Looking for classes in a specific city? Check out our lists of Graphic Design Schools in Provo, Salt Lake City, West Jordan, and West Valley City.
Is finding the right graphic design school in Utah on your mind?
This guide highlights top institutions that can help you launch a successful career in design.
Explore programs, faculty expertise, and real-world opportunities to choose the school that best fits your goals.
Whether you’re new to the field or looking to advance, Utah has options to suit your needs.
Salt Lake Community College – Graphic Design & Communications (GD&C) Program
The Graphic Design & Communications (GD&C) program at Salt Lake Community College offers an education tailored to the needs of today’s design industry. Located strategically at the South City Campus near downtown Salt Lake City, this program provides students with hands-on experience in a lively urban setting.
- Practical Skills Focus: Typography, layout, brand identity, and package design are key areas of emphasis.
- Cost Efficiency: Utilizes Open Education Resources (OER) to reduce costs for course materials.
- Professional Experience: Faculty members, who are industry professionals, ensure that the curriculum is up-to-date and relevant.
- Portfolio Development: Students complete a professional portfolio as a capstone project, enhancing job prospects upon graduation.
Dedicated Faculty: Professors with real-world experience guide students through a curriculum that balances creativity with technical skill. Class projects often involve critiques and presentations, fostering a collaborative learning environment.
Career Pathways: Graduates have pursued successful careers in various fields, including graphic design, publishing, and web design, with many alumni contributing as guest speakers and project reviewers.
For more information about the GD&C program, visit the Salt Lake Community College website.
The University of Utah – BFA in Graphic Design
The University of Utah’s BFA in Graphic Design stands out for its focus on competitive visual communication careers. This program combines core design principles with an emphasis on conceptual thinking and problem-solving.
- Core Curriculum: Visual design principles, problem-solving methods, and typography are central components.
- Second Year Review: Ensures students have the foundational skills needed to proceed.
- Experienced Faculty: Experts like Carol Sogard and Dan Evans guide students with industry insights and practical knowledge.
This process-oriented curriculum encourages exploration across a variety of media, helping students develop a broad skill set that includes both practical and theoretical knowledge. The program also offers numerous scholarship opportunities to help manage costs.
Advising and Portfolio Reviews: Meeting regularly with a College of Fine Arts Advisor and passing a portfolio review are crucial steps toward enrollment and progression in the program.
Prepare for success in visual communication by exploring the University of Utah’s BFA in Graphic Design.
Utah Valley University – Department of Art & Design
Utah Valley University’s Department of Art & Design offers a dynamic education in applied arts, fine arts, art history, and art education. Whether you aim to specialize or prefer a general degree, UVU nurtures your creative talents.
- Diverse Specializations: Graphic design, animation, and illustration are some of the specialties offered.
- Visual Literacy and Collaboration: Emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary projects and diverse artistic expressions.
- Hands-On Learning: Faculty members use practical assignments to build students’ skills.
Inclusivity is a core value here, with initiatives to work alongside Utah’s Native Nations to create an equitable educational space.
Faculty Expertise: Instructors possess a blend of academic and professional experience, fostering a learning environment where theory meets practice.
Interdisciplinary Approach: Collaboration with peers from various art disciplines helps students broaden their perspectives and enhance creative problem-solving skills.
Learn more about the opportunities at the Utah Valley University’s Department of Art & Design.
University of Utah – Continuing Education Graphic Design Program
The University of Utah’s Continuing Education Graphic Design program is ideal for beginners and seasoned professionals alike. Flexible learning options make this program accessible to everyone.
- Flexible Modes of Learning: Offers both in-person and online courses to fit various schedules.
- Comprehensive Curriculum: Covers design principles, typography, color theory, branding, and layout.
- Hands-On Projects: Provides real-world experience through practical assignments.
You can tailor your educational journey with either individual classes or a comprehensive certificate program, depending on your career goals.
Expert Faculty: Instructors are seasoned professionals who guide you through each course, ensuring you gain the necessary skills for success.
Customization: The program is flexible, allowing you to pick and choose courses or pursue a more structured certificate path.
Explore the Continuing Education Graphic Design program at the University of Utah for a flexible and thorough design education.
Utah Valley University – Graphic Design Emphasis BFA
The Graphic Design Emphasis BFA program at Utah Valley University offers robust training in creative communication, focusing on both typography and imagery.
- Industry-Standard Tools: Hands-on experience with the software used in the design industry.
- Holistic Curriculum: 120-credit program encompassing core courses, specialized classes, and electives.
- Real-World Experience: Includes a BFA project and internship to help develop a professional portfolio.
Situated in the heart of the “Silicon Slopes,” UVU’s program combines marketing and artistic perspectives, preparing students comprehensively for the job market.
Specialty Classes: Branding, motion graphics, and UI/UX design are covered in detail.
Art History Integration: Enhances students’ understanding of design evolution, providing a well-rounded education.
