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Graphic Design Degrees for Military and Veterans

Graphic Design Degrees for Military and Veterans

The official site of Mount Wachussett Community College says those in graphic design degree programs learn "the tools and techniques to communicate ideas visually. Most graphic design programs start with the core design principles, like color theory and composition. After the foundation is set, students will learn sub-disciplines like typography, web design and motion graphics."

In these programs you will learn how to use design tools like Adobe Creative Suite (CS), JavaScript and HTML" in programs meant to offer "hands-on experience with industry tools..."

Those who have degrees in graphic design work for companies, organizations, nonprofits, and for themselves. In fact, according to BLS, 19% of graphic designers are self-employed. It is the type of job that you can easily do online and from home as well as being able to work for yourself.

For most jobs in graphic design, you will need a bachelor’s degree in graphic design, although you can get degrees from the associate level up to graduate.

Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design

An associate’s degree in graphic design may take you appoximately two years. With an associate’s degree in graphic design, you can pursue entry-level graphic design work, web design, and desktop publishing positions. You could also work as an intern.

In an associate’s degree in graphic design program, you might take classes such as typography, 3D design, and computer illustration. Community colleges can be a great option for getting an associate’s degree in graphic design. They also might offer certificates in graphic design.

Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design

Getting your bachelor’s degree in graphic design is a must for many graphic design jobs. This will take four years, and you can do so online or in person, depending on what would work best for your schedule. Graphic design is a good major for attending school online and can work well if you can’t attend in person.

Some of the class options include visual design, graphic design technology, and typography.

When looking for programs, The Rhode Island School of Design, Parsons School of Design, and The Pratt Institute are all highly rated. For online programs, The University of Florida, Maryville University, and Bellevue University are all highly rated.

Jobs you can get with a bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design

Master’s Degree in Graphic Design

If you want to go further along the graphic design career path, you should go on to get your master’s degree in graphic design. Most programs will take around two years and you should be able to find either an in-person or online program.

In a master’s of graphic design program, you might take classes such as design history and theory, design research, and open studio time. You might also need to complete an internship.

When looking for programs, Yale University, The Rhode Island School of Design, and North Carolina State University are all highly rated. For online programs, Syracuse University, Samford University, and Radford University are all highly rated.

Jobs you can get with a master’s degree in graphic design

Doctorate in Graphic Design

If you are interested in holding an academic position at a college or university or go into the research side of graphic design, you would want to go on to get your doctorate or Ph.D. in graphic design. Most people who do so become college professors or senior researchers.

Related Majors

Dream in Color Grant

Vera Bradley and awards fund this grant to qualifying women of color who are making a difference in their communities. One will go to a student and one a woman working on an exciting project celebrating diversity and inclusion. Students must self-ID as a woman of color, be currently in school pursuing a creative career, or pursue a creative project that celebrates diversity. For more info, please go here.

VA-Approved Schools with Design Degree Programs

The New School

The New School has approved programs covered by the GI Bill.  Their campus is in New York, NY, but they also offer many online options. The New School offers Associates and Bachelors in Design.