Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our list of Graphic Design Schools in Honolulu.
Searching for the best graphic design schools in Hawaii to kickstart your creative journey?
Discover top programs, unique features, and hands-on learning opportunities that will help you build a successful career in graphic design.
Whether you prefer a vibrant urban campus or a serene island setting, these Hawaii schools offer exceptional resources and faculty to nurture your artistic talents.
University of Hawaii at Mānoa – Graphic Design Program
Explore the University of Hawaii at Mānoa’s comprehensive graphic design program, framed within its College of Arts, Languages & Letters. This program integrates foundational, intermediate, and advanced courses, providing an extensive education in graphic design.
You will start with foundational courses such as:
- ART 265 Design: Studio I: Introduction to basic design principles.
- ART 266 Design: Typography I: Basics of typography and its applications.
Progressing to intermediate and advanced levels, you will take:
- ART 365 Design: Studio II: Advanced techniques in design.
- ART 366 Design: Typography II: Further studies in typography.
- ART 467 Design: Production Techniques: Practical production skills.
- ART 466 Design: Typography III: Mastery of typography.
A unique aspect of this program is its capstone course, ART 469 Design: Advanced Studio, where you will engage in projects with real clients or undertake independent research.
This program emphasizes hands-on experience and real-world projects to ensure you acquire practical skills necessary for the industry. For more information on course offerings and additional details, check the University of Hawaii at Mānoa’s Graphic Design Program.
BYU-Hawaii – Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts with a Concentration in Graphic Design
BYU-Hawaii’s Bachelor of Fine Arts in Visual Arts with a concentration in Graphic Design is a robust 65-credit hour program. It covers a wide array of topics including digital design, typography, publication design, branding, and motion graphics.
Key aspects of this program include:
- Illustration, photography, and video skills: Bolstering your visual communication abilities.
- Courses in art history and theory: Providing a strong academic foundation.
- Independent study, research, and internships: Offering practical experiences.
- BFA thesis research and studio project: Preparing you for real-world applications.
The curriculum at BYU-Hawaii aims to develop your studio proficiency, critical thinking, and leadership skills. You will find this program suitable whether you are aiming for a career in visual arts or continuing education in art and design. For more information, visit the BYU-Hawaii Visual Arts Program.
University of Hawai’i at Hilo – Baccalaureate Program in Art
The University of Hawai’i at Hilo offers an enriching baccalaureate program, emphasizing the creative, experimental, and developmental aspects of art across various mediums.
This program stands out with its integration of Eastern and Western perspectives within a Pan-Pacific context. Specializations include:
- Drawing, printmaking, and painting: Cultivating foundational artistic skills.
- Ceramics, photography, and digital media: Broadening your technical expertise.
You will engage in creative thinking, critical analysis, and lifelong learning through:
- National and international exhibitions: Showcasing student work.
- Visiting artist residencies: Providing exposure to professional practices.
- Gallery exhibitions: Presenting opportunities for public engagement.
Prepare for careers in graphic design, illustration, applied arts, and teaching. Further details about this program can be found at the University of Hawai’i at Hilo Art Department.
Kapi’olani Community College – New Media Arts (NMA) Program
Kapi’olani Community College’s New Media Arts (NMA) Program offers an engaging two-year Associate in Science degree. You can specialize in either Animation or Interface Design, depending on your career goals.
Key aspects of these specializations include:
- Animation: Focused on 3D computer animation and video game development.
- Interface Design: Emphasizing web design, typography, digital multimedia, and motion graphic design.
This program emphasizes practical skills through a collaborative learning environment and real-world application.
Upon graduation, career opportunities include:
- 3D modeler: Bringing digital concepts to life.
- Animator: Creating dynamic visual storytelling.
- Web designer: Designing visually appealing and user-friendly websites.
- Front-end web developer: Developing interactive web experiences.
For admission, you will need to submit official transcripts, a portfolio, and an essay. The college provides a range of support services, including counseling and library resources. For more details, please visit the Kapi’olani Community College NMA Program.
