Earn your design degree affordably with the cheapest graphic design degree online, combining flexibility with industry-relevant training. These programs cover digital artistry, typography, and multimedia communication while providing access to industry-standard software and real-world projects. You'll build a strong portfolio to boost your employability in creative fields, all while studying at your own pace.
Key Takeaways:
- Arkansas State University boasts the lowest tuition at $7,260/year.
- Arizona State University Online leads in earning potential with a median alumni salary of $56,707 among its graphic design bachelor's graduates.
Our team verifies tuition costs manually to highlight the most affordable online degrees. All featured schools are institutionally accredited, offering fully online programs with upfront pricing. See our methodology for more details.
2025 Most Affordable Online Graphic Design Degrees
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arkansas State University | Jonesboro (AR) | $7,260 | |
| Regent University Online | Virginia Beach (VA) | $9,480 | |
| University of West Alabama | Livingston (AL) | $9,750 | |
| Southern New Hampshire University Online | Manchester (NH) | $9,900 | |
| Boise State University | Boise (ID) | $11,250 | |
| Liberty University | Lynchburg (VA) | $11,700 | |
| Wilmington University | New Castle (DE) | $12,570 | |
| Troy University | Troy (AL) | $12,720 | |
| Bellevue University | Bellevue (NE) | $13,470 | |
| LA Film School | Los Angeles (CA) | $14,250 | |
| Kentucky Wesleyan College | Owensboro (KY) | $14,850 | |
| University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi (MD) | $14,970 | |
| California Baptist University | Riverside (CA) | $15,600 | |
| Lindenwood University | Saint Charles (MO) | $15,750 | |
| University of Arizona | Tucson (AZ) (and 1 other) | $15,750 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $17,220 | |
| Rocky Mountain College of Art and Design | Lakewood (CO) | $22,200 | |
| Berkeley College | Multiple Locations | $27,900 |
Overview of Online Graphic Design Bachelor's Degrees
A graphic design bachelor's degree program focuses primarily on fostering creative problem-solving skills, technical proficiencies, and an in-depth understanding of the principles of visual language. In the process of earning your online degree, you'll study a diverse array of subjects, including typography, branding, packaging, website design, and motion graphics.
You can expect all of your graphic design courses to provide opportunities to apply the design theories and principles you're learning to real-world projects. Typical assignments range from creating logos, websites, and interactive media, to conceiving advertising campaigns and digital illustrations. These projects will help you develop a strong design portfolio that you'll use to demonstrate your style and skills to prospective employers.
Through the comprehensive training provided in a bachelor's program, you'll hone both technical skills, such as the use of the Adobe Creative Suite, layout design, and color theory, along with soft skills like communication, critical thinking, time management, and teamwork.
Some online graphic design degree programs may allow you to focus on an area of concentration that could help you prepare for the specific job you have in mind. A few of the possible options include interactive design, animation and 3D modeling, and user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design.
Common Courses
Online degrees in graphic design typically require the completion of 120-124 credit hours. Full-time students often complete the bachelor's degree requirements in four or five years, but part-time students may need an additional year or two. Most programs require internships, and some include a final capstone course that gives you a chance to polish your portfolio.
The following are some of the courses commonly found in a graphic design online degree program:
Principles of Graphic Design
Students learn the foundation of design principles and elements such as line, shape, color, and texture, as well as the principles of composition and visual perception. Projects include common design problems, such as logos and print ads.
Typography
This course explores the role of type in visual communication, including the history, anatomy, and use of typefaces and fonts in different design contexts.
Digital Imaging
Students gain mastery in creating and manipulating digital images using industry-standard software like Adobe Photoshop. They also learn about color correction, image retouching, and compositing.
Web Design
This course covers the basics of designing and developing websites, including user interface and user experience concepts. Projects will teach essential technical skills, such as the use of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Not sure if graphic design is the right creative degree for you? Explore your options for the best online bachelor's degrees in art and design and the best online bachelor's degrees in web design.
Funding an Online Graphic Design Degree
Earning a graphic design bachelor's degree is a significant investment of time, energy, and money. Because of the software programs you'll need, your school supply costs may be slightly higher than average. The good news is that we've compiled several tips for saving money on college education:
Am I willing to earn my degree online?
