Rankings / Value

Best ROI Colleges for Graphic Design

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

Schools Analyzed

$78,576

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

85%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,995

Avg. Net Price

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Graphic design programs are more than just a creative outlet; they are an investment in a student's future. With potential earnings reaching up to $93,487, the right college can significantly impact a graduate's financial trajectory.

What sets these top schools apart is not just their strong academic programs, but their outcomes in earnings, graduation rates, and manageable debt levels. The institutions listed below have proven track records, with average earnings around $79,902 and graduation rates of 87%. This data helps prospective students and families assess which colleges offer the best return on investment for a graphic design degree.

Take Johns Hopkins University and Brown University, for example. While Brown has a higher average earning potential at $93,487, it also comes with a higher net price of $25,184 compared to Johns Hopkins' $18,809. This contrast illustrates how students need to weigh potential earnings against the cost of their education when making decisions about their future.

Key Findings

Johns Hopkins University graduates earn an average of $87,555.

Brown University's graduation rate stands at 96%.

The average debt for graduates in this ranking is $11,000.

Rice University has the lowest net price at $13,370.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $78,576

Avg. graduation rate 85%

Avg. net price $20,995

Avg. median debt $15,804

How We Ranked

Ranked by return on investment with 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

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 →

Rice University

Houston, TX

Graduation95%

Earnings$89,718

Net Price$13,370

View full profile →

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Accredited schools accepting applicants in this field.

Full Rankings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Johns Hopkins University is a beacon of academic success in Baltimore. Known for its rigorous programs and extensive research opportunities, the school prepares students for careers that can lead to impressive median earnings of $87,555 a decade after graduation.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Williams College

Williamstown, MA · 2,076 students · Private nonprofit

Williams College in Williamstown is known for its intimate learning environment, facilitating a 95% graduation rate. The college's emphasis on undergraduate education results in strong career outcomes, with median earnings of $88,665 ten years after graduation, showcasing the return on investment for students.

8% accepted 95% graduate $88,665 earnings

Williams's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston welcomes students to a vibrant community with a 95% graduation rate. The school's commitment to undergraduate education is evident, and graduates enjoy median earnings of $89,718 within ten years, reflecting the value of a Rice degree in the job market.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of New York City, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art is renowned for its unique focus on engineering and architecture, fitting for the creative and driven student. The school has an impressive graduation rate of 81%, reflecting its commitment to student success amidst a rigorous academic environment.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University, located in Providence, boasts a remarkable graduation rate of 96%. Known for its distinctive open curriculum, Brown encourages students to explore their passions, leading to impressive outcomes with median earnings of $93,487 a decade post-graduation.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University in Nashville supports students in achieving their academic goals. The vibrant campus community is known for its commitment to inclusion and diversity, with 20% of students receiving Pell Grants, offering a range of perspectives that enrich the learning experience.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

Wellesley College

Wellesley, MA · 2,300 students · Private nonprofit

Wellesley College, located in Wellesley, MA, is a women’s college that emphasizes leadership and academic excellence, with a graduation rate of 91%. The college's commitment to empowering women is reflected in its strong alumni network, which fuels a median earning of $84,803 for graduates a decade after leaving.

14% accepted 91% graduate $84,803 earnings

Wellesley's full profile

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Brunswick, ME, Bowdoin College is known for its academic rigor and close-knit community, boasting a graduation rate of 95%. Students here engage in a diverse array of programs that prepare them for meaningful careers, reflected in a median earning of $82,735 a decade after graduation.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, attracts students eager for academic rigor and vibrant campus life. The university fosters a strong sense of community and offers numerous opportunities for real-world experience, all of which contribute to a median earnings figure of $89,363 at ten years post-graduation.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#10

Amherst College

Amherst, MA · 1,911 students · Private nonprofit

Amherst College, with a student body of just 1,911, fosters an intimate learning environment where 94% of students graduate successfully. This close-knit atmosphere is complemented by impressive median earnings of $77,644 at ten years post-graduation, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared to enter competitive fields and make a meaningful impact in their careers.

9% accepted 94% graduate $77,644 earnings

Amherst's full profile

#11

Yale University

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

Yale University is renowned for its strong academic programs and a graduation rate of 96%. This commitment to excellence translates into impressive median earnings of $100,533 for graduates a decade after finishing their studies, indicating that a Yale degree holds significant value in the job market.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

The University of Florida, based in Gainesville, is a large public university that serves over 35,000 students, characterized by its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. With a graduation rate of 91%, the university supports a diverse student body, including 22% Pell Grant recipients, facilitating an inclusive environment for learning and growth.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Washington University in St Louis

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

With a graduation rate of 94%, Washington University in St. Louis consistently supports its students to achieve their academic goals and thrive professionally. The median earnings of $86,182 at ten years post-graduation reflect a strong return on investment, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared for the workforce and equipped with skills that employers value.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#14

