Bachelor in Graphic Design (BFA)

For Bachelor in Graphic Design (BFA), tuition costs 56,074 USD per year.

The Bachelor in Graphic Design (BFA) at California Institute of the Arts is a degree program for students who want to learn about graphic design. This 4-year program teaches students to create a strong portfolio with unique ideas and prepares them for a career in graphic design.

Students learn about image-making, typography, design history, web design, motion graphics, and type design through core courses and elective classes. They also get feedback on their work through a Graduation Portfolio Review.

After graduating, students can pursue careers as Graphic Designers, Art Directors, Visual Designers, or UI/UX Designers in the design and advertising industry, working for companies like Apple, Google, or Adobe.

California Institute of the Arts, located near Valencia in Southern California, is a leading institution for creative education founded with a legacy of