List of Best Online Master’s in Graphic Design Programs
Typography, illustration, and other visual elements are used by graphic designers to inform, communicate, and persuade. Unlike bachelor’s degree programs in graphic design, which introduce students to fundamental concepts and provide basic training in the profession, master’s degree programs in graphic design provide in-depth training and possibilities for students to specialize their skills. Keep reading for list of best online master’s in Graphic Design Programs.
A master’s degree in graphic design usually consists of 45-60 credits of coursework and takes two years to finish. During the 2018-2019 academic year, the average cost of graduate tuition across disciplines was $12,171 at public schools and $27,776 at private nonprofit institutions, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. However, the overall cost of attending a top online graphic design program can range from $33,900 to $115,000.
Graphic design, advertising and marketing, art direction, and postsecondary education are just a few of the industries where master’s in graphic design graduates can work. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a 3% increase in graphic design jobs between 2020 and 2030. Graduates with MAs or MFAs in graphic design make an average annual salary of $69,000 per year, according to PayScale.
Related Post:Law Enforcement Colleges
What Can I Expect From an Online Graphic Design Master’s Program?
Students who pursue a master’s degree in graphic design are often curious, self-motivated, and creative. Many graphic designers can get their master’s degrees in as little as two years. For students who did not major in graphic design in college, some colleges offer three-year programs.
The majority of master’s in graphic design programs emphasize practical skills training and grant MFA degrees to graduates. Some schools, however, offer graphic design MA and MS degrees. Universities may also offer combined MDes/MBA programs, as well as master of design (MDes) and design master of business administration (DMBA) programs.
If you’re thinking about going to graduate school for graphic design, you should think about which degree will best help you achieve your objectives. Although programs vary, most MDes programs offer design theory and practice classes. DMBA and MDes/MBA degrees, on the other hand, include design, logistics, and business administration courses, whereas MA and MS graphic design programs are more general.
Some graphic design master’s degrees emphasize writing and research. These schools are typically suitable for students who want to teach graphic design in college or seek graphic design doctorates.
In an online master’s in graphic design program, what courses will I take?
The use of typography, artwork, and layouts in books, newspapers, online magazines, and other publications is referred to as publication design. Students in publication design classes study visual storytelling techniques and apply what they learn to their own creative work.
Interactive Design
User interfaces are often the emphasis of interactive design, with the goal of improving the operation of websites and applications. Advanced visual ideas and interactive technology are studied in interactive design courses. They then put what they’ve learned into practice by creating interactive environments.
Interactive Design
The evolution of visual communication from prehistoric cave drawings to today’s digital media is generally covered in graphic design history classes. Students investigate how technological evolution affects graphic communication and construct final projects that incorporate historical and contemporary design themes.
Contemporary Design
Students learn new tools and approaches to employ in their work by immersing themselves in the study of contemporary graphic design. They also obtain a better understanding of graphic design by researching foreign trends.
Design in Management and Strategy
Students learn how to effectively manage teams of creative professionals in design management and strategy courses. Students also study how to build productive connections with customers and executives, as well as how to connect the worlds of visual design and business strategy.
What Are the Requirements for Admission to an Online Master’s in Graphic Design Program?
Admission requirements for master’s in graphic design programs vary due to the variety of degrees available. Some programs, for example, promote skill development while others stress business strategy or research. Admission standards for equivalent online and on-campus programs, on the other hand, are frequently the same.
Applicants to several master’s in graphic design programs must submit portfolios of their creative work. Your portfolio should show off your formal ability, visual acuity, knowledge of latest field breakthroughs, and personal flair.
Application
Unlike the Common App, graduate programs do not employ centralized application platforms. Rather, almost all programs require prospective students to apply directly to the program by completing an online application. Although most institutions charge application fees, certain schools provide price waivers to qualified applicants.
Standardized tests scores
Some master’s degree programs in graphic design demand GRE scores, while others do not. GRE scores are occasionally requested from applicants who do not have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. Many programs also require applicants who do not speak English as their first language to take an English language proficiency test, such as the TOEFL.
Recommendation Letters
Many schools require applicants to submit a minimum of two letters of recommendation. Reach out to former teachers or supervisors who can attest to your design abilities and ability to succeed in graduate school when requesting a reference letter. Make sure to reach out to potential letter writers ahead of time so they have adequate time to prepare their letters.
