10 Best Online Graphic Design Degrees in 2026
Earning an online graphic design is a flexible and affordable way to begin a career in web development and design, motion graphics, and other in-demand careers.
Graphic design touches nearly every part of modern life, from the apps you use to the ads you see and the products you buy. If you love combining creativity with technology, earning affordable graphic design degrees online can help you turn that passion into a career.
Online programs make it possible to learn design fundamentals like typography, branding, and digital illustration without putting your life on hold. The best online graphic design degrees teach the same tools and techniques used by creative professionals (like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign) while offering the flexibility and affordability that fit your schedule.
Keep reading to discover some of the top graphic design degrees available online and find the right program for you.
Top Graphic Design Degrees Online
Students looking to learn design principles for web development and design can find online graphic design degrees nationwide. These programs use interactive coursework to teach the skill set needed to work in diverse graphic design career paths.
1. Liberty University
The online Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design from Liberty University can be completed in accelerated courses. This program includes access to the Adobe Creative Cloud, allowing students to practice with the software without additional monetary investment. Students who complete this degree program will be prepared for careers as art directors, web developers, and multimedia artists.
2. Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in design in graphic design. Online students in this program learn in-demand skills such as motion graphics, typography, and environment design. This program culminates in a capstone design project around social issues, requiring students to conduct research, create a campaign, and present their findings to hone their skills.
3. Southern New Hampshire University
Southern New Hampshire University students can earn a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design and media arts. This degree features two concentration options: user experience design and web design. Online courses in this degree include designing a brand identity, digital design tools, and user interface.
4. Academy of Art University
The Academy of Art University offers students the chance to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design. This program uses the same curriculum as the on-campus degree program, allowing students to receive feedback from instructors and classmates through live streams of graphic design courses, as well as pre-recorded lectures.
5. Bellevue University
The Bachelor of Arts in graphic design from Bellevue University includes hands-on coursework that can be used to build your real-world portfolio. This project-based program includes courses on topics such as the fundamentals of web and print design, branding, and interactive design skills. Bellevue allows students to use transfer credits to bypass courses they've taken and reduce total tuition costs.
6. The Los Angeles Film School
The LA Film School offers an online Bachelor of Science in graphic design degree program. This program focuses on concepts for specific career paths for graphic designers within the entertainment industry, including experiential design, motion design, logos, and symbols.
7. Youngstown State University
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in graphic and interactive design from Youngstown State University prepares students for various careers, such as web designers, UX/UI designers, and creative directors. Students can transfer up to 90 credits to this degree program.
8. California Baptist University
California Baptist University offers an online Bachelor of Arts in graphic design and digital media. Full-time students can complete this degree program in as few as 16 months with general education transfer credits. This degree is offered through asynchronous, accelerated courses that promote a flexible online learning environment.
9. Kentucky Wesleyan College
Students can participate in a Bachelor of Arts in graphic design degree completion program at Kentucky Wesleyan College. This online program focuses on projects and other hands-on experiences to help students develop real-world skills.
10. Full Sail University
The online Bachelor of Science in graphic design from Full Sail University is a degree completion program. It includes a graphic design associate degree earned through FSU. Students here can access Project LaunchBox, which provides credentials to use technology and cloud-based project files. This allows students to complete the degree's project work on their own schedules.
How We Rank Schools
Our rankings highlight accredited, affordable, and career-focused graphic design programs that provide a mix of creativity, flexibility, and real-world learning. We selected schools based on the following:
- Accreditation: Each school holds regional or national accreditation to ensure program quality and employer recognition.
- Affordability: Tuition rates, financial aid options, and transfer-credit policies are reviewed to help students find cost-effective choices.
- Program quality: We consider curriculum design, faculty experience, and opportunities for portfolio development in online settings.
What Should I Look for in a Graphic Design Program?
Choosing an online graphic design degree is about finding a program that matches your creative goals, schedule, and budget. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind before enrolling.
Curriculum and Software Training
First, it's important to look for a program that teaches creativity and practical skills. Look for courses that cover design theory, color, typography, and digital media while also offering hands-on experience with industry-standard tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. Learning the fundamentals of design concepts along with software proficiency prepares you to produce professional work from your first day on the job.
Portfolio Development
A well-rounded portfolio is one of the most important assets for launching a career in design. Find a program that includes real-world projects, client-based assignments, and capstone experiences, which will help you showcase both creativity and problem-solving ability. A strong portfolio demonstrates your ability to apply classroom learning to real challenges, so you'll be more competitive in the job market.
Flexibility and Student Support
Online learning should adapt to your schedule and lifestyle. The best programs provide asynchronous courses, giving you the freedom to complete assignments when it works for you, along with access to helpful academic and career services. Strong communication from instructors and reliable tech support can make the difference between a frustrating experience and a smooth, successful degree path.
Accreditation and Transfer Options
If you want your degree to be respected by employers and graduate schools, you'll need to ensure the program is accredited, proving it meets recognized academic standards. Accreditation also makes you eligible for federal financial aid and smoother credit transfers between schools. If you've already earned college credits, choosing a program that accepts transfers can shorten your time to graduation and lower your total cost.
Careers for Graphic Design Graduates
Graduates with graphic design degrees work in diverse creative fields. Many become graphic designers, art directors, UX/UI designers, or digital illustrators. Others use their skills in marketing, advertising, or web development roles.
These careers often reward creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Whether you want to design apps, create brand identities, or develop interactive media, an online graphic design degree provides the skills to get started.
FAQs About the Best Graphic Design Degrees
If you're exploring online graphic design degrees, you probably have questions about what to expect , from the value of the degree to the tools you'll learn and how to start your career. These answers cover the essentials to help you plan your next step.
Is a Graphic Design Degree Worth It?
A graphic design degree can open doors to creative, in-demand careers across many industries. Online programs make it easier to learn design fundamentals, build your portfolio, and gain professional software experience on a flexible schedule. Graduates can pursue roles in marketing, publishing, web design, or media production while developing skills that grow with technology and industry trends.
What Software Do Graphic Design Students Learn?
Most programs train students to use Adobe Creative Cloud applications like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, along with newer tools such as Figma or Canva. This mix of programs gives you the technical versatility needed for digital, print, and motion design projects and helps you stay competitive in the creative job market.
Can I Get a Graphic Design Job Without Experience?
Yes, entry-level design roles are accessible to graduates with strong portfolios. Many online programs include client-based projects or internships that provide real-world experience before graduation. By showcasing your creativity, attention to detail, and technical skills, you can qualify for positions like junior designer, production artist, or web content creator.
Earn Your Bachelor's Degree Online
Online graphic design programs provide flexible and affordable pathways to many career opportunities. Read our school profiles to learn more about individual universities and their degree programs. Once you've selected programs that fit your educational and career goals, use our contact forms to request information or start your application process today.
Browse through these states to find a local program: