| Ranking | School | City |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minneapolis College of Art and Design | Minneapolis |
| 2 | University of Minnesota Twin Cities | Minneapolis |
| 3 | Minnesota State University Moorhead | Moorehead |
| 4 | University of Minnesota Duluth | Duluth |
| 5 | Minnesota State University | Mankato |
Our 2025 ranking of the top 5 graphic design school programs in Minnesota. For an explanation of the ranking criteria, click here.
The Graphic Design Program at Minneapolis College of Art and Design (MCAD) has Graphic Design BFA, minor and certificate options; a Graphic and Web Design MA; and an interdisciplinary MFA. All students benefit from hands-on training through internships and collaborative client projects; study abroad experiences in places such the UK, Italy, and Japan; and participation in the local creative community, consisting of art centers, galleries, and design nonprofits. MCAD art and design alumni can be found at places such as Amazon, Netflix, Disney, The New York Times, Starbucks, 3M, Target, and General Mills.
The College of Design at University of Minnesota Twin Cities (UMTC) has several paths to study graphic design. Options include the Graphic Design BFA, and a Graphic Design track for MFA, MS, and PhD students. Across programs, students have opportunities to participate in workshops, advanced studios, collaborative design projects, internships, and study abroad experiences. The BFA culminates with a public exhibition. Graduate programs culminate with a thesis or dissertation. Graduates of the Graphic Design programs at UMTC are routinely hired at places such as US Bank, John Deere, and Perkins & Will.
The School of Media Arts, Design and Entertainment at Minnesota State University Moorhead (MSUM) is home to the Graphic and Interactive Design BFA and minor programs. Both options are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). BFA students can concentrate in Graphic Design. Other program highlights include access to state-of-the-art technology and software; individual studio space; workshops and seminars; and internships. The BFA program culminates with the senior project, exhibition, and portfolio. With a 100% placement rate, graduates can be found at places such as Microsoft, Amazon, Deloitte, JPMorganChase, Adidas, Blue Cross Blue Shield, US Bank, and 3M.
The School of Fine Arts at University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) provides two paths to study graphic design. Options include the Graphic Design BFA with a Studio or Marketing emphasis, and the Marketing and Graphic Design (MGD) BBA. Both programs feature courses led by industry professionals; access to state-of-the-art production facilities; and internships at places such as Duluth Art Institute (DAI), the YMCA, and Giant Voices. The MGD BBA is the first program of its kind. Provided in collaboration with Labovitz School of Business and Economics (LSBE), the BBA has a 100% placement rate. BFA and BBA graduates have been hired by the Minnesota Timberwolves and at places such as US Bank, Target Corporation, Boston Scientific, 3M, American Family Insurance, 10 Thousand Design, and Medtronic.
The College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Minnesota State University, Mankato (Minnesota State Mankato) is accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). Within the school is an Art BFA program with a Graphic Design emphasis, and a Graphic Design certificate that cover digital technologies, interaction design, visual identity, and publication design. Across programs, students have access to state-of-the-art studios, labs, installation workspaces, and several galleries to display works. Other program benefits include internships; mentoring by design professionals; opportunities to study abroad in places such as Japan and Ireland; and participation in design-focused activities through the AIGA. Potential employers for graduates include Mayo Clinic, Taylor Corporation, 3M, Medtronic, Best Buy, Walker Art Center, Hormel, Target, Brandt Holdings Company, and ISG.
