The graphic design industry is competitive, but qualified, well-trained professionals are needed in a variety of niche fields, like web design, software design and product development. Graphic designers may be self-employed, work for a firm or work in-house for a business or corporation. All of these positions require at least some professional training or higher level education, and designers who expect to be hired by a firm or company should have at least an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. There are many types of graphic design schools and programs available, including online programs, vocational and associate programs, and traditional, four-year bachelor’s degree programs. In all of these programs, students will develop skills and master concepts like typography, logo design, package design, branding and product design, print and editorial design, typography history, digital techniques, and more.

Graphic design programs are offered as certificate programs, associate’s, BA, BS and MA degrees, and Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees and Master of Fine Arts degrees. Fine arts degrees require students to take more graphic design courses and complete more studio or internship hours, as they emphasize the creative aspect of the field more than BA programs do. Certificate programs can be a great choice for professionals who want to give their business, computer design or IT career a boost by specializing in an in-demand field. They are also ideal for graphic designers who already possess expertise in the area but want some kind of degree to help their chances of applying for a job and attracting clients. These certificates can be completed in much less time than an associate’s or bachelor’s degree and cover topics in the graphic design fundamentals, like color, typography, composition and more.

Graphic design programs are sometimes referred to as media arts programs and can be found through a school’s communications or computer departments at a traditional university. Students in these programs and in programs offered through graphic design schools will learn cutting edge techniques in 3D imaging, interactive design and new media design, as well as the graphic design basics. Schools that only offer degrees in graphic, game, digital and web design will probably have the most valuable offerings of different majors and internship connections.

Top Online Programs

A.A. in Information Technology B.S. in Web Development B.S. in Communications	University of Phoenix – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – The University of Phoenix prepares students for the rapidly evolving multi-million dollar industry of World Wide Web designing and interactive media. The programs offered at the institute teaches students everything from developing their skills in drawing and design to learning programming and scripting techniques.
B.F.A. in Web Design A.A.B.A. in Visual Communications B.F.A. in Digital Design	American InterContinental University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – For those interested in the exciting career of web design, American InterContinental Universitye will help them prepare with their staff of knowledgeable and skilled professionals who have had prior experience working in the web design industry. The program is a great choice for those seeking to pursue a career in web design, web development, graphic design, graphic art, or web publications designer.
B.S. in Web Development B.S. in Communication A.A.S. in Information Technology	Kaplan University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - Kaplan University offers a web design degree that could be completed in as few as 12 months. This allows students to earn their degree at an accelerated pace and be on their way to advancing in their career in web design.
B.S. in Web Design A.S. in Web Design Diploma in Web Design	The Art Institute of Pittsburgh – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - The Art Institute of Pittsburgh provides students with the opportunity to learn the latest software and programming applications to compete in the highly competitive, yet rewarding, web design industry. They place special emphasis on the practical application of web development skills and how to effectively use them for organizations.
B.A. in Visual Communications B.A. in Art B.A. in Art History	Ashford University – Bachelor's Degree - Dedicated to helping intellectual, professional, and creative individuals, Ashford University offers one of the best web design degrees online. Their web design courses are very convenient and achieveablefor students who have restricting schedules.
A.S. in Web Graphic Design B.C.I.S. in Web Development B.C.I.S. in Web Game Programming	DeVry University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – DeVry University has helped thousands of students apply practical skills to produce high-quality graphics and develop many types of graphic media. They are ideal for many students because of their affordable and convenient programs available online.
A.S. in Web Design B.F.A. in Graphic Design B.A. in Fashion Merchandising	International Academy of Design & Technology – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - Since 1977, the International Academy of Design and Technology Online has helped thousands of students prepare for a career in which their creativity and talents are respected and valued. Their affordable courses allow individuals with a passion for web design to advance in their career.
B.S. in Web Design & Multimedia B.S. in Visual Communications A.S. in Graphic Design & Multimedia	Westwood College – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – Westwood College's programs consists of courses in design theory, web design, imaging and advanced web technology to help students build valuable portfolios for potential employers. They offer their programs completely online, allowing flexibility for working individuals or individuals with other time contraints.