Graphic design skills are one of the bestsellers in our contemporary world, and the good news is that you can acquire this amazing skill in university. So if you have interest in becoming a graphic designer and you are looking to see if you can study graphic design in university, look no more! In this article we are sure to answer your question; just read to the end.
What is Graphic Design?
First off, graphic design is a form of visual combination that combines images, words, and ideas for effective conveyance of information. The designs are created with the help of software like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. The scope of graphic design is wide, covering illustrations, website layouts, logo creation, animation, and graphics interchange formats.
Graphic design is a type of design wherein a creator creates visuals using software tools to convey information through visuals to the user. Some examples of graphic designs are Advertising Design, Web Design, Packaging Design, Illustrations, UI and Interactive Design, Motion Graphics and Animation design.
Moving forward, As a graphic designer or aspiring to be one, you can pursue your career in graphic design in university. In this article, we would show you how possible that is.
Can You Study Graphic Design in University?
The answer is yes, you can! Candidates can pursue graphic design courses at various course levels, such as undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels. There are also certification- and diploma-level graphic design courses. Graphic Design courses at undergraduate level can be pursued after completing class 12. Whereas, postgraduate-level graphic design courses can be pursued after graduation in the same or related fields.
5 Best Universities in The World To Study Graphic Design
As more and more brands turn to the magical powers of design to stand out in a saturated market, talented graphic designers are becoming extremely sought-after.
So, if you’re leaving school and hoping to pursue a career in this industry, you can get that competitive edge by studying in one of the world’s best graphic design schools.
Below we’ve listed the world’s top 5 graphic schools. The first ten focus on graphic design schools based in the U.S. We’ll then cast the net wider to explore some renowned international schools. They include:
1. Rhode Island School of Design
It was founded in 1877, RISD is one of the world’s preeminent colleges of art and design. It has a reputation for producing world-renowned designers who go on to succeed in various industries.
With a rigorous curriculum and an approach that encourages students to experiment and push their creative boundaries, RISD’s professors are some of the best in the business. Depending on the course you choose, you’ll also receive hands-on training with cutting-edge technology and equipment. “Can you study graphic design in university?” Yes! This is school is another proof of that.
- Location: Providence, Rhode Island
- Estimated price: $81,810 per academic year.
- Duration: 4 years for their BFA Graphic Design
- Admission requirements: Application form, academic transcripts, tests, portfolio, college essay, and letter of recommendation.
2. Parsons School of Design | The New School
It is located in the heart of New York City, Parson’s is a melting pot of cultures and ideas. Its faculty is composed of experienced designers who are passionate about teaching and sharing their knowledge. It’s also known for its forward-thinking approach to design education, incorporating sustainability and social justice issues into its curriculum.
- Location: New York City, New York
- Estimated price: $27,794 per semester for an undergraduate program
- Duration: 2 years or less for their AAS Communication Design program
- Admission requirements: Application form, application fee, essay, portfolio, letter(s) of recommendation, academic transcripts, standardized test scores (optional)
3. The Pratt Institute
It was founded in 1877, The Pratt Institute in Brooklyn offers nearly 50 programs focused on comprehensive graphic design education, balancing practical skills with creative thinking.
Its location in Brooklyn, one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in New York City, provides students with a rich source of inspiration.
- Location: Brooklyn, New York
- Estimated price: $77,607 per undergraduate academic year.
- Duration: 2 years for their Graphic Design associate degree
- Admission requirements: Application form, portfolio, test, etc.
4. Art Center College of Design
It was founded in 1930, ArtCenter is known for its rigorous curriculum and is one of the few schools offering a degree in Interaction Design. Beginning life as a vocational college, its faculty now includes some of the most influential designers out there, and the school has a strong reputation for producing distinguished alumni. You can also check out this school if you are really passionate about studying graphic design in university.
- Location: Pasadena, California
- Estimated price: $24,471 per undergraduate semester
- Duration: 2 to 4 years for their Graphic Design BFAs
- Admission requirements: Application form, $50 fee, transcripts, portfolio, essays.
5. Yale University School of Art
Yale’s School of Art was founded in 1869 and is one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious design schools. Rooted in the liberal arts and emphasizing interdisciplinary thinking, Yale students have access to some of the best resources and facilities in the world.
