Graphic Design Schools in Memphis TN

Struggling to find the best Graphic Design Schools in Memphis TN? You’re not alone.

This guide simplifies your search by highlighting the top institutions offering professional courses in graphic design within Memphis. Whether you’re an aspiring designer or looking to refine your skills, these schools provide specialized programs tailored to your career goals.

Ready to explore your options? Let’s get into it.

Tennessee College of Applied Technology – Digital Graphic Design Program

The Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) offers a well-structured Digital Graphic Design Program in Memphis. Designed for both beginners and current professionals, this program readies students for entry-level positions in the graphic design field.

You’ll encounter a broad curriculum tailored to equip you with essential graphic design skills. Courses cover:

• Visual Communication Concepts: Enhance your understanding of visual storytelling.
• Layout and Design: Learn the art of arranging visual elements effectively.
• Orientation and Technology Foundations: Get familiar with the latest design tools and techniques.
• Graphic Production Technology: Master the production processes.

For those aiming to advance their skills, more specialized courses are available, like:

• Digital Publishing: Dive into the intricacies of digital media.
• Multimedia and Animation: Explore dynamic visual content creation.
• Multimedia Portfolio and Employ Skills: Build a professional portfolio.

This full-time program, spanning 1,296 clock hours, can be completed during the day. Upon finishing, you’ll receive a certificate or diploma. The cost is $3,738.00, plus an additional $437.00 for textbooks and supplies. The curriculum includes Adobe Certified Expert Exams in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator, and Flash.

Located at 550 Alabama Ave., Memphis, TN, and with extension campuses at 3435 Tchulahoma Rd. and 3375 Appling Rd. Bartlett, TN, TCAT Memphis holds accreditation from the Council on Occupational Education. If you’re eager to kickstart or upgrade your graphic design journey, this program is a stellar choice.

Southwest Tennessee Community College – Graphic Arts Technology

Southwest Tennessee Community College offers a Graphic Arts Technology program tailored to provide top-notch educational experiences in electronic graphic arts production, prepress, and interactive multimedia production. This program features two main concentrations:

• Graphic Arts Production: Focuses on preparing images for print.
• Interactive Multimedia Production: Geared towards non-print applications.

The program culminates in an Associate of Applied Science degree and boasts high employability rates for graduates within a year. The college has several campuses, ensuring flexibility and accessibility:

• Macon Cove Campus
• Union Avenue Campus
• Gill Center
• Maxine A. Smith Center
• Millington Center
• Somerville Site at UT-Martin
• Whitehaven Center

Hands-on experience is a keystone of the program. This practical exposure helps you develop the skills necessary in the graphic arts industry.

Program specifics, including contact details, can be obtained from program coordinator Henry Lewis or program secretary Cathy Levine. This program is a fantastic opportunity if you’re aiming for a hands-on, immersive learning experience.

The University of Memphis – Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Graphic Design

At The University of Memphis, the Master of Fine Arts (MFA) with a concentration in Graphic Design is perfect if you’re looking to deepen your skill set and critical thinking in this field. This program places a strong emphasis on advanced coursework in conceptual thinking, design strategy, and research methodologies.

Key aspects of the curriculum include:

• Complex Design Problems: Engage with social, cultural, and environmental issues through design.
• Advanced Tools and Software: Refine your skills in typography, branding, information design, interactive design, motion graphics, and UX design.
• Comprehensive Portfolio Development: Develop a standout portfolio with faculty mentorship.
• Graduate Assistantships: Gain invaluable professional experience through assistantships.

Projects often involve collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches, ensuring you’re well-prepared for diverse design environments. The research component ties in theoretical frameworks, design history, and critical analysis, culminating in your thesis and successful oral defense.

This MFA program is tailored to help you elevate your professional and academic career in graphic design.

University of Memphis – Art (Graphic Design) Accelerated B.F.A./M.F.A.

The University of Memphis also offers an Art (Graphic Design) Accelerated B.F.A./M.F.A. program, a unique pathway if you’re looking to quickly transition from undergraduate to graduate studies.

The program structure includes:

1. 120 Semester Hours: With 85 hours focused on professional coursework.
2. Foundational Courses: Foundations Studio I and II, Drawing I and II.
3. Advanced Courses: Typographic Design, Image Design, Graphic Design Method, and Electronic Pre-Press Production.

To apply, you need to submit an application and portfolio, as the acceptance process is selective. Once admitted, exceptional undergraduates begin their MFA coursework during their junior year.

This rigorous yet accelerated pathway is ideal if you’re driven to combine technical skills and creative thinking efficiently.

University of Memphis Department of Art and Design – Graphic Design Concentration

The University of Memphis Department of Art and Design offers versatile degree options that cater to various interests in the art and design field. You can opt for a B.A. or B.F.A. with concentrations such as:

• Fashion Design
• Fashion Merchandising
• Global Art Histories
• Visual Arts
• Art Education
• Graphic Design

Graduate programs are also available, offering M.A., M.F.A., and M.A.T. with specializations in areas like African American – African Diaspora Art Histories, Egyptian Art and Archaeology, General Art History, and Museum Practices.

Unique to this program are the minor options:

• Art History
• Fashion Design
• Fashion Merchandising
• Graphic Design
• Photography
• Studio Arts
• Web Design

Each course offers a mix of hands-on studio work, art history, and critical analysis, ensuring you get a well-rounded education. Accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), the University commits to maintaining high standards. While resources might be more limited than larger institutions, the focused and personalized learning experiences, coupled with passionate faculty, ensure robust student growth.

Whether you choose a comprehensive major or a focused minor, the Department of Art and Design at the University of Memphis provides a solid foundation for a successful career in graphic design.

The University of Memphis – M.F.A. in Art with a Concentration in Graphic Design

The University of Memphis offers an M.F.A. in Art with a concentration in Graphic Design. This advanced degree is perfect for refining your professional skills and preparing for a robust career. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Program Structure: Requires a total of 60 semester hours, including a 6-semester-hour thesis.
2. Admission Requirements: A portfolio review consisting of 20-30 images and two reference letters is mandatory.
3. Curriculum Focus: Advanced courses emphasize professional studio competence, analytical reasoning, and creative problem-solving. You’ll need to complete at least 12 semester hours in specific graphic design courses.
4. Transfer Credits: If you already have an MA degree in studio art, you can transfer up to 30 semester hours.
5. Residency: Full-time study for two consecutive semesters is required to establish residency.
6. Application Deadlines: November 1 for Spring admission and February 15 for Fall admission if you want to be considered for assistantships.
7. GPA Requirement: Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. For assistantships, you must complete 9 hours each semester.

Explore this program further here to determine if it aligns with your aspirations.

Union University – Graphic Design Emphasis in B.F.A. in Studio Art

Union University, located in Memphis, offers a unique Graphic Design emphasis within its B.F.A. in Studio Art. This program integrates a Christian worldview into its curriculum, making it distinct in the marketplace.

Program Highlights:

• Core Courses: Begin with foundational courses like 2D Design, 3D Design, Introduction to Drawing, and Figure Drawing.
• Graphic Design Specialization: Progress to specialized courses such as Introduction to Graphic Design, Identity Systems, Typography, Digital Design for the Screen, and Motion Graphics.
• Advanced Studio: Includes advanced courses offering deeper engagement, like Design Studio Practicum.
• Secondary Emphasis: Explore other mediums like Drawing, Painting, Ceramics, Sculpture, or Photography.
• Art History Integration: Comprehensive courses in art history are also part of this program.
• Community and Mentorship: Benefit from the close-knit community and experienced faculty mentorship.

Check out more details about this program at Union University here.

Remington College – Digital Graphic Art Associate of Applied Art

Remington College offers a Digital Graphic Art Associate of Applied Art program that equips you with the skills needed for various entry-level positions in graphic design.

Program Structure:

• Duration: The program requires 92 credit hours, typically completed in 18 months full-time.
• Curriculum Focus: The coursework covers essential principles and theories of graphic design along with practical training on current digital graphic art software.
• Career Opportunities: Prepares you for roles such as desktop publisher, computer graphic artist, production artist, and website designer.

Key Features:

• Accreditation: Accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC), ensuring quality education.
• Financial Aid: Financial aid is available for qualifying students.
• Career Preparedness: Provides the necessary skills even for those without prior formal training.
• Employment Prospects: While job placement is not guaranteed, the program aims to make you competitive in the graphic design industry.

To learn more and see if this offering suits your needs, visit Remington College’s program page.

How to Choose the Right Graphic Design School in Memphis TN

Selecting the right [Graphic Design School in Memphis TN] involves careful consideration of several factors to ensure you make an informed decision. Here’s a guide to help:

1. Accreditation: Verify that the school is accredited by a recognized accrediting body. This ensures the program meets quality educational standards essential for your professional development.
2. Curriculum: Review the course offerings. Ensure they cover key areas such as typography, design theory, user experience (UX) design, motion graphics, and the use of industry-standard software.
3. Faculty Expertise: Look at the instructors’ qualifications and experience. Faculty with hands-on industry experience can provide valuable insights and mentorship.
4. Facilities: State-of-the-art facilities and access to the latest design tools and software can significantly enhance your learning experience.
5. Career Support: Investigate the school’s career services, including internships, job placement assistance, and portfolio reviews. These services can be crucial in helping you secure employment after graduation.
6. Cost and Financial Aid: Understand the total cost of the program, including tuition, fees, textbooks, and supplies. Explore financial aid options to manage your expenses effectively.
7. Class Sizes: Smaller class sizes allow for more personalized instruction and better interaction with faculty.
8. Reputation and Reviews: Research the school’s reputation. Read reviews and speak to alumni to get a sense of their experiences and outcomes.
9. Alignment with Career Goals: Ensure the program’s strengths align with your career aspirations and personal circumstances. Some programs may focus more on print design, while others might emphasize digital and interactive media.

Visit campuses, talk to faculty and current students, review alumni work, and possibly sit in on a class or two. This hands-on approach will provide you with better insights into whether the program suits your needs.

Conclusion: Find Your Ideal Graphic Design Path in Memphis

In conclusion, Memphis offers a variety of stellar programs tailored to diverse preferences and career goals in graphic design. Whether you’re seeking comprehensive training or advanced specialization, these schools provide excellent options. Take the time to explore and evaluate the programs to find your ideal path. Armed with the right education, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career in graphic design.