Work Experience and Resume
When considering your application, some admissions offices may consider your professional graphic design experience. As a result, it’s a good idea to update your CV to highlight your achievements. Create a CV that is beautiful, simple, and easy to read to show off your creative skills.
Related Post:Liberal Arts Schools in Tulsa
Essays
Most master’s in graphic design programs require each applicant to submit a statement of purpose or an artist’s statement. A writing sample or academic essay may be requested by some admissions committees. Demonstrate your qualifications for the program you’re applying to and how it will help you reach your professional goals in your statement of purpose.
Transcripts
Almost all colleges require candidates to submit official academic transcripts. Your transcripts aid admissions officers in determining your chances of success in graduate school. Applicants who have completed eligible courses may also receive transfer credits from various programs. Transcripts help admissions committees decide whether or not you should receive transfer credits.
What Should I Look for in an Online Graphic Design Master’s Program?
Cost
Online master’s in graphic design programs are sometimes, but not always, less expensive than on-campus programs. Consider elements such as transportation and accommodation costs when comparing the costs of online vs. on-campus programs. Consider whether you’ll be able to continue working while taking school. You can calculate the true cost of completing your degree by considering these and other factors.
Program Format
Asynchronous classes are offered by certain online programs, whereas synchronous courses are offered by others. Many programs allow students to mix and match scheduled classes with tasks that can be performed at their leisure. Find out which online learning format the programs you’re considering employ and examine which style best suits your needs while picking an online master’s in graphic design degree.
Location
Even if you want to complete your degree online, consider the location of the colleges you apply to. On-campus requirements are limited in some online programs. In addition, several public schools provide reduced tuition to in-state residents. For these reasons, you might choose to look into programs offered in your native state or nearby.
Accreditation
The National Association of Schools of Art and Design has independently accredited many graphic design schools. Universities are also accredited by a number of regional and national organizations. Consider attending a program at a locally accredited institution. Other regionally approved colleges are more likely to offer you credit for the courses you’ve already finished if you desire to transfer programs later.
Student Support Look into programs that provide online students with assistance. Tutoring, library assistance, and academic advice are examples of student services. Some online graphic design master’s programs may also provide students with internship possibilities or career placement services.
Look for programs that allow students to work directly with faculty members while selecting a program. Faculty mentors can help you with academics and may be able to help you find work once you graduate.
List of Best Online Master’s in Graphic Design Programs
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania is located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania.
Kutztown University of Pennsylvania offers an online Master of Fine Arts in Communication Design with a low-residency on-campus requirement of three weeks per year in the fall, spring, and summer. Design Pioneers, Emerging Media, and Creative Studies are three of the curriculum’s three courses. A minimum 3.0 GPA, official transcripts, artist’s statement, portfolio, three references, and a $35 fee are required for admission to Kutztown University of Pennsylvania’s online MFA in Communication Design. Your capstone graduate research project will look into how you may use your creativity to achieve your career or academic goals.
Ball State University is a public university in the state of Indiana
Ball State University’s online Master’s in Emerging Media Design & Development is a low-residency program that combines online coursework with a five-day residency in Indianapolis at the beginning of each term. Admission does not require a GRE score. This program only starts in the fall, and a creative portfolio is one of the application materials that must be submitted. The online Master’s in Emerging Media Design & Development program at Ball State University focuses on three high-demand areas: design thinking, human-computer interface, and cross-platform storytelling. The 36-credit program includes 18 hours of lab work and 18 hours of basic courses.
Kent State University is a public university in Kent, Ohio.
The online Master of Science in User Experience Design (UXD) from Kent State University is a 36-credit-hour program that consists of twelve 3-hour courses, seven of which are necessary, four of which are electives, and one of which is the culminating requirement.This university also has one of the best online master’s in graphic design Programs. A Professional Portfolio course is also available to assist you in finding work in the field of UXD. Candidates in Kent State University’s MS in User Experience Design online degree program can expect to finish in as little as two years. A minimum 3.0 GPA, three letters of recommendation, a statement of aims, a CV, and a $45 application fee are required.