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University is known for its cutting-edge programs in technology and the arts, attracting creative and analytical thinkers alike. With a small student body of around 7,300, students often receive personalized attention from faculty, fostering a close-knit community that emphasizes collaboration and innovation.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#15

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University sits in one of the most vibrant cities in the world, offering students a unique urban experience alongside a 96% graduation rate. The median earnings of $102,491 at ten years post-graduation reflect the university's strong emphasis on preparing students for lucrative careers in diverse fields, making it a compelling option for ambitious students.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#16

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College in Hanover, New Hampshire, is known for its intimate learning environment, with a student body of around 4,500. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96%, it fosters a supportive community conducive to academic excellence, attracting students who thrive in a close-knit setting focused on collaboration and personal growth.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#17

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, nestled in Waterville, Maine, cultivates a strong sense of community among its approximately 2,400 students. The college emphasizes a liberal arts education, with a focus on critical thinking and a global perspective, preparing students for a diverse array of careers.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College in Swarthmore, PA, is home to a small but vibrant student body of 1,613. The school's commitment to academic excellence is evident in its impressive 93% graduation rate, showing that students are highly engaged and supported throughout their college journey.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#19

CUNY Queens College

Queens, NY · 12,550 students · Public

With a diverse student body of over 12,500, CUNY Queens College in New York City presents an inviting atmosphere for students from various backgrounds. The college's 56% graduation rate reflects its commitment to supporting students, making it a strong choice for those seeking a community-oriented academic experience.

64% accepted 56% graduate $62,763 earnings

CUNY Hunter College

New York, NY · 16,289 students · Public

CUNY Hunter College is home to over 16,000 students in the heart of New York City, making it an attractive option for those seeking a vibrant urban experience. With a graduation rate of 59%, students benefit from a diverse and supportive community that fosters academic and personal growth, especially for those who are Pell Grant recipients, making up 56% of the student body.

54% accepted 59% graduate $63,163 earnings

Colgate University

Hamilton, NY · 3,180 students · Private nonprofit

Colgate University, located in Hamilton, NY, has a tight-knit community of 3,180 students. With a graduation rate of 91%, it’s clear that students here find support and resources to help them succeed academically and personally.

14% accepted 91% graduate $85,139 earnings

Colgate's full profile

#22

CUNY Brooklyn College

Brooklyn, NY · 10,543 students · Public

CUNY Brooklyn College serves around 10,500 students in one of New York City's most diverse boroughs. With a graduation rate of 55%, the college is dedicated to cultivating an inclusive environment that supports students from various backgrounds, including a significant portion of Pell Grant recipients at 57%.

58% accepted 55% graduate $60,752 earnings

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

Brigham Young University is known for its commitment to academic excellence and strong community values. With an impressive 82% graduation rate, students are not just enrolling; they’re completing their degrees and preparing for successful careers in various fields.

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#24

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Smith College in Northampton, Massachusetts, is a strong choice for students seeking a supportive and enriching environment. The college fosters a close-knit community with a focus on academic rigor and personal growth, making it appealing to those who thrive in collaborative settings.

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Emory University

Atlanta, GA · 7,298 students · Private nonprofit

Emory University in Atlanta, GA, welcomes 7,298 students to a vibrant urban campus. With a graduation rate of 91%, it fosters an environment where students can thrive academically while also enjoying the rich cultural experiences the city has to offer.

11% accepted 91% graduate $80,137 earnings

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

At the University of Central Florida, a student body of over 59,000 reflects a bustling campus life with a plethora of opportunities for personal and academic growth. Despite a lower graduation rate of 77%, UCF offers a range of resources aimed at supporting students through their educational journey, making it a vibrant option for those eager to explore a large university setting in sunny Florida.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates College fosters an environment where students are likely to succeed. Located in Lewiston, Maine, this private nonprofit school emphasizes a liberal arts education, encouraging students to engage deeply with diverse subjects and their peers.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

University of Southern California

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

The University of Southern California is a prestigious institution known for its vibrant campus and strong alumni network. With a graduation rate of 92%, it prepares students for leadership roles across various industries in a dynamic city like Los Angeles.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#29

Wesleyan University

Middletown, CT · 3,067 students · Private nonprofit

In Middletown, Connecticut, Wesleyan University offers a tight-knit community with a strong focus on liberal arts education. With only 3,067 students and a graduation rate of 92%, it fosters close relationships between students and faculty, setting the stage for personalized learning experiences that can lead to lifelong connections and success.

16% accepted 92% graduate $73,897 earnings

Wesleyan's full profile

#30

Barnard College

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

With a 93% graduation rate, Barnard College emphasizes strong academic support for its students, fostering a close-knit community in the heart of New York City. This private women's college combines rigorous academics with a vibrant urban experience, allowing students to engage deeply with their studies and the rich cultural offerings of one of the world's most dynamic cities.