In many cases, distance education is less expensive than traditional, on-campus programs. Some schools charge in-state tuition rates for online students, and a few even charge slightly reduced tuition rates for distance learners. Our list of the most affordable online graphic design degrees above is a great place to start looking for the most economical programs. Also, remember that as an online student, you won't have to budget for on-campus room and board or commuting to and from school.
Am I willing to choose a public school instead of a private one?
The National Center for Education Statistics has collected data from all types of schools across the country, and it shows that the for in-state students attending public schools was about one-fourth of what it was for students at private schools. In the 2020-21 school year, the averages were $9,375 as compared to $32,825. Granted, there is a wide range of tuition rates across schools, but generally speaking, state-run universities cost less.
Could I go to community college first to complete my general education requirements?
During the first two years of a bachelor's program, you'll take mostly general education courses like algebra, writing, and political science. You could take the bulk of these classes at a community college, which averages $3,501 in tuition and fees, according to the NCES. In other words, you could complete these early requirements — online or on-campus, whichever you prefer — at a much lower cost.
After three or four semesters, you can transfer the credits you've earned to a four-year university, where you can finish your online bachelor's degree in graphic design.
Could I find a less expensive place to live?
Even if you're earning a degree online, you'll still need to pay for housing, food, and transportation. However, if you currently live somewhere that has a high cost of living, you might be able to reduce these expenses while you're in college by moving to a more affordable place.
Am I willing to work part time or full time while I'm in school?
Another great way to avoid taking on college debt is to earn money for college by working part time or full time. There are pros and cons to this tactic, and some students note that it's challenging to maintain a healthy work-school balance. Working while earning a degree may also mean taking fewer classes per semester and needing an extra year to graduate, but the financial benefits may be worth it.
Financial Aid
Obtaining financial aid is another excellent way to reduce the cost of an online graphic design degree. Depending on your financial circumstances, you may receive funding from the federal and state government. There are also many school-sponsored and private scholarships that may be awarded to you based on financial need, academic performance, or some other qualification, such as your major or family heritage.
As long as you enroll in an accredited online degree program, you can submit an application for financial aid. You'll use a form called the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). After your application has been reviewed, you'll be sent a Student Aid Report (SAR) that lets you know if you qualify for aid. You'll also receive a letter from the school you attend — or all of the schools where you've applied — with specific financial aid offers.
Preferably, your financial aid package will include grants and scholarships. These are the best types of aid to receive because they don't have to be repaid.
However, if you don't qualify for enough grant or scholarship money or have other funds available, you may need to opt for a student loan. Just keep in mind that the interest on federal and private student loans can significantly increase the cost of your degree. Before you accept any student loan offer, know what you're signing up for by using a student loan repayment calculator to determine the long-term cost of the loan.
What Can You Do With an Online Graphic Design Degree?
A bachelor's in graphic design is a surprisingly versatile degree that can prepare you for a wide array of job opportunities. As with most occupations, you may need to start off in entry-level design jobs and work your way up to better-paying positions.
Looking at careers within the graphic design field itself, you may find yourself specializing in multimedia design — developing animations, commercials, and virtual reality products — or in print media design, creating advertisements, catalogs, brochures, and books. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), earn a median annual salary of $50,710 and earn a median annual wage of $78,790. These occupations are projected to grow by 3-5% through the end of the decade.
Your design and technology skills also qualify you for website design roles. earn a median annual salary of $78,300, and demand is expected to increase by 23%. Another in-demand occupation with a 25% projected growth rate is mobile application designer. The BLS groups mobile app designers with , who earn a median annual salary of $109,020.
As you progress in your design career, you may want to consider earning professional certification through an authorized program. Certification may allow you to command a higher salary because it demonstrates your mastery of certain design skills, such as UX/UI design, or programs like Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, and Illustrator.
FAQs About Online Graphic Design Degrees
How Do I Choose a Bachelor's in Graphic Design?
When you start reviewing online graphic design bachelor's programs, you'll want to take several factors into account. Some of these factors may be more important to you than others, but they should include the school's tuition fees, curriculum and concentrations, faculty, online format, and student resources, such as career development services.
One additional factor that's extremely important is accreditation. Institutional accreditation means that a school's programs and faculty have met the highest standards. Enrollment in an accredited program is necessary for you to receive financial aid, and it will probably be required if you decide to transfer to another school or apply for admission into graduate school.
Some individual design programs may also be accredited by the .
What Are the Admission Requirements for Graphic Design Degrees?