Arizona State University is a public university located in Tempe, Arizona
Arizona State University’s online Master of Science in Technology in Graphic Information Technology is a 33-credit hour program that requires you to complete an applied project rather than a thesis. The ten-course curriculum is divided into the following sections and is taught in 15-week formats: Technical Area of Interest (18 hours), Supporting Area (9 hours), Research Methods (3), and Applied Project (3). (3). Send transcripts, GRE scores, a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and a $50 application fee to Arizona State University for their MS in Technology in Graphic Information Technology online degree.
Harvard Extension School is a program run by Harvard University.
The Harvard Extension School provides a 48-credit hour online Master of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design program that includes twelve online courses and at least one on-campus course. Before applying, you must complete two degree-related courses with a minimum grade of B in each. The following courses are included in the curriculum: Introduction to Big Data, the Internet of Things, and Cybersecurity Challenges and Opportunities. The construction of a unique digital media prototype and presentation to a faculty committee will serve as your capstone. Submit credentials demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA, a CV, and the $100 application fee to Harvard University’s Extension School’s online MLA in Digital Media Design program.
Liberty University is a private university in the United States
The Liberty University Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design is a 60-credit hour program that may be completed entirely online in just thirty months by taking eight-week courses. This program has no on-campus components. Submit an artistic portfolio, an artist’s statement, and a $50 application fee to be evaluated for admittance. It is possible to transfer up to 30 credit hours into Liberty. History of Graphic Design, Publication Design, and Interactive Design are among the topics covered in class. A thesis or portfolio project, an internship or practical experience, and an oral test are all required for Liberty University’s online MFA in Graphic Design.
Quinnipiac University is a private university in Connecticut.
Quinnipiac University’s online Master of Science in Interactive Media and Communication involves a capstone experience and has 30 units. On average, it takes about 21 months to complete the degree. The university also created a five-year bachelor’s/program. master’s Two admission dates are available each year for the Quinnipiac University MS in Interactive Media and Communication Online, and applicants must submit two letters of recommendation, a 500-word personal statement, a current CV, a professional writing sample, and a $45 application fee. You must submit an online portfolio with a web URL that demonstrates your ability as a writer, artist, journalist, or other professional in the industry.
Savannah College of Art & Design is a private art and design school in Savannah, Georgia.
Savannah College of Art and Design offers a 45-quarter-hour online Master of Arts in Graphic Design, with extra graduate-level intense courses offered at the time of admission. Although a GRE score is not needed for admission to this program, it is strongly suggested for individuals with less impressive academic records. A $40 application fee is required for the online MA in Graphic Design at Savannah College of Art & Design. Visual analysis of static information, typographic voice and visual narrative, and professional methods for visual design are among the topics covered in the curriculum.
Flexible Learning at Falmouth University
Falmouth University is a specialty university for the creative industries, with campuses in Falmouth and Penryn, Cornwall, England. It provides a variety of online learning options, including a master’s degree in graphic design.
The flexible online MA in Graphic Design from Falmouth University will assist you in establishing your own graphic design profession in the context of today’s creative industries and modern visual culture.
In addition, Falmouth University’s online Master of Arts degree program in graphic design takes roughly 1 to 2 years to finish. The tuition amount is around 5,896 EUR each year.
You must have a 2:2 honors degree or equivalent in Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Illustration, Photography, Fashion, Textiles, Animation, Film, or Fine Art in order to apply. In addition, you must have a TOEFL score of 88 or an IELTS score of 6.5.
Furthermore, according to Unirank, the Privy Privy Council of the United Kingdom has formally recognized and approved Falmouth University.
Edinburgh College of Art is a vibrant and creative community of students and scholars located in Edinburgh, Scotland, United Kingdom.
Experimentation, exploration, intellectual stimulation, and interesting collaborations are all part of the environment.
The excellence of our teaching and research in the fields of art, design, architecture and landscape architecture, history of art, and music has earned Edinburgh College of Art an international reputation.
The University of Edinburgh’s Digital Media Design (Online Learning) program provides the finest of studio-based design education in an online setting.
This cutting-edge online program is for those who want to learn more about the complicated interplay between visual and sonic design and digital media in a hands-on setting. It also allows you to maintain a busy life while studying for an internationally recognized graduate degree without the hassle or expense of relocating.
Edinburgh College of Art’s online MSC in Digital Media Design curriculum takes roughly 1 to 2 years to finish. The tuition is 13,683 EUR per year.
