2024 Best Online Associate’s in Graphic Design Degrees

Ready to start your journey?

An associates degree in graphic design can help you get started as a visual creator. Becoming a designer requires artistic taste, sensitivity to details, and the ability to understand what clients want—all of which can be improved through a formal degree.

Best Online Associate's in Graphic Design Degrees

With a graphic design associate program, you can build a portfolio and develop fundamental skills needed to enter the industry.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Given how much modern companies value visual communication, knowing graphic design can pave the way for a variety of career options.

Online Associates Degrees in Graphic Design

Online Associates Degrees in Graphic Design

​​An associate’s degree in graphic design is an undergraduate program that can teach you how to create effective visual assets, whether for official brands or for artistic expression. Different types of visual assets include:

  • Logos
  • Package design
  • Animations
  • Video editing
  • Illustrations
  • Brochures
  • Advertisements
  • Magazines
  • Website design
  • Video game graphics
  • Presentation templates

Many larger companies actually have their own design team, so graphic designers are found across all sectors. Since visual media is incredibly diverse, full-fledged graphic designers can also work in video production, technology, animation, photography, and illustration.  

The goal of an associate degree is to make you more employable as a professional designer within 2 years, so most of your classes will be focused on graphic design. You can tackle the fundamental aspects of graphic design and work with print, digital, and interactive media.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

At the start of the program, you’ll likely study design fundamentals—such as color, typography, and drawing—to train your eye. Once you’ve built a solid foundation, you can work on diverse, hands-on projects, including website designs, photography, publishing layouts, and promotions.

Design is a highly tech-driven field, so students constantly use industry-level design software to make polished products that they can present beyond the classroom. In addition, programs typically introduce you to project management and problem-solving as applied to design.

There’s more to an effective design than looking good. It must also convey the right message while being aligned with the brand it represents. For these reasons, you’ll learn how to handle design briefs, collaborate with clients, and communicate timelines. Toward the end of a graphic design associate’s degree, students are generally required to have their own portfolio that can then be shown to potential employers.

An added benefit of an associates program is that you can receive feedback and guidance from design professionals who know the industry. Depending on the school and program, you might be required to complete an internship as well or work on designs for actual companies.

Graphic Arts and Design Careers & Salaries

Graphic Arts and Design Careers & Salaries

An associate’s degree in graphic design can be a stepping stone to entry-level jobs across a wide array of creative fields.

For example, some graduates work as designers at marketing agencies, illustrate for books and magazines, or come up with social media graphics for businesses. Going beyond static visuals, graduates may also venture into video editing, fashion design, product design, fine arts, and animation.

Another popular field for graduates is technology, where they design apps, websites, and software. This can be a lucrative field, with demand growing for UX (user experience) and interaction designers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, common graphic arts and design careers have the following median salaries.

Careers Annual Median Salaries
Art Directors $100,890
Web and Digital Interface Designers $79,890
Special Effects Artists and Animators $78,790
Fashion Designers $77,450
Web Developers $77,030
Film and Video Editors $62,680
Fine Artists $60,820
Drafters $60,300
Graphic Designers $50,710
Craft Artists $35,930

Since designers may create brochures, logos, advertisements, and other visual assets, many even freelance and juggle multiple clients from different companies.

Alternatively, with experience or additional education, some graduates go on to become marketing specialists and branding consultants. They may create or analyze content to ensure it appeals to their target audience. While many positions related to graphic design generally require a bachelors, the educational requirement for entry-level roles will depend on the specific employer.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

The jobs you can qualify for will depend on a variety of other factors as well, such as your experience, your location, and your skill sets.

Graphic Design Associate’s Curriculum & Courses

Graphic Design Associate’s Curriculum

Associates in graphic design degrees tend to have a highly focused curriculum. Here are examples of the types of courses you may take:

  • Graphic Design Fundamentals: This course introduces you to the building blocks of graphic design, such as line, pattern, typography, color, and scale.
  • Color Theory: Color has a major psychological effect on viewers, so you’ll learn how to use color to convey your message accurately and explore several color systems.
  • Typography: This course explores the properties of individual letterforms as well as how to choose the right fonts based on readability and branding.
  • Computer Graphics: Professional graphic designers constantly use high-capability software, so you’ll work on digital design projects to get comfortable with these tools.
  • History of Design: This course looks at the key movements and evolution of graphic design, along with iconic designers, current trends, and where it’s likely to go in the future.
  • UX Design: You may practice designing for technology by creating wireframes and doing usability testing for multiple platforms and devices, including websites and mobile apps.
  • Introduction to Drawing: This course gives an overview of classic and modern drawing techniques, with exercises in composition, perspective, proportion, and shading.
  • Advertising Design: You can get to know how branding works for companies and explore how to design for advertising campaigns, with the intent of promoting and selling.
  • Digital Photography: This course covers how to apply design concepts to digital photography, from adjusting exposure and composition to post-processing.
  • Portfolio Preparation: You’ll create a portfolio consisting of previous design works, and you’ll be briefed on job requirements and industry trends in graphic design.