The admission requirements for an online bachelor's in graphic design program are fairly typical. You'll need to present a high school diploma or the equivalent, and you may need to document that you earned a GPA of at least 2.5. When submitting your application, you'll probably be asked for transcripts, a personal essay, and letters of recommendation. You may also be required to submit your scores on college entrance exams, such as the SAT or ACT.
Some schools may also ask you to present a portfolio of your creative work. This can include examples of graphic design, website design, fine art, illustration, and photography.
Is a Graphic Design Degree Worth the Cost?
A graphic design degree is likely to yield a high return on your investment, especially if you can find ways to minimize the cost of your college education. With a bachelor's degree, you'll qualify for a variety of occupations that have median annual incomes ranging from $50,000-$78,000. After accumulating several years of experience, you may become an , an occupation with a median annual salary topping $100,000.
Beyond the financial benefits, a graphic design online degree may prove to be worth it by establishing a foundation for a rewarding, stable career for creative, collaborative people who also enjoy working with technology.
Student Reviews of Online Graphic Design Programs
Communication at full sail is horrible they only took a few credits from my previous school which I had 30 they didn't even use half. I am in my first semester and I was doing fine not like a top of the class student but I have been doing my best. While I have still been in my current class I got an email saying I was being taken off my current degree and moved to a media certificate which is no where to my goal! I've talked to the advisors and it has just been a nightmare now I owe $6000 and have... Read More
Review Date: 1/21/2022
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
The intuition fee is really high for the education of the whole course at the university. They give students assignment with the very low quality of syllabus so it's quite easy to get a high GPA, studying at this school. I don't recommend to someone who want to pitch up their level of the major which they want to deep dive into.
Review Date: 9/1/2024
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
I had a good experience for the most part during my years of attendance at Southern New Hampshire University. Having the ability to complete my BA completely online was the perfect solution for me. The learning environment is mostly independent work, and self teaching, with the support of being able to ask your professor questions as needed. This is perfect for people who can succeed in this type of learning environment, but not great for those who need full instructor led lessons. The class finals... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2025
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
This is a amazing school. Unfortunately a lot of people that have left negative feed back are more than likely are products of there own doing. Independence University has made sure throughly I've had complete communication and a foundation for success. There literally is nothing more they could do for me to highlight what is expected and how to achieve my own success.
Review Date: 9/5/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am the type to read reviews before attending or spending my time on something, but nothing could prepare me for this. I've attended another University online and I've never experienced so much confusion. I'm also pretty well technology savvy yet I found SNHU's online courses extremely confusing and frustrating. From the interface to the wording when it comes to assignments. Then lets add on, that what I'm learning I can learn on Youtube, or I already know the curriculum. Although the quick video... Read More
Review Date: 5/22/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Out of high school, i tried to get on at my local community college and got a lot of head games. They wanted me to show then digital designs that I created and im like "I'm trying to learn how to do it." I practically had to beg to try and get enrolled. SNHU understood this right off the bat. I applied here after my wife convinced me to try one more time. What a decision it was. I was aiming to start in August, 2014 but they got me in three or four months earlier with all my paperwork, financial... Read More
Review Date: 9/6/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
While I am still a student at Independence University, I felt compelled to write a review. I spent 15 months at another online college and left because I felt like I was left hanging in the wind. At Independence University, there are live lectures every week as well as open labs and a very useful and helpful student success tutoring center. This school, at least at this point, has done everything they could to make sure that students succeed in their training. Although the program I am in is fairly... Read More
Review Date: 6/26/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I greatly enjoyed my time at Full Sail and feel like I really got the education I paid for. I did the online Graphic Design BS program. I see a lot of negative reviews for Full Sail on this site. But, from my perspective, it was a great ride and well worth the money. I will say you have to be self-motivated and serious about your education if you are attempting any online program. Every month is a different class and the classes are taught by people who are or were in the Graphic Design field. That... Read More
Review Date: 8/3/2018
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Its a scam. I signed up for my BA in graphic design. Everything online said BA until they changed their online board 3 semesters showing in and showing that of the 112 units I submitted they took less than 35 and didnt tell me and I was not in my BA program. Now im 30k in debt.
