Master’s in Graphic
Design Online

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

A master’s in graphic design degree hones both the aesthetic skill and technical expertise of the student so that they can create finished projects from the very first idea. During this master’s degree, students can also learn to apply their skills to other industries and mediums. In most cases, the graphic design master’s program requires 30 to 60 credits in two years. Along with graphic and art-related coursework, these master’s programs often cover topics in business, entrepreneurship, marketing, and advertising, as well as providing students with a wide range of skills to work in various industries and settings. Graduates can go on to take up successful professions in innovation and industrial design and work as creative professionals and educators, among others.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Master’s in Graphic Design Programs

In general, coursework in a master’s in graphic design covers several different areas in design for different types of media. General education classes and how media is managed and distributed are also common to the program. Some coursework can also touch upon programming languages and web development as well. Here are some typical graphic design degree courses one can come across in a master’s in graphic design degree program:

• Color theory: This course elaborates on the principles of color, exploring its psychological and aesthetic impact. This course equips students with advanced knowledge of color application, enabling them to create visually compelling designs while considering cultural, emotional, and symbolic aspects of color.
• Introduction to Graphic Design: This course provides a foundational exploration of design principles, typography, and visual communication. Students develop a comprehensive understanding of design concepts, creating a solid framework for advanced studies and practical application in the dynamic field of graphic design.
• Vector Illustration: This course immerses students in the art and technique of creating scalable, precise vector graphics. Through hands-on projects, students master vector illustration tools, enhancing their ability to produce professional and versatile visual content, a crucial skill in contemporary graphic design practice.
• Issues in Graphic Design: This course critically examines contemporary challenges and ethical considerations within the field. Exploring cultural, social, and technological dimensions, students engage in thought-provoking discussions, refining their ability to make informed, responsible, and innovative design decisions in a dynamic and evolving industry.
• Design and Composition: This course explores advanced principles shaping visual harmony and communication. Through creative projects and critical analysis, students refine their skills in layout, spatial relationships, and design hierarchy, fostering a sophisticated understanding of design composition for impactful visual storytelling.

Students may also have to complete a capstone project or master’s thesis as a part of their degree program.

A master’s in graphic design equips graduates with many skills that make them readily employable in various settings. Graphic Designers will, among other things, be able to:

• create brand identities and logo guidelines;
• discover the project’s requirements by liaising with clients, art directors, and other stakeholders;
• design graphics, design layouts, Illustrate, and edit photos using advanced software and tools;
• conceptualize and create brochures, marketing material, packaging, and advertising material;
• present design concepts and proposals to clients or superiors;
• communicate ideas and messages, create logos layouts, and choose colors and fonts;
• provide design assistance and create elements and assets for web and app development; and
• adapt and modify content and graphics to changing scenarios, markets, and sectors.

Master’s in Graphic Design Degree Types

Graphic Design degrees at the graduate level come in several forms. Irrespective of the type of degree chosen, students should note that there can be considerable overlap in the topics studied. Depending on the degree type, the program can culminate in a final project or a thesis.

Specializations in Master’s in Graphic Design Programs

Concentrations and specializations are important factors influencing a student’s academic and career choices. One can choose the subject of Graphic Design in general or specialize in only a few areas of it that one is most interested in. Choosing a specialization or emphasis provides students with the ability to focus on certain areas within Graphic Design that can suit specific careers or job sectors, giving them a competitive advantage as well. Some options of specializations and concentrations available in a master’s in graphic design are:

Timeline For Graduating From Online Masters in Graphic Design Programs

Most master’s degrees in graphic design necessitate two years of full-time study and 60 credits to complete. Some institutions offer two graduate degree options available for prospective graphic design students. Students with a bachelor’s degree in graphic design can opt for a two-year program, while those new to the field have a three-year option. Those who have never formally studied design or have not developed a portfolio before entering the Master of Graphic Design degree program might expect to spend a longer time (two to three years, as opposed to one or two) to obtain their degree.

Accelerated Graphic Design Programs

Accelerated programs in Graphic Design Master’s Education provide a quicker way for students to finish their degree. These programs are for students who are determined to finish their studies faster. Students can speed up their program by taking more courses, including summer sessions, and transferring credits from past coursework or relevant work experience. Some accelerated programs may have a shorter curriculum, focusing on important coursework and removing some elective requirements, helping students complete their degrees more efficiently. Here are examples of colleges that offer accelerated master’s in graphic design programs:

New York Institute of Technology ¹

Otis College of Art and Design ²

All master’s degree programs have admission requirements that students need to meet. Along with a bachelor’s degree, preferably in a subject related to Graphic Design, these are generally the admission requirements for a master’s in graphic design:

• An application to the program and the requisite application fee.
• Official Academic Transcripts.
• A Cumulative Grade Point Average (GPA) of 3.0 and above on a scale of 4
• A Statement of Purpose or Personal Statement.
• At least 2 Letters of Recommendation.

While some schools require a Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score to be submitted, it is generally waived for students with a good GPA. Additionally, prospective students may sometimes be required to submit an extensive portfolio showcasing their most current artwork/designs/projects for MFA programs. That demonstrates their skill and commitment.

