Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Graphic Design Schools in Columbia, Independence, Kansas City, Lees Summit, Springfield, and St. Louis.
Struggling to find the perfect graphic design program in Missouri? We’ve reviewed the top graphic design schools in Missouri to help you make an informed choice.
Discover unique curriculums, expert faculty, and real-world opportunities that can shape your career in design.
Read on for a detailed breakdown of what each program offers and why they stand out.
University of Missouri – Graphic Design Program
The University of Missouri’s (MU) Graphic Design Program stands out as an excellent choice among Graphic Design Schools in Missouri. Housed within the School of Visual Studies, the program offers both Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) and Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees. The curriculum is meticulously structured around five sequential courses that cover:
- Introduction to Typography
- Packaging Design
- Corporate Identity
- Letterpress Printing
- Hand Lettering
- Design History
Students must pass a portfolio review after the Introduction to Typography course to move on to advanced classes.
Graduates of the program have secured impressive positions with companies such as MCA Records, Cosmopolitan Magazine, Hallmark Cards, and Nestle Purina. They have also garnered prestigious awards like Grammys, Emmys, and Addys. Alumni have been featured on platforms such as TheDieline and the Today Show.
Career opportunities for graduates include roles as:
- Graphic Designers
- Art Directors
- Creative Directors
- Digital Designers
- Production Artists
- Freelance Designers
Students can enhance their professional development by joining the active Student Chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts. Transfer students from community colleges and other universities are welcome, and new students are required to purchase Adobe Creative Cloud Suite and a laptop, preferably a Mac. This robust program ensures a proper foundation for a flourishing career in the creative industry.
Kansas City Art Institute – Graphic Design
The Kansas City Art Institute (KCAI) is renowned for its extensive studio majors, including graphic design, animation, ceramics, creative writing, filmmaking, illustration, painting, photography, printmaking, product design, sculpture, and art history.
KCAI stands out due to its:
- Professional Faculty: Instructors with practical, real-world experience.
- Liberal Arts Education: Fostering critical thinking and creativity.
- Resources: Jannes Library and Beals Studios support students’ research and artistic exploration.
Financial support options are plentiful, including scholarships, grants, loans, and student employment opportunities, making education at KCAI accessible. The H&R Block Artspace adds to the student experience with exhibitions and community engagement.
KCAI’s emphasis on merging practical skills with a well-rounded education, combined with its state-of-the-art facilities, makes it an ideal choice for aspiring graphic designers interested in career readiness and academic excellence.
Missouri Southern State University – Graphic Design Degree Program
Missouri Southern State University’s (MSSU) Graphic Design Degree Program is situated within the Department of Art and Design and holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission. Offering both a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design and a graphic design minor, MSSU emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experiences.
Key elements of the program include:
- Internships: Opportunity for real-world experience.
- Study Abroad Programs: Expanding cultural perspectives.
- Spiva Art Gallery: Showcasing student work.
- Artful Medicine Symposium: An annual notable event.
The curriculum includes comprehensive courses on design principles, typography, digital media, illustration, and print production. The university also hosts an annual High School Art Day, offering prospective students a look at their future educational paths.
Faculty dedication and a strong, student-centric approach ensure MSSU graduates are well-prepared for various careers in graphic design and related fields.
Missouri State University – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design with a track in Graphic Design
Missouri State University‘s Department of Art and Design is the largest, most diverse publicly funded art and design program in Missouri. The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design offers specialized tracks, including Graphic Design, Illustration, Sequential Art, and Graphic Design and Illustration. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the program maintains high educational standards.
The curriculum focuses on:
- Design Principles
- Typography
- Digital Media
- Cultural Awareness
- Leadership in Visual Arts
Missouri State supports students with a range of financial aid opportunities and scholarships. Career pathways for graduates often include roles as graphic designers, educators, professional artists, photographers, animators, and museum or gallery staff.
The program’s combination of experienced faculty, state-of-the-art facilities, and a blend of theoretical and practical knowledge prepares students exceedingly well for a variety of professions in the visual and digital arts fields.
University of Missouri-St. Louis – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art with an emphasis in Graphic Design
The University of Missouri-St. Louis (UMSL) offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Studio Art focusing on Graphic Design. This program is designed around providing students with practical skills and comprehensive knowledge, ensuring a robust portfolio upon graduation.
Courses encompass a variety of techniques and mediums, including:
- Traditional Design
- Typography
- Illustration
- User Experience (UX)
- Animation
UMSL’s esteemed professors bring industry-specific knowledge into the classroom, enhancing the educational experience. The program prepares graduates for dynamic careers such as graphic design, animation, and brand systems design, with many finding success in the St. Louis area and beyond.
Financial assistance, through scholarships and grants, supports students in achieving their educational goals. The quality education provided by UMSL ensures students are prepared for both immediate employment and further academic pursuits.
Park University – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design
Park University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design offers a studio environment that reflects professional work settings, fostering an immersive learning experience. This program includes a balanced blend of creative and technical skills, designed to prepare students for a successful career in design.
