Rankings / By Major

Best Colleges for 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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Choosing the right college for graphic design can significantly shape a student’s career path. With earnings for graduates in this field averaging $78,678, it's crucial to consider schools that not only foster creativity but also ensure strong outcomes post-graduation.

The best programs in graphic design stand out through key metrics like graduation rates, earning potential, and manageable debt levels. Our list below highlights schools that excel in these areas, helping students make informed decisions based on tangible results rather than just reputation.

Take, for instance, The Cooper Union and Johns Hopkins University. While both schools have impressive graduation rates—81% and 94% respectively—Johns Hopkins graduates earn $3,708 more on average than those from Cooper Union. This reflects a tradeoff that students may need to consider: a higher net price at Johns Hopkins might be balanced by stronger earnings in the long run.

Key Findings

The average earnings for graphic design graduates from these schools is $78,678.

Graduation rates across the top programs average 86%, with some schools exceeding 95%.

Johns Hopkins graduates earn an average of $87,555, while The Cooper Union graduates earn $83,847.

The average debt for graduates is $12,500, with The Cooper Union having the lowest at $15,000.

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

Composite score + program concentration bonus for 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, the Graphic Design program attracts students who are passionate about blending creativity with technology. This program emphasizes hands-on learning, encouraging students to explore various design principles and push the boundaries of visual communication. Here, you'll engage in a collaborative environment that fosters experimentation and innovation, preparing you for a dynamic career in the arts.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design program at Johns Hopkins University is perfect for students who seek to combine artistic expression with critical thinking. This program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, allowing students to engage with a range of subjects while honing their design skills. Whether you’re interested in digital media or print design, the curriculum prepares you for a successful career by emphasizing both creativity and analysis in a supportive environment.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

At Williams College, the Graphic Design program is tailored for students who want to explore the intersection of art and technology while developing their own unique voice. The program encourages collaboration and critical thinking, allowing students to create impactful visual narratives. Here, you’ll work closely with peers and faculty, gaining a well-rounded education that prepares you for various avenues in the design field.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University's Graphic Design program is designed for students eager to challenge themselves creatively while learning essential design principles. The curriculum focuses on cultivating innovative thinkers who can address real-world problems through design. Students work in collaborative settings, fostering a strong community while developing a portfolio that showcases their unique perspectives and skills.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

Northwestern University’s Graphic Design program is tailored for those who are eager to blend creativity with technology in meaningful ways. Students work on developing their design skills in an environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. The focus here is on preparing students for the dynamic demands of the design industry, encouraging them to think critically and creatively about their work.

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

For students who thrive in a focused, artistic environment, the University of North Carolina School of the Arts offers a Graphic Design program that emphasizes creativity and technical skill. Ideal for those looking to hone their craft, students engage deeply with design principles, preparing for careers in various sectors, from advertising to interactive media. The small student body fosters close-knit relationships and personalized mentorship, which can be invaluable for growth as a designer.

30% accepted 78% graduate $38,357 earnings

University's full profile

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

At Brown University, the Graphic Design program is designed for creative thinkers who are ready to explore the intersection of art and technology. Students engage deeply with visual communication, focusing on building a portfolio that reflects their unique perspective and skills. The collaborative environment encourages experimentation and innovation, making it an ideal setting for those eager to push boundaries in design.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University’s Graphic Design program attracts students who are passionate about visual storytelling and want to create impactful designs. The curriculum emphasizes both technical skills and conceptual development, equipping students to tackle real-world challenges through their design work. Here, creativity meets collaboration, preparing graduates to excel in diverse design careers.

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 program is well-suited for creative individuals who thrive in a supportive and flexible learning environment. Students here engage in both theoretical and practical aspects of design, preparing them for a range of careers in the creative industry. The program fosters innovation and encourages students to express their individuality while developing essential skills.

