Graphic design is no longer seen as “the add-on” of the product. A well understood graphic design is the same product that adds value to people’s lives. As a graphic designer who wants to add value and advance in the field, a master’s degree will teach you the relevant skills you need. It makes more sense when you earn your master’s degree in graphic design program from one of the best schools online.
An online graphic design master’s degree prepares students for careers through design theory, skills training, and professional development while giving them the flexibility and convenience they need.
Just like the master’s degree in graphic design taught on campus, an online option also prepares students for a wide range of careers relating to artistic design and computer technologies.
So, this article has been written to provide you with vital information on the online master’s degree in graphic design. Also, you will get to know more about the best schools to earn a master’s degree in graphic design, their requirements, and cost.
Take a quick look at the table of contents below.
Table of contents
- What Is Graphic Design?
- Why Study A Degree In Graphic Design?
- What Is A Masters In Graphic Design?
- Why Pursue An Online Master’s Degree In Graphic Design?
- Who Can Pursue An Online Master’s Degree In Graphic Design?
- What Are The Requirements For An Online Masters In Graphic Design?
- What Is The Cost For An Online Masters Degree In Graphic Design?
- How Long Does It Take To Complete A Masters Program In Graphic Design Online?
- Which Schools Are The Best For Online Masters In Graphic Design Programs?
- FAQs On 10 Best Online Masters In Graphic Design Programs | Schools, Requirements, Cost
- Conclusion
- AUTHOR’S RECOMMENDATION
What Is Graphic Design?
Graphic design is a craft that creates visual content to communicate messages. It may include the use of images, words, basic graphic forms and the overall layout of the visual design to convey a message or feeling. In fact, you will find graphics designs everywhere from your morning tea box to ordering your transport.
According to AIGA, the professional association for design, graphic design is “the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content.”
From Wikipedia, Graphic design is the process of visual communication and problem-solving through the use of typography, photography, iconography, and illustration.
From the definitions above, we can say that it is the practice of creating visually interesting imagery that defines the world around us.
Who Is A Graphic Designer?
A graphic designer is a design professional that creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, as well as captivate consumers. Graphic designers are also referred to as graphic artists or communication designers.
Learn How To Become A Graphic Designer With The Skills, Tools, Salary, Cost, Schools
Why Study A Degree In Graphic Design?
Basically, studying graphic design is a great choice for creative people who like playing with colors, forms, and images and who want to create great visual content to communicate messages.
One of the most significant benefits of being a graphic designer is the numerous job options. You can grab different opportunities that will earn you a good amount of money.
Also, a bachelor’s or master’s degree in graphic design will teach you all there is to know about typography, page layout techniques, user interface (UI), user experience (UX), and industry-specific software.
To spice it up a little bit, learning graphics design is easy especially with the use of design toll kits like Corel Draw and QuarkXPress.
Read on for more reasons why you should consider a degree in graphic design.
Reasons Why You Should Study Graphic Design
Here are some benefits you enjoy from studying graphic design:
- You get paid for being creative. Basically, graphic designers express their creativity every day. So, if you’re a creative type, with a good eye for detail, the graphic design gives you the opportunity to bring your ideas to life.
- You make a real difference. Every design project you do from a small flyer to a major advertising campaign has the potential to make a difference. So whatever you design, the ability to create change is a privilege. Ensure you hone your visual communication skills at college and use them to make an impact.
- The world is your oyster. With a pencil, mac, laptop and the right software, a designer can work anywhere in the world.
- Be your own boss. As a graphic designer, there are lots of opportunities for you to work for yourself, from freelancing to setting up your own agency. With marketing and artistic skills, you can launch your own commercial brands as well as promote your own product ranges.
- Exciting job opportunities. Graphic designers are always in demand, especially those with digital skills. In the past year, there has been a significant increase in the amount of in-house designer jobs with brands such as Apple, Google, Specsavers, and NSPCC as they are investing in their own talent. Also, creative agencies are always on the lookout for fresh new designers.
- Make your mark on the world. As a designer, you will be creating unique work you can be proud of and sharing it with the world. Also, your work could potentially be seen by generations to come.
- Work across a range of industries. Every industry needs effective visual communication; hence, the need for good designers. So, as a graphic designer, there are endless possibilities for you.
What Is A Masters In Graphic Design?
