Rankings / Bachelors

Best Bachelor's in Graphic Design

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$73,200

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

82%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$23,923

Avg. Net Price

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Finding the right bachelor's program in graphic design can be a pivotal decision for aspiring artists. These 50 schools stand out for their strong focus on visual and performing arts, helping students turn creativity into a sustainable career. With average earnings of $78,678, these programs are worth considering for anyone serious about the field.

What sets the leading programs apart from the rest? Outcomes matter most, and here we look at key factors like earnings, graduation rates, student debt, and mobility. The schools listed below are ranked based on these metrics, giving you a clear view of which programs can help you succeed after graduation.

For instance, while Brown University boasts the highest average earnings at $93,487 and an impressive graduation rate of 96%, it also carries a higher net price of $25,184. In contrast, The Cooper Union offers lower earnings of $83,847, but with a significantly lower net price of $13,269, making it an attractive option for cost-conscious students. These trade-offs highlight why careful comparison is essential as you scroll through the rankings.

Key Findings

$93,487: Average earnings for graduates of Brown University, the highest in this list.

96%: Brown University also has the highest graduation rate among these top programs.

$13,269: The net price for The Cooper Union, significantly lower than many peers.

$10,250: Johns Hopkins University graduates carry one of the lowest average debts on this list.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $73,200

Avg. graduation rate 82%

Avg. net price $23,923

Avg. median debt $18,099

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs ranked by outcomes, mobility, and program concentration in Visual & Performing Arts

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY

Graduation81%

Earnings$83,847

Net Price$13,269

View full profile →

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD

Graduation94%

Earnings$87,555

Net Price$18,809

View full profile →

Williams College

Williamstown, MA

Graduation95%

Earnings$88,665

Net Price$17,716

View full profile →

Featured Programs From Accredited Schools

Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

At The Cooper Union, students pursuing a Graphic Design bachelor's program immerse themselves in a creative environment that emphasizes experimentation and innovation. This program attracts those who thrive on pushing boundaries and exploring the intersection of design and technology. With a strong focus on hands-on learning, students work toward developing a unique artistic voice while honing their technical skills to prepare for the competitive design industry.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Pursuing a Graphic Design bachelor's at Johns Hopkins University means stepping into a creatively rich environment where interdisciplinary studies thrive. This program is designed for students who are not just interested in aesthetics but also in solving real-world problems through design. Here, students will engage with complex visual communication challenges, preparing them for impactful roles in various design fields after graduation.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

At Williams College, students in the Graphic Design bachelor's program cultivate their creative talents in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating atmosphere. This path suits those who appreciate both the artistry and the strategic aspects of design, as they learn to communicate ideas visually and engage audiences effectively. The small class sizes allow for personalized guidance, nurturing each student's unique perspective and skills throughout their educational journey.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design bachelor's program at Rice University attracts creative thinkers who are eager to blend art with technology in a rigorous academic setting. Students here dive into design challenges that encourage them to think critically and experiment boldly, preparing them for diverse careers in the design industry. The collaborative culture at Rice fosters a supportive environment, allowing students to thrive and refine their unique design styles.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University's Graphic Design bachelor's program is tailored for students who are passionate about combining creativity with technology and social impact. It's a great fit for those who want to explore how design influences everyday life and communicates ideas effectively. Students are encouraged to think critically and work collaboratively, preparing them for a dynamic career in design.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

University of North Carolina School of the Arts

Winston Salem, NC · 945 students · Public

At the University of North Carolina School of the Arts, the Graphic Design bachelor's program attracts students who are passionate about merging artistry with technology. This specialized program emphasizes hands-on learning and collaboration, making it a great fit for those who want to push boundaries in visual communication. Students can expect to engage deeply with their craft, preparing for a dynamic career in various design fields.

