Affordable Online Graphic Design Degrees in Virginia 2025

Studying graphic design prepares students for careers involving photo editing, web design, and the creation of brochures, book covers, and more. These programs build students' problem-solving, critical thinking, and technical skills as they prepare for graphic design roles.

If you're interested in studying this field but want to take online courses that fit your budget, you can find low-cost online graphic design degrees nationwide. In Virginia, schools like Regent University and Liberty University can help you earn an online degree in graphic design without breaking the bank.

Below, we'll discuss affordable online colleges in Virginia and others nationwide that offer graphic design degrees. Our frequently asked questions provide more details about these programs, including admission requirements and career opportunities.

Affordable Online Graphic Design Degree Programs in Virginia

Students who don't want to take on-campus courses can find affordable online options. Explore the following list to discover online colleges that accept FAFSA and offer additional ways to save money on an online graphic design degree.

1. Regent University

Regent University offers an online Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in graphic design for students who want to become web designers, Photoshop artists, or art directors. Coursework teaches corporate branding, design fundamentals, digital photography, and how to use design software.

Students attending full-time pay $395 per credit hour or $4,740 per semester; part-time students pay $450 per credit hour or $2,700 per semester. Financial aid is available to help reduce school tuition costs and other expenses.

2. Liberty University

The 100% online BFA from Liberty University helps students graduate in less time with short eight-week courses and the ability to transfer up to 75% of the degree total. Learners build their knowledge of visual communication, graphic design, digital imaging, and more.

Liberty University's undergraduate students pay $390 per credit hour for full-time enrollment and $455 per credit hour to attend part-time. The school offers free electronic textbooks saving students up to $2,000 annually. Grants, scholarships, and other financial aid can also lower costs.

Other Affordable Online Graphic Design Programs

Do you want to explore online schools outside of Virginia? Review the following universities to find affordable graphic design programs in other states.

1. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University's online Bachelor of Arts (BA) in graphic design and media arts teaches students the latest design technologies and presentation strategies. Online courses explore digital design tools, user interfaces, and user experience.

Full-time and part-time students pay $330 per credit, regardless of residency. The school offers a generous transfer credit policy and the ability to save by earning credit hours for examinations (e.g., CLEP or Sophia Learning), military training, or certificates.

2. Lindenwood University

Lindenwood University offers a 100% online art and design degree students can earn as a BA or BFA. Core and major coursework focus on web design and Adobe certification in Photoshop, while electives explore digital photography and printmaking. The program also includes an internship and capstone.

In-state and out-of-state students can earn this degree for $495. Filling out the FAFSA form qualifies students for federal aid, state grants, and other financial assistance.

3. Rasmussen University

The online Bachelor of Science in graphic design at Rasmussen explores design thinking, graphic arts, interactive publishing, motion graphics, and more. This graphic design bachelor's degree program also prepares students to earn Adobe certifications.

Learners pay $250 per credit hour and can save by earning college credits through transfer, military training, professional certification, or self-directed assessments. To enroll, students must hold an associate degree from an accredited institution or have completed college credits.

4. University of Maryland Global Campus

The University of Maryland Global Campus offers an online bachelor's degree in graphic communication. Learners gain design skills and learn to present their design projects in a quality portfolio. Courses also teach digital media, motion graphics, and professional branding.

Online students attending UMGC pay $499 when attending as out-of-state learners. Financial aid options like the Maryland Resident Success Grant and President's Grant can lower tuition costs.

5. Arizona State University

The Bachelor of Science in Design in graphic design at Arizona State University teaches students the skills to excel in motion graphics, book design, typography, and beyond. Online graphic design courses explore visual communication, interaction design theory, and exhibition design.

Non-residents attending full-time pay about $7,479 per semester. Filling out the FAFSA form qualifies students for grants and other financial aid to help lower school costs. About 80% of all ASU students receive financial aid and scholarships to make tuition more affordable.

Our Selection Criteria

Our team selected the colleges and universities in the rank list above using a rigorous vetting process. Each institution met the criteria for delivering high-quality education:

• Accredited: The schools have received accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education, Higher Learning Commission, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Reputable: We verified that the institutions in this list are respected schools, considering factors such as acceptance rates, student outcomes, and graduation rates.
• Affordability: These colleges and universities make earning a degree more affordable by accepting financial aid, offering lower tuition rates, or granting credits for transfer, exams, and training.

FAQs About Online Graphic Design Degrees

Online graphic design degrees are flexible learning options for students who want to prepare for top careers. Learn more about these programs by exploring the FAQs below.

What Is the Average Cost of an Affordable Online Graphic Design Degree Program?

One of Virginia's most affordable online graphic design programs is the BFA from Liberty University, which costs $390 per credit for full-time enrollment. However, costs vary from program to program based on factors like residency, enrollment status, and degree type.

You can lower degree costs by searching for online colleges that accept transfer credits, financial aid, or credits for work experience and exams. Also, search for online schools with lower tuition rates.

What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Graphic Design Degree Program?

Gaining admission to an online graphic design program starts with applying. When submitting your application, you might need to provide your high school transcript indicating your GPA, test scores (i.e., ACT/SAT), resume, or personal statement. The best way to determine admission requirements for an online graphic design degree is to request information from the school.

Where Can I Work With an Affordable Online Graphic Design Degree?

After attaining an online education in graphic design, you can pursue roles in web development, multimedia design, print media, social media, and more. Common roles for graphic design students include the following:

• motion graphics designer
• brand identity designer
• user interface or user experience designer
• freelance illustrator
• web designer

Students can also pursue careers as art directors. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment for this profession is projected to grow 5% from 2023 to 2033 with more than 11,000 openings expected over the decade.

Discover Online Programs and Enroll Today

Are you ready to begin your journey toward an exciting career in graphic design? Explore the accredited degree programs offered by schools on Learn.org today. Contact one of these colleges to learn how their programs can help you reach your career goals.