94%

Recent graduates employed or continuing education

#1

North Dakota University with the Best Student Life

R1 Ranked

NDSU is a nationally top-ranked research university

2025-2026 Colleges of Distinction Best logo

NDSU’s undergraduate graphic design degree program is a dynamic, hands-on exploration of visual communication that empowers students to shape the world around them through impactful design. This intensive program equips you with the creative and technical skills to merge typography, imagery and form into compelling visual solutions. With a strong foundation in design thinking, you’ll tackle real-world challenges across industries, from branding and illustration to UX/UI, digital media and experiential design.

Explore the Curriculum

Post-Graduation Career Snapshot

Explore career possibilities within the first five years after graduation with a list of high-demand occupations. Discover how you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles through examples of potential career pathways.

High Demand Occupations

  • Graphic Designer
  • Production Designer
  • Motion Graphics Designer
  • Production Artist
  • Illustrator

National Median Salary

$68,000
The median salary is based on national job listings for the above occupations that require five years experience or less.

Future Career Pathways

As you gain experience, you can advance into more specialized or leadership roles. Here are pathway occupations you might explore:
  • Graphic Design Manager
  • Brand Manager
  • Animator
Data sourced from Lightcast, a leading provider of labor market analytics and workforce data. 2025.

Shape Your Future

NDSU students are encouraged to collaborate with an advisor and develop a unique program of study that meets their specific interests.

Comprehensive Curriculum

Courses help you develop skills to manipulate and combine elements of type, shape and image, to transmit meaning and value, and learn to implement design thinking strategies through real-world design challenges.

Limitless Career Opportunities

Graduates emerge from the program ready for successful careers as art directors, web and digital interface designers, special effects artists and animators, UI/UX designers, product designers, illustrators, concept artists, motion graphic designers, content creators, as well as traditional graphic designers.

Leadership and Professional Development

Take your college experience to another level through involvement in student organizations and embarking on a study abroad trip.

Work in the Best Environment

Located in state-of-the-art facilities like Renaissance Hall in downtown Fargo, you'll have access to advanced tools, including a wide range of digital, photographic and traditional printing resources, as well as access to a large digital studio, large and small Wacom digital drawing tablets, printing rooms and a photographic dark room.

Tuition & Costs

NDSU offers a high-quality, academically rigorous education at an affordable cost. To support you in covering tuition and expenses, we provide a wide range of need-based and merit-based scholarships and financial aid options.

Admission Info

At NDSU, we welcome students from all backgrounds who are seeking a dynamic learning environment within a supportive, welcoming community.

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Now is your moment to expand your horizons for a brighter future at NDSU.

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Connect with a Counselor

Discover the right path for you with guidance from your personal admission counselor. We’re here to help you explore programs, navigate the admission process and find scholarships.

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Experience what it’s like to be part of the Bison community. Tour our campus, meet with faculty, enjoy a meal in a dining center and discover why NDSU feels like home.

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Receive personalized information about your program of interest and see how NDSU supports your academic and career goals.

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