Top 25 Graphic Design Schools and Colleges in the Midwest – 2024 College Rankings

The School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC) has three pathways to study Graphic Design. Housed in the Visual Communication Design (VCD) Department are the Studio BFA with a VCD focus, and a flexible Studio MFA that allows students to design their own plan of study. The Continuing Studies Department has a Graphic Design certificate consisting of courses such as Introduction to Graphic Design; Color Theory; and Digital Design: Adobe Photoshop. 

All students benefit from courses taught by practicing designers; technical advising; and the VCD Departments visiting designer lecture series Exploratory Languages. This annual event features some of the world’s foremost designers and design educators. 

The Studio BFA with a VCD focus explores environments, objects and print (physical media) and interactive and time-based media (virtual media). Course examples for the program include Environmental Graphics; Packaging Design; Letterpress Printing and Book Binding; Motion Graphics Design; Offset Printing/Digital Printing; Sustainable Design; Interaction Design/Interface Design; Publication Design; Book Design; Font/Typography Design; Symbol Design; Website Design/Cross-Platform Design; Exhibition Design; and Identity Design/Strategic Design. 

In addition to a variety of course options, VCD BFA students have the opportunity to complete a Career and Professional Experience (CAPX) internship and participate in the Fall or Spring Exhibition. Students may also participate in the department’s year-end Visual Communication Design Show. 

Graduates of the SAIC VCD program at SAIC will enter the market with a professional portfolio of their best work. Program alumni are Designers and Educators at major institutions and studios across the U.S. and abroad. 

The 60 credit hour Studio MFA is an interdisciplinary program that allows students to explore other SAIC departments such as Film, Video, New Media, and Animation (FVNMA); Designed Objects; Intermedia; Writing; Architecture; Photography; and Interior Architecture. Course examples for the program include Type and Image in Motion; Advanced Typography; Package Design; Letterpress Bookworks; Electronic Publications; Image Studio; 4D Design: Manipulating Media; and Envisioning Information. 

A major component of the SAIC Studio MFA is the opportunity to complete a graduate project every semester. MFA students will work one-on-one with artists, writers, and other academics from different SAIC departments. Graduate seminars, such as Form-Configuration-Content and Narrative Architectures, are also part of the program. Successful completion of a thesis is required to graduate. 

Students in all SAIC Design programs may join the VCD AIGA (American Institute of Graphic Arts) Chapter, which hosts local visiting designers, the annual Town Hall AIGA event, a biannual portfolio preparation seminar, and tours of Chicago studios. The VCD Department also provides the opportunity to participate in juror-led student workshops, and jurors’ lectures through the Chicago International Poster Biennial (CIPB). 

Graduates of the MFA programs at School of the Art Institute of Chicago are employed at museums, advertising agencies, marketing firms, non-profit organizations, and major companies and studios across the U.S. and around the world. 

Founded in 1866 by a group of 35 artists, the School of the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the nation’s oldest accredited independent schools of art and design. Serving approximately 3,100 students from around the globe, SAIC provides more than 50 areas of study across 24 academic departments. The School of the Art Institute of Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) is home to the Sam Fox School of Design and Visual Arts, which houses the College of Architecture; the Graduate School of Art; the Graduate School of Architecture and Urban Design; and Mildred Lane Kemper Art Museum. Together, these academic divisions provide access to numerous maker spaces and exhibitions; a dedicated art and architecture library; one of the nation’s first Master of Urban Design programs; and approximately 3,500 significant pieces of art and installations by 19th-, 20th- and 21st-century American and European artists. 

Sam Fox also provides dozens of degree programs, including a Design BA with a Communication concentration, and a Communication Design BFA. All first-year students will take Digital Studio and two courses such as 2D Design, Drawing, or 3D Design. Electives from the Sam Fox School and advanced studio courses allow students to create an area of focus. 

The BA program is designed for students seeking a liberal arts curriculum within the studio major, while the BFA provides an immersive studio experience. Students in both programs benefit from low student-to-faculty ratios allowing opportunities to work one on one with instructors; internship opportunities; and study abroad for a summer or semester in Florence. 

Across programs, students have access to courses such as Global Topics in Visual Communication; Design in Social Systems; Type as Image: The Design of Books; UX Research methods for Design; Applied Illustration; Letterpress Printing; Programming Design; image and Meaning; Multimedia Design: Time/Sound/Space; Content to Cover: The Design of Books; and Printing Propaganda: The Letterpress Poster. Courses for the BA and BFA programs Washington University in St. Louis are supplemented by seminars and readings. 

The BA program culminates with a final project. BFA students will complete the BFA Capstone + Thesis Exhibition to graduate. Students in both programs will take Professional Practice Seminars highlighting portfolio development, CV creation, interviewing, public speaking, and developing job search skills. 

