Not in McKinney? Check out our lists of Graphic Design Schools in Midland, Odessa, Pasadena, Pearland, Plano, Richardson, Round Rock, San Angelo, San Antonio, and across Texas.
Looking to leap into graphic design in McKinney, TX, but don’t know where to start? We’ve got you covered.
This guide highlights the top graphic design schools in McKinney, TX, helping you find the perfect program to match your creative aspirations.
From certifications to Bachelor’s degrees, these schools offer diverse options to kickstart your career.
Collin College – Communication Design Program
Collin College offers a well-rounded Communication Design program tailored specifically for aspiring graphic designers. This Level Two Certificate program spans 42 credit hours and covers critical areas necessary for a successful career in graphic design.
Key Features:
- Variety of subjects: The curriculum covers typography, layout design, digital imaging, branding, and illustration.
- Flexibility in learning: Available at multiple campuses, including Frisco, McKinney, and Plano, or fully online via the iCollin Virtual Campus.
- Hands-on projects: Gain practical experience through assignments designed to enhance your creative and technical skills.
- Accredited program: Backed by the strong educational reputation of Collin College, ensuring quality education.
Although this is a certificate program, it’s structured to prepare you for entry-level positions in graphic design. The program cost and duration may vary depending on residency status and whether you attend full-time or part-time, making it a viable and flexible option for students in McKinney, TX.
Learn more about the Collin College Communication Design Program.
Collin College Continuing Education – Graphic Design Certificate Series
The Graphic Design Certificate Series offered by Collin College Continuing Education is designed to equip you with essential graphic design skills whether you are starting fresh or looking to refine existing ones.
Key Features:
- Comprehensive coursework: Learn crucial skills in drawing, design principles, photo treatment, and digital image enhancement.
- Elective options: Choose specialized courses like web design and digital photography to tailor your learning experience.
- Multiple campuses and online availability: Study at campuses in McKinney, Frisco, and Plano, or opt for online classes through the iCollin Virtual Campus.
Completing the core courses and electives results in a certificate, providing you with recognized qualifications and practical skills suitable for a variety of industries. Collin College, an institution established in 1985, ensures you receive a quality education founded on decades of expertise.
For more information, visit the Graphic Design Certificate Series.
Texas Woman’s University – BFA in Art with Specialization in Graphic Design
At Texas Woman’s University in nearby Denton, you can pursue a BFA in Art with a specialization in Graphic Design. This program is well-suited for those looking to deeply explore the field of graphic design through a robust academic framework.
Key Features:
- In-depth curriculum: Focus your studies on typography, image-making, visual communication, motion graphics, and web/app design using industry-standard software like Adobe Creative Suite.
- Professional experience: Engage in client projects and internships to gain practical, real-world experience.
- Portfolio development: Build a strong portfolio with assistance from award-winning professors, preparing you for a career in branding, web design, and other areas of graphic design.
Admission to this program requires a portfolio submission, including an artist’s statement and 10 pieces of artwork. Though located in Denton, TWU’s emphasis on experiential learning and expert faculty make it a worthwhile consideration for students in McKinney.
Explore the Texas Woman’s University BFA in Art with Specialization in Graphic Design.
University of North Texas College of Visual Arts and Design – Communication Design Program
The University of North Texas offers a BFA in Communication Design, recognized for its excellence by Graphic Design USA. This program provides you with robust training in both Graphic Design and User-Experience Design.
Key Features:
- Hands-on coursework: Learn design principles, color theory, typography, branding, publication design, and digital applications.
- Professional portfolio building: Create a professional portfolio through coursework and hands-on projects, preparing you for the job market.
- Entry-portfolio reviews: Gain admission into specific concentrations after a successful entry-portfolio review, ensuring you are on the right track from day one.
Students are encouraged to have an Apple Macintosh computer and Adobe Creative Cloud subscription to maximize their learning experience. UNT’s emphasis on critical thinking, teamwork, and the latest technology ensures you develop skills that are essential in today’s competitive market.
More details about the University of North Texas Communication Design Program.
Exploring these graphic design schools will show you that McKinney, TX, has excellent options for nurturing your creative potential and embarking on a successful career in graphic design. Visit each program’s page to learn more and take the next steps toward your educational journey.
Collin College – Communication Design Program
Collin College offers a Communication Design program renowned for its robustness and flexibility. Established over 25 years ago, this program provides students with essential skills through hands-on experience.
Key Features:
- Diverse Course Offerings: The program includes tracks in Graphic Design and User Experience (UX) Design. Students will explore branding, typography, web design, packaging, and visual communication.
- Flexible Learning Options: Classes are available at multiple campuses including Frisco, McKinney, and Plano or can be taken online via the iCollin Virtual Campus.
- Experienced Instructors: Courses are taught by professionals with significant industry experience, ensuring students receive guidance grounded in the real world.
- Career Preparation: The curriculum prepares students for specific career paths, positioning them for roles in top creative service companies.
For those planning to transfer credits, it’s advisable to contact the prospective institution to ensure compatibility. If you need more information, visit the Collin College Communication Design Program page or reach out to Richard LeBlanc, the Discipline Lead.
Texas A&M University-Commerce – Visual Communication
The Visual Communication program at Texas A&M University-Commerce is designed to provide both theoretical foundations and practical experience in the field of graphic design. This program is available at the Bachelor’s and Master’s level.
Key Features:
- Specializations: Students can choose from pathways in Art Direction, Design, or New Media, allowing for targeted learning experiences.
- High National Ranking: The program is in the top 15% nationally and ranked 7th in Texas, ensuring its quality and popularity.
- Skill Development: Courses include the latest industry trends and technological advancements, preparing students for a broad range of careers.
- Dedicated Faculty: Professors are well-versed and dedicated to student success, guiding students through rigorous and influential coursework.
For more details on tuition, specific credit hours, or faculty, you can directly reach out to Texas A&M University-Commerce. Learn more about the Visual Communication program.
How to Choose the Best Graphic Design School in McKinney
Factors to Consider:
- Accreditation: Ensure the institution is accredited. Accreditation guarantees that the school meets educational quality standards.
- Faculty Expertise: Look for schools where instructors have substantial industry experience. Learn from professionals who have real-world experience in graphic design.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Review the curriculum. A strong program will cover design principles, typography, digital imaging, and the latest software like Adobe Creative Suite.
- Campus Resources: Check for modern labs, libraries, and other resources that can enhance your learning experience.
- Alumni Success: research alumni success stories to determine the program’s effectiveness in securing job placements or career progression.
- Location and Flexibility: Consider the convenience of the school’s location and whether they offer online learning options.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Carefully analyze the total cost of the program and available financial aid options. This will help you plan your budget accordingly.
Purchasing the right education is an investment in your future. Visiting campuses or speaking with current students can provide additional insights. Ensure you choose a program that aligns with your career goals and learning style.
Conclusion and Next Steps
Now that you have learned about top graphic design schools in McKinney, TX, you’re ready to take the next step in your educational journey. Each school offers unique features that could suit your creative needs and career objectives. Visit the respective websites, arrange campus visits, speak to faculty members, and gather all the information you need to make an informed decision. The right education can set the foundation for a successful graphic design career. Embrace this exciting opportunity to advance your skills and unleash your creative potential.