Graphic Design Colleges
Graphic design colleges should be considered by anyone who is creative and loves to communicate ideas by combining imagery with technology. Degree levels from an associate to Master’s in Arts or Fine Arts can be earned. Courses in design that include theory and fundamentals are aligned with courses in production and techniques for various mediums. Additional courses for a well-rounded, comprehensive education follow a liberal arts path. For example, fluent communication is a key ingredient for success in any career field so writing and language are also must have courses. Also, art history and cultural studies enhance the graphic design facet. And marketing and business courses contribute to desirable skills sought by employers in such industries as package design, music, branding and typographies.
Details of 5 of the Best Graphic Design Colleges
The graphic design colleges listed below represent regions across the country from New York to San Francisco. Trying to limit a long, prestigious list to only five is difficult; however these five are outstanding colleges for anyone looking to embark or expand on an exhilarating career in graphic design. Tuition is for the 2013-2014 school year unless otherwise stated.
1. School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC)
Centered in downtown Chicago, SAIC averages a class size of only 13, which assures individualized attention from instructors. Notable alumni of SAIC include Georgia O’Keeffe and Eleanor Coen.
Requirements:
• SAT Verbal score of 500 or ACT score of 20
• Statement of Purpose
• Official transcript
• Letter of recommendation
• Portfolio of 15 best works
Tuition: SAIC’s tuition averages over $37,000 but 78% of the students receive tuition grants close to $10,000. Federal, state, and local financial aid are also available.
2. Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
Located in Baltimore, Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA) offers an attractive pre-college summer residency in Tuscany or Baltimore. The MFA in Graphic Design at MICA is ranked the third best in the country by US News.
Requirements:
• SAT or ACT score evaluated in conjunction with other application documents
• Essay
• Official transcript
• 1 – 3 letters of recommendation
• Portfolio of 15 best works
Tuition: $39,400 plus fees. MICA funded scholarships plus federal, state, and local financial aid are available.
3. Academy of Art Institute in San Francisco
With over 25,000 successful graduates across the world, the Academy of Art Institute in San Francisco boasts a philosophy that any student interested in studying deserves the opportunity to do so.
Requirements:
• Official transcript
• Letter of recommendation
• Portfolio
Tuition: $18,800. In addition to Academy scholarships, federal, state, and local grants are also available.
4. Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI)
Established in 1885, KCAI is a member of the Association of Independent Colleges of Art and Design. One current focus of KCAI is on emerging media and client-driven needs professionals.
Requirements:
• SAT or ACT score
• Official transcript
• 1-2 letters of recommendation
• Portfolio
Tuition: $33,112. Merit based scholarships are awarded by KCAI and federal, state, and local financial are also available.
5. School of Visual Arts (SVA)
School of Visual Arts has been a leader in the education of artists, designers and creative professionals for nearly seven decades. With a faculty of distinguished working professionals, a dynamic curriculum and an emphasis on critical thinking, SVA is a catalyst for innovation and social responsibility. Comprised of more than 6,000 students at its Manhattan campus and 35,000 alumni in 100 countries, SVA also represents one of the most influential artistic communities in the world.
Requirements:
• SAT or ACT score
• Statement of Intent
• Official transcript
• Portfolio or essay
Tuition: $39,200. 58% of the students receive some form of financial aid. (Source: IPEDS) *Financial aid is only available to those who qualify*
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