The BA and BFA programs at Washington University in St. Louis are accredited by the College Art Association of America (CAA) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). 

Graduates are prepared to pursue roles across all areas of design. Recent Sam Fox alumni have been hired at places such as Pixar, Walt Disney Imagineering, Google, IBM Design, The Atlantic, Nickelodeon, YouTube, Isaac Mizrahi, New York Magazine, Meta, Guggenheim Museum, Levi Strauss & Co., American Museum of Natural History, Pentagram, Princeton University Press, National Gallery of Art, and Gensler. 

Founded in 1853, Washington University in St. Louis serves approximately 15,190 students enrolled in more than 300 academic programs across seven schools. The Sam Fox School of Design & Visual Arts was founded in 2006 after the merging of Architecture and Art, and the WashU Museum. Washington University in St. Louis has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1913.

The College of Arts and Sciences at The Ohio State University (OSU) provides several paths to study Graphic Design. Houses in the college’s Department of Design is a Bachelor of Science in Design (BSD) in Visual Communication Design, and a Design Thinking Minor. The college’s Department of Art houses an interdisciplinary Visual Arts MFA. 

The Design Thinking Minor is a 15 credit hour program that covers the basics of design. Courses include Introduction to Design Practice, Design History, Exploring Design Thinking, Visualization as Thinking, and Presentation as Thinking. Students in all departments may add the Design Thinking Minor to their degree program. 

The Visual Communication Design BSD provides research opportunities; the chance to study with students from Mackenzie Presbyterian University in São Paulo, Brazil; portfolio development throughout the program; the opportunity to pursue the Arts Honor Program; and participation in Design Week in Milan, Italy. BSD students may also get involved with student organizations such as NOMA: Designers for Diversity; D3: Design Develop Deploy; and Design for 90. 

Course examples for the OSU BSD program include Design Media I-IV for Visual Communication Design; Typographic Design; Materials, Process, and Production for Visual Communication Design; Visual Principles and Techniques I-II; Advanced Collaborative Design; and Design History. 

Graduates of the Visual Communication Design BSD at OSU are prepared to pursue creative roles across industries. Program alumni have been hired at places such as Walt Disney Imagineering, McGraw-Hill Education, Microsoft, IBM, Publicis Sapient, Abercrombie & Fitch, Push Digital, WD Partners, Wildflower Press + Paper, Creative Spot, Sketch Blue, Ring, MKSK, Impact Communications, and Roto Group.  

The Visual Arts MFA at The Ohio State University is a three-year, 66 credit hour program that provides 24/7 access to private and semi-private studios, state-of-the-art facilities and exhibition spaces, and the Wexner Center for the Arts—a renowned contemporary art center located on the OSU campus. MFA students also benefit from access to the Fine Arts and Cartoon Libraries; the OSU-run Urban Arts Space located in downtown Columbus; and interactions with visiting artists, critics, and curators. 

Students in this full-time program may specialize in a variety of design disciplines through electives and other coursework. The OSU Visual Arts MFA program culminates with the MFA Thesis Exhibition held at the Urban Arts Space. Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles across all areas of design. 

The Ohio State University was established in 1870 as Ohio Agricultural and Mechanical College. The school serves 64,405 students across six regional campuses including Columbus (main), Lima, Mansfield, Marion, Newark, and OSU’s Agricultural Technical Institute in Wooster. More than 200 majors, minors, and specializations are provided across 18 colleges and schools. The Ohio State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) houses the College of Architecture, Design, and the Arts (CADA), home to the School of Design. Within the school is a Bachelor of Design (BDes) and Master of Design (MDes) in Graphic Design. The UIC School of Design also houses a studio-based, Design Studies BA for students who prefer an interdisciplinary program that emphasizes collaboration and hands-on projects. 

Course examples for the program include Color Theory; Typography I: Form; Digital Media Design; Integrative Design Studio I-II; Typography II: Systems; Design Research Methods; Integrative Design Studio I-III; Human Experience in Design; Design Drawing; Integrative Studio Project; and Design Colloquium. 

The Graphic Design BDes at UIC is a 132-unit program that requires 59 units in the major. The program begins with a Foundations Year, which consists of courses such as 2D Form Studio; Digital Media Design; Color Theory; 3D Form Studio; Design Drawing; Design Photography. In the Graphic Design major, students will complete courses such as Typography I-IV (Form, Systems, Expression, and Advanced Topics); Digital Media Design III: Motion Design; Digital Media Design III: Motion Design; Form and Image Studio; Digital Media IV: Advanced Topics; History of Design; and Information Aesthetics I-II. 

Electives for the program allow students to study video game design and development and additional areas outside of the School of Design.

In the final year of the Graphic Design BDes program at UIC, students will complete two Senior Design Colloquium courses and the Graphic Design Thesis I-II courses. 

