Best Online Graphic Design Degrees in New York 2025

From packaging design to digital design, graphic designers use their critical thinking and creative skills to craft visual communication solutions. To enter this field, you will need a quality education, most likely an undergraduate degree.

The best online bachelor's in graphic design degrees teach students problem-solving skills within the context of hands-on design projects. Several low-cost online graphic design degrees are available and offer academically rigorous programs.

Are you ready to begin a graphic design career? Explore the top online graphic design degree programs below.

Best Online Graphic Design Degree Programs in New York

Unfortunately, most accredited New York schools do not offer graphic design degrees or related programs online, except for Empire State University. For New York residents, several on-campus programs are available. In addition, students may access online degrees located outside of the state.

1. Empire State University

Graphic design students may earn an online Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree from Empire State University, which is a part of the State University of New York. Program courses include web design, graphic design, and digital photography.

Students develop digital media projects to include in their portfolios. Graduates move on to careers as graphic designers, information designers, art directors, and more.

Other Top Online Graphic Design Programs

While there are limited options for pursuing an online graphic design degree in New York, students may enroll at several online accredited schools outside of the state. Let's explore some of the top graphic design programs available for online learners.

Youngstown State University

At Youngstown State University, online learners may pursue a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in graphic design. Students learn basic design principles and develop technological and hands-on skills.

The program prepares students for various design roles, including user experience (UX) design, graphic design, and packaging design. Graduates complete design projects to showcase in their portfolios to apply for these positions.

Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online bachelor's degree in graphic design. The program is rooted in fundamental design principles.

Students take visual communication courses, such as:

• interaction design
• motion graphics
• animation
• branding

The program includes collaborative team opportunities and feedback from instructors. Graduates are ready for a variety of careers or further higher education.

Bellevue University

At Bellevue University, graphic design students can enroll in an online bachelor's degree program. Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the graphic design program is academically rigorous with coursework spanning the visual arts.

Program participants learn popular technology like Adobe software and take online courses, such as:

• typography
• identity design
• interactivity basics
• web design

For those seeking accelerated online graphic design degrees, Bellevue accepts transfer credits to help students complete their degrees faster.

Liberty University

Liberty University offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in graphic design. As a graduate program, applicants must meet certain admissions requirements, including a 3.0 GPA from an accredited bachelor's degree program.

The program includes real-world learning experiences, where students gain critical design skills necessary for career development. In particular, students must complete a 180-hour internship under the supervision of a graphic design professional.

Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University offers a fully online graphic design degree. Industry experts created this custom curriculum, which features interactive and hands-on coursework.

Graphic design students submit projects and receive constructive feedback from peers and instructors through the online Learning Management System. A dedicated student support team is available to help ensure student success.

Southern New Hampshire University

At Southern New Hampshire University, students may earn a BA through a 100% online learning format. Students may choose from two concentrations: UX design and web design.

The program features graphic design courses, such as:

• prototyping in UX design
• information architecture
• collaboration in UX design

Graduates move on to various fields, including digital media, advertising, and web development.

Our Selection Criteria

We choose schools based on strict criteria. The ranking factors we used include:

• Accreditation: All schools are accredited and provide a quality education for online learners.
• Learning format: While some programs may offer in-person internships or learning options, we chose programs with courses that may be completed 100% online.
• Program focus: The programs listed above provide a comprehensive curriculum for graphic design students.

What To Expect From an Online Degree in Graphic Design

Pursuing an online degree in graphic design is a flexible way to develop creative skills and technical knowledge. Typically, curriculums combine foundational design principles with advanced software training. Many programs also emphasize real-world projects, allowing students to build a portfolio that showcases their work to potential employers.

Online graphic design programs from accredited institutions require applicants to submit proof of a high school diploma. A graduate degree program may have more requirements, such as a portfolio of relevant work. Some institutions may also ask for letters of recommendation and a personal statement.

What Courses Are Typically in an Online Graphic Design Degree Program?

Generally, undergraduate graphic design programs offer a range of courses to suit various career paths. Some of the most common graphic design courses include:

• branding and identity design
• motion graphics
• UX design
• 3D design and animation
• social media design

What Can You Do With an Online Graphic Design Degree?

Graduates with a graphic design degree can leverage their creative skills and technical knowledge to pursue roles that focus on visual communication and design. One popular career option is graphic design, where professional designers create visual content for print and digital media, including advertisements, brochures, and websites.

Another option is web design, focusing on the aesthetics and usability of websites to ensure a seamless user interface. Other options include social media management and advertising, where professionals handle multimedia platforms.

How Much Does an Online Graphic Design Degree Cost?

On average, students can expect to pay between $300 and $800 per credit hour, depending on the institution and its specific program offerings. For example, Southern New Hampshire University's graphic design bachelor's degree costs $330 per credit hour.

For those seeking an affordable degree, look for online colleges that take financial aid to help make tuition costs more manageable. Additionally, some online schools may offer in-house scholarships or grants to online learners.

Explore Online Bachelor's Degrees Today

Are you ready to start your academic journey? Explore full-time and part-time online programs on Learn.org. Contact each school to learn more about the curriculum, financial aid process, and admissions requirements.