Best Graphic Design Programs in Atlanta Georgia

Key Takeaways

• Atlanta is home to nationally recognized graphic design programs at SCAD, Georgia State, and Georgia Tech.
• The strongest programs combine portfolio development, internship access, industry partnerships, and NASAD accreditation.
• Tuition varies widely, from public in-state rates under $12,000 per year to private art schools exceeding $40,000 annually.
• Atlanta’s growing creative economy provides strong internship and job placement opportunities in branding, tech, film, and digital media.
• The right program depends on your career goals, budget, and preference for campus-based or flexible learning formats.

Why Study Graphic Design in Atlanta?

Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing creative hubs in the Southeast. Home to global brands like The Coca-Cola Company, CNN, Delta Air Lines, and a thriving film and tech industry, the city offers graphic design students real-world exposure to branding, digital media, UX design, and advertising.

The metro area supports thousands of creative professionals, and organizations like the AIGA Atlanta Chapter provide networking, portfolio reviews, and mentorship. For students seeking internships, freelance work, or agency experience, Atlanta delivers access few Southern cities can match.

How We Evaluated the Top Graphic Design Programs

To identify the best graphic design programs in Atlanta, we considered:

• Accreditation, particularly membership in the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD)
• Degree options and curriculum depth
• Career outcomes and internship support
• Faculty expertise and facilities
• Tuition and overall value
• Connections to Atlanta’s creative industry

Side-by-Side Comparison of Top Programs

SchoolDegree OptionsApprox. Annual TuitionAccreditationStandout StrengthSavannah College of Art and Design (Atlanta)BFA, MA, MFA$40,000+NASADNational prestige, industry-connected facultyGeorgia State UniversityBFAIn-state: ~$10,000NASADAffordable urban public optionGeorgia TechBS in Industrial DesignIn-state: ~$12,000SACSCOCStrong UX and tech integrationClark Atlanta UniversityBA in Art (Graphic Design concentration)~$25,000NASADHBCU with strong arts tradition

Top Graphic Design Schools in Atlanta

Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) – Atlanta Campus

SCAD is widely considered one of the most respected art and design schools in the country. Its Atlanta campus offers BFA, MA, and MFA degrees in Graphic Design.

Why SCAD stands out:

• Comprehensive branding, typography, motion media, and interaction design curriculum
• Access to high-end production labs and digital studios
• Strong internship placement with global brands
• Portfolio development emphasized from year one

SCAD students frequently compete in national design competitions and benefit from alumni networks across major agencies. The main drawback is cost, but for students seeking elite-level training and national name recognition, SCAD remains a top choice.

Georgia State University (GSU)

Georgia State University’s Ernest G. Welch School of Art & Design offers a NASAD-accredited BFA with a Graphic Design concentration.

Program highlights:

• Strong emphasis on design theory and critique
• Internship opportunities across downtown Atlanta
• Affordable in-state tuition
• Diverse student body and urban campus setting

GSU is ideal for students seeking a high-quality public university experience with access to Atlanta’s professional ecosystem. The downtown location places students near agencies, nonprofits, and corporations seeking design interns.

Georgia Institute of Technology

Georgia Tech does not offer a traditional graphic design degree, but its Industrial Design program and digital media opportunities are highly relevant for students focused on UX and product design.

Best for:

• Students interested in UI and UX design
• Tech-oriented creatives
• Data-informed and research-driven designers

With Atlanta emerging as a fintech and software hub, Georgia Tech graduates often transition into UX, product design, and interactive media roles at major corporations and startups.

Clark Atlanta University

Clark Atlanta University offers a BA in Art with a Graphic Design concentration. As a historically Black university with NASAD accreditation, CAU provides a culturally rich and creatively supportive environment.

Students benefit from small class sizes and mentorship opportunities while gaining foundational training in digital design, typography, and visual communication.

Career Outlook for Graphic Designers in Atlanta

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graphic designers earn a median annual wage of approximately $58,000 nationwide, with higher earnings in metropolitan areas.