A master’s degree in graphic design is a program that examines the artistry, technology, and technique associated with creating graphics digitally.
A typical master’s program in the graphic design curriculum includes a thorough study of design history and theory, as well as advanced study in design concepts such as typography and design research.
This program primarily aims at developing students’ ability to create graphics, and as such, its courses are often highly practical.
Some of the courses you might expect include:
- Introduction to Photoshop
- Introduction to Illustrator
- Color Theory
- Graphic Design Compositions
- Commercial Design Techniques.
Types Of Masters Degree In Graphic Design
There are two graduate degrees for students of graphic design:
- Masters of Arts (MA) in Graphic Design
- Masters of Fine Arts (MFA) in Graphic Design
The MA in graphic design is a theoretical and academically advanced degree, while the MFA in graphic design is the pinnacle professional degree for graphic artists and related professionals.
Another distinction is that the MA student focuses on a singular academic specialization, sometimes in preparation for teaching. On the other hand, the MFA student is free to explore a wide range of skill applications and elective fields.
Degree requirements include completion of a research or theoretical study for the MA in graphic design and a creative dissertation or portfolio for MFA students.
One similarity is that both degrees take from two to three years to complete, depending on the programs and graphic design schools.
Why Pursue An Online Master’s Degree In Graphic Design?
Here some reasons why you should consider to earn your master’s degree in graphic design online:
- Just like every other online degree, an online master’s in graphic design program gives you the flexibility and convenience you need.
- An online master’s degree in design can prepare students for a wide range of careers relating to artistic design and computer technologies.
- As a professional, an online master’s graphic design program enables you to create a balance between work and studies.
- A master’s degree program in graphic design will increase marketability and improve the attractiveness of a resume.
- An online master’s degree program allows students to attend the top programs in the country without relocating.
- Also, graduates with master’s in graphic design online degrees can pursue leadership roles such as art director, marketing manager, and product designer.
Who Can Pursue An Online Master’s Degree In Graphic Design?
Anyone can pursue a master’s degree in graphic design provided you have a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or any related field.
Here is breakdown of those who can pursue a masters in graphic design:
- Those who want to enter and professionalize the world of graphic design.
- Professionals in creative sectors who want to acquire advanced knowledge of graphic design.
- Those who want to make graphic design their profession.
- Those students of design, advertising, graphic arts, and fine arts who have completed their studies and seek to expand their graphic training.
What Are The Requirements For An Online Masters In Graphic Design?
The basic requirement for an online master’s degree program in graphic design is a bachelor’s degree. However other requirements may include the submission of the following:
- Letters of recommendation
- A portfolio of previous work
- GRE scores
- Personal statement
- Transcript
What Is The Cost For An Online Masters Degree In Graphic Design?
There is no specific cost for an online master’s degree in graphic design program as the cost differs among schools and programs.
The best source of information regarding tuition and fees is the admissions office at the school you are planning to attend.
Therefore, intending students are advised to look up their chosen schools and program for the tuition fee and other costs involved in earning a master’s degree in graphic design online.
Also, request a formal summary of expenses if you want a full rundown of the cost of this program.
Check out these 10 Free Graphic Design Online Courses With Certificates In 2024
How Long Does It Take To Complete A Masters Program In Graphic Design Online?
Most online graphic design master’s degree programs take about one to two years to complete and require at least 30 credits. However, the completion time depends on the program’s structure and content.
Which Schools Are The Best For Online Masters In Graphic Design Programs?
To effectively rank the best school for online masters in graphic design programs, we used the following factors.
For your degree to count, it’s of essence you attend an accredited college or university. In line with this, the accreditation of each online school counts in making it one of the best or top schools for a master’s degree in graphic design.
This is specifically the rate or percentage at which the school accepts or admits students. Most top universities are known for having low acceptance rates. This applies majorly to schools that offer an online master’s degree in graphic design in the USA.
This takes cognizance of the recognition given to the school by various ranking bodies.
Here is a list of the best schools for online masters in graphic design programs:
- Quinnipiac University
- Liberty University
- Savannah College of Art and Design
- ESDESIGN – Escuela Superior de Diseño de Barcelona
- Falmouth University Flexible Learning
- Edinburgh College of Art
- Campus Universitario Europeo – CUE Spain
- LABASAD – Barcelona School of Arts & Design
- UNIR – Mexico
- Instituto Artes Visuales
Quinnipiac University
Online Master’s in Interactive Media and Communications
Founded in 1929, Quinnipiac University is a private university in Hamden, Connecticut, USA offering over 70 undergraduate and graduate programs. QU Online, an online division of the university established in 2001 offers a variety of flexible programs, including an online master’s in interactive media and communications.
