a faculty committee. To apply to the Extension School of Harvard University’s online MLA in Digital Media Design program, submit transcripts showing a minimum 3.0 GPA, a resume, and the $100 fee.
#4 – Arizona State University
Tempe, Arizona
Online MS in Technology in Graphic Information Technology
Hourly Tuition Rate: $1,397
Payscale Ranking: 285th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 15
School Profile
The online Master of Science in Technology in Graphic Information Technology degree offered by Arizona State University is a 33 credit hour program that expects you to complete an applied project instead of a thesis. The curriculum of ten courses is taught in 15-week formats and is apportioned in this way: Technical Area of Interest (18 hours); Supporting Area (9); Research Methods (3); and Applied Project (3). When applying to Arizona State University for their MS in Technology in Graphic Information Technology online degree, submit transcripts, GRE scores, statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a $50 fee.
#3 – Kent State University
Kent, Ohio
MS in User Experience Design Online
Hourly Tuition Rate: $655
Payscale Ranking: 919th
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
School Profile
Kent State University’s Master of Science in User Experience Design (UXD) online degree is a 36 credit hour program, consisting of twelve 3-hour courses, of which seven are required, four are electives, and one is the culminating requirement. In addition, a Professional Portfolio course is offered to help you obtain employment in the field of UXD. Candidates in the MS in User Experience Design online degree program at Kent State University may expect to graduate in as little as two years. Applicants will need a minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, statement of goals, resume, and $45 fee.
#2 – Ball State University
Muncie, Indiana
Online Master’s in Emerging Media Design & Development
Hourly Tuition Rate: $616
Payscale Ranking: 883rd
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
School Profile
The Ball State University online Master’s in Emerging Media Design & Development is a low-residency program that involves online coursework and a five-day residency in Indianapolis at the start of each term. There is no GRE requirement for admission. This program is fall start only and a creative portfolio is among the required submission materials for application. Ball State University’s online Master’s in Emerging Media Design & Development focuses on developing skills in three high-demand areas: design thinking; human-computer interaction; and cross-platform storytelling. The 36 credit hour program devotes 18 hours to lab experiences and 18 to foundational coursework.
#1 – Kutztown University of Pennsylvania
Kutztown, Pennsylvania
Online MFA in Communication Design
Hourly Tuition Rate: $609.77
Payscale Ranking: 1,003rd
Regional Accreditation: Yes
Points: 17
School Profile
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania has a 60 credit hour, online Master of Fine Arts in Communication Design degree that boasts a low-residency, on-campus requirement of three weeks a year, in fall, spring, and summer. Three courses in the curriculum include Design Pioneers, Emerging Media, and Creative Studies. Admission to Kutztown University of Pennsylvania’s online MFA in Communication Design calls for a minimum 3.0 GPA, official transcripts, artist’s statement, portfolio, three references, and $35 fee. Your capstone graduate research project will explore “your creative path to professional or academic aspirations.”
Graduates with master’s in graphic design online degrees can pursue leadership roles such as art director, marketing manager, and product designer. These professionals enjoy strong salary potential.
For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that art directors earned a median annual salary of $92,780 in 2018.
Earning a master’s in graphic design online gives students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional obligations. Online learning also allows students to attend the top programs in the country without relocating.