77% accepted 65% graduate $54,655 earnings

Oklahoma's full profile

#10

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

At Wellesley College, the Graphic Design program attracts creative thinkers eager to blend art and technology in a supportive environment. Students here work on projects that push boundaries and explore visual storytelling, all while being part of a close-knit community that values collaboration and innovation.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

#11

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University’s Graphic Design program is designed for those who thrive on creativity and critical thinking. Here, students immerse themselves in a hands-on learning environment that emphasizes both graphic design principles and real-world applications, preparing them for dynamic careers in the field.

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

The Graphic Design program at Bowdoin College attracts students who value both artistic expression and critical analysis. With a strong emphasis on a liberal arts education, students are encouraged to explore design’s impact on society while developing their unique voices within a collaborative environment.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

#14

Yale University

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

Yale University’s Graphic Design program is a perfect fit for innovative thinkers who are ready to push the boundaries of visual communication. This program allows students to explore their creativity while gaining technical skills necessary for a successful career in design. Students benefit from a collaborative environment that fosters artistic experimentation and encourages them to engage with contemporary design challenges.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design program at Amherst College attracts students who value a liberal arts education alongside their design studies. This program is ideal for thinkers who want to challenge traditional boundaries and explore the intersection of design with other disciplines. Students engage in a rigorous curriculum that encourages them to develop a critical eye and a unique design aesthetic, all within a close-knit academic community.

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 program at Washington University in St. Louis attracts creative thinkers who want to blend artistry with technology. Students here dive into a dynamic curriculum that encourages innovation and critical thinking, preparing them for diverse roles in today’s visual communication landscape. With a strong emphasis on both conceptual and practical skills, the program cultivates a collaborative environment, allowing students to work on real-world projects and develop a unique design 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 University’s Graphic Design program attracts students who are eager to merge creativity with critical thinking. Here, students delve into a dynamic environment that encourages exploration and innovation, crafting visual narratives that resonate in a bustling city known for its cultural vibrancy. The program emphasizes both theoretical foundations and practical applications, preparing students to tackle real-world design challenges in various industries.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#19

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College’s Graphic Design program appeals to students who appreciate a close-knit academic community alongside their creative pursuits. The curriculum encourages exploration in various media and design philosophies, allowing students to develop a well-rounded skill set. This supportive environment is perfect for those who wish to engage deeply with their work and foster meaningful connections with classmates and faculty.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#20

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

At the University of Florida, aspiring graphic designers are immersed in a vibrant program that combines creativity with critical skills. This public university fosters innovation, encouraging students to engage with contemporary design challenges while benefiting from a large, diverse community of peers and mentors.

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 program is situated in one of the world's creative capitals, making it an excellent choice for students who thrive in dynamic, urban environments. Here, students focus on developing their unique voice and vision while engaging with a community of artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators, preparing them for a multifaceted career in design.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

CUNY Queens College’s Graphic Design program welcomes a diverse student body eager to delve into the fundamentals of design in a vibrant urban setting. This program is perfect for students looking to balance practical skills with artistic expression, as they prepare for a career that demands both creativity and technical proficiency. Students will work on a variety of design projects that reflect the cultural richness of New York City while building a comprehensive portfolio that showcases their talents.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

At Dartmouth College, the Graphic Design program is a great fit for students who want to engage deeply with visual communication while fostering their creative talents. The curriculum encourages hands-on projects and interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to develop a unique design voice. This approach prepares graduates for successful careers in a variety of creative industries, where they can make a real impact through their work.

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 program at the University of Southern California invites students to dive deep into the world of visual storytelling and digital innovation. It's perfect for those who are not only artistically inclined but also interested in the intersection of technology and design, equipping them to create impactful work across various media platforms.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#26

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College welcomes aspiring graphic designers into a program that emphasizes accessibility and community engagement. This program is perfect for students who are passionate about visual communication and want to make a difference through their art. Students work on real-world projects that connect them with the diverse Brooklyn community, fostering both creativity and social awareness.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

The Graphic Design program at Wesleyan University is tailored for students who value a liberal arts education while honing their creative skills. This intimate setting allows for close collaboration with peers and faculty, fostering a community where artistic exploration is encouraged. Students engage in projects that push boundaries, preparing them for a diverse range of professional opportunities in design and beyond.

