Overview

The Graphic Design programme at Academy of Art University provides students with a rigorous environment to refine their visual storytelling and technical skills. This master level course is designed to transform creative passion into a professional career through hands-on experience and expert mentorship. Students graduate with a sophisticated portfolio that demonstrates their unique design voice to global employers.

Why Graphic Design at Academy of Art University?

The university offers a unique "no barriers" approach to education, ensuring that dedicated artists have access to high-level training without the requirement of standardised test scores. Students benefit from facilities that include professional-grade equipment labs and printmaking studios, allowing for experimentation across various media. The curriculum is deeply integrated with industry standards, featuring collaborations with professional clients and instruction from working designers. Additionally, the institution provides extensive support for veterans through the Yellow Ribbon Program, fostering a diverse and inclusive creative community.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 33426 per year
National fee: USD 26586 per year
Local fee: USD 26586 per year

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum focuses on fundamental and advanced design principles, ensuring students master the tools and concepts required for modern practice. Modules may include:

Graphic Design
Interaction & UI/UX Design
Brand Communications
Visual Development
Typography
Printmaking
Digital Media
Art History

Careers with Graphic Design

Graduates from this programme are prepared for leadership roles within the global creative economy. Alumni have successfully secured high-level positions at major international organisations, including Warner Bros. Discovery and Lincoln Motor Company. The training provided enables students to pursue various professional paths such as:

Senior Design Manager
Art Director
Technical Designer
Brand Strategist
Visual Communication Specialist

The university's dedicated career services and strong alumni association provide ongoing networking opportunities, helping graduates transition from the studio to influential roles in culture and industry.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

History of Graphic Design

Making Ideas Visible

Type Forms

Anthropology: Experiencing Culture

Visual Literacy

Type Composition

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-02 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-08-24 00:00:00
Starting 2027-01-28 00:00:00
- Apply before 2027-01-19 00:00:00

Language

English

Credits

36 SCH

Delivered

On Campus, Online

Campus Location

San Francisco, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design View 88 other Masters in Graphic Design in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

We are not aware of any English requirements for this programme.

Other requirements

General requirements

Application form or online application
$50 application fee
Official transcripts from your undergraduate college or university showing completion of an undergraduate degree.
Resume
Portfolio

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

33426 USD / year

≈ 33426 USD / year
Out-of-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

26586 USD / year

≈ 26586 USD / year

Additional Details

Graduate Tuition (Domestic Students): $1,407/unit – 3 units per class

Graduate Tuition (International Students): $1,615/unit – 3 units per class

Living costs

San Francisco

United States

2206 - 4119 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Graphic Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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