If you want to begin your career in design and want to know where to find the best online design bachelor’s degree programs, jobs, and salaries, then look no further. Our guide on the best online design bachelor’s degrees will help you get started on your journey to building a promising career in design.
As people start searching for more flexible and convenient methods of learning, more have developed online curriculums to accommodate different lifestyles and needs. Here, you’ll find online bachelor’s degrees in design that will lead to design bachelor’s degree jobs postgraduation.
Where Can I Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online?
You can get a design bachelor’s degree online from institutions such as Arizona State University, Bellevue University, Drexel University, Husson University, and Oregon State University.
What Schools Offer the Best Design Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Arizona State University
- Bellevue University
- Drexel University
- Husson University
- Oregon State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online design bachelor’s degree include meeting the prerequisite entry terms of each college. While these requirements differ from college to college, they typically include meeting the minimum GPA and test scores, and submitting the application forms and appropriate documents. These documents typically include official transcripts, recommendation letters, your personal statement, and a portfolio of your design work to show proof of your design skills.
Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Minimum GPA of 2.0 – 3.5
- Official transcripts
- Personal statement
- Portfolio
- Completed application
- Application fee
How to Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online
You can get an online design bachelor’s degree by meeting the degree requirements outlined by your program. These generally include earning 120 credits, which may differ in certain colleges, maintaining a certain GPA, and completing a thesis or capstone project.
Design Degree Requirements
- 120 credits, general education and core courses
- Meeting the minimum GPA requirements
- Thesis or capstone project
Best Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Design in Graphic Design | Higher Learning Commission |
| Bellevue University | Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design | Higher Learning Commission |
| Drexel University | Bachelor of Science in Graphic Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Husson University | Bachelor of Science in Graphic/Visual Design | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Oregon State University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Penn State World Campus | Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Arts | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media Arts | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Fine Arts in Communications Design | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Communication | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Design: Top Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The schools in the table above offer some of the best online design bachelor’s degree programs. Take a closer look at each school and program below to find out the admissions requirements, program information, and the application process.
What Is an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
An online design bachelor’s degree is a degree you earn to work in careers that harness skills and techniques in creativity, technology, and illustration. A degree in visual arts can lead you to career paths in graphic design, creative directing, and project management.
An online design bachelor’s degree can be obtained online, or through a hybrid method that combines both online and in-person learning. You have the option to choose which of those options works for you.
Online vs In-Person Design Degrees
For the most part, online vs in-person design degrees are the same when it comes to the quality of education. The main differences between the two are the learning methods and schedules that each offers. The benefits of online design degrees vs the benefits of in-person degrees are listed below to help you decide what fits your lifestyle and needs better.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Design
- Learn at your own speed. Being able to learn at your own pace is a huge advantage of distance learning. There is less pressure on you to keep up with other students if you’re struggling to grasp a concept.
- Choose where you study. As an online student, you have the option of choosing to study in a place that is conducive to your personal study methods.
- Choose when you study. Online programs offer you the freedom to choose a flexible study schedule, which can fit into your life more comfortably, especially for those with jobs and families.
- Cheaper tuition. Most online programs offer lower tuition rates than traditional, in-person programs.
- More options. Not having to physically attend classes also means not having to factor in traveling distance to school. This opens up more options for distance learners in terms of schooling and the ability to juggle personal commitments or a job.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Design
- Readily accessible resources. One of the top benefits of being on campus is all the resources you get immediate access to, such as libraries and computer laboratories for research purposes.
- Opportunities for interaction. Attending in-person classes allows you to be surrounded by your peers, which provides great opportunities for motivation and socialization.
- Office hours. Most professors have office hours which gives students a chance to get one-on-one attention and assistance with their coursework. Being on campus allows you to make the most of that time.
- Focused learning environment. Most people find that formal environments like college classrooms are easier to focus in than casual environments such as your home which offer more distractions.
- Student services. Although student services are available to both distance learners and on-campus students, the benefit of being on campus is that you have direct access to faculty members and can get information faster.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Online Design?
The types of online bachelor’s degrees design you can get include a Bachelor of Science in Design, a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design, a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design, and a Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Fine Arts or Bachelor of Design in Design?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree if you’re interested in the discipline and technical aspects and application of visual art. A Bachelor of Design in Design degree, on the other hand, is better for students that want to focus on the development of design. While the two share some similarities, they each allow you to pursue different career paths.
How Much Does a Design Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
A four-year undergraduate degree from a public university costs approximately $14,900 for first-time, full-time undergraduate students, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. The US News & World Report shares that the price of tuition for an online bachelor’s degree varies depending on whether the institution is private, public, for-profit, or non-profit.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes four years to get a design bachelor’s degree online. The curriculum may include core courses, general education courses, and elective courses. The courses you take will depend on the institution you attend, as different programs offer different curriculums. Most colleges, however, require you to earn a minimum of 120 credits before you can graduate and get your degree.
Are Online Design Degrees Respected?
Yes, online design degrees are respected. Degrees obtained from accredited online institutions hold the same weight as degrees obtained through taking traditional, in-person classes. It is the quality of education that matters, not the location where the education was received.
Is Design Hard to Learn Online?
No, design is not hard to learn online because the online program you choose will have been specifically tailored to be studied online. With this in mind, your university will provide you with your best shot at succeeding and you will be made aware of any extra requirements before your studies begin.
Why You Should Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get a design bachelor’s degree online if studying at your own pace, having a flexible schedule, and cutting back on costs are factors that appeal to you. These are just some of the benefits of choosing an online degree instead of an in-person degree.
