If you’re looking to break into the rapidly evolving field of graphic design, getting an associate’s degree is one of the best and quickest ways to get your foot in the door. Luckily, there are plenty of colleges that offer online associate degrees in graphic design.
An associate degree in graphic design can be an excellent starting point for the field since it’s an industry that relies more on networking and a strong portfolio than formal education. The coursework in an AA for graphic design is often a great starting point to learn the basics of creative design, technical tools, and industry networking.
With all that in mind, here are some of the top online programs to get a graphic design associate degree
Sessions College
Sessions College is one of the best places to earn an associate’s degree in graphic design because it’s a school hyper-focused on the industry. That means you’ll get expert instruction from knowledgeable professors who have strong ties to the creative fields — and you’ll leave with a professional portfolio showing off your work.
The college has a number of associate programs, including an Associate of Occupational Studies in Graphic Design that provides a robust foundation for a contemporary design career. Studies include the elements of traditional art and design, as well as coding classes and software skills in cutting-edge tools.
- Specializes in creative and design education
- Self-paced learning format for ultimate flexibility
- Personalized mentorship and expert instructors
- Real-world portfolio-building skills
Penn Foster
The Penn Foster Graphic Design Associate Degree is a good option for those looking to build a solid foundation for entry-level careers. Penn Foster offers a range of flexible online classes that allow students to gain the skills and confidence they need to create engaging visual content.
This program can help you get ready for a career in graphic design, illustration, or web design with coursework in photo image editing, multimedia development, and animation. You’ll get hands-on experience with industry-standard tools, and the classes are available at a pace that works for your schedule.
- Covers web and graphic design
- Instruction in industry-standard tools
- Flexible class schedules for busy students
- Coursework in illustration and animation basics
Foothill College
Foothill College is a Los Angeles-based school with a great online associate’s program in graphic design. The associate’s degree covers graphic design and interactive design, which will immerse students in content that can prepare them for a solid career in a range of different creative fields.
When you leave Foothill College, you’ll also have a professional portfolio that shows off work in branding, web development, motion design, game design, visual storytelling, and more. The goal of this program is to create well-rounded individuals with high employability in design-related fields.
- Broad courses across various disciplines
- Training in industry-standard tools
- Faculty members have years of real-world experience
- Elective courses in fields like game design and animation
Rasmussen University
Rasmussen University is a private college with campuses across the U.S., but it also offers fully online programs. The school’s Graphic Design Associate of Applied Science was designed by expert instructors with experience at high-profile insertions like the Minnesota Timberwolves and the American Museum of Natural History of New York.
Students will learn a slew of different design-related disciplines, including digital photography, photo editing, and web design. They’ll also leave with the confidence to use industry-standard tools — and a professional portfolio that showcases their work
- Curriculum designed by industry professionals
- Includes focus on photography and image editing
- Portfolio classes include interview and resume prep
- AA prepares students for industry certifications
Academy of Art University
As the name suggests, the Academy of Art University is a school focused on the creative field. The AAU Graphic Design Associates of Arts program provides students with a solid understanding of the fundamentals of good design across a variety of different design modalities.
For example, you can expect to learn about the basics of graphic design, typology, packaging design, interactive design, layout, and branding. This program prepares you for entry-level careers and allows for a seamless transition for the AAU’s bachelor’s degree programs.
- Includes traditional art instruction
- Coursework covers layout, packaging, and typography design
- Instructors have solid connections to creative fields
- Courses prepare students for potential BA programs
SUNY Online
The State University of New York is a large college that offers online programs, including an Associate of Science in Graphic Design. This foundational-level program prepares students for careers with instruction in graphic design basics, problem-solving, and cutting-edge software.
Students will learn the creative strategies and technical skills necessary to work in design across digital, print, and more. With a program focused heavily on print and traditional design, this is a good option for those looking to specialize in branding or layout design.
- Focus on both print and web design
- Combines traditional creativity with specialized software
- Online learning can be taken on your schedule
- Credits can transfer to a bachelor’s program
Full Sail University
The Full Sail University Graphic Design Associate of Applied Science Degree is a great option for those looking to break into the graphic design industry. It gives students the hands-on experience needed to prepare for an entry-level career in design with a variety of real-world projects.
For example, students will work on assignments that range from print publishing to computer interface design. Along with the art and design skills, you’ll also learn about digital publishing, web design, and communication.
- Online courses offer flexibility for students
- Imparts foundational career competencies
- Great for productive artists, graphic designers, and photo editors
- Fully transferable into bachelor programs
Bryan University Online
For those looking for career options, Bryan University offers an associate’s degree in graphic and UX/UI design. The fully online program prepares students for entry-level careers in fields such as graphic design, UX analysis, and web design. It includes coursework and foundational education in disciplines such as typography, image editing, and design thinking.
Along with the actual courses, Bryan University’s program also includes two certifications in industry-standard tools, as well as a mock interview with a portfolio demonstration. In other words, it’s a great program for those looking to get career help and learn graphic design skills.
- The program includes two software certifications
- Online and flexible program for students
- Covers both traditional design and UX/UI design
- Books, courseware, and software included in the program