The master of science in interactive media and communications basically prepares students to think critically and creatively leverage multimedia assets to become effective digital storytellers
The 30-credit program trains students to conduct research, solve problems, develop strategies, and produce professional media.
Students complete 9 credits of core courses and 21 elective credits. Electives cover topics such as:
- Visual design
- Web technologies
- Content strategy
- Visual storytelling.
The degree culminates with students completing a professional portfolio that they can use for job applications following graduation.
To apply, you need a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited school. Also, you must submit a resume, two recommendation letters, a 500-word personal statement, a portfolio of work, a 1,000-word original writing piece, and official transcripts.
Quinnipiac was ranked #7 among LinkedIn’s 2014 analysis of best schools for media professionals.
Furthermore, Quinnipiac University has a 74% acceptance rate, a 77% graduation rate, and is regionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE).
Savannah College of Art and Design
Online M.A. in Graphic Design and Visual Experience
Located in Savannah, Georgia; Atlanta, USA, the Savannah College of Art and Design is a private, nonprofit institution. It offers over 40 certificate and degree programs, including one of the best online graphic design master’s programs.
The online master’s of art in graphic design program uses asynchronous courses, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.
This 45-credit master of art in graphic design covers topics such as:
- Design research
- Ideation models and processes
- Visual analysis of static content
- Professional practices for visual design.
Students also learn from representatives of top digital firms, like Airbnb, Habro, and Google. Learners who earn this master’s in graphic design online culminate the degree with an internship, SCADpro collaboration, or two 500-700-level elective courses.
Graduates of this program can work as graphic designers, brand designers, mobile app designers, and publication designers.
To apply for this online MA graphic design program, you need a bachelor’s degree. Also, you must submit a portfolio, two letters of recommendation, a resume, transcripts, and a statement of purpose. Applicants can submit GRE scores to bolster their applications, this is, however, optional.
Furthermore, Savannah College of Art and Design has a 93% acceptance rate and a 68% graduation rate. It is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCC).
Liberty University
Online Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design (MFA)
Founded in 1971, Liberty University (LU) is a private, Christian university in the USA. It offers industry-relevant undergraduate and graduate programs grounded in Christian principles. LU offers several of its programs online, including a master of fine arts in graphic design.
The 60-credit, online master of fine arts in graphic design degree program takes two years of full-time study to complete.
Courses here use an asynchronous format, giving students the flexibility to balance their studies with professional and personal responsibilities.
The students take 10 core courses, such as advanced typography and interactive design, as well as three art history and theory courses and three electives. The curriculum features courses such as:
- Publication design
- Interactive design
- The history of graphic design.
The program also includes a 180-hour internship that allows students to apply what they learn to a practical setting. Students culminate the degree with a professional portfolio and oral examination.
Also, LU has a generous transfer policy, allowing students to transfer up to 30 credits toward the degree.
Graduates of this online MFA graphic design degree program can work in industries such as advertising, animation, public relations, sales, and business.
To apply, you need an accredited bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA. You must also submit an artist statement, portfolio, official college transcripts, and proof of English proficiency.
Furthermore, Liberty University is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
ESDESIGN – Escuela Superior de Diseño de Barcelona
Online Master in Graphic Design
Located in Spain, the Barcelona School of Design (ESDESIGN) is the first 100% online design school, a meeting point where neither kilometers nor days nor hours matter. It is part of the Planeta Formación y Universidades, an institution with over 100, 000 students based in 114 countries.
It is an institution created with the aim of responding to the need for training of design professionals, with the ability to anticipate trends, analyze emerging social situations and needs, and provide the most innovative solutions.
Basically, the Master in Graphic Design aims to enter the world of graphic design by proposing a linear journey starting with the most basic design concepts (typography, a graphic sign, rhetoric, etc.). It continues through the study of each of the disciplines on which the foundations of the world of work related to design are established.
These disciplines include:
- Branding
- Editorial Design
- Packaging Design
- Digital Design
- Signage or Way-finding Design.