Review Date: 5/29/2019
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Let me start by saying that I also received my Associate Degree in Graphic Arts in 2013 from IU, took a year or so off, and now I'm going full force for my Bachelors in Graphic Arts/Information Design, and I expect to graduate in Jan 2017. I would also like to add that I am a lifelong learner, having been in school before now. My point is that I've experienced other online schools and none of them come to close to the positive experience I've had at IU. Yes, the work is hard at times. It does require... Read More
Review Date: 5/12/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Awesome awesome awesome school! They gave me an updated macbook pro to complete my degree and YES this was for online classes. They send you an insignia tablet than 4 months in you get a computer. Awesome school. Nice degree programs as well. Thank you!
Review Date: 4/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Full Sail University is one of the best. They actually take the time and prepare you for the real world. Your classes actually matter and are not just there to fill the time or for an extra credit. I feel that they fully prepared me to go out in the real world as a designer. I learned valuable skills and was given advice that I will take with me. The instructors care and are always there to help. The student support is amazing, everybody wants to help and are there for advice, feedback, and just... Read More
Review Date: 8/7/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Love this school! I graduated this year & they helped me get into my current job! I can't tell you how happy I am now that I work in a career that I love and I would recommend this school to anyone!
Review Date: 7/30/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have read a lot of negative reviews of this school, so wanted to add my comments to help people decide. I have an AA from Art Institutes of Seattle and wanted to finish my BA but am a busy working designer and couldn't attend a physical campus. I had a great experience with the Art Institute online, but had to drop when my employer informed me that For-Profit schools are not covered by our company education reimbursement policy and I couldn't do full-time course load to qualify for full financial... Read More
Review Date: 12/31/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I am a sophomore at APSU and when I toured they seemed like an amazing growing school! However, they leave out a few things that you don't find out until you get here: 1. The only upperclassman housing that is dorm style and affordable (3900 a semester) is honors (3.5 GPA requirement) and only has 50 beds. Students reserve their beds every year until they graduate leaving few empty. The rest are apartment style and expensive. It has leaks in the ceiling that fill up trash cans and cockroaches the... Read More
Review Date: 12/5/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, I really enjoyed my college years at UC Davis. Just nearby, Downtown Davis is a college student paradise with a large variety of restaurants and shops down every street. Student life was extremely convenient, although expensive due to housing, and the classes were awesome and solid with great professors who know how to teach well. However, sometimes I felt that there just wasn’t enough classes. The major I graduated with is still quite general and could use more advanced classes with multiple... Read More
Review Date: 5/2/2021
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
ASU is a helpful university. They offer an extensive use of resources. The professors there are very flexible to your concerns and are experienced in the field they are teaching.
Review Date: 7/29/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The graphic design program at Rogers State University was new when I enrolled into it but the Fine Arts department was growing fast from when I started until the time I graduated. Having the small classes sizes is a great thing when you are looking for the one on one interaction with the professors in any of the classes.
Review Date: 7/11/2014
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
IMMENSELY uncaring university. While there is good staff that will care for you. They‘re rare and you are just as likely to meet someone equally awful. The overall way that student life is handled is Poor. If you have the misfortune of dorming here, then expect to be treated with bad living conditions. If a scenario arises where the university is at fault and must compensate you. They will take their SWEET TIME to.
The University will enroll you within a subscription service called “all access pass”... Read More
The university in terms of education only had a SINGULAR professor teaching my major. Leading to poor scheduling and excess stress for me and that professor In question.
Security is UNDERPAID. Daemen enforces unrealistic work expectations for essentially the same pay as a student with federal work study.
Borderline NO parking because a genius decided to remove 60% of parking for a green space that is majorly unused.
When it comes to your own residential space. Expect a random maintenance worker to enter your room/apartment while sleeping or for them to let themselves into your space when THEY so choose.
Daemen absolutely loves to operate on the system that when you paid your first tuition installment, where they put you to live is now free to be walked into whenever.
I urge any incoming undergraduates to be incredibly cautious of this institution. It will dress itself up nicely for you with low - costing tuition, but will make leaps and bounds in order to get you to pay as much more as possible.
Review Date: 2/18/2025
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Please do not major in any of the Art programs here at UNG, especially the Graphic Design, Animation, and Visual art bachelor's program. The programs are lackluster and the majority of the classes can be done online for free. Speaking of which, I've taken three graphic design courses and find it ironic that the professors are using adobe and other related free videos online for the curriculum. You're literally paying over 1K for a class that you can teach yourself online for FREE. Also, the art professors... Read More
Review Date: 5/20/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No