The Graphic Design MDes at UIC is an intensive, collaborative program that takes two years to complete. A major component of is the study abroad experience. All Chicago-based students will participate in the Basel School of Design summer workshops, which take place at the FHNW HGK Basel Visual Communication Institute in Münchenstein, Switzerland. 

Course examples for the Graphic Design MDes program include Advanced Graphic Design I-II; Documentation Studio; Research Seminar I-II; Combined Studio; Design Seminar; and Research Studio. Students may also study additional areas of design or other areas through the required 16 hours of graduate-level electives. 

The culminating experience for the Graphic Design MDes program is the Master’s Research Project + Exhibition. Graduates of the BDes and MDes programs are prepared to pursue positions in all areas of design. Program alumni are Graphic Designers, Educators, Researchers, and more. System-wide, University of Illinois graduates are routinely hired at places such as Walt Disney, Amazon, Ford, Coca Cola, Microsoft, IBM, Target, State Farm, Walgreens, Nike, Pepsi, Chase, Apple, and Boeing. 

University of Illinois Chicago serves 34,000 students, making it the largest university in the Chicago area. With roots dating back to 1859, when the Chicago College of Pharmacy was founded, UIC provides more than 250 degree programs and 85 minors across 16 academic colleges. The University of Illinois Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Michigan State University (MSU) houses the College of Arts and Letters (CAL), home to the Department of Art, Art History, and Design (AAHD). Within the department is a Graphic Design program with BFA and minor options. The Graphic Design minor is open to students all bachelor’s degree students outside of the Studio Art program. Consisting of 15 credit hours, the program includes courses such as Digital Graphic Design: Tools and Methods; Concepts of Graphic Design; and Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs. 

The Graphic Design BFA at Michigan State University provides the opportunity for exceptional students to gain real-world experience by joining the Design Center creative team. Housed in the AAHD, the Design Center creates everything from logos and brochures to packaging and websites for local businesses in a real-world agency-like setting. 

Other program benefits include AIGA membership; the Annual Visiting Artist and Scholar Lecture Series; and internship opportunities at a local or national company. All students also have access to state-of-the-art facilities labs and studios such as the Letterpress facility, four computer labs, and Kresge Art Center, which houses visual resource library, wood shop, Form From Thought digital fabrication lab, two exhibition galleries, and two installation project spaces. 

The Graphic Design BFA requires courses from the following areas: Two-Dimensional, Three-Dimensional, Photography, and Electronic Art and Intermediate. Course examples include Graphic Design I: Graphic Form; Experimental Design Practices; Digital Graphic Design: Tools and Methods; Cartographic Design and Production; Motion Design; Graphic Design II: Visual Communication; History of Graphic Design; Interaction Design; Design Thinking for Entrepreneurs; and Concepts of Graphic Design. 

Graduates of the MSU Graphic Design BFA program are prepared to pursue design roles across industries. They hold titles such as Graphic Designer, Communications Coordinator, User Experience Designer, Art Director, Media Manager, Web Designer, and Creative Producer. 

Program alumni have been hired at places such as Leo Burnett, Domino’s, General Motors, Quicken Loans, Shift Digital, Campbell Ewald, and TechSmith Corporation. 

For students seeking a graduate degree, Michigan State University has a Create Your Own Pathway MFA. Students may select courses from any area of interest to build a focus area. This includes Graphic Design. In addition to selected courses, MFA students will take studios and seminars such as Integration in Studio Art; Theory and Writing for Artists; History of Art; Exploration and Research in Studio Art; and Professional Practice. Students will also participate in five formal Graduate Critiques worth one credit each. 

Other program benefits include dedicated studios; opportunities for external study; individual studio visits with approximately 45 visiting artists throughout the degree; internships; and study abroad experiences. The MSU MFA is also 100% fully funded, meaning every student receives a full tuition waiver and generous stipend. 

In the last year of the MFA program at Michigan State University, students will complete a final research project (thesis). Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles at major design studios, advertising agencies, non-profit organizations, retail giants, corporations (in-house design teams), museums, and academic institutions. 

Founded in 1855, Michigan State University is a land-grant, public research university serves 51,315 students enrolled in more than 400 academic programs across 17 degree-granting colleges. One of the largest and greenest campuses in the U.S., MSU houses more than 100 institutes and centers including the Institute of Global Health and the Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute. Michigan State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The College of Design at University of Minnesota Twin Cities (U of M Twin Cities) is a comprehensive design college with more than 40 programs. This includes a Graphic Design BFA program, and MA, MFA, MS, and PhD degrees with an optional Graphic Design track. Students in all programs will participate in workshops, advanced studios, individual and collaborative design projects, internships, and the study abroad program. 

Consisting of 120 credit hours the Graphic Design BFA at U of M Twin Cities explores both traditional and technological production techniques. Students will study areas such as typography, data visualization, digital drawing, color theory, hand-drawing, illustration, animation, web design, and photography through major coursework (80-89 credits) and electives. 

