Students seeking to obtain a degree in graphic design in the state of Florida have many options. Florida has many degree programs and certifications that graphic design students can take advantage of, depending on their area of interest within graphic design. Many of the states’ graphic design programs boast different areas of interest and focus for students, which gives students a wide range of schools to consider for a host of different reasons. Some schools emphasize a focus on collaboration, while others emphasize the value of working with non-designers. This allows students to move beyond preconceived ideas about the opportunities available within the field of graphic design. Students should consider their interests, and choose a school that has a focus on their interest in choice.
The Best 10 Graphic Design Schools in Florida
The University of Florida
The University of Florida ranks #6 among public universities in the US, is a member of the State University System of Florida, and a comprehensive public land grant research university. UF Graphic Design students can take advantage of a program that emphasizes collaboration, social responsibility, and the impact that design has in the world, through systems, culture, and technology. During the first two years of the program, students take courses in art, design, and general education and submit a portfolio application to enter the major in the junior year. Courses including a student design studio (Mint), Writing in Graphic Design, and internships support professional development in addition to design studio courses. The program embraces designers entering any field of communication design (including brand identity, UI/UX, data visualization), encourages taking courses across the university through certificates and minors. The unique dedicated upper division studios foster a stronger sense of purpose, cultivated through collaboration. Graphic design students can pursue a BFA in Graphic Design and an MFA in Design and Visual Communications.
School Overview
University of Miami
The University of Miami is a private research university with twelve colleges and schools. The Department of Art and Art History helps students develop self-discipline and individuality. Graphic design students will be able to hone their collaborative and individual skills. Students will be able to learn graphic design as a discipline but it will also be paired with other fields. Students will have access to guest artists, museum and gallery trips, and business trips. Graphic design students can pursue a BA in Graphic Design/Multimedia, BFA in Graphic Design/Multimedia, and an MFA in Graphic Design/Multimedia.
School Overview
Florida State University
Florida State University, founded in 1851, is a public research university as well as a senior member of the State University System of Florida. Graphic design students are urged to complete two focus areas. As a result, students have a chance to develop their own graphic design niche. Students have their pick of studio art classes to help with this. A focus on dual focal areas helps students to develop strong portfolios. Students can pursue a BFA in Studio Art. BFA’s studio art program helps students develop their own niche and create portfolios that reflect this.
School Overview
University of Central Florida
The University of Central Florida is a public research university with one of the largest student body populations in the US. It’s part of the State University System of Florida. Students who hope to pursue a graphics design degree are required to take basic drawing, graphics, and design courses before they can become a part of the Graphic Design program. These courses can be taken through the school or transferred from an accredited institution of higher learning. However, potential graphic design students are encouraged to present the most professional portfolio possible. A committee of working professionals judges your portfolio to determine admittance to the program. There is a heavy emphasis placed on the professionalism of your portfolio and it must include ten to fifteen samples. Students who complete the program receive a BFA in Graphic Design.
School Overview
Florida International University
Florida International University was founded in 1965, is a public research university and the largest University in the Miami region. It is part of the State University System and has earned the status of “Emerging Preeminence”. Graphic design students can expect to be introduced to the practical aspects of design when it comes to training in the practical and intellectual. However, students will also be exposed to a focus on visual communication in ways that encourages collaboration with non-designers. This is often displayed in the form of collaborations with programmers and software designers in addition to a myriad of other fields. The limits of graphic design are challenged in these ways. At the core of the graphic design curriculum, there’s a focus on the mastery of design as a foundation. Students are also introduced to the practical focus of mobility, branding, and interactivity as it relates to communication media.
School Overview
Ringling College of Art and Design
The Ringling College of Art and Design is a private college founded by Ludd M. Spivey in 1931. It was a remote branch of Southern College that separated in 1933. Graphic design students are allowed to collaborate with creatives–copywriters, printers, photographers, the other professionals. The department of Art and Design encourages students to look for opportunities for employment in graphic design. Design students will have the freedom to create their own career paths with the help and encouragement of the college. Ringling College of Art and Design students can pursue a BFA in Graphic Design.
School Overview
Barry University
Barry University is a private Catholic university that was founded in 1940 by the Adrian Dominican Sisters. It’s one of the largest Catholic universities in the southeast. The Department of Fine Arts exposes students to the graphic design process and the industry. Graphic design students will receive guidance and direction as well as the opportunity to develop an impressive portfolio. Small class sizes and one 0on one direction help graphic design students to excel and achieve their best work. Students will have access to Mac Labs and the latest hardware and design software for the industry. Senior graphic design students will be required to complete a final project that will be on exhibit at the Andy Gato Gallery. Students who complete the graphic design program will receive a BFA in Graphic Design.
University of Tampa
The University of Tampa is a private university with over two hundred study programs, pre-professional programs, and certificates. Graphic design students can expect to be introduced to a strong focus on visualization skills, creativity, drawing potential, and design ability. Design students can utilize the latest software that allows them to use several mediums to develop their skills. Successful completion of the program allows students to receive a BFA in Graphic Design.
School Overview
Lynn University
Lynn University is perfect for graphic design students who want to focus on their creativity and technical skills. Students have access to a state of the art lab 24/7 all year long and the graphic design programs help students to prepare for client presentation and idea marketing. Lynn University has a diverse curriculum and some of the courses include motion graphic, art direction, and creative direction. Graphic design students can earn an AS in Graphic Design, BFA in Graphic Design, master’s degrees in graphic design, and certifications in graphic design.
School Overview
Broward College
Broward College, a public college established in 1959, is a two-year college that offers associate degrees and certifications. It’s also a part of the Florida College System. Broward was the first college to offer coursework in interactive iPad design. Graphic design students can expect a curriculum rich in real-world training embedded in practical graphic design techniques. Broward is a cutting edge school committed to keeping up with the latest technology and techniques. Students learn to work with software that helps them to modify and design images. They also receive education in electronic media as well as print and web. Students also have a chance to solve real advertising problems. Students who attend Broward can pursue an Associate’s degree in Graphic Design.
School Overview
As a graphic design student, exploring different graphic design curriculums and programs at various Florida schools allows you to zero in on your interests before deciding on a college or university. It also allows students to familiarize themselves with the offerings at different schools. This information is vital when it comes to making a sound choice in terms of which Florida school you’ll attend. Many of the schools offer students a rich and rewarding experience that prepares them for the future. Graphic design students can also focus on schools that have high graduation rates. These schools are proof that students are connected to the programs and well as the instructors and are guided to complete their graphic design degree.