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 program invites students to think critically about visual communication in a supportive and empowering environment. Here, students work towards mastering design techniques while gaining a broader understanding of how art influences society, ideal for those passionate about both creativity and context.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College is a great fit for aspiring graphic designers who are passionate about urban culture and storytelling through visuals. The Graphic Design program encourages students to think critically and conceptually, preparing them for the competitive landscape of design in New York City. With a focus on real-world applications, students work on projects that challenge them to engage with the community and address contemporary issues through design.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

At Colby College, students pursuing a Graphic Design degree find themselves in a vibrant environment that emphasizes creativity and the liberal arts. This program is ideal for those who want to merge visual communication with critical thinking, working toward a career that not only showcases their artistic talents but also engages with current cultural conversations.

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

Colgate University’s Graphic Design program appeals to students who are not only passionate about visual communication but also eager to engage in a liberal arts environment that fosters critical thinking. With an emphasis on creativity and conceptual development, this program prepares students to tackle real-world design challenges and to think deeply about the role of design in society. Collaborating with peers and faculty, students will cultivate a distinctive voice and a professional portfolio that sets them apart in the competitive design landscape.

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 program attracts those who blend imagination with strategic thinking. Students learn to create compelling designs that resonate with audiences, all within a vibrant campus culture that encourages collaboration and exploration in the arts.

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, students in the Graphic Design program dive into a curriculum that emphasizes creativity and technical skill. This program attracts those who are passionate about visual storytelling and want to make an impact through their designs. With access to a variety of resources and a supportive environment, students can hone their talents and prepare for careers in diverse design fields.

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 cultivates a unique environment where women can thrive in graphic design. This program attracts students who are not only talented artists but also eager to engage critically with design's role in society. Here, students develop their skills in a supportive community that encourages bold thinking and collaboration, preparing them for a variety of career paths in the creative industry.

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 program is ideal for creative thinkers who want to explore visual storytelling and design principles. Students engage in a blend of art and technology, honing their skills in an environment that encourages experimentation and innovation, preparing them to tackle real-world design challenges.

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 program attracts students eager to explore the intersection of art, technology, and social impact. The curriculum emphasizes both design principles and critical thinking, preparing students to tackle real-world problems through visual communication. Here, creativity flourishes in a diverse environment, allowing students to collaborate and learn from one another as they carve their paths in the design field.

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

At Emory University in Atlanta, aspiring graphic designers find a program that emphasizes creativity and innovation. Students are encouraged to explore their artistic vision while honing practical skills that can lead to a successful career in design, media, or advertising. This setting is ideal for those looking to blend their artistic passions with the analytical thinking that graphic design demands.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

At Carleton College, the Graphic Design program invites students who are curious and passionate about visual storytelling. Here, students develop not only technical skills but also a strong conceptual foundation that enables them to create impactful designs. The intimate campus atmosphere fosters collaboration, encouraging students to experiment and push their creative boundaries while working on real-world projects.

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 program at Bates College is ideal for students who appreciate a close-knit community and a hands-on approach to creativity. Here, you'll engage in projects that encourage experimentation and collaboration, helping you develop a unique artistic voice while working on real-world challenges. Students are encouraged to think critically and push boundaries, preparing them for a dynamic career in design.

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

Comparing The Cooper Union and Brown University reveals a striking contrast in financial outcomes despite similar graduation rates. Brown graduates earn an impressive average of $93,487, which is $9,640 more than Cooper Union graduates, highlighting how significant the choice of institution can be on future earnings.

As you sift through the 50 schools listed, it’s essential to align the data with your own priorities. Consider factors like location, program fit, and campus culture alongside financial metrics. Your ideal school should resonate with your personal goals and lifestyle preferences, making the decision-making process more holistic.

Ultimately, this data underscores the importance of choosing a school that not only nurtures your artistic talent but also sets you up for financial stability. With earnings and graduation rates varying widely, one family's choice can lead to a stable life, while another may face mounting debt or lower earning potential. Making an informed decision is critical in navigating the path from college to career.

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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