Throughout the program, you’ll likely spend much of your time working on your own creative projects.

Admissions Requirements

Associate's in Graphic Design requirements

Here are some general admissions requirements for an AA degree in graphic design program:

  • High school diploma or GED equivalent. This is the main requirement for being accepted, with some schools asking for high school transcripts specifically.
  • Minimum GPA. Some programs require applicants to have a minimum GPA, which is usually at least 2.0.
  • Personal statement. Some schools request a personal statement to get to know more about you and your goals.

Entry requirements for associate programs are often less strict than for bachelors programs, but some schools may still ask for additional requirements, such as a portfolio of your work. Admissions criteria will vary from school to school.

Accreditation

Associate's in Graphic Design accreditation

When you’re choosing a graphic designer degree program, it’s beneficial to verify whether the school is regionally accredited.

Accredited schools go through an external review by official organizations, and their programs, facilities, and graduate outcomes are required to meet certain standards. If a school is regionally accredited, you’re more likely to receive a high-quality education, and you’re able to apply for federal financial aid. It can also be easier to get your classes recognized at another school.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Some employers also look more positively on degrees from accredited schools. The Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) has a database of accredited schools across the US available on their website.   

Financial Aid and Scholarships

Associate's in Graphic Design financial aid

There are several financial aid options for incoming undergraduate students who qualify. To start off, you can complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form determines your eligibility for government grants, loans, and work-study programs.

While you can apply for a private student loan, government loans usually have a lower interest rate. With federal work-study programs, you can get a part-time job while studying to help fund your tuition. Scholarships are another option to explore. Most scholarships are awarded based on your achievements, but some are based on financial need. There are scholarships specifically for graphic design students too.

Graphic Arts and Design Professional Organizations

To advance your industry knowledge and expand your network, you might consider joining professional organizations for graphic designers. Here are some of the biggest organizations:

You could even choose to volunteer for local chapters of these organizations.

What Is a Graphic Design Degree?

Graphic Design associate's Degree

A graphic design degree is an undergraduate program that helps prepare you for a career as a visual communicator. Ultimately, you can learn how to combine artistic elements—such as color, symbols, and typography—to express ideas and solve problems.

An associate degree can help you hone traditional art skills while teaching you how to use industry-level digital tools. You might produce a wide variety of visual assets throughout the program, including posters, brochures, website wireframes, and digital art. Some programs also cover project management since graphic design often involves plenty of collaboration.

Do You Need a Degree for Graphic Design?

It’s possible to get hired without a degree if you already have a strong design portfolio. Still, an associate degree in graphic design can help you develop your skills and build experience, especially if you’re only starting out.

Many employers still prefer to hire designers with formal degrees. With an associate degree, you can naturally create a well-rounded portfolio while getting guidance from design professionals as well. Another plus is that you can get to know more people in the industry, which might lead to finding potential jobs more quickly.

What Can You Do with a Graphic Design Associate Degree?

graphic design AA degree

A graphic design AA degree focuses on teaching skills needed for junior design roles. Most businesses now use graphics such as social media posts and brand guides, so there’s a high demand for design skills.

Design can span print, digital, and video assets. This means that there’s a wide variety of roles in this field, including graphic designer, illustrator, video editor, photographer, animator, digital artist, and UX designer, among others.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

Some design professionals choose to be part of an in-house creative team, while others become freelancers who run their own business.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Associate Degree in Graphic Design Online?

An associate’s degree generally consists of around 60 to 70 credits. So, if you study full-time, you can usually finish in 2 years.

This timeline is very flexible, though. For instance, studying part-time will often take you longer to finish. Many online students opt for this so they can work while studying. On the other hand, you can try to complete your degree faster by taking more courses at a time or skipping summer breaks. Some online programs offer accelerated terms that consist of 6 week classes or 8 week classes.

Is an Associates Degree in Graphic Design Worth It?