| #1 | Quinnipiac University | HAMDEN, CT |
| #2 | Savannah College of Art and Design | SAVANNAH, GA |
| #3 | Liberty University | LYNCHBURG, VA |
Table of Contents
This guide ranks the best online graphic design master’s degree programs to help students find the right programs for their needs.Program RankingsChoosing an Online Online Master’s in Graphic Design ProgramWhat Else Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Graphic Design Program?Careers with a Master’s in Graphic Design
Best Online Master’s Programs in Graphic Design
SORT BYDEFAULTCOSTA-ZCOLLAPSE LIST
| 1 | Quinnipiac University | HAMDEN, CT | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$Quinnipiac University is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). | Established in 1929, Quinnipiac University offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs. The university established an online division in 2001 that offers a variety of flexible programs, including an online master’s in interactive media and communicatio…See MoreGRADUATION RATE77% |
| 2 | Savannah College of Art and Design | SAVANNAH, GA | Apply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$Savannah College of Art and Design is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC). | The Savannah College of Art and Design is a private, nonprofit institution that offers over 40 certificate and degree programs, including one of the best online graphic design master’s progra…See MoreGRADUATION RATE68% |
| 3 | Liberty University | LYNCHBURG, VA | School ProfileApply NowAVERAGE NET PRICE$$$$$Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). | Liberty University is a private, Christian university that offers industry-relevant undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in Christian principles. The school offers several of its programs online, including a master of fine arts in graphic desi…See MoreGRADUATION RATE50% |
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RANKING METHODOLOGY
Online Master’s Programs in Graphic Design Ranking Guidelines
We selected the degree programs based on the quality of program and range of courses provided, as well as school awards, rankings, and reputation.DOWNLOAD BADGERANKING METHODOLOGY
Choosing an Online Online Master’s in Graphic Design Program
Selecting the right program begins with discovering why you want to earn your online graphic design master’s degree. To answer this question, first examine programs’ concentrations. Some concentrations, such as brand development, appeal to students interested in managerial jobs at large marketing agencies. Others, such as exhibition design, attract students preparing for careers as independent artists. Choosing one or two concentrations that interest you automatically creates a shortlist, which you should later analyze in closer detail.
Choosing one or two concentrations that interest you automatically creates a shortlist, which you should later analyze in closer detail.
Once you create a shortlist, focus on each program’s courses and educational experience. Most programs stress advanced design courses alongside those that teach valuable interpersonal, leadership, and business skills. Finally, the graphic design master’s degree online program you select should meet all your online learning needs. With so many online options, you do not need to sacrifice quality for convenience.
What Else Can I Expect from an Online Master’s in Graphic Design Program?
While virtually all online graphic design master’s programs teach similar skills, they offer unique curricula. Some focus on one graphic design subfield, while others present a more holistic approach. Keep this in mind as you explore the sample courses below. Courses at programs you consider may use similar titles or course descriptions but a different curriculum.
Curriculum for an Online Master’s Degree in Graphic Design
Brand Development
Students learn about graphic design’s role in advertising products and services. Class activities include analyzing famous brand development examples and developing graphics for new products. Students interested in marketing take one or more brand development courses.Design IntegrationDefining Client NeedsDesign ResearchThesis
Careers with a Master’s in Graphic Design
Online graphic design master’s degree programs prepare graduates for managerial–level positions that require a single person to oversee an entire project. Some graduates use these skills as classroom teachers, while other graphic designers use their graduate educations to launch their careers as self–employed artists. The three positions below represent a few jobs you can explore after earning your degree.COLLAPSE LIST
Postsecondary Teacher
Graphic design postsecondary teachers instruct students at colleges and universities, create lesson plans and rubrics, evaluate students’ work, and mentor students’ development as artists. Nearly, all postsecondary teaching positions require a master’s or doctoral degree. Most professionals who enter this position also have at least five years of work experience in the graphic design field.
Median Annual Salary
$78,470
Projected Growth Rate
11%
Art Director
Multimedia Artist and Animator
As artists and information communication experts, graphic designers create visual media for print and electronic platforms, including logos for websites and graphics for newspapers and magazines. They can work for design firms, advertising agencies, video game companies, publishers, and multinational corporations. Some professionals pursue self-guided careers as freelance designers and entrepreneurs.
The rapid global expansion of digital media and online business ventures creates plenty of professional opportunities for experienced designers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects the number of jobs in the graphic design and related fields will grow through 2026, including a 10% increase in advertising and marketing positions and 15% increase in web development positions. An online graphic design master’s degree prepares students for careers through design theory, skills training, and professional development. This guide provides important academic and financial information for prospective graphic design students.
What are the best graphic design programs of 2020? Here are our top 3:
| Rank | School | Location |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
| 2 | Quinnipiac University | Hamden, CT |
| 3 | Savannah College of Art and Design | Savannah, GA |
What are the Best Online Master’s in Graphic Design Programs?
SORT BY
- DEFAULT
- COST
- A-Z
EXPAND ALL
| 1 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 50% | |
| 2 | Quinnipiac University | Hamden, CT | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 77% | |
| 3 | Savannah College of Art and Design | Savannah, GA | COST:$$$$$ | GRADUATION RATE: 68% |
What Else Can I Expect From an Online Master’s in Graphic Design Program?
