Want to study graphic design in Delaware? This guide highlights the best graphic design schools in Delaware, such as Delaware College of Art and Design, University of Delaware, and Wilmington University. Read on to discover their programs and find the right fit for your goals.
- Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD) offers a comprehensive graphic design program that focuses on problem-solving, typography, and communication design, with ample opportunities for students to showcase their work through exhibitions and portfolio reviews.
- The University of Delaware’s Department of Art & Design provides extensive facilities and experiential learning opportunities, including internships and collaborative projects with industry partners, preparing students for successful careers in various design fields.
- Wilmington University’s Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program is 100% online and emphasizes emerging technology and design for marketing, equipped with career services and job placement programs to support students in entering the design industry.
This guide aims to provide comprehensive information on the top graphic design schools in Delaware. We’ll cover various programs offered by the Delaware College of Art and Design, the University of Delaware, and Wilmington University, all situated in vibrant and culturally rich areas of the state.
These schools offer a range of graphic design programs, including associate degrees, bachelor’s degrees, and continuing education courses. Whether you’re interested in a full-time degree program or looking to enhance your skills part-time, there’s something here for everyone.
Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD)
A standout institution, the Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD) offers diverse programs that nurture artistic talent and foster career readiness. At DCAD, students can pursue six associate degrees, including in fields like:
- Graphic design
- Animation
- Illustration
- Fine arts
- Photography
- Interior design
DCAD extends its educational opportunities beyond degree programs, offering Continuing Education courses and a Pre-College Art Studio program for lifelong learning and early immersion in the art world. The vibrant campus environment and diverse course offerings make DCAD a prime choice for aspiring designers.
Graphic Design Program
DCAD’s graphic design program is structured to develop students’ problem-solving abilities by encouraging them to define problems, gather content, create prototypes, and refine solutions through feedback. The curriculum covers essential areas like typography, where students learn the anatomy, history, and principles of typographic form through hands-on projects.
Furthermore, the program highlights communication design, guiding students in crafting meaningful narratives using:
- type
- words
- color
- image
- motion
- time
- composition
With a strong focus on conceptual thinking and proficiency with industry-standard software, students are well-prepared to excel in various media, from fixed to motion designs.
Student Work and Exhibitions
Building a strong portfolio is crucial for any aspiring designer, and DCAD provides ample opportunities for students to showcase their work. Through regular exhibitions and portfolio reviews, students can display their skills and creativity, making a compelling case to potential employers.
Faculty and Resources
DCAD prides itself on a faculty comprised of professional artists and designers who lend their expertise through meaningful mentorship and support. This guidance helps students grow artistically and professionally, ensuring they receive the best education and preparation for their future careers.
University of Delaware – Department of Art & Design
The University of Delaware’s Department of Art & Design offers a comprehensive education in visual communications, fine arts, and art. With both undergraduate and graduate degree programs, the department focuses on developing creative and critical thinkers ready to take on various career paths.
Undergraduate students can pursue a fine arts degree through a fine arts degree program such as the B.F.A. in Visual Communications, B.F.A. in Fine Arts, and B.A. in Art. These programs integrate visual art subjects with studio-oriented coursework, preparing students to transform the world with their ideas.
Facilities and Technology
To support its graphic design students, the University of Delaware equips them with state-of-the-art facilities. Students have access to the following:
- Cutting-edge digital labs
- Modern studios
- Industry-standard software and hardware, including Photoshop, InDesign, Epson Stylus Professional Printers, Wacom Interactive Pen Tablets, and high-quality digital cameras.
These resources are complemented by large, fully equipped studio spaces for various forms of design work, including computer design studios, traditional design studios, and specialized drawing and painting studios. Students can utilize these facilities throughout the academic year, fostering an environment of continuous learning and creativity.
Experiential Learning Opportunities
The University of Delaware’s Department of Art & Design places great emphasis on experiential learning. Students can participate in internships during the winter term and summer months, gaining invaluable real-world experience that can lead to early employment. Additionally, the department offers a six-credit cooperative learning experience, allowing students to develop on-the-job skills.
Collaborative projects with industry partners also provide students with the opportunity to tackle real-world design challenges, enhancing their problem-solving abilities and preparing them for professional careers.
Alumni Success Stories
The University of Delaware’s graphic design program has an impressive track record of alumni achieving significant career success. Many have secured positions in prestigious advertising agencies, digital media firms, and as freelance designers, showcasing the effectiveness of the university’s comprehensive education.
Wilmington University – College of Technology
With a focus on core skills and experiential learning, Wilmington University offers degree programs in the fields of media arts, design, and informational technology. The university’s approach ensures that students are well-prepared for the demands of the modern design industry.
The Associate of Science in Media Art, Design, and Technology at Wilmington University emphasizes emerging technology, communication skills, and personal design, providing a solid foundation for future designers.
Graphic Design Curriculum
Wilmington University’s Bachelor’s in Graphic Design program is available 100% online, offering flexibility for students. The curriculum includes hands-on coursework in areas such as Visual Communication, Design for Marketing, and Fundamentals of Motion Graphics.
Our program aims to prepare students by having them use the latest design software, including Photoshop and InDesign, for web design projects, ensuring they are well-versed in industry-standard tools and techniques.
Career Services and Job Placement
To aid students in their success in the graphic design industry, Corcoran College provides comprehensive career resources. These services include job placement, job shadowing programs, and access to a network of professionals, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce.
Delaware County Community College – Associate in Fine Arts (A.F.A.)
At Delaware County Community College, the Associate in Fine Arts (A.F.A.) program in graphic design centers around the development of design concepts and the arrangement of type and image to craft visual communication solutions. This program prepares students for transfer to four-year Bachelor of Fine Art programs or entry-level positions in the design industry.
The curriculum includes a variety of print-based and digital media materials, ensuring students are well-rounded in their design education.
Studio Access and Equipment
Students in the A.F.A. program, endorsed by a national association, have access to well-equipped studios featuring Apple computers and Adobe Creative Suite software, including Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. This access ensures they are familiar with the tools used in the industry.
Transfer Opportunities
The four year program is designed to facilitate transfer to four-year institutions, allowing students to continue their education and pursue advanced degrees. The comprehensive training provided ensures that students are well-prepared for professional roles or further academic pursuits.
Other Notable Programs
The American Graphics Institute offers a Graphic Design Certificate program that can be taken online or in-person, with new sessions starting every 45 days. The program focuses on Adobe tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, providing specialized training for aspiring designers.
Participants in the program can:
- Use Veterans Affairs funds
- Receive GI Bill benefits for in-person courses
- Receive job support through a dedicated career counselor
- Retake classes at no additional cost for up to one year.
Choosing the Right School for You
In your selection of a graphic design school, such as Pratt Institute, consider the following:
- Programs with supportive instructors who show genuine investment in your success
- Programs that offer a robust foundation of knowledge
- Programs that provide practical experience and opportunities for real-world learning
These factors will help you make an informed decision and find a graphic design school that meets your needs, especially when it comes to creating web pages.
Many employers prefer hiring graphic designers with a formal education, as it ensures they have a solid understanding of design principles and industry-standard tools. Make sure to choose a school that aligns with your career goals and personal learning style.