30% accepted 78% graduate $38,357 earnings

University's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design bachelor's program at Brown University is perfect for students with a passion for creativity and a desire to push boundaries. Here, you'll dive into critical design thinking, exploring how visual communication shapes our world. The program is designed for those who want to blend art with technology and engage with real-world challenges through innovative design solutions.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

At Vanderbilt University, the Graphic Design bachelor's program caters to those who are curious and eager to merge artistic expression with strategic communication. This is an ideal fit for students looking to develop a strong portfolio while engaging in interdisciplinary projects that reflect real-world design challenges. The emphasis on collaboration and critical analysis prepares graduates to stand out in the competitive design field.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

Oklahoma City University

Oklahoma City, OK · 1,514 students · Private nonprofit

Oklahoma City University's Graphic Design bachelor's program is tailored for creative individuals who want to make their mark in the design world. Here, students will explore various design principles and techniques, preparing them to tackle real-world challenges in creative industries. With a focus on practical skills and artistic expression, this program aims to develop adaptable designers ready for diverse opportunities.

77% accepted 65% graduate $54,655 earnings

Oklahoma's full profile

#10

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College's Graphic Design bachelor's program is a great fit for creative thinkers who want to blend artistry with technology. Students here engage in a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and design theory, preparing them for a variety of roles in the fast-evolving design landscape. The collaborative environment encourages exploration, allowing students to develop a unique voice while honing their technical skills.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#11

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

At Carnegie Mellon University, aspiring graphic designers immerse themselves in an interdisciplinary program that emphasizes innovation and creativity. This program suits students eager to push boundaries and explore the intersection of art and technology. With access to cutting-edge resources and a vibrant artistic community, students can expect to cultivate their skills in a challenging yet supportive environment.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#12

SUNY at Purchase College

Purchase, NY · 3,197 students · Public

74% accepted 62% graduate $45,092 earnings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Bowdoin College's Graphic Design program is designed for students who value creativity and intellectual rigor. This program attracts those who wish to delve deeply into design theory while developing practical skills. Students thrive in an environment that encourages experimentation, pushing them to communicate visually in impactful ways that resonate in today’s society.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#14

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

For those looking to pursue a Graphic Design bachelor’s degree, Yale University cultivates an environment of artistic exploration and intellectual rigor. Students in this program engage deeply with design principles while honing their unique voice and vision. The collaborative atmosphere fosters both individual creativity and teamwork, essential for a successful career in graphic design, where innovation meets communication.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College’s Graphic Design bachelor's program is crafted for students who are deeply engaged in the artistic process and keen to explore the intersections of art and technology. The intimate setting allows for a personalized learning experience, where students can experiment with various design mediums while developing critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This program nurtures creative expression and prepares students for a range of career opportunities in creative industries.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#16

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design bachelor's program at Washington University in St. Louis is designed for creative thinkers who are passionate about visual storytelling and innovation. Students will engage in hands-on projects that emphasize conceptual development and the technical skills needed to thrive in a competitive field. Collaboration with peers and faculty fosters an environment where ideas can flourish, allowing aspiring designers to cultivate their unique artistic voice.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#17

Oberlin College

Oberlin, OH · 2,887 students · Private nonprofit

34% accepted 80% graduate $58,343 earnings

Oberlin's full profile

#18

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia's Graphic Design bachelor's program attracts creative thinkers eager to push boundaries in visual communication. Students immerse themselves in the vibrant art scene of New York City, blending theory with hands-on experience, and working toward a portfolio that reflects both personal expression and professional standards. The program nurtures a collaborative environment, fostering connections with peers and industry professionals alike.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#19

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore's Graphic Design bachelor's program is tailored for students who value a rigorous academic environment alongside artistic exploration. The program fosters critical thinking and encourages students to develop a unique voice in their design work. With small class sizes and a close-knit community, students benefit from personalized feedback and mentorship, crucial for honing their craft in a competitive field.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#20

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The Graphic Design bachelor's program at the University of Florida attracts students interested in a blend of creativity and practical application. With a focus on developing a strong foundation in design principles, students work toward becoming versatile designers ready to tackle real-world challenges. The program emphasizes both artistic expression and technical proficiency, preparing graduates for a variety of roles in the design industry.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#21