Students completing graphic design master’s programs online take many of the same core classes, and most programs have similar practicum, capstone, and portfolio requirements. Programs standardize parts of their curricula to maintain academic and professional accreditation. However, programs have many differences, particularly in advanced coursework; students should research specific requirements to choose the program that best fits their academic and professional goals.
Curriculum for an Online Master’s Degree in Graphic Design
- Art and design history: This course provides a historical and contemporary overview of visual design and its functions, with emphasis on media in modern culture. Students complete research and writing assignments. Future educators and creative directors benefit the most from these topics.
- Integrated design media: This class emphasizes critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they relate to the evolution of print, social media, and interactive visual experiences. Students gain compositional and technical skills that prepare them to creatively adapt to challenges within the design cycle. This course is crucial for professionals in advertising and product development.
- Design theory and criticism: Students analyze contemporary print and graphic design theories and the resulting practical changes. The course emphasizes correlational research techniques; students conduct studies to address current challenges in the design field. As a fundamental course in graphic design master’s degree online programs, this class benefits all future professionals, particularly those who aspire to management positions.
- Typographic communication: Students learn to effectively use typography as a means of visual expression and to develop their own unique styles. Topics include clear communication practices, historical references, and current trends and styles, such as letterform anatomy and proportional system layout. This course is crucial for any graphic design artist or animator.
- User-centered strategy: Students analyze the emotional and psychological responses users have to the function and content of digital systems. Learners develop and assess their own user-centered service. Though this course is useful for all web-based artists and developers, it is required for user-experience and interaction designers.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master’s in Graphic Design?
Most online graphic design master’s degree programs take two years to complete and require at least 30 credits. However, completion time depends on the program’s structure and content. Most remote coursework is asynchronous, but some distance programs require live online classes. Some online programs are cohort-based to facilitate collaboration and communication among students and faculty. Students in cohort programs take one class at a time and progress through course requirements with a small group of peers. While this learning style may benefit working and part-time students, cohort programs typically take longer to complete.
To shorten degree completion time, choose a program that offers an individually paced structure, a generous transfer policy, and accelerated, year-round online courses. Additionally, look for programs that allow distance learners to complete internships and capstone experiences locally.
Certifications and Licenses a Master’s in Graphic Design Prepares For
- Adobe Certifications: Most graphic design positions do not require professional certification. However, Adobe’s software is so prevalent in the design field that obtaining Adobe certification greatly improves career prospects. Adobe offers three certification categories: AEM Mobile, Analytics, and Campaign. Each exam costs $180.
- CIW Web Design Certifications: As a vendor-neutral information technology organization, CIW provides certification tracks in a variety of industry- and platform-specific skills, including e-commerce, mobile app development, and social media strategies. Additionally, all graphic designers benefit from the general CIW web design professional and specialist certificates. Requirements vary by exam. CIW certification does not expire.
Accreditation for Online Master’s in Graphic Design Degrees
Online graphic design master’s degree programs should hold national and regional accreditation to ensure they confer degrees recognized by government authorities and employers. Six organizations in the U.S. grant regional accreditation, depending on the location of the institution. These organizations ensure that schools adhere to certain state-specific academic standards. Organizations recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) award national accreditation to schools that standardize aspects of their institutional and curricular outcomes.
Generally, employers prioritize regional accreditation. However, students should look for programs with both types of accreditation. Additionally, online graphic design master’s degree programs may hold accreditation from a field-specific organization, such as the National Association of Schools of Art and Design.
Colleges and universities gain national accreditation through accrediting bodies approved by the ED and CHEA. Both organizations ensure schools meet defined academic and professional standards. As a government organization, the ED enforces federal education guidelines by overseeing federal funding and other resources. CHEA is a private nonprofit with more than 3,000 member institutions. In addition to professionally supporting member institutions and advocating for their rights, CHEA monitors standardization across curricula. Students planning to attend graphic design master’s programs online can find information about nationally accredited programs on the ED and CHEA websites.