To apply, you must have a 2:1 honors degree from the United Kingdom or its foreign equivalent. In addition, as part of your application, you must include a portfolio. To apply, you must have a TOEFL score of 100, an IELTS score of 7 or a PTE academic.
Furthermore, according to Unirank, the Privy Privy Council of the United Kingdom has formally recognized and authorized Edinburgh College of Art.
Mexico’s UNIR
Since 2013, the Secretary of Public Education (SEP) has approved UNIR México (the International University of La Rioja in Mexico) as a private educational institution with official status.
UNIR offers the highest-quality online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs (including an online master’s degree in technology project design and management) from European universities.
This online Master’s Degree in Design and Management of Technological Projects is intended for students who have completed coursework in engineering, environmental technology, technological projects, or organizational administration.
You can enhance your professional career by earning an online Master’s Degree in Design and Management of Technology Projects, which will train you as a project manager. It also prepares you to work as a manager in positions of responsibility involving technological design, direction, and execution.
Thanks to the UNIR Mexico methodology, you may mix your career and personal life with European university standard studies with our Online Master’s Degree. You’ll receive a personal tutor as well as live and postponed online lessons so you may practice as much as you like.
Related Post:Esthetician School Online and Fees
A Total Certificate of Studies and a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial, Civil, Architect, Environmental, Systems, Software Development, or Chemical Engineering are required to apply. Degrees in Environmental Technology, Technological Projects, and/or Organizational Administration are also accepted.
UNIR is also certified by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA), which guarantees the quality and validity of studies conducted here.
FAQs
What Is Graphic Design and How Does It Work?
Graphic design is a skill that involves creating visual content to convey messages. To express a message or feeling, it may include the use of images, phrases, basic graphic forms, and the general arrangement of the visual design.
What Is The Role Of A Graphic Designer?
A graphic designer is a creative expert that uses computer software or by hand to develop visual designs to express ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate customers.
What Is A Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
A master’s degree in graphic design examines the artistry, technology, and technique involved in digitally designing images.
What Does An Online Graphic Design Master’s Degree Cost?
Because the cost of an online master’s degree in graphic design varies by school and program, there is no set price.
Related Post:What is MCA (Master of Computer Applications)?
The admissions office at the institution you wish to attend is, however, the finest source of information about tuition and fees.
How Long Does It Take To Finish An Online Graphic Design Master’s Degree?
Most online graphic design master’s degree programs require at least 30 credits and take one to two years to complete. However, the length of time it takes to complete the program is determined by its structure and content.
What can I accomplish with a graphic design master’s degree?
Many graphic design master’s graduates work in marketing, online design, and higher education. A graphic design degree, on the other hand, is extremely adaptable, and graduates work in a variety of professions.
Some graphic designers, for example, seek careers in experience design, which entails incorporating graphic design approaches into architectural spaces. Others work as industrial designers, overseeing the appearance, feel, and functionality of manufactured goods. Students pursuing a master’s degree in graphic design who want to work in these fields may need to take electives in fundamental industrial design approaches.
Is there a demand for graphic design majors?
Graphic designer positions are expected to grow 3% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS, which is slower than the average job growth rate across industries. Graduates of master’s in graphic design degrees, on the other hand, work in a variety of fields that the BLS predicts will expand substantially over the next decade.
Some master’s in graphic design graduates, for example, go on to work as art directors. Art director jobs are expected to grow at a faster-than-average rate of 11% between 2020 and 2030, according to the BLS. Jobs for web developers and designers, as well as postsecondary teachers, are expected to rise at quicker rates than the national average over the next ten years, according to the BLS.
What are the best paid jobs for graphic designers with a master’s degree?
Graduates of master’s programs in graphic design who work in advertising, promotions, or marketing earn a lot of money. In May 2020, advertising and promotions managers made an average of $147,560 per year, significantly more than graphic designers, who earned an average of $58,370 per year. Marketing managers made an average annual salary of $154,470 in 2020, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
New York, New Jersey, and Colorado paid the most for advertising and promotions managers. New York, New Jersey, and California were the highest-paying states for marketing managers. Advertising and promotions managers in New York made an average of $183,640 per year, while marketing managers in the state made an average of $194,940 per year.
We hope this article: “List of Best Online Master’s in Graphic Design Programs”, will help you make an informed decision.