The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is a standardized test often required for admission to graduate programs. Post-pandemic, many colleges have waived the GRE requirement to accommodate challenges. This decision acknowledges the exceptional circumstances, offering applicants flexibility and easing access to graduate education by removing this standardized test criterion. Here are examples of universities that offer online master’s in graphic design with no GRE programs: 

Iowa State University³

Rhode Island School of Design⁴

Accreditation is a voluntary process that schools go through to show that their educational programs meet or exceed the industry’s current quality requirements. Students in online graphic design master’s benefit from attending an accredited school, which testifies that the college’s instruction meets professional standards. Additionally, accreditation ensures access to federal financial aid and facilitates the easy transfer of educational credits. Schools can be regionally accredited by independent accrediting authorities such as:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ⁵
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) ⁶
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ⁷
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) ⁸
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ⁹
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC) ¹⁰

Master’s in graphic design programs are usually accredited (programmatically) by the (Nation Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) ¹¹. NASAD accredits over 360 postsecondary schools, universities, and independent institutes with art and design programs.
To know more about accreditation and its importance, read the Accreditation Guide.

Free graphic design programs are available by the hundreds online. Unfortunately, they generally do not lead to a complete master’s degree. Most free or advertising-supported site offerings are either certificate programs or independent modules that existing students, working professionals, or enthusiasts can take up to gain additional knowledge and skills in graphic design. Here are a few sites that offer free videos and courses that can help:

An online master’s degree in graphic design can enable a graphic designer to qualify or start a graphic design company, while graduates can work in research and academics. Graduates of graphics design master’s degrees are also generally employed by ad agencies or design companies, particularly if they have a distinguished portfolio. Multimedia design and animation are two other sectors that require graphic designers. In a nutshell, almost any sector or industry that needs design skills and relies to even a small extent on design are potential employers. Some examples include – packaging firms, marketing agencies, educational institutions, automobile companies, pharmaceutical companies, branding agencies, etc. Possible job titles include but are not limited to:

• Art Director
• Instructional Designer
• Multimedia Artist
• Website Designer
• Production Artist
• Computer Programmer
• Exhibit Designer
• Digital Design Manager
• Environmental Designer,
• Technical Writers
• Special Effects Artists and Animators

In 2022, the annual median salary of a graphic designer was $57,990 ¹⁸, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with jobs set to grow 3% between 2022 and 2032 (as fast as average). Here are a few other jobs, their salaries, and outlook:

A graphic design or graphic art certification can open more job opportunities and help candidates stand out from the competition. While certificate programs act like extensions to a master’s degree, certifications endorse a master’s degree and specialized knowledge. Although they may not be mandated, they can demonstrate a candidate’s skills in one or more areas of the profession. Some firms may also require their staff to carry certifications in their software products and give preference to candidates who have additional certifications when hiring. Here are a few examples of professional certifications for students to consider and add to their master’s degree:

1. Certified Digital Designer ²³ (CDD) by the American Design Drafting Association (ADDA)
2. Autodesk Certified User in Autodesk Maya ²⁴ by Autodesk
3. Autodesk Certified User in 3ds MAX ²⁵ by Autodesk
4. Adobe Certified Professional ²⁶ by Adobe

In most cases, no special licensure is required for graduates of a master’s in graphic design to seek employment. However, a few isolated roles in, say, aerospace or defense may require specific training and licensure, usually provided by the employer.

Graphic designers who are up to date with the latest technologies and trends can expect better job prospects and projects to take up. To do so, however, students and professionals should network and connect with peers, seniors in the industry, and design establishments to know the latest in the world of graphic design and to help them build their professional portfolios. Design, after all, is evolutionary, and therefore, its constant change based on different markets and people elicits creative collaboration, an exchange of ideas, design thinking, etc. Here are a few excellent ways for students and professionals of graphic design:

1. Dribbble ²⁷
   Dribbble defines itself as the world’s leading community for creatives to share, grow, and get hired. It is the leading destination to find & showcase creative work and is home to some of the world’s best design professionals.
2. Creative Commons ²⁸
   Creative Commons is a non-profit organization that removes legal barriers to information and creativity sharing. It provides licenses and public domain tools that allow anybody and any organization to offer copyright permissions to creative and academic works in a free, straightforward, and standardized manner.
3. Design Management Institute (DMI) ²⁹
   Design Management Institute (DMI) promotes events, advocacy, and education about graphic design. The institute also conducts research and workshops and has an active community of members.
4. AIGA ³⁰
   AIGA was founded in 1914 as a small club of graphic artists, printers, publishers, and illustrators in New York City and has since evolved into a nationwide network of professional designers, educators, students, and design enthusiasts served by more than 70 chapters. The organization advocates for industry standards and launches journals and exhibitions, apart from providing various resources for students and professional development.
5. Graphic Artists Guild ³¹
   The Graphics Artists Guild is a national association that offers professional development opportunities for graphic designers, animators, and other artists and assists in establishing industry standards. The organization provides educational resources, articles & publications, and many benefits to its community members.