If you have concerns about the validity of an online degree, do some research and find out if the institution you are considering attending is accredited. If it is, then your degree will be just as credible as one earned traditionally.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Design?
The courses in an online bachelor’s degree program in design typically include digital media, graphic design theory, illustration, visual communication theory, and typography and layout. Below are five of the typical courses for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Design.
Digital Media
The digital media course teaches students how to utilize current technologies for image creation and animation, as well as how to integrate text with graphics through each production stage. Students are taught advanced digital media illustration techniques.
Graphic Design
In this course, you will learn about basic designs and the various technical aspects that go into graphic design. The course aims to teach students about visual aesthetics and the evolution of graphic design up to this point.
Illustration
The illustration course focuses on drawing, creating animations, narration, and communicating to the audience through art. You will also learn about the software required to accomplish all of this, and the use of resolution and layers.
Visual Communication Theory
The visual communication theory course teaches students about the different types of graphics used in design. Students also learn how to design and edit for specific audiences and the software tools used in this process.
Typography and Layout
The typography and layout course focuses on teaching students about the compositional tools used in constructing graphic communications. Students learn how to assess and determine which typefaces are appropriate typefaces and how to best use topographical skills in the design layout.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The continuing education path you should take after an online design bachelor’s degree is getting an online Master’s Degree in Graphic Design. You could also opt to get a Master of Science in 3D Design if you have a specific interest in that niche.
Related Online Design Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Design Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best design bachelor’s degree programs online include accreditation, curricular content for professional experience, flexibility, employment outcomes, and student services. These make up some of the most important things to consider when choosing a degree program.
Accreditation
Choosing an accredited institution gives you your best shot at getting a high-quality education and being hireable upon the completion of your degree. While searching for an online design program, be sure to research the institution’s accreditation to ensure you will earn an education from a reputable source.
Curricular Content
The subjects that you will take throughout the course are important in determining not only what career paths are open to you after graduation, but also whether or not you enjoy your studies. Curricular content should be high on the list of priorities when you select a program as getting real-world experience in the industry is essential.
Flexibility
One of the biggest appeals of online schools and degree programs is the flexibility they offer. Not all online programs are built the same, however, and some are more flexible than others. When making your choice, consider what is most feasible and convenient for your lifestyle.
Employment Outcomes
Good career opportunities for students after graduation are often contingent on the employment outcome of the degree you choose. The best degrees to choose are the ones that are in high demand and have promising estimated growth projection rates. You should also review the school’s graduation rate to see what percentage of students successfully finish their program.
Student Services
Student services are there to provide you with support and guidance every step of the way. College is exciting but it can also be confusing, so having the option to talk to reach out to advisors and faculty during your studies will help get you the support you need to succeed.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online design bachelor’s degree program is the one offered at the University of Maryland Global Campus, which costs $7,704 annually. When looking for affordable online degree options, ensure you consider any additional fees, especially if you are an out-of-state or international student.
Can I Get a Design Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get a design bachelor’s degree online for free. If you require financial aid options to help you get your degree, there are some that are available, including scholarship programs.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
If you are passionate about design and want to take the steps towards making a career out of it, then an online bachelor’s degree is a viable option. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in the graphic design field is projected to grow by three percent over the next decade, which means you are likely to find work within the field after graduation.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With a Design Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with a design bachelor’s degree as there are many options a graduate can pursue. Graduates with a Bachelor’s Degree in Design can work in fields such as product design and development, video production, interactive design, user experience design and development, marketing, and advertising.
What’s the Median Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The median salary for an online graphic designer in the US is $50,710 per year, according to BLS. Top earners make $71,310 as a median wage, while those on the lower end of the salary range make $40,160 per year.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online design bachelor’s degree include animator, art director, digital designer, and fashion designer. Of course, you can also become a graphic designer with this degree.
Design Degree Jobs
- Animator
- Art director
- Digital designer
- Fashion designer
- Graphic designer
Potential Careers With an Online Design Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree?
You can make between $50,710 and $100,890 per year working in this field with an online design or graphic design degree. As you can see in the list below, there is quite a wide range between the lowest-paying career option and the highest-paying career option.
Highest-Paying Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Design Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Art director | $100,890 |
| Animator | $78,790 |
| Fashion designer | $77,450 |
| Digital designer | $77,200 |
| Graphic designer | $50,710 |
Best Jobs for Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online design bachelor’s degree grads are the jobs that are also in demand. Jobs that are in high demand are an indication of a skillset that is not easily available. If you’re among the online students in design, possessing in-demand skills that the industry lacks makes you highly sought-after and gives you more job opportunities to choose from.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Design Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online design bachelor’s degree is worth it. Not only does it open many doors for creative people, but depending on the job you land, you could be among some of the highest salary earners in the country. With an online design bachelor’s degree, you can pursue your creative passions on a flexible schedule and set yourself up for high-paying job offers.
Additional Reading About Design
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Online Design Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
The difference between graphic design and digital design is that graphic design is mainly focused on static designs, whereas digital design is centered around movement and animation.
No, a college degree isn’t the only way to become a designer, but it definitely helps. A college degree gives you a leg up when applying for jobs. Students can also gain the right skills and experience through bootcamps or certification programs designed to get them a job as a designer.
Yes, hands-on experience is important in graphic design degrees because that is how you build a portfolio. When working in the arts, you need to be able to show your skills off using your portfolio before you can be considered for a job, since employers want to see what skills and talent you possess.
Technical skills such as design, typography, and branding are very useful graphic design skills. Other non-technical skills that are also useful include creativity, problem-solving, and communication.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