New York University

New York, NY · 28,663 students · Private nonprofit

New York University’s Graphic Design bachelor's program attracts those eager to immerse themselves in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant cities. The program is tailored for students who are passionate about visual arts and want to explore design’s role in shaping culture and society. Here, students engage with a diverse community and gain practical experience through real-world projects, preparing them for a career in a fast-paced and ever-evolving field.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College’s Graphic Design bachelor's program caters to students with a passion for creativity and innovation. This program encourages exploration across digital and print media, making it a great fit for those looking to build a versatile skill set in graphic design while benefiting from the diverse perspectives of their peers in New York City.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College's Graphic Design bachelor's program is ideal for students who view design as a powerful tool for storytelling and expression. This program attracts those eager to explore design's role in culture and society, encouraging a deep engagement with creative processes. Students work on diverse projects that enhance their skills and prepare them for a wide range of careers in design and beyond.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#24

Belmont University

Nashville, TN · 7,137 students · Private nonprofit

95% accepted 71% graduate $55,930 earnings

Belmont's full profile

#25

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design bachelor's program at the University of Southern California is designed for creative thinkers who aspire to make an impact in the design world. Students can expect to engage deeply with visual storytelling, brand development, and user experience while collaborating with peers in a vibrant, innovative environment. The program is a perfect fit for those who not only want to hone their technical skills but also explore the cultural and social dimensions of design in a city known for its artistic diversity.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#26

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College attracts students who are passionate about graphic design and want to make it accessible to diverse audiences. The program combines technical skills with a focus on social impact, encouraging students to think critically about the role of design in society. This is a great choice for those eager to explore creativity while engaging with New York’s rich cultural landscape.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

Wesleyan's Graphic Design bachelor's program caters to students who are passionate about storytelling through visuals and eager to explore the intersection of art and technology. Here, creativity is encouraged, with opportunities for interdisciplinary projects that allow students to collaborate across various fields. This program cultivates both artistic skills and critical thinking, preparing students for diverse career paths in design.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#28

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

Smith College’s Graphic Design bachelor's program attracts students who are keen to explore the intersection of art and technology in a collaborative, women-centered environment. Here, students are encouraged to think critically about design and its impact on society, while honing their technical skills through hands-on projects. The program cultivates a strong sense of community, making it an ideal fit for those who thrive in supportive, creative spaces.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College's Graphic Design bachelor's program is designed for students who thrive in a diverse and fast-paced environment. It encourages artistic expression while honing technical skills, catering to those looking to make their mark in the bustling world of New York City design. The program's collaborative atmosphere fosters creativity and prepares students for real-world challenges, making it ideal for aspiring designers eager to innovate.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

At Colby College in Waterville, ME, pursuing a Graphic Design bachelor's degree means diving into a creative community that values expression and innovation. Students will find themselves engaged in projects that prioritize artistic vision, technical skills, and critical thinking, preparing them for a dynamic career in design. With a strong emphasis on collaboration and mentorship, the program nurtures individual styles while fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for the industry.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Webster University

Saint Louis, MO · 2,304 students · Private nonprofit

86% accepted 63% graduate $50,876 earnings

Webster's full profile

#32

Rhode Island School of Design

Providence, RI · 2,084 students · Private nonprofit

19% accepted 89% graduate $68,140 earnings

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

At Colgate University, the Graphic Design bachelor's program attracts students who are passionate about visual storytelling and eager to make an impact in the design world. With a focus on critical thinking and creativity, students work on diverse projects that prepare them for a wide variety of careers in graphic design, from advertising to digital media.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#34

Massachusetts College of Art and Design

Boston, MA · 1,831 students · Public

76% accepted 69% graduate $43,582 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#35

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

At the University of Central Florida, the Graphic Design bachelor's program caters to those who are passionate about creativity and storytelling through visual media. Students are immersed in a collaborative learning environment that encourages experimentation and innovation, essential for anyone looking to carve a niche in today's design landscape. It's a great fit for individuals who thrive in a large, diverse community and want to engage with a variety of design disciplines.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#36

Hampshire College

Amherst, MA · 839 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 56% graduate $46,938 earnings