Associates Degree in Graphic Design careers

Yes, an associates degree in graphic design is worth it for many professionals. An associate’s degree gives you the benefits of formal training in graphic design while being faster and less costly than a bachelors degree.

Many graphic design employers look for academic qualifications in design, so having a degree could increase your chances of qualifying for a job. With an associates program in graphic design, you’ll also be able to compile a design portfolio and get industry exposure, even while studying.

Editorial Listing ShortCode:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, associate’s degree holders tend to have higher average salaries than those with a high school diploma.

Universities Offering Online Associates in Graphic Design Degree Program

Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.

Academy of Art University

Academy of Art University

The Academy of Art University offers an online program for an Associate of Arts in Graphic Design. It is designed to provide graduates with an easy transition into a BFA program. Coursework includes Introduction to Design Thinking, Composition for the Artist, History of Graphic Design, Web Design I and II, Branding Principles, and more.

Academy of Art University is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Columbus State Community College

Columbus State Community College

Columbus State Community College offers an AAS in Digital Design and Graphics that can be earned online. The program requires the completion of 65 credit hours. The curriculum covers the use of industry software, such as Adobe Illustrator and Dreamweaver, and provides instruction on how to create an effective professional portfolio.

Columbus State Community College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Community College of Vermont

Community College of Vermont

The Community College of Vermont offers an AA in Design and Media Studies. The program is designed to develop students’ creativity and technological skills and teach them how to develop professional portfolios. Students in the program must complete general education requirements and take courses such as Introduction to Adobe Creative Cloud, Drawing I, and Introduction to Digital Marketing.

CCV is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Foothill College

Foothill College

Foothill College offers an AA in Interactive and Graphic Design. The program is designed to provide a well-rounded education with a balance of art, technology, and core coursework. Some courses are available online. Graduates often pursue careers in graphic design, UX design, advertising, and related fields.

Foothill College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Gateway Technical College

Gateway Technical College

Gateway Technical College offers an Associate in Graphic Design. The program gives students opportunities to build portfolios, learn to market their talents, and gain hands-on skills. Internship opportunities are also available. Gateway has transfer agreements with other colleges, making it easier to move on to a 4 year degree if desired.

Gateway Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Madison Area Technical College

Madison Area Technical College

Madison Area Technical College offers an Associate in Graphic Design. The degree can be earned 100% online or in a hybrid format. Full-time students can typically finish in 2 years. The curriculum incorporates both new media and traditional artistic skills. Coursework includes Drawing Fundamentals, Introduction to Computer Graphics, and Typographic Design.

Madison Area Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College

Miami Dade College offers an Associate in Science in Graphic Design Technology. Every course is designed to provide hands-on training. Students also have opportunities to participate in internships with professional graphic design studios. The degree can be earned on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. On-campus classes are available at multiple locations.

Miami Dade College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University offers an online Associate in Graphic Design. Multiple start dates are available each year, and full-time students can finish in just 18 months. Courses are designed to provide flexibility and include Web Design Fundamentals, Digital Photography and Image Editing, and more. Students also have opportunities to earn Adobe professional certifications.

Rasmussen University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Santa Monica College

Santa Monica College

Santa Monica College offers an Associate in Science in Graphic Design. The degree can be earned on campus or online. The program is designed to prepare students for entry-level jobs in graphic design and related fields. SMC’s transfer agreements with other schools make it easier to pursue a 4 year degree later.

Santa Monica College is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Community and Junior Colleges, Western Association of Schools and Colleges.

Wake Tech Community College

Wake Technical Community College

Wake Technical Community College offers an AAS in Advertising and Graphic Design. Classes are available both on campus and online.

The curriculum covers advertising, typography, photography, social media, web design, print production, and more. The program requires the completion of 71 credits of coursework, including Computer Design Basics, Technical Illustration, and Portfolio Design.

Wake Technical Community College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.

Getting Your Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design Online

Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design Online

If you’re passionate about the visual arts and can spend hours getting lost in your own creative projects, then an associate’s degree in graphic design might match up with your interests.

With topics like typography, color theory, and portfolio management, you can get a solid grounding in the fundamental components of graphic design while gaining practical experience.

You can even get your 2-year graphic design degree online and choose from accredited schools all over the US. If you’re ready to expand your horizons in the field of design, why not start exploring online associate programs today?

Ready to start your journey?
Ima Ocon
WRITTEN BY
Ima holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Ateneo de Manila University, with a minor in Philosophy. She also participated in the Global Summer Program at Singapore Management University. Currently, she is pursuing a graduate certificate in counseling.