Key components of the curriculum are:
- Art History
- Drawing
- Photography
- Painting
- Principles of Design
- Typography
- Layout
- 3D Animation
- User Experience (UX)
Students benefit from personalized instruction and collaborative projects, gaining hands-on experience in fully equipped Macintosh studios. Internship opportunities further enrich the learning experience, preparing graduates for roles in visual communication and other design industries.
Park University emphasizes a hands-on, collaborative approach that turns students into well-rounded professionals, ensuring a strong start to their careers in graphic design.
Maryville University – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design
Maryville University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design provides students with a professional degree that equips them with essential skills for a successful career in communication design. This program is exceptional due to several unique features.
- Project-Based Learning: Students engage in year-long capstone projects, working closely on real-world design challenges. Upon completion, these projects are presented to industry professionals, fostering valuable feedback and networking opportunities.
- Industry Connections: Maryville has strong links with top organizations such as Disney and Abstrakt Marketing Group, offering internships that provide hands-on experience.
- Engaged Student Community: The university hosts an active student chapter of the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), enabling students to participate in various industry events and networking activities.
- Technological Integration: Each on-campus undergraduate student receives an iPad, with access to over 200 apps to enhance learning and design capabilities.
Accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, Maryville’s Graphic Design program emphasizes practical experience and student engagement, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for various roles in the graphic design industry.
University of Missouri-Kansas City – Bachelor of Arts in Media, Art, and Design
The University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC) offers a Bachelor of Arts in Media, Art, and Design with a strong focus on graphic design. This program is structured to provide a comprehensive understanding of both digital and traditional design practices.
- Integrated Curriculum: Foundational courses include digital design and design thinking, alongside specialized electives in drawing, photography, 2D design, and film studies.
- Interdisciplinary Projects: Students are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary projects that explore the interaction between visual culture and artistic practice.
- General Education Requirements: The curriculum includes a Constitution Course covering the U.S. and Missouri State Constitutions, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience.
- Internship Opportunities: While internships are not mandatory, they are highly recommended for gaining real-world experience and industry exposure.
With a flexible curriculum tailored to individual aspirations, UMKC provides a solid foundation for a variety of careers in media and design.
Missouri Valley College – Art Program
Missouri Valley College’s Art program offers a distinctive education focusing on both graphic design and studio art. This program is recognized for its comprehensive approach to artistic development.
- Drawing Emphasis: A foundational focus on drawing skills, vital for any design work, forms the backbone of the program.
- Diverse Design Approaches: Encourages diverse methodologies for tackling design problems, fostering creative problem-solving abilities.
- Individualized Instruction: Studio classes are led by active artists who provide personalized guidance and mentorship.
- Campus Art Community: The Morris Gallery of Contemporary Art enriches the campus with exhibitions and visiting artist programs.
- Field Trips: Organized excursions to nearby Kansas City expose students to dynamic art scenes and professional environments.
Missouri Valley College combines creative development with practical experience, preparing graduates for successful careers in various art and design fields.
St. Charles Community College – Graphic Design Program
The Graphic Design Program at St. Charles Community College stands out for its versatility, combining traditional art fundamentals with modern design technology.
- Broad Curriculum: Courses include interactive design, video editing, computer animation, and print production, making the program versatile and comprehensive.
- Degree Options: Students can pursue an Associate of Arts (A.A.), Associate of Fine Arts (A.F.A.), or an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) in Graphic Design, catering to both transfer and career-ready pathways.
- Portfolio Development: Emphasizes creating a strong portfolio, which is critical for entering the workforce or transferring to a four-year institution.
- Community Engagement: Offers Continuing Education programs, maintaining strong ties with the community and providing various learning opportunities.
St. Charles Community College’s commitment to student success and community involvement makes it an excellent choice for aspiring graphic designers.
How to Choose the Best Graphic Design School in Missouri
Choosing the right graphic design school in Missouri involves several critical considerations. Here’s a buyer’s guide to help you make the ideal decision:
- Quality of Curriculum: Review the course offerings in detail. Ensure they cover essential topics like design principles, typography, digital media, and portfolio development.
- Faculty Expertise: Look for programs with experienced faculty members who bring real-world insights into the classroom.
- Hands-On Learning Opportunities: Internship programs, studio courses, and capstone projects can provide crucial practical experience.
- Alumni Success: Research the career trajectories of alumni. Successful and well-placed graduates can indicate a strong program.
- Facilities and Resources: Check if the school offers state-of-the-art computer labs, art studios, and access to current software tools like Adobe Creative Cloud.
- Financial Aid and Scholarships: Investigate the availability of financial support, including scholarships, grants, and loans.
- Campus Environment: Visit the campus if possible. Assess the school’s atmosphere, community involvement, and extra-curricular opportunities.
- Industry Connections: Programs connected with professional organizations like the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) can offer valuable networking opportunities.
Taking these factors into consideration will help you choose a program that aligns with your career goals in graphic design and provides comprehensive training.
Graphic Design Schools By State
Conclusion: Your Path to a Creative Career
Enrolling in one of the top graphic design schools in Missouri can significantly impact your career trajectory. These programs offer the educational foundation, hands-on experience, and professional connections necessary to succeed in the creative industry. Visit the schools’ websites to gather more information and take the next step in your educational journey. Begin your path to a fulfilling and dynamic career in graphic design today.