Hampshire's full profile

#37

Muhlenberg College

Allentown, PA · 1,727 students · Private nonprofit

72% accepted 81% graduate $69,107 earnings

Muhlenberg's full profile

#38

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

At Brigham Young University, the Graphic Design bachelor's program attracts students who are eager to blend artistic skills with technology. This path encourages you to think critically and creatively, equipping you with the tools needed to thrive in various design roles. The university’s strong emphasis on both individual creativity and collaborative projects helps nurture the next generation of graphic designers.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#39

Stephens College

Columbia, MO · 391 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 45% graduate $43,071 earnings

Stephens's full profile

#40

Barnard College

New York, NY · 3,264 students · Private nonprofit

Barnard College's Graphic Design bachelor's program is tailored for driven individuals who wish to merge artistic vision with practical skills. Students here engage in a rigorous curriculum that emphasizes both creativity and technical proficiency, preparing them for impactful careers in design. The supportive community and strong network in New York City provide ample opportunities for collaboration and inspiration.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#41

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College's Graphic Design bachelor's program is ideal for creative thinkers who want to blend art with technology. Students here dive into a curriculum that emphasizes both skill development and conceptual thinking, preparing them to tackle real-world design challenges with an artistic flair. The environment fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing students to work on projects that reflect their unique perspectives and visions.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#42

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

Tufts University's Graphic Design bachelor's program is built for students who want to fuse art with technology in impactful ways. This program nurtures critical thinking and creativity, providing a balanced education that prepares students for various design careers. With a focus on collaboration and innovation, Tufts ensures that its students are well-equipped to face the challenges of the design industry.

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Ithaca College

Ithaca, NY · 4,242 students · Private nonprofit

69% accepted 75% graduate $63,548 earnings

Ithaca's full profile

#44

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory's Graphic Design bachelor's program is perfect for creative thinkers who want to blend art with technology. Students here will dive into the world of visual communication, focusing on design principles, digital media, and real-world applications. This program encourages collaboration and innovation, preparing graduates to tackle challenges in various design fields.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

At Carleton College in Northfield, MN, pursuing a Graphic Design bachelor’s degree means immersing yourself in a community that values creativity and innovation. This program attracts students who are eager to blend artistic expression with practical design skills, preparing them for a dynamic career in the rapidly evolving field of graphic design. Here, students work collaboratively, engaging with peers and faculty to shape their unique design perspectives while contributing to a vibrant campus culture.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#46

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design bachelor's program at Bates College is ideal for students who are passionate about creativity and innovation. Here, you'll immerse yourself in a hands-on curriculum that encourages experimentation and self-expression, preparing you for a career in the ever-evolving design landscape. Bates fosters a collaborative environment, allowing students to engage with peers and faculty who share their artistic vision.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Emerson College

Boston, MA · 3,870 students · Private nonprofit

51% accepted 78% graduate $62,832 earnings

Emerson's full profile

#49

Bard College

Annandale-On-Hudson, NY · 2,414 students · Private nonprofit

52% accepted 70% graduate $46,543 earnings

Salem College

Winston-Salem, NC · 423 students · Private nonprofit

77% accepted 57% graduate $44,640 earnings

When comparing Brown University and The Cooper Union, one key difference is their financial impact on students. Brown's graduates earn an impressive $93,487, but they face a net price of $25,184, which can lead to higher debt levels. Conversely, The Cooper Union graduates earn $83,847 but benefit from a much lower net price, creating a different balance of earnings and financial burden.

After reviewing the data for 50 schools, consider your personal priorities. Location and program fit can significantly influence your experience. Make a list of what matters most to you—whether it’s the campus culture, financial aid options, or specific courses offered. Weigh these factors against the numbers presented here to find the best choice for your unique situation.

Ultimately, this data underscores the diverse paths available after college. Choosing the right program in graphic design can lead to a stable life with solid earnings, but it’s also a deeply personal decision. A family must weigh their specific needs alongside these outcomes, ensuring they select a program that aligns with both aspirations and realities.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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