Course and elective examples for the program include Identity and Symbols; Typography; Packaging and Display; Product Innovation Lab; Interaction Design; Storytelling and Design; Data Visualization Studio; Digital Illustration and Animation; Design Process: Photography; Travels in Typography; Advanced Web Design; Concept Sketching; Text and Image; User Experience in Design; Design and Visual Presentation; Human Factors in Design; Product Innovation Lab; and  Advanced Graphic Design Print Projects. 

The Graphic Design BFA Program at University of Minnesota Twin Cities culminates with the Senior Thesis and Exhibition. This major event allows students to present their work to the faculty, peers, and the design community. Students will also graduate with a portfolio of their best work. 

The MA and MS programs with a Graphic Design track at University of Minnesota Twin Cities provides two plans: A and B. Plan A is thesis-focused and prepares students for the PhD Program. This pathway can be completed in 2-3 years full-time. Plan B is a project-based, two-year program designed for students seeking career advancement. Both plans are 34 credit hours and a both require a final oral examination. 

The U of M Twin Cities MFA/Graphic Design track consists of 60 credit hours completed over three years, full-time. Students will complete 40 credit hours in the major and 12 credits in the capstone. A final oral examination is required to graduate. Consisting of 64 credit hours completed over four years, full-time, the PhD is designed for students interested in research or teaching. Students in this program will take 28 credits in the major and 24 dissertation credits. 

Graduates of the Graphic Design programs at University of Minnesota Twin Cities are prepared to pursue design roles across industries. Program alumni can be found at places such as graphic design studios, advertising agencies, museums, marketing firms, government agencies, public relations firms, web design companies, and production studios (entertainment). 

Program alumni hold titles such as Graphic Designer, Art Director, User Experience Designer, Data Visualization Strategist, Web Designer, Interactive Designer, and Creative Director, among others.  

University of Minnesota Twin Cities is the flagship institution of the University of Minnesota System and the state’s only land-grant university. Founded in 1851, U of M Twin Cities is also one of largest research universities in the nation and one of just five universities in the U.S. with agricultural, engineering, law, medical, and veterinary medicine schools—all on one campus. 

Around 20,000 faculty and staff at U of M Twin Cities serve approximately 50,000 students enrolled in more than 500 degree and minor programs. University of Minnesota Twin Cities has been continuously accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1913.

The College of Communication and Information at Kent State University (KSU or Kent State) houses the School of Visual Communication Design (VCD), which emphasizes cross-disciplinary study and mandatory internships at companies and design studios in place such as New York, Chicago, San Francisco, and Cleveland. Many VCD internships are paid. 

All VCD students also benefit from international study experiences; intensive portfolio development; and access to the recently renovated spaces of Taylor Hall. This includes the Creative Lab, photography studios, lounges, a signature gallery, production studios, and classrooms. 

For students seeking a degree in graphic design, the School of VCD has BA, BFA, MA, and MFA options. All VCD programs allow students to add an emphasis in Visual Design (Graphic Design). Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the BA and BFA programs also require a minor or secondary area of study. Examples include Advertising; Management; Visual Journalism; Public Relations; Entrepreneurship for Non-Business Majors; Health Communication; and Marketing. 

Students in all undergraduate programs will complete the Kent State University Core. Consisting of 36-37 credit hours, the KSU Core covers six areas including Humanities and Fine Arts; Composition; Basic Sciences; Mathematics and Critical Reasoning; Social Sciences; and Additional Options. All undergraduate options explore package design, 2D and 3D forms, motion, interactive design, print, illustration and design, video, exhibition design, and environmental design. 

The VCD BA and BFA programs at KSU culminate with a final project, portfolio and exhibition. Graduates are prepared to pursue design careers across industries. Examples include advertising agencies, packaging companies, design consulting firms, branding agencies, PR firms, publishing companies, production studios (entertainment), media and communications companies, museums, and galleries. 

The graduate VCD program at Kent State is one of only three programs in the state of Ohio to offer a Visual Communication Design MA. The graduate program was also the first to offer the terminal degree in the field—the MFA. The MA is a 32 credit hour program that can be completed in just three semesters. Course examples include Advanced Graphic Design Advanced; Typographic Structures and Systems; User Experience Design Principles and Concepts; Design Research Methods; and Concept Development and Implementation. 

The VCD MA at Kent State University culminates with the MA Project in Graphic Design and Illustration and a portfolio. Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles in areas such as advertising, packaging, user experience (UX) design, corporate branding, digital media, entertainment, publishing, and social media. 

