30 Best Graphic Design Schools in 2024

Pursuing a degree in graphic design can be an exciting step toward building your career. However, it's an investment, and like any investment, you want to ensure that you do thorough research before committing. So, we thought we would help you out and break down the best graphic design universities in North America, Europe, and Asia. In each category, we’ve included a university description, details on the type of graphic design degree you can pursue, and the estimated tuition costs.

For this piece, we’ve specifically focused on top universities to pursue a graphic design or graphic design equivalent degree. If you’re feeling a bit overwhelmed, we encourage you to nail down the basics first. Where do you want to pursue your degree? Are you looking for a Bachelor’s or Master’s? When do you want to apply and begin your studies? Of course, tuition costs are a huge factor here (as well as application costs). Still, most universities have financial aid so we would recommend you look into the financial support offered before writing off any university.

Finally, we would like to provide a clarification on what we mean by a "top" university. The following schools have been selected based on a variety of factors, including academic reputation, selective admissions, alumni success, and level of research. While attending a top university can be appealing to employers and offer access to a wealth of alumni and resources, it's important to note that this is not the only path to success in graphic design. Ultimately, your work and approach will determine your long-term success. Therefore, consider this list as a guide rather than a strict rule.

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Top 10 Best Graphic Design Schools in North America

1. Rhode Island School of Design (RISD)

The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of the premier institutions for art and design education in the world. Founded in 1877, RISD offers a dynamic learning environment that fosters creativity, innovation, and critical thinking. The school's Graphic Design program is renowned for pushing the boundaries of the discipline, encouraging students to communicate ideas visually, experiment with various design tools, and engage with contemporary and historical practices.

Location: Providence, Rhode Island, USA

Degrees Offered: RISD offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design. The BFA program provides a comprehensive foundation in design principles, while the MFA program emphasizes advanced professional practice and the development of a personal design voice.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $54,890 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $54,890 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $54,890 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $54,890 per year

2. School of Visual Arts (SVA)

The School of Visual Arts (SVA) in New York City is a leading institution for art and design education. SVA's Graphic Design program is known for its rigorous curriculum that integrates traditional design principles with modern technologies and practices. The program encourages students to develop a strong personal vision and prepares them for a successful career in the design industry.

Location: New York City, New York, USA

Degrees Offered: SVA offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $42,000 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $50,000 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $42,000 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $50,000 per year

3. Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD)

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) is a private, nonprofit institution known for its comprehensive art and design programs. The Graphic Design program at SCAD emphasizes practical skills, creative thinking, and professional development, preparing students for a range of careers in the design industry.

Location: Savannah, Georgia, USA

Degrees Offered: SCAD offers Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), Master of Arts (MA), and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $38,475 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $38,975 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $38,475 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $38,975 per year

4. Pratt Institute

Pratt Institute, located in Brooklyn, New York, is a prestigious school known for its strong emphasis on creativity and innovation in art and design. Pratt's Graphic Design program combines traditional design education with cutting-edge digital practices, fostering a holistic approach to design.

Location: Brooklyn, New York, USA

Degrees Offered: Pratt Institute offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $53,814 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $36,540 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $53,814 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $36,540 per year

5. Art Center College of Design

The Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, California, is a leading institution for design education. Known for its rigorous curriculum and industry connections, the college's Graphic Design program focuses on developing both technical skills and creative problem-solving abilities.

Location: Pasadena, California, USA

Degrees Offered: Art Center College of Design offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $46,488 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $49,920 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $46,488 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $49,920 per year

6. California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)

California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) in Valencia, California, is renowned for its innovative approach to art education. The Graphic Design program at CalArts encourages experimentation and interdisciplinary collaboration, preparing students for dynamic careers in the creative industries.

Location: Valencia, California, USA

Degrees Offered: CalArts offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $52,850 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $52,850 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $52,850 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $52,850 per year

7. Yale University

Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, offers a prestigious Graphic Design program within its School of Art. The program is known for its strong theoretical foundation, rigorous critique process, and emphasis on both traditional and contemporary design practices.

Location: New Haven, Connecticut, USA

Degrees Offered: Yale offers a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Graduate: Approximately $45,700 per year
• International Students:
  • Graduate: Approximately $45,700 per year

8. Parsons School of Design

Parsons School of Design in New York City is a part of The New School and is recognized globally for its design education. The Graphic Design program at Parsons emphasizes social engagement and sustainability, equipping students with the skills to address real-world challenges through design.