By considering these diverse and well-structured programs, you can make an informed choice about which graphic design school best fits your personal and professional aspirations in Hawaii. Explore these options carefully to ensure you find the best educational path to success in the graphic design industry.
University of Hawaii West Oahu – Creative Media Program
The University of Hawai’i West Oahu’s Creative Media Program is designed to equip you with essential skills for the digital media industry. This program offers several concentrations, allowing you to focus on your specific interests and career goals.
Key concentrations include:
- Communications and New Media Technologies: This track provides comprehensive training in digital communications tools and strategies.
- Design and Media: Focuses on the visual elements of new media, including graphic design, animation, and interactive media.
- Video Game Design and Development: Offers courses in game theory, design, and production, preparing you for careers in the gaming industry.
- General Creative Media: Provides a broad overview of media production and technologies.
This program emphasizes hands-on experience, allowing you to produce projects in video production, animation, game design, social media, and web/app development. It’s designed to cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills. The balance between design, storytelling, and technology provides a comprehensive education that prepares you for diverse career paths in the creative media industry.
The program is available both on-campus and via distance education, making it flexible for students with different needs and schedules.
Hawaii Pacific University – BA in Cinematic Multimedia Arts
Hawaii Pacific University offers a BA in Cinematic Multimedia Arts that caters to students interested in the cinematic arts and multimedia design. This program offers concentrations in Cinematic Production and Animation & Multimedia Design.
Program highlights include:
- Cinematic Production Concentration: Covers aspects such as scriptwriting, audio production, and visual storytelling, providing a solid foundation in filmmaking.
- Animation & Multimedia Design Concentration: Focuses on motion graphics, 3D modeling, and game design, equipping you for various roles in animation studios and multimedia companies.
A unique aspect of this program is its emphasis on multicultural experiential learning. You will participate in creative narrative productions and gain hands-on experience through internships with renowned companies. This prepares you for the technical and creative demands of the cinematic and multimedia arts industries.
The curriculum also engages you in critical media analysis, helping you understand the broader social and cultural contexts of media production. This comprehensive approach ensures you are well-prepared for diverse careers in cinematic production and multimedia design.
How to Choose the Right Graphic Design School in Hawaii
Selecting the right graphic design school is a crucial step toward achieving your career goals. Here are key considerations to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. Accreditation guarantees that the program meets high academic standards and that your degree will be respected by employers.
- Curriculum Comprehensiveness: Review the curriculum to ensure it covers a broad range of topics, from fundamental design principles to advanced techniques in digital media. A well-rounded curriculum should include courses in typography, web design, branding, and motion graphics.
- Faculty Expertise: Look into the qualifications and experience of the faculty. Are they industry professionals? Do they have notable work in the field? Having experienced instructors can enhance your learning by providing industry insights and networking opportunities.
- Facilities and Resources: Check the quality of the school’s facilities and resources. This includes computer labs, design software, and studio spaces. Access to up-to-date technology and efficient facilities is essential for honing your design skills.
- Program Costs: Consider the tuition fees and other associated costs. Research available financial aid options, scholarships, and work-study programs that can help finance your education.
- Internship Opportunities: An important factor to consider is the availability of internships. Programs with strong ties to local industries can offer valuable work experience and networking opportunities. Internships can provide practical training and sometimes lead to job offers post-graduation.
- Campus Visits and Interactions: If possible, visit campuses and interact with current students and faculty. This can give you a sense of the community and whether you will feel comfortable and supported.
- Location: Evaluate the school’s location and the resources available in the surrounding area. Consider proximity to creative industries, potential employers, and networking opportunities that can bolster your career prospects.
By thoroughly evaluating these factors, you can choose the graphic design school in Hawaii that best aligns with your career objectives and personal needs.
Graphic Design Schools By State
Conclusion: Find Your Ideal Graphic Design Path in Hawaii
Hawaii offers a diverse array of graphic design programs tailored to different interests and career paths. Whether you are drawn to cinematic multimedia arts, creative media, or traditional graphic design, these programs provide the education, resources, and opportunities to help you flourish in the industry.
Explore the links provided to learn more about each program and take the next step in your graphic design journey. Happy exploring and best of luck in finding the perfect fit for your future!