The art school’s faculty includes some of the most respected designers and scholars, reflecting their highly selective entry process—Yale accepts just 10–12 students annually for their 2-year BFA in Graphic Design.
- Location: New Haven, Connecticut
- Estimated price: $72,594 per academic year (including costs of attendance)
- Duration: 2-year BFA in Graphic Design
- Admission requirements: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or a diploma from a four-year accredited professional art school.
Best Universities To Study Graphic Design in Nigeria
As a Nigerian or foreigner living in Nigeria and wants to know, “can you study graphic design in university”. There are several top universities in Nigeria that offer world-class graphic design programs. Here are some of the best universities for graphic design in Nigeria for the 2024/2025 academic year: They include:
1. Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria
This prestigious university is home to the Department of Fine Arts, which offers a Bachelor of Arts degree program in Graphic Design. The program covers a range of subjects, including design theory, typography, illustration, and digital media. As a student who has a passion for graphic design and you live in Nigeria, then you should check this university out.
2. Covenant University, Ota
The Department of Architecture at Covenant University offers a Bachelor of Science degree program in Architecture with a concentration in Graphic Design. The program is highly interdisciplinary, combining courses in architecture, design, and technology. Given the reputation of Covenant University, studying graphic design at this university won’t be a bad idea at all.
3. University of Lagos
The Department of Creative Arts at the University of Lagos offers a Bachelor of Arts degree program in Visual Arts with a specialization in Graphic Design. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in the principles and techniques of graphic design. You ask, “Can you study graphic design in university?” This is another good university in Nigeria where you can study graphic design.
4. Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA)
The Department of Architecture at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, offers a Bachelor of Technology degree program in Architecture with a specialization in Graphics and Multimedia. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in graphic design, multimedia design, and animation.
5. Yaba College of Technology
The School of Art, Design and Printing at Yaba College of Technology offers a National Diploma and Higher National Diploma in Graphic Design. The program covers a range of topics, including design theory, typography, illustration, and digital media. Another university to check out, as a student who loves graphic design and would love to study it in the university.
Graphic Design Courses To Do in The University
- Drawing
- Drawing for Design
- Visual Communication
- Photography
- Elements of Type
- Typographic Systems
- Design Understanding
- Designer as Author
- Design Social Interaction
- Publication and Editorial
- Design for Change
- Portfolio
- History of Design
- Film Media
Degrees You Can Obtain for Graphic Design In The University
1. BDes Graphic Design
The Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design (BDes) is an undergraduate college program that dives deep into the world of making things visually appealing. It covers a range of subjects like drawing, computer design, and even animation. The duration is 4 years, and the important courses offered in this degree are graphic design, UI/UX design, interior design, textile design, and product design.
2. BA in Graphic Design
The BA in Graphic Design, or Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design is another undergraduate degree program for you to pursue. It mainly teaches conceptualizing and important theories related to design elements, visual grammar, Sketching and drawing, visual ergonomics, historical graphic contexts, etc. This course focuses on theory parts and also covers design process and thinking. The duration is 4 years. The courses offered are Graphic Designer, Visualiser, Creative artist, and Art Director.
3. BSc Graphic Design
B.Sc. in Graphic Design is another popular graphic design course that you can pursue after the 12th in 2024. It offers a combo of both art and technology and helps students attain graphic design skills for print, packaging, education, and advertising. Graphic designers are needed in many sectors like manufacturing, design, advertising, publishing, and IT. It’s duration is 3-4 years. And the courses options are Graphic Designer, Brand, Identity Designer, and Production Manager Freelance Designer.
Certificate courses in graphic design
- Adobe Photoshop
- CorelDraw
- InDesign
- Illustrator
- Sketchbook
- Figma, etc.
Final Words
As a student who loves graphic design and has the question of “can you study graphic design in university”. We have tried as much as possible to convince you that it is actually possible to study graphic design in university. And also show the various universities that do the course in Nigeria and also bring you the best Universities in the world that offer the course.
We believe this article has been able to answer you on the bothersome question, “Can you study graphic design in university?” You know your answer now. Take action!