Location: New York City, New York, USA

Degrees Offered: Parsons offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $50,710 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $49,778 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $50,710 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $49,778 per year

9. Ringling College of Art and Design

Ringling College of Art and Design, located in Sarasota, Florida, is known for its strong focus on the visual arts and innovative approach to design education. The Graphic Design program combines traditional art techniques with modern digital tools, preparing students for diverse careers in design.

Location: Sarasota, Florida, USA

Degrees Offered: Ringling offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degree in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $48,290 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $48,290 per year

10. Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)

The Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) in Baltimore, Maryland, is a top-tier art school known for its innovative programs and strong emphasis on experiential learning. MICA's Graphic Design program encourages students to develop unique design perspectives and technical proficiency.

Location: Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Degrees Offered: MICA offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degrees in Graphic Design.

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $52,040 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $52,040 per year
• International Students:
  • Undergraduate: Approximately $52,040 per year
  • Graduate: Approximately $52,040 per year

Top 10 Best Graphic Design Schools in Europe

1. The Royal College of Art (RCA)

The Royal College of Art (RCA) in London is renowned for its postgraduate art and design programs. It has been ranked as the world's number-one art and design university. The Graphic Design pathway at RCA encourages students to challenge and reimagine contemporary practices in visual communication, focusing on experimentation, critical making, and global relevance.

Location: London, United Kingdom

Degrees Offered: Master of Arts (MA) in Visual Communication

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: £15,150 per year
• International Students: £35,950 per year

2. Politecnico di Milano

Politecnico di Milano is one of Europe's leading technical universities, known for its excellence in engineering, architecture, and design. The Graphic Design program is part of the School of Design, which emphasizes innovative approaches and prepares students for global design challenges through a strong integration of technical and creative skills.

Location: Milan, Italy

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Communication Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• EU Students: Approximately €3,900 per year
• Non-EU Students: Approximately €3,900 to €5,000 per year

3. The University of the Arts London (UAL)

UAL is a world-leading university for art and design. It comprises several colleges, including Central Saint Martins and London College of Communication, which offer specialized programs in graphic design. The programs emphasize practical skills, critical thinking, and professional development.

Location: London, United Kingdom

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: £9,250 per year (undergraduate), £12,650 per year (graduate)
• International Students: £22,920 per year (undergraduate), £25,880 per year (graduate)

4. Aalto University

Aalto University in Finland is known for combining technology, business, and design education. The School of Arts, Design and Architecture offers a highly regarded Graphic Design program that integrates research, creativity, and practical skills to address contemporary design challenges.

Location: Espoo, Finland

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• EU/EEA Students: Free
• Non-EU/EEA Students: €15,000 per year (Master's)

5. Goldsmiths, University of London

Goldsmiths is known for its creative and innovative approach to teaching and research in the arts and humanities. The Graphic Design program encourages experimental and interdisciplinary practices, preparing students for diverse careers in design and creative industries.

Location: London, United Kingdom

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: £9,250 per year (undergraduate), £10,870 per year (graduate)
• International Students: £22,950 per year (undergraduate), £23,760 per year (graduate)

6. Copenhagen Institute of Interaction Design (CIID)

CIID is a leading institution specializing in interaction design and user experience. It offers intensive programs that focus on the intersection of design, technology, and human needs, fostering a hands-on and experimental learning environment.

Location: Copenhagen, Denmark

Degrees Offered: Master’s degree in Interaction Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• All Students: €20,000 per year

7. Prague City University

Prague City University offers a dynamic environment for studying art and design, with a focus on contemporary practices and interdisciplinary approaches. The Graphic Design program is designed to provide a strong foundation in design principles and practical skills.

Location: Prague, Czech Republic

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic and International Students: €6,800 per year (undergraduate), €7,500 per year (graduate)

8. SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences

SRH Berlin University of Applied Sciences provides a practical and innovative education in design. The Graphic Design program emphasizes creativity, technical skills, and professional practice, preparing students for careers in various design fields.

Location: Berlin, Germany

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• EU Students: €700 per month (undergraduate), €800 per month (graduate)
• Non-EU Students: €800 per month (undergraduate), €900 per month (graduate)

9. Design Academy Eindhoven

Design Academy Eindhoven is one of the leading design schools globally, known for its conceptual and interdisciplinary approach to design education. The Graphic Design program focuses on developing a personal design voice and addressing social, cultural, and technological challenges.