ESDESIGN Online Master in Graphic Design will allow us to master the graphic language and the codes most used in the design industry, to apply it to the rest of the disciplines of the design world: editorial, packaging, and digital.
The program enables the student to respond to the multifaceted reality of the design world, based on a linear journey. Also, it takes about 12 months to complete.
To apply for the ESDESIGN online graphic design masters program, you will need a bachelor’s degree in design, communication, and advertising, fine arts, or any related field.
Falmouth University Flexible Learning
Online Masters of Art in Graphic Design
Located in Falmouth and Penryn, Cornwall, England, Uk, Falmouth University is a specialist University for the creative industries. It offers various flexible learning programs online including a master of art degree in graphic design.
Falmouth University’s flexible online MA in Graphic Design will help you establish your own graphic design practice against the backdrop of today’s creative industries and contemporary visual culture.
The program cover topics in the folling courses:
- Contemporary Practice
- History and Futures
- Studio and Entrepreneurship
- Application and Interactions
- Major Project
Also, it takes about 1 to 2 years to complete an online Master of Arts degree program in graphic design at Falmouth University. The annual tuition fee is about 5,896 EUR/year.
To apply, you need an honors degree at 2:2 level or equivalent in areas such as Graphic Design, Visual Communication, Illustration, Photography, Fashion, Textiles, Animation, Film, or Fine Art. In addition, you need at least an 88 TOEFL score or a 6.5 IELTS.
Furthermore, according to Unirank, Falmouth University is officially recognized and accredited by the Privy Privy Council of the United Kingdom.
Edinburgh College of Art
Online MSc in Digital Media Design
Located in Edinburgh, Scotland, UK, Edinburgh College of Art is a vibrant and creative community of students and academics. It is a place of experimentation, exploration, intellectual stimulation, and exciting collaborations.
Edinburgh College of Art an international reputation for the quality of our teaching and research across the disciplines of art, design, architecture and landscape architecture, history of art, and music.
The Digital Media Design (Online Learning) program at the University of Edinburgh offers the best of studio-based design learning in an online context.
This innovative online program is for people interested in practically exploring the complex relationship between visual or sonic design and digital media. It also provides the ideal balance between a busy life and studying towards an internationally recognized graduate qualification, without the disruption or expense of relocation.
It takes about 1 to 2 years to complete an online MSC degree in Digital Media Design program at Edinburgh College of Art. The annual tuition is 13,683 EUR/year.
To apply, you need a UK 2:1 honors degree or its international equivalent. Also, you must submit a portfolio as part of your application. Note that you must have at least 100 TOEFL score, 7 of IELTS, or a PTE academic to apply.
Furthermore, according to Unirank, Edinburgh College of Art is officially recognized and accredited by the Privy Privy Council of the UK. It is currently ranked #11 on QS University Arts and Humanities Ranking.
Campus Universitario Europeo – CUE Spain
Online Masters in Graphic Design
Located in Spain, the European University Campus (Campus Universitario Europeo) is an entity that works to achieve high-quality training. It undoubtedly aims to bring accessible and affordable training to anyone interested in training at an elite Campus, one of the most prestigious in Europe, in terms of Continuous Training refers.
The CUE Professional Master in Graphic Design will equip students with all the tools nec-esarias for the realization of graphics such as posters, corporate bodies, advertisements, magazines, and so on.
It takes about 6 months to complete the CUE Professional Master in Graphic Design online. The tuition fee is EUR 1,695.
Note that the degree is obtained after submitting and approving the practical cases of all the evaluable areas of the program.
To apply, you must have a diploma or be licensed, be a specialist in the areas of Marketing and Advertising, or be a Technician.
Furthermore, Campus Universitario Europeo (CUE) is accredited by the EEE, European Excellence Education, which ensures the correct compliance of the educational quality standards towards the students.
LABASAD – Barcelona School of Arts & Design
Online Master in Graphic Design and Digital Environments
Located in Spain, Labasad, Online Superior School of Art and Design of Barcelona, is a reference to international online training specialized in design and art, with the aim of training professionals developing their creativity and innovation.
The LABASAD Online Master in Graphic Design and Digital Environments consists of a total of 12 subjects that make up the 3 modules of the Master.
In each of the modules, you will learn to use the essential tools that a graphic designer needs. With the help of these tools and the content that is developed, you should be able to carry out the Master’s projects that will become part of your professional portfolio.
In addition, throughout the Master, students will have Masterclass. These masterclasses are by renowned design professionals who will tell you about their experience, value, and knowledge in the field.
This is a breakdown of the curriculum:
- Corporate Visual Identity And Design – Module 1
- Editorial And Visual Design – Module 2
- Web Design, Architecture, And Modulation – Module 3
- Masterclass
It takes about 6 months to complete the CUE Professional Master in Graphic Design online. The tuition fee is EUR 4,800.
UNIR – Mexico
Online Master’s Degree in Design and Management of Technological Projects
UNIR México (the International University of La Rioja in Mexico) is an educational institution of a private nature and official validity, approved by the Secretary of Public Education (SEP) since 2013.
UNIR offers the best online bachelor’s and master’s degree programs (including the online master’s degree in design and management of technological projects) with European university quality.
This online Master’s Degree in Design and Management of Technological Projects is aimed at people with studies related to areas of engineering, environmental technology, technological projects, and administration of an organization.
With an online Master’s Degree in Design and Management of Technology Projects, you get to broaden your professional career, as it will train you as a project manager. It also trains you as a manager in positions of responsibility oriented to design, direction, and implementation of a technological nature.
With this Online Master’s Degree, you can combine your professional and personal life with European university quality studies thanks to the UNIR Mexico methodology. You will have a personal tutor and live and deferred online classes so you can visualize them as many times as you wish.
The 78 credit curriculum covers the following areas:
- Technological Processes
- Innovation and Technological Management methodology
- Strategic Management
- Ecosystems around Technology
- Formulation of Technological Projects
It takes about 18 months to complete the UNIR Master’s Degree in Design and Management of Technology Projects online.
To apply, you need a Total Certificate of Studies and Bachelor’s Degree in areas related to Industrial, Civil, Architect, Environmental, Systems, Software Development, or Chemical Engineering. Also, degrees in Environmental Technology, Technological Projects, and/or Administration of the Organizations count.
Furthermore, UNIR is accredited by the European Higher Education Area (EHEA) as it backs study here by its quality and validity seal.
Instituto Artes Visuales
Online Masters in Graphic Design
Founded in 1994, the Institute of Visual Arts (Instituto Artes Visuales) is a private institution dedicated to specialized training in areas of graphic design, multimedia creation, the development of communication for Web and motion graphics.
The Master in Digital Graphic Design is a postgraduate training basically designed for all those who want to know professionally the field of graphic design, both professional tools and theoretical concepts that every designer must master.
It takes about 12 months to complete the Instituto Artes Visuales Master in Graphic Design online. The tuition fee is EUR 2,850.
You may also like to see the Best Graphic Design Schools In The World.
FAQs On 10 Best Online Masters In Graphic Design Programs | Schools, Requirements, Cost
Graphic design is a craft that creates visual content to communicate messages. It may include the use of images, words, basic graphic forms and the overall layout of the visual design to convey a message or feeling.
A graphic designer is a design professional that creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, as well as captivate consumers.
A Master in Graphic Design is a program that examines the artistry, technology, and technique associated with creating graphics digitally.
1. A bachelor’s degree in graphic design or any related field
2. Letters of recommendation
3. A portfolio of previous work
4. GRE scores
5. Personal statement
6. Transcript
There is no specific cost for an online master’s degree in graphic design program as the cost differs among schools and programs.
However, the best source of information regarding tuition and fees is the admissions office at the school you are planning to attend.
Conclusion
You don’t have to be a designer: if you aspire to design, manage, develop software, teach, or research in or around the creative industries, this program could be for you.
An online graphic design master’s degree will prepare you for careers through design theory, skills training, and professional development. With a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related course, you can pursue one.
Go through the schools above and apply for those you meet their requirements.
Reference
- AyshireCollegeBlog – 10 reasons why you should study Graphic Design and Visual Communication
- OnlineStudies – Online Masters in Graphic Design 2023
- TheBestSchools – Best Online Master’s Programs in Graphic Design
- GradSchoolHub – 10 Best Online Master’s Degrees in Graphic Design
- BestColleges – The Best Online Master’s in Graphic Design Programs
- StudyPortalOnlineCourses – Online Master’s Degrees in Graphic Design in the United Kingdom
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