Learn more about the Utah Valley University’s Graphic Design Emphasis BFA to start your creative career in graphic design.
Utah Tech University – Graphic Design Program
When you think about a career in visual communication, the Graphic Design program at Utah Tech University stands out as a well-rounded option. This versatile program blends design theory with practical applications, gearing students up for diverse roles in the industry.
- Design Theory and Practice: The curriculum includes key areas like typography, branding, packaging design, and digital illustration.
- Specializations: Students can choose between emphases in Digital Design and Interaction Design.
- Career Preparation: Real-world projects are a significant part of the program, helping students build strong portfolios that stand out to employers.
- Advanced Studies: The Master of User Experience Design (UXD) program allows for deeper specialization in UI/UX design.
The program’s focus on real-world application ensures that graduates are job-ready, whether they’re aiming for roles in digital design or interactive media.
For more detailed information, visit the Utah Tech University Graphic Design Program.
Davis Technical College – Web and Graphic Design
Davis Technical College offers a Web and Graphic Design program that equips students with skills for immediate entry-level roles in the industry. This program strikes a balance between web development and graphic design, ensuring you receive a comprehensive education.
- Modern Curriculum: Learn web development using industry-standard languages alongside visual design software.
- Diverse Career Paths: Opens doors to web development, graphic design, and digital marketing.
- Flexible Learning: Designed to accommodate both high school and adult learners. Completion timelines range from 12 to 19 months based on your availability.
- Affordability: Costs for adults sum up to approximately $3,077, while high school students benefit from free tuition with some minimal fees.
The program emphasizes portfolio development and provides licensing opportunities to boost your career prospects. Supported by experienced faculty, you’ll gain well-rounded training that prepares you for Utah’s growing job market.
For more details, visit the Davis Technical College Web and Graphic Design Program.
Southern Utah University – Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design
Southern Utah University offers a comprehensive BFA in Graphic Design, designed to mold students into industry-ready professionals through a blend of theory and practical experience.
- Project-Based Curriculum: Covers branding, interactive design, print publications, and packaging.
- Technology Requirements: Students are expected to have a suitable laptop for upper-division coursework and labs.
- Portfolio Development: Focuses on building a professional portfolio to improve job prospects.
- Scholarships and Facilities: Students have access to scholarships and state-of-the-art facilities such as the Thunderworks Makerspace.
Located in Cedar City, SUU ensures you receive both academic and real-world skills, making it a prime choice for aspiring designers.
For further insight, explore the Southern Utah University’s BFA in Graphic Design.
Ogden-Weber Technical College – Graphic Design Program
The Graphic Design program at Ogden-Weber Technical College prepares students for versatile careers in visual communication through practical, hands-on experience.
- Hands-On Experience: Training with Adobe software for web, print, and multimedia design.
- Flexible Completion Times: Designed to be completed in 9 to 18 months, catering to different schedules.
- Cost-Effective: The total approximate cost is $2,895, with financial aid options available.
- Portfolio Focus: The program emphasizes the creation of an electronic portfolio, crucial for job placement.
The opportunity to work on real-world projects, including selling designs through the campus store, enriches the educational experience and prepares you thoroughly for the market.
Learn more about the Ogden-Weber Technical College Graphic Design Program.
How to Pick the Right Graphic Design School in Utah
Choosing the right graphic design school is pivotal for your career. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:
- Accreditation: Ensure the school is accredited. This guarantees that the program meets industry standards.
- Curriculum: Look for programs covering a wide range of topics, including typography, branding, UX/UI, and digital illustration. Courses should combine theory with practical application.
- Faculty Expertise: Select schools where the faculty are experienced professionals who can provide real-world insights.
- Career Services: Check if the school offers robust career services and internship opportunities. Real-world experience is invaluable.
- Facilities: Evaluate the quality of the facilities and access to industry-standard tools. Good design labs and software are essential.
- Cost and Financial Aid: Assess the total cost, including tuition and additional materials. Explore available financial aid options.
- Alumni Success: Investigate alumni success stories. A strong track record can indicate program effectiveness.
- Personal Fit: Consider your personal preferences, such as location, campus culture, and class sizes. Visiting campuses can provide valuable insights.
Choosing the right school involves careful consideration of these factors. Tailoring your choice to match your personal and professional goals will set you on the right path.
Graphic Design Schools By State
Final Thoughts on Graphic Design Education in Utah
When pursuing a career in graphic design, Utah offers a wealth of options to get you started. Each school has its unique approach, but they all share a commitment to developing creative, capable designers ready to make an impact.
Whether you opt for the hands-on experience at Davis Technical College, the robust academic structure at the University of Utah, or any other school mentioned, you’re making a significant investment in your future.
Personal visits, conversations with advisors, and thorough research are crucial steps in this journey. Choose the program that aligns best with your aspirations, and embark on your path in the exciting field of graphic design.