Graphic Design Schools in Durham NC

Looking to break into graphic design in Durham, NC?

Find out which schools top the list for launching your creative career. This article covers the best Graphic Design Schools in Durham NC, detailing programs, costs, and opportunities to help you make an informed choice.

Durham Technical Community College – Graphic Design Program

Durham Technical Community College offers an excellent foundation for aspiring graphic designers. Their Graphic Design program is designed to equip you with both traditional and digital design skills.

What You Can Expect

Whether you’re aiming to transfer to a four-year institution or seeking immediate employment, Durham Tech has options tailored for your needs. Students can choose between two degrees:

• Associate in Fine Arts (AFA): Focused on studio art, perfect for those planning to transfer to a university.
• Associate in Arts (AA): Offers a diverse education including business, English, and psychology.

Key Focus Areas

• Visual Arts Skills: Emphasizes drawing, painting, and other traditional arts.
• Digital Proficiency: Prioritizes computer software training essential for modern graphic design.
• General Education: Develops strong critical thinking, communication, and math/science skills.

Support and Opportunities

Durham Tech provides robust support services:

• Library and Resource Centers: For research and study.
• Career Services: For job placement assistance.
• Campus Security: Ensuring a safe learning environment.

Financials

• Tuition and Fees: Approximately $5,076.
• Median Annual Wage: Graduates can expect around $49,833 in the NC Triangle area.

With a positive job outlook and focused curriculum, Durham Tech prepares you for a dynamic career in graphic design.

You can learn more about their program on their official Durham Technical Community College page.

NC State University – Bachelor of Graphic & Experience Design (BGXD)

The Bachelor of Graphic & Experience Design (BGXD) at NC State University seamlessly integrates UX/UI design with traditional graphic design principles. It’s a great choice if you aim to be at the forefront of design technology and innovation.

Program Highlights

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers essential design skills from typography to UX/UI design.
• Emerging Technologies: Teaches data visualization, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence.
• Human-Centered Design: Incorporates user research methods crucial for effective design.

Career Prospects

Students graduating from NC State’s BGXD program find opportunities in various fields:

• UX Design
• UI Design
• Branding and Service Design

Alumni have successfully joined top companies like IBM, Red Hat, and SAS, underscoring the program’s industry relevance.

Learning Environment

• Collaborative Projects: Work with experts across different domains.
• Advanced Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art labs and design studios.

NC State’s focus on balancing technical and creative skills ensures you are job-ready upon graduation. For detailed program information, visit their NC State University’s BGXD page.

North Carolina Central University – B.A. in Art with Concentrations in Visual Communications, Studio, or Art Studies

North Carolina Central University (NCCU) offers a B.A. in Art with three distinct concentrations tailored to various artistic interests:

• Visual Communications
• Studio Art
• Art Studies

Program Overview

NCCU’s art program stands out by offering diverse coursework that spans traditional and digital mediums, including:

• Drawing and Painting
• Printmaking and Sculpture
• Web Design and Animation

Opportunities for Engagement

Students have access to a variety of enriching experiences:

• Annual Juried Exhibitions: Showcase your work to peers and professionals.
• Internships: Gain real-world experience in your chosen field.
• Art Club: Join for activities and community-building.

Unique Features

• Proximity to NCCU Art Museum: Offers exposure to African American art and enhances cultural understanding.
• Field Trips and Study Abroad: Broadens your horizons with trips to major art hubs and international study opportunities.

Academic Rigor

NCCU ensures a high standard of academic excellence:

• Comprehensive Curriculum: Merges general education with specialized art courses.
• Focused Learning: Repeat any course with a ‘D’ or ‘F’ grade for mastering subjects.

This program equips you with practical, critical, and creative skills necessary for a successful career in the visual arts. Visit the North Carolina Central University page for more information on their B.A. in Art programs.

Wake Tech Community College – Graphics and Design Certificate Program

For those seeking a flexible and practical entry into graphic design, Wake Tech Community College offers a Graphics and Design Certificate program. Here, you can gain foundational skills ideal for quick career entry or further education.

Program Features

This certificate program includes 17 credit hours and offers several delivery formats:

• Online
• Southern Wake Campus
• Day, Evening, and Hybrid Classes

Core Curriculum

Wake Tech’s curriculum is structured to cover the essentials:

• TypographyLearn the use and design of type in different contexts.
• Design PrinciplesUnderstand the fundamental principles governing layout and composition.
• Color TheoryStudy the emotional and psychological effects of color.
• Digital ImagingGain proficiency in industry-standard design software.

Student Support

Wake Tech provides comprehensive student support services:

• Advising and Tutoring: Personalized help to achieve academic success.
• Career Services: Assistance with job searches and placement.
• Financial Aid: Available for those who qualify.

Students also enjoy a vibrant campus life, including clubs, organizations, and athletic programs. This holistic approach ensures you’re well-prepared for a graphic design career.

Visit the Wake Tech page for more detailed information about the Graphics and Design Certificate program.

North Carolina Central University – Visual Communications Concentration

The Visual Communications Concentration within North Carolina Central University’s Art program is designed to prepare students for careers in graphic design, advertising, and commercial communications.

Academic Structure

The program requires 120 credit hours, including:

• Foundation Courses: Drawing, 3D Design, and Introduction to Art.
• Advanced Topics: Typography, Graphic Design, Web Design, and Advertising.
• Capstone Experience: Completion of a final project in the last 30 credit hours at NCCU.

Educational Goals

NCCU aims to build not only technical skills but also theoretical understanding:

• Practical Skills: Repeat any course with a ‘D’ or ‘F’ to ensure thorough understanding.
• Artistic Development: Encourages a strong grasp of visual communication principles.

By offering a balanced curriculum and rigorous academic standards, NCCU thoroughly prepares students for professional roles in the visual communications industry.

Visit the NCCU Visual Communications page for additional details.

How to Choose the Best Graphic Design School

Choosing the right graphic design school can be daunting. Here are some core factors to consider:

1. Curriculum:Ensure it covers a mix of traditional art concepts and modern design technologies like UX/UI, AR/VR, and digital imaging.
2. Faculty Expertise:Investigate the professional backgrounds of instructors. Experienced faculty can offer industry insights and mentorship.
3. Facilities:Verify that the school provides up-to-date computer labs and studios equipped with the latest design software.
4. Career Support Services:Look for services such as internships, portfolio reviews, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.
5. Student Support Services:Efficient advising, tutoring, and financial aid can significantly affect your success and experience.
6. Campus Culture:Active art clubs, exhibitions, and field trips contribute to a well-rounded educational environment.
7. Tuition Costs and Financial Aid:Make sure the program fits your budget and offers good value for the investment.

By weighing these factors, you can select a graphic design school in Durham, NC that aligns with your career goals and personal needs.

Conclusion

Durham, NC offers a variety of promising graphic design programs tailored to different career paths and educational needs. Whether you choose the comprehensive degree programs at Durham Technical Community College and NC State or the specialized offerings at North Carolina Central University and Wake Tech Community College, each institution provides a solid foundation for a successful career in graphic design.

Explore their programs further by visiting the respective pages to make an informed decision that aligns with your creative aspirations and career objectives.