Atlanta’s diverse economy supports opportunities in:

• Advertising and branding agencies
• Film and television production
• Corporate in-house design teams
• Tech startups and UX consultancies

Major Atlanta agencies such as Moxie and various Fortune 500 headquarters provide potential career pathways. Internship participation during college significantly increases employment prospects after graduation.

How to Choose the Right Program

For Traditional Undergraduate Students

Look for NASAD accreditation, studio intensity, and internship integration. SCAD and GSU are strong choices depending on budget.

For Students Interested in UX or Tech

Prioritize programs with human-centered design, coding exposure, and research components. Georgia Tech may offer the strongest pathway in this area.

For Budget-Conscious Learners

Georgia State’s in-state tuition provides substantial value without sacrificing urban access or educational rigor.

For Personal Mentorship and Cultural Community

Clark Atlanta University offers smaller classes and a strong community-oriented arts environment.

Admission Requirements to Expect

Most graphic design programs require:

• Completed application and transcripts
• Portfolio submission showing creative work
• Artist statement or essay
• SAT or ACT scores for some public universities

A strong portfolio typically includes typography examples, branding concepts, digital illustrations, and problem-solving projects. Even beginner portfolios should demonstrate design thinking, not just artistic ability.

Facilities and Learning Resources

Top Atlanta programs invest in:

• Mac-based digital labs
• Large-format printing studios
• Motion graphics and animation labs
• Industry-standard software including Adobe Creative Cloud

Access to professional-grade technology directly impacts portfolio quality and workforce readiness.

Online and Hybrid Options

While most Atlanta-based programs are campus-focused, some institutions offer hybrid courses or continuing education certificates. Students seeking fully online graphic design degrees may need to explore nationally ranked online programs and supplement them with Atlanta-based internships to gain local industry exposure.

What Makes a Program Truly “Best”?

The best graphic design program is not just about facilities or name recognition. It is about outcomes. Look carefully at:

• Graduate employment rates
• Internship partnerships
• Alumni success stories
• Portfolio quality at graduation
• Industry engagement with local agencies

Atlanta’s creativity, business climate, and growing tech scene create a powerful environment for design students who choose strategically and actively engage with the city’s professional community.

Frequently Asked Questions about Graphic Design Schools in Atlanta

Is Atlanta a good city to study graphic design?

Yes. Atlanta has a fast-growing creative economy, with opportunities in branding, tech, film, and digital media. Major employers and organizations such as AIGA Atlanta and large in-house design teams give you access to internships, networking, and entry-level jobs while you study.

Which Atlanta schools are known for strong graphic design or related programs?

In Atlanta, you will find respected options at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), Georgia State University, Georgia Tech (for UX and industrial design), and Clark Atlanta University. SCAD and Georgia State are accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD), which signals strong curriculum and studio standards.

How much does a graphic design degree in Atlanta usually cost?

Costs range widely. Public options like Georgia State and Georgia Tech often charge under $12,000 per year for in-state tuition, while private art schools such as SCAD can exceed $40,000 annually. You should also factor in fees, software, and supplies. Checking each school’s financial aid page and the Federal Student Aid site can help you estimate your real yearly cost.

What jobs can you get after studying graphic design in Atlanta?

You can pursue roles such as graphic designer, brand designer, UI/UX designer, motion designer, or in-house designer for corporations, agencies, and startups. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graphic designers earn a median wage around $58,000 nationwide, with strong demand in metro areas like Atlanta that have active film, tech, and advertising sectors.

Do you need a portfolio to get into an Atlanta graphic design program?

Most dedicated design programs ask for a portfolio along with transcripts and an essay. Your portfolio can include school projects, personal work, or freelance pieces that show typography, layout, branding, and problem-solving. Many schools offer portfolio tips on their admissions pages, and you can also review examples through resources like AIGA’s student resources to guide what you include.