The Kent State VCD MFA is a 60 credit hour, five semester program that combines research, theory, and design coursework with hands-on teaching experiences at the freshman and sophomore level. Course examples for the program include Graduate Studio in VCD; Typography II; College Teaching in VCD; Graphic Narrative; Critical Practices in Design Research; Integrated Brand Design; Editorial Illustration; Typeface Design; Identity Systems; Information Design; Experimental Typography; Advertising Illustration; Brand Experiences; Responsive Web Design; and Glyphix Research Laboratory. 

The VCD MFA program at KSU culminates with the MFA Thesis course, worth six credits. During the course of this final project, students will work with their thesis advisor to produce a body work demonstrating skill as a professional designer, illustrator, or researcher. 

Graduates of the MFA VCD program are prepared to pursue leadership roles in design, design education, and design research. With an 89% employment (or continuing education) rate, Kent State graduates can be found at places such as NASA, Express, ESPN, Tesla, Cleveland Clinic, Delta Air Lines, and the Cleveland Cavaliers.   

Established in 1910 as a teacher training school, Kent State University comprises an eight-campus system that serves approximately 33,000 students from across the U.S. and more than 100 countries. Students at Kent State have access to more than 300 programs housed across 40+ colleges, departments, and schools. Kent State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The College for Creative Studies (CCS) has a Communication Design BFA (CD BFA) that features an interdisciplinary curriculum that covers coding, video capture, audio, photography, and interaction, motion, and graphic design. This STEM-designated program also allows students to add the Business concentration or a minor in Product Design; Illustration; Advertising Design: Digital; Entertainment Arts; or Creative Entrepreneurship. 

Students in the CD BFA program at CCA will complete 84 credits in studio; 42 to 43 credits in liberal arts; and projects that allow students to develop advanced skills in creating books, movie title sequences, packaging, way-finding systems, exhibition spaces, websites, magazines, brand identities, mobile apps, and user experiences. 

Other program features include access to state-of-the-art studios, labs, and production facilities; internships at places such as Foote Cone & Belding, Reebok, Microsoft, Urban Outfitters, Chrysler, Whirlpool, Quicksilver, and FUSE; and semester- or year-long study abroad programs Paris, Germany, Australia, Mexico, and Austria. 

The Communication Design BFA program at College for Creative Studies culminates with a design project and the completion of a professional portfolio. With one of the highest employment rates in the country, graduates work in industries such as advertising, industrial design, publishing, public relations, retail, marketing, entertainment, manufacturing, museums, government, and education.

College for Creative Studies alumni have been hired at companies and creative agencies such as IDEO, Wieden + Kennedy, Razorfish, Google, Adidas, Microsoft, General Motors, Apple, Meta, Adobe, Nike, Rivian, Ford Motor Co., Mercedes Benz, Whirlpool, Converse, Nokia, Buzzfeed, eBay, Carhartt, Lego, Moosejaw, and Herman Miller.

Some CCS alumni have gone on to launch their own design studios in places such as Detroit, New York, Los Angeles, and The Netherlands.

Founded in 1906 as the Detroit Society of Arts and Crafts, College for Creative Studies is a private, nonprofit institution that serves approximately 1,495 students. The school provides more than 50 art and design programs leading to a degree, minor, or certificate. College for Creative Studies is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD).

Columbia College Chicago (Columbia) is home to the School of Fine and Performing Arts, which has a Graphic Design program with BA, second BA, and BFA options. A 21 credit our Graphic Design minor is also available. This program can be added to any creative degree and explores graphic design, typography, web design and visual culture. 

The second BA degree program is designed for students who have earned a bachelor’s degree in another area. Students in the traditional BA program may choose a concentration and a minor or double major. Concentration options include Publication Design and Web Design. Majors that complement the BA program include Illustration, Advertising, Social Media and Digital Strategy, Arts Management, Communication, Public Relations, Computer Animation, Marketing, Interaction Design, and Immersive Media. Minors that complement the BA Program include Creative Advertising, Motion Graphics, User Experience, Design Management, Photography, Marketing, and Entrepreneurship. 

The Graphic Design BFA program at Columbia College Chicago allows students to study in multiple areas of art and design. Course examples for the program include Graphic Design I-V (including topics such as Semiotics and Form, Branded Environments, and Visual Identity and Narrative); Design Thinking; History of Communication Design; Publication Design; Letterpress Studio; Motion Graphics; Design Lab; Experimental Typography for Graphic Design; Photo Communication; Website Design; and Business of Design. 

Both the BA and BFA programs begin with foundations courses. All students will develop advanced skills in Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop. Student also have opportunities to complete an internship. Examples of past placements include Foote, Cone & Belding (FCB), Leo Burnett, 50000feet Creative Agency, Pivot Design, Cards Against Humanity, and Pressley Johnson Design. 