Employment Outlook for Master’s in Graphic Design Graduates
Master’s in Graphic Design Salary
The table below details the median salaries of five occupations for graduates of master’s in graphic design online programs. Professional experience significantly impacts salary; professionals typically earn more later in their careers. Because the field of graphic design is grounded in technology, graphic designers need to stay updated on new software through continuing education and new certifications.
| Job Title | Overall Median Salary | Median Salary for Entry-Level Employees (0-5 years) | Median Salary for Mid-Career Employees (5-10 years) | Median Salary for Late-Career Employees (20+ years) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Artist | $45,026 | $40,701 | $48,694 | $58,984 |
| Industrial Designer | $55,021 | $50,677 | $63,528 | $79,188 |
| Brand Manager | $70,659 | $59,220 | $76,845 | $87,402 |
| User Experience (UX) Designer | $72,448 | $68,651 | $81,456 | $107,442 |
| Creative Director | $85,828 | $55,677 | $77,434 | $103,495 |
Master’s in Graphic Design Careers
Graphic designers are creative visual communicators who use artistic, technical, and business skills to create innovative content. Though graphic designers may function independently as freelancers and counselors, many professionals work as part of a design, marketing, or product development team. Below are some of the careers available to professionals with an online graphic design master’s degree and professional training.EXPAND ALLGraphic DesignerArt DirectorMultimedia ArtistAdvertising ManagerWeb Developer
Professional Organizations
Professional organizations are integral to both individual success and the growth of the graphic design field as a whole. After earning a master’s in graphic design online, graduates have the theoretical knowledge and practiced skill set necessary for careers in the field. However, membership in a professional organization greatly improves job prospects and opportunities for career advancement. In exchange for an annual fee, members gain access to networking events, such as conferences and chapter meetings, and internship and job announcements. Additionally, organizations such as the Society of Illustrators provide scholarship opportunities for students and professionals.
- AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF GRAPHIC ARTS (AIGA)Founded in 1914, AIGA is the largest professional community of graphic designers in the U.S. Members have access to discussion boards, contests and scholarships, conferences and social events, education and training opportunities, and a career center that includes job listings.
- SOCIETY OF ILLUSTRATORS (SI)Established in 1901, SI is one of the oldest and most respected organizations in the graphic design and illustration fields. Members connect through message boards, blogs, and newsletters. SI offers awards, competitions, and educational programs, such as the Summer Illustration Art Academy.
- ASSOCIATION OF REGISTERED GRAPHIC DESIGNERS (RGD)RGD supports its more than 3,000 members through certification training and networking events, including the annual DesignThinkers conference. Students have opportunities for mentorship, competition-based awards, and scholarships for school and research projects.
- THE FREELANCERS UNIONThis organization advocates for the rights of independent workers. The union provides networking events, job postings, and tax assistance. Members pay no annual fee, but they may pay for discounted health insurance plans through the Freelancers Union.
- INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF DESIGN (ICO-D)As one of the largest global networks of graphic designers, ico-D maintains more than 200 member organizations in 67 countries. Members have access to shared research information and best practices, meetings, mentorship programs, and a career center.
Financing Your Online Master’s in Graphic Design Program
According to the Center for Financial Inclusion, student loan debt in the U.S. increased 75% from 2004 to 2014 and continues to increase. Students should prioritize affordability when considering online graphic design master’s degree programs. Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to apply simultaneously for multiple grants and scholarships. Also look for awards from professional and community organizations, such as scholarships from the Graphic Design Degree Hub and the Graphic Communications Scholarship.
AN OVERVIEW OF FINANCIAL AID
Approximately two-thirds of today’s college students rely on loans to fund their education, but there are plenty of overlooked financing options you can use to reduce your overall student debt.
UNDERSTANDING THE FAFSA
Completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a crucial first step for any student with financial needs. Our FAFSA guide features a step-by-step rundown on the process and answers to several frequently asked questions.
FINANCIAL AID FOR ONLINE STUDENTS
Financial aid for online learning is equivalent to what you’ll find for campus-based learning, but that hasn’t always been the case. Learn about the changes that have taken place, as well as the different funding opportunities available to online students.
SCHOLARSHIPS FOR SINGLE PARENTS
Online college programs can be a flexible, affordable option for single parents who are interested in earning a degree and securing their family’s financial future. We’ve compiled a list of scholarships, grants, and other financial aid options geared toward single moms and dads.
FINANCIAL AID FOR VETERANS AND ACTIVE MILITARY
Millions of dollars in free money is available to U.S. military personnel, but much of it goes unused. Learn more about grants, scholarships, and other financial aid opportunities available to veterans, active-duty service members, and reservists.
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