Location: Eindhoven, Netherlands

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• EU Students: €2,209 per year (Bachelor's), €4,418 per year (Master's)
• Non-EU Students: €10,900 per year (Bachelor's), €13,900 per year (Master's)

10. Polytechnic of Leiria

The Polytechnic of Leiria offers a comprehensive education in graphic design, blending creativity with technical expertise. The program prepares students for professional practice through a curriculum that includes both theoretical and practical components.

Location: Leiria, Portugal

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• EU Students: €697 per year (undergraduate), €697 per year (graduate)
• Non-EU Students: €3,000 per year (undergraduate), €3,000 per year (graduate)

Top 10 Best Graphic Design Schools in Asia

1. Tokyo University of the Arts

Tokyo University of the Arts, also known as Geidai, is one of Japan's most prestigious art schools. Established in 1887, it offers comprehensive programs in fine arts, music, film, and new media. The Graphic Design program at Geidai combines traditional techniques with contemporary practices, encouraging students to explore and innovate in their artistic endeavors.

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Fine Arts with a focus on Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: ¥535,800 per year
• International Students: ¥535,800 per year

2. National University of Singapore (NUS)

NUS is one of Asia's leading universities, known for its rigorous academic programs and cutting-edge research. The Department of Architecture within the School of Design and Environment offers a comprehensive Graphic Design curriculum that blends theory with practical application, preparing students for dynamic careers in the design industry.

Location: Singapore

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: S$8,200 per year (subsidized)
• International Students: S$19,150 per year

3. Hongik University

Hongik University, located in Seoul, South Korea, is renowned for its strong emphasis on fine arts and design. The School of Design and Media at Hongik offers a robust Graphic Design program that focuses on creative thinking, technical skills, and professional development, making it one of the top design schools in Asia.

Location: Seoul, South Korea

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: ₩4,242,000 per year
• International Students: ₩4,242,000 per year

4. National Institute of Design (NID)

NID is a premier design institute in India, known for its innovative and multidisciplinary approach to design education. The Graphic Design program at NID emphasizes creative problem-solving, technical proficiency, and a deep understanding of design principles, preparing students for successful careers in various design fields.

Location: Ahmedabad, India

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: ₹2,95,000 per year
• International Students: ₹5,50,000 per year

5. China Central Academy of Fine Arts (CAFA)

CAFA is one of China's most prestigious art institutions, offering comprehensive programs in fine arts and design. The Graphic Design program at CAFA focuses on both traditional Chinese art techniques and contemporary design practices, fostering a rich educational environment for aspiring designers.

Location: Beijing, China

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: ¥60,000 per year
• International Students: ¥75,000 per year

6. Lasalle College of the Arts

Lasalle College of the Arts in Singapore offers a contemporary approach to art and design education. The Graphic Design program is known for its strong emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and professional practice, preparing students for diverse careers in the design industry.

Location: Singapore

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Design Communication

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: S$19,960 per year
• International Students: S$24,420 per year

7. Seoul National University (SNU)

SNU is a leading research university in South Korea, offering a highly regarded Graphic Design program. The curriculum integrates traditional art techniques with modern design practices, providing students with a comprehensive education that prepares them for the global design industry.

Location: Seoul, South Korea

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: ₩4,600,000 per year
• International Students: ₩5,200,000 per year

8. Tama Art University

Tama Art University in Tokyo is renowned for its focus on fine arts and design. The Graphic Design program emphasizes innovative thinking and practical skills, encouraging students to explore various media and techniques to develop their unique design voice.

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: ¥1,495,000 per year
• International Students: ¥1,495,000 per year

9. School of the Arts (SOTA)

SOTA is Singapore's first national pre-tertiary specialized arts school, offering a holistic education in the arts and design. The Graphic Design program integrates rigorous academic learning with intensive arts training, preparing students for further education and careers in the creative industries.

Location: Singapore

Degrees Offered: Diploma in Visual Arts with a specialization in Graphic Design

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: S$3,000 per year (subsidized)
• International Students: S$18,000 per year

10. Nanyang Technological University (NTU)

NTU in Singapore is a leading global university known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation. The School of Art, Design, and Media offers a comprehensive Graphic Design program that combines creative practice with theoretical study, preparing students for various roles in the design industry.

Location: Singapore

Degrees Offered: Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Art, Design, and Media

Average Tuition Cost:

• Domestic Students: S$8,200 per year (subsidized)
• International Students: S$19,150 per year