The Graphic Design BA and BFA programs at Columbia College Chicago culminate with a final project and professional portfolio of the student’s best work. Graduates go on to become Graphic Designers at advertising agencies, design studios, publishing companies, nonprofits, and start-ups, among others. Program alumni have been hired at places such as include Leo Burnett, Fjord (part of Accenture Interactive), Modern Luxury, Google, One Design Company, Time Zone One, and Cards Against Humanity. 

Columbia College Chicago was established in 1890 as the Columbia School of Oratory. The school serves nearly 6,700 students enrolled in more than 60 undergraduate and graduate degree programs. In addition to programs in creative areas such as communication and writing, media and digital, and music and sound, Columbia provides several business management programs. Columbia College Chicago is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The Eskenazi School of Art, Architecture + Design (SOAAD) at Indiana University Bloomington (IU Bloomington) provides more than 30 degrees across 14 areas in art, architecture, design, and merchandising. Part of the College of Arts and Sciences, SOAAD also houses the McKinney Visiting Artist Series, which features workshops, critiques, lectures and gallery talks led by some of the nation’s most notable working artists.

Among the programs in the Eskenazi School are three options for graphic designers including the Studio Art BA, BFA, and MFA. Students in all programs may concentrate in Graphic Design. In addition to the McKinney Series, program benefits include interdisciplinary collaborations and cross-disciplinary workshops; internship opportunities at places such as Universal Studios, Amazon, Macy’s, and Urban Outfitters; and study abroad experiences in places such as Italy, Florence, and Japan. 

To gain work experience, all SOAAD students have opportunities to work with independent artists through the apprenticeship program, departments on campus, or at local businesses. Across programs, graphic design students will also work and in state-of-the-art facilities such as The Letterpress Studio; Student Technology Centers (STCs) equipped with Mac and PC workstations outfitted with Adobe Creative Cloud software; and Digital Printing Labs. 

Part of IU Bloomington Eskenazi School since the 1960s and housed in the Fine Arts Building, The Letterpress Studio is equipped with Vandercook presses, wood and metal fonts, an Anderson Vreeland Orbital X Platemaker, a bookbinding press, a guillotine paper cutter, and a foil stamper. BFA and MFA students have access to individual workspaces, with separate shared studio spaces. 

BA, BFA, and MFA Studio Art students in the Graphic Design concentration will explore imagery, systems, typography, and grids while creating posters, packaging, apps, logos, and other digital media. Course examples across undergraduate programs include Introduction to Art, Design, and Merchandising; Typography; Creative Core: 3D Design; Art History I-III; Printmaking Advanced Studio; Digital Art Survey and Practice; Interactive Multimedia; Computer Graphical Environments; and Visual Studies.  

MFA students will take courses such as Graduate Graphic Design; Graphic Design Problem Solving; Graphic Design Seminar; Graduate Topics in Graphic Design; and Graphic Design Advanced Studio Projects. 

The Studio Art BA program at Indiana University Bloomington culminates with a final portfolio of the students best work. The BFA program culminates with the BFA Thesis Exhibition in Grunwald Gallery of Art at IU Bloomington. During the final semester of the Studio Art MFA program, students will complete a thesis to be displayed in the Grunwald Gallery. The MFA Thesis Exhibition opens with a reception that allows students to present a summary of their work to the public. 

Graduates of the Studio Art: Graphic Design programs at Indiana University Bloomington are prepared to pursue design roles across industries. Recent graduates have gone on to become Graphic Designers, Marketing Specialists, Product Designers, UX Designers, Social Media Coordinators, Digital Production Artists, Illustrators, Gallery and Museum Assistants, freelance artists, and business owners.

Program alumni hold these titles and others at places such as The E.W. Scripps Company, PwC, International Center of Photography; Interbrand, MediaFuel, Phillips Collection, Eight Wonder Studio, Colliers International, Paragon Force, LGE Design Build, Wild Spirit Designs, and Whalar, Inc. 

Indiana University Bloomington is the flagship campus of Indiana University’s seven campus system, which serves approximately 90,100 degree-seeking students enrolled in more than 980 academic programs. Serving 47,005 students, IU Bloomington is the largest school in the system and one of the largest universities in the Midwest. Established in 1820, the school provides more than 550 academic programs across 16 degree-granting colleges and schools. Indiana University Bloomington is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

The College of Design at Iowa State University (Iowa State) is home to the College of Design. Serving around 2,000 students, the college provides dozens of majors, minors, and certificate programs across seven departments. The Department of Graphic Design (GD) provides BFA, MA, and MFA programs. The BFA is the only public Graphic Design BFA in the state of Iowa. 

In partnership with the Iowa State Virtual Reality Applications Center (VRAC), the GD Department also provides a unique dual degree program in graphic design and human-computer-interaction—the GD MFA/HCI MS. All programs in the Graphic Design Department are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). 