9% accepted 93% graduate $80,516 earnings

Barnard's full profile

#31

Hamilton College

Clinton, NY · 2,030 students · Private nonprofit

Hamilton College, situated in Clinton, New York, is recognized for its commitment to a rigorous liberal arts education, reflected in a 91% graduation rate. The college emphasizes critical thinking and writing skills, making it an excellent choice for students who wish to explore a variety of disciplines.

14% accepted 91% graduate $78,411 earnings

Hamilton's full profile

#32

Carleton College

Northfield, MN · 2,086 students · Private nonprofit

Carleton College, nestled in the quaint town of Northfield, Minnesota, is home to around 2,100 students who thrive in a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment. This small liberal arts college is known for its rigorous academics and commitment to fostering critical thinking, making it a great fit for students who want a personalized education experience.

20% accepted 90% graduate $75,525 earnings

Carleton's full profile

#33

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

The University of Texas at Austin is a hub of innovation and learning, attracting a large student body of nearly 43,000. With an 88% graduation rate, students benefit from a supportive academic community and numerous resources aimed at their success. The university's location in Austin, a city known for its vibrant culture and tech scene, makes it an exciting place to study and grow. Graduates report median earnings of $75,121 a decade post-graduation, reflecting strong career prospects in a competitive job market.

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College in Easton, Pennsylvania, attracts students with its strong liberal arts curriculum and impressive median earnings of $91,410 ten years post-graduation. With an 88% graduation rate, students here benefit from a personalized education that prepares them for success in various fields.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#35

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

Tufts University attracts a tight-knit community of just over 7,000 students, fostering close relationships among peers and faculty. The emphasis on interdisciplinary studies encourages students to explore various interests, making it an ideal choice for those who want to blend their academic pursuits with real-world impact.

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Middlebury College

Middlebury, VT · 2,738 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 92% graduate $76,310 earnings

Middlebury's full profile

#38

CUNY Lehman College

Bronx, NY · 10,696 students · Public

57% accepted 50% graduate $58,013 earnings

New York University

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

With a diverse student body of nearly 29,000 students, New York University immerses you in the vibrant culture of New York City. The school’s global perspective and multitude of programs draw students looking to thrive in a dynamic urban environment, making it a hub for future leaders across various fields.

9% accepted 88% graduate $82,509 earnings

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Boston University is a strong choice for students who are focused on completing their degree successfully. The vibrant city of Boston provides a rich cultural experience, and the university's diverse student body of over 18,000 fosters dynamic interactions and networking opportunities. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $83,238 ten years after enrollment, showcasing the potential for a strong return on investment.

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#41

Grinnell College

Grinnell, IA · 1,729 students · Private nonprofit

15% accepted 88% graduate $62,830 earnings

Grinnell's full profile

#42

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

The University of Georgia, with its 89% graduation rate, provides an engaging and supportive atmosphere for students in Athens, a city known for its vibrant culture. The university’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its comprehensive programs and the strong sense of community among students and faculty, making it an excellent choice for those who want to feel connected while pursuing their studies.

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#43

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#44

University of Utah

Salt Lake City, UT · 27,264 students · Public

86% accepted 64% graduate $67,170 earnings

University's full profile

#45

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University, located in Tallahassee, is a vibrant public institution with a diverse student body of over 32,000. A graduation rate of 84% and median earnings of $61,675 ten years after graduation reflect a solid return on investment for students who engage actively in their educational journey.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#46

Berea College

Berea, KY · 1,513 students · Private nonprofit

Berea College in Kentucky stands out for its unique approach to education, emphasizing affordability and access. With only 1,513 students and a graduation rate of 60%, it cultivates an environment where students can engage deeply with their studies while also contributing to the college community through work programs that help finance their education.

19% accepted 60% graduate $43,150 earnings

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, CA · 18,639 students · Public

96% accepted 50% graduate $68,077 earnings

University of Rochester

Rochester, NY · 6,331 students · Private nonprofit

40% accepted 85% graduate $79,042 earnings

University's full profile

#49

Scripps College

Claremont, CA · 1,113 students · Private nonprofit

38% accepted 85% graduate $77,539 earnings

Scripps's full profile

#50

Ramapo College of New Jersey

Mahwah, NJ · 4,898 students · Public

71% accepted 71% graduate $67,541 earnings

Ramapo's full profile

The difference between schools like Rice University and Vanderbilt University highlights the importance of financial planning. Rice has a lower net price of $13,370 and a high graduation rate of 95%. In contrast, Vanderbilt's net price is $15,846, which could impact students' financial burdens despite its strong earnings potential of $91,565.

As you sift through this list of 50 schools, consider what aligns with your priorities. Are you looking for a lower net price, or is a strong alumni network more important? Think about location, campus culture, and how each school’s offerings fit your career aspirations. This framework will help you make more informed choices.

Ultimately, the path from college to a stable life hinges on the choices students make today. A degree in graphic design can lead to fulfilling careers, but it starts with choosing the right program that balances cost, support, and outcomes. One family's decision about where to invest in education can set the stage for a lifetime of financial stability.

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]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

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

[3]

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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