Other department features include graphic design practicums that provide real-world experience with clients such as the Special Olympics and Habitat for Humanity; internship opportunities with more than 125 companies, studios, and design firms; and study abroad experiences through the College of Design’s flagship international program, with studio facilities at Palazzo Cenci-Bolognetti—the historic center of Rome. Students also have opportunities to participate in faculty-led short-term abroad experiences in places such as Paris, Italy, France, the UK, Ghana, Sweden, Uganda, and Greece. 

The Graphic Design BFA at Iowa State University begins with the College of Design’s 31 credit hour Core Design Program (CDP). For one year, students will have opportunity to experiment with interdisciplinary work, collaborate in teams, and develop critical thinking skills. CDP course examples include Design Studio I; Critical Thinking and Communication; Design in Context; Digital Design Literacy; Drawing I; and Design Collaborative Seminar. 

Upon successful completion of the CDP, students will enter the professional three-year BFA program and begin taking courses and studios that explore both traditional and new graphic design media. Course examples include Graphic Design Studio I-V; Introduction to Web Programming; Typography I-II; International Perspectives; Graphic Design History; Design Ethics; Written, Oral, Visual, and Electronic Composition; History of Art I-II; and Graphic Materials and Processes. 

Throughout the BFA program, students will have the opportunity to travel to design centers across the U.S.; interact with visiting artists and lecturers; develop a market-ready portfolio of individual and group design projects; and attend the annual Design Career Fair. This “design majors only” event attracts more than 125 firms recruiting for jobs and internships. Iowa State College of Design alumni account for more than half of the recruiters in attendance. 

The Graphic Design BFA program at Iowa State culminates with the Graphic Design Capstone course. Graduates are prepared to pursue careers in advertising, magazine design, digital art, book design, packaging design, animated products design, web design, film and television, exhibition design, interactive media design, and newspaper design.
 

The MA in Experiential Graphic Design (MAxGD) requires 30 credit hours of study. The program is designed for students with little or no experience in graphic design. The MAxGD explores areas such as information design, wayfinding, interaction, placemaking, and exhibition design. Course examples include Graphic Design Theory; User Engagement; Graphic Design Graduate Studio I-II; Critical Media; Graphic Design for Behavioral Change; Studio: Exhibition Design; Audience and Perception; Studio: Wayfinding; and Design and Cultural Semiotics.

The ISU Graphic Design MFA is a terminal degree that requires a minimum of 60 credits to graduate. Students in the program may choose an elective focus area outside of graphic design to enhance the degree. Course examples for the program include Graphic Design for Behavioral Change; Critical Media; Introduction to Research Design; User Engagement; Graphic Design Theory; Audience and Perception; Design and Culture Semiotics; and Graphic Design Graduate Studio I-II. 

MFA students will work closely with faculty to complete the MFA Graduate Thesis. This culminating experience takes place over three studios including Thesis Preparation Studio and Graphic Design Graduate Studio I-II. 

The dual GD MFA/HCI MS is an interdisciplinary program allows students to study HCI, graphic design, game-based learning, virtual reality, and other disciplines. Course examples in addition to courses and the culminating experience for the MFA program, MFA/MS students will take HCI courses such as Visual Design for HCI; Computer Graphics and Geometric Modeling; Human Factors in Product Design; Introduction to Research Design; Python Application Development in HCI; and Evaluating Digital Learning Environments. Graduates of the MAxGD, MFA, and MFA/MS programs at Iowa State University are prepared to pursue advanced design, teaching, research, and consulting roles across industries.

For graduates receiving degrees from August 2020 to May 2021, 100% were employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation. 

Founded in 1858, Iowa State University is the nation’s first designated land-grant institution. The school serves approximately 30,180 students enrolled in more than 300 undergraduate majors and fields of study leading to a graduate or professional degree. The academic programs at Iowa State are housed across eight colleges, two schools, and 150 academic departments. Iowa State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Herron School of Art and Design at Indiana University Indianapolis (IU Indianapolis) provides 20 programs leading to a BA, BAE, BFA, MA, MDes, MFA, MS, or PhD. For students seeking careers in graphic design, the school has a Visual Communication Design (VCD) BFA program and a Communication Design MDes. The graduate program replaces the MFA in Communication Design. 

The VCD BFA program focuses on team projects and design research. All students in this multidisciplinary professional degree program will begin with the Foundation Studies year. This required component explores basic principles, materials, and techniques of 2-D and 3-D design, time-based media, visual culture, drawing, digital technology, color theory, and fabrication. During the first year, students will also have the opportunity to work with faculty, visiting artists, and designers to develop creative thinking and making skills. 

Course examples for the VCD BFA include Foundations of Graphic Design; Building and Making; Brand Identity Design; Drawing I-II; Studio Art and Technology; History of Visual Communication; Typography I-III; Design, Media, and Culture; Designing in Context; History of Art I-II; Information Design; and Kinetic Design. 

In addition to in-demand courses, VCD BFA students have access to minor options such as Studio Art and Technology, Book Arts, and Art History. Other program features include required professional practice internships with local and national businesses; access to eight VCD design studios, plus research and studio spaces including the Think It Make It Lab, book arts studio, woodshops, the Herron Art Library, and photo lighting studios; and dedicated workstations in a shared studio for juniors and seniors. 

The VCD BFA program at Indiana University Indianapolis culminates with the Capstone in Visual Communication Design course worth six credits. Final projects will be presented at the VCD Senior Exhibition. Graduates are prepared to pursue titles such as Graphic Designer, Interactive Designer, Book Designer, Art Director, Mobile App Designer, User Experience Designer, Package Designer, Motion Graphics Animator, Exhibit Designer, Typeface Designer, Broadcast Designer, and Brand Strategist. 

The Herron Communication Design MDes at IU Indianapolis is a 30 credit hour program that focuses on interdisciplinary teamwork on projects that explore product, environment, and service design. Throughout the program, students will attend seminars; take design method classes in ideating and prototyping; and engage in experimentation labs through the Collaborative Action Research in Design courses. Other course examples include Introduction to Design Research; Integrative Systems; Design Leadership; Design Thinking and Sensemaking; Design Facilitation; Design Methods for Framing Problems; and Design Management. 

In the final year of the Communication Design MDes, students will complete and present a thesis across five courses. Graduates are prepared to pursue leadership roles with businesses, institutions, organizations, and communities. Possible job titles include Senior Graphic Designer, Human-Centered Design Strategist, Design Thinking Specialist, Innovation Manager, Customer Experience Specialist, Design Manager, Innovation Consultant, Art Director, and Design Research Manager. 

Indiana University Indianapolis launched as an independent campus on July 1, 2024 after a decades-long partnership with Purdue University. The school serves more than 25,000 students, including more than 8,400 graduate and professional students. Programs include 375+ degrees and certificates housed across 16 colleges and schools. Indiana University Indianapolis is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC).

Columbus College of Art and Design (CCAD) has a Graphic Design program with two pathways: the BFA and a 15 credit hour minor. Consisting of 120 credit hours, the Graphic Design BFA begins with the First-Year Experience (FYE). This foundation year introduces students to the digital tools they will need throughout the program. Students will also spend time collaborating with peers on projects and problem-solving; taking liberal arts courses; and developing critical thinking and communication skills.

FYE course examples include 2D Creative Practices; 3D Making with Care; Systems of Drawing; What Drawing Can Do; and Collaboration. 

Upon successful completion of the FYE, BFA students will have opportunities to work on projects with local companies such as Airstream and Red, White & BOOM!; participate in the co-op program; engage with visiting artists; attend workshops and seminars; complete an internship; and participate in the American Advertising Federation sponsored event The Pitch, and the CCAD-based AdGraph Collective. 

All BFA students will also have access to state-of-the-art equipment, labs, and studios such as computer workstations with dual monitors equipped with industry-standard software; the Tad Jeffrey FabLab; the Video and Photography Studio; open-access computer labs; Image scanners and Wi-Fi enabled printers; and the CCAD Print Lab. 

Course examples for the CCAD Graphic Design program include Introduction to Graphic Design; History of Design & Applied Arts; The Craft of Copywriting; Graphic Design and Production; Design Concepts I-II; Advanced Branding Concepts; Integrated Design Implementation; Advanced Typographic Communication; Content Marketing Strategy; Interactive Design; and Digital Design Lab. 

To enhance and customize the degree, BFA students may add a minor or two. Examples include Animation 2D; Illustration; Product Design; Animation 3D; Design Research; Comics and Narrative Practice; Film and Video; Copywriting; Interior Architecture and Design; Art History; and Business. 

The Graphic Design BFA program at CCAD culminates with the Professional Practice in Graphic Design and Experiential Learning Capstone Design courses. Graduates are prepared to take on roles such as Graphic Designer, Art Director, Digital Designer, Brand Manager, Environmental Graphic Designer, Creative Director, Web Designer, Marketing Strategist, Production Designer, and Design Consultant. 

CCAD BFA graduates have been hired at places such as Leo Burnett worldwide, BBDO Worldwide, Arc Worldwide/Leo Burnett, Ogilvy & Mather, Young & Rubicam, American Greetings, Saatchi & Saatchi, IBM iX, E. & J. Gallo Winery, A&E Networks, Apple, Interbrand, and JPMorganChase. 

Columbus College of Art & Design was established in 1879 by five women. Back then, the school was known as Columbus Art School. Today, this independent, nonprofit art and design school serves approximately 1,010 students enrolled in more than 30 programs across 10+ departments. Columbus College of Art & Design is accredited by Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). CCAD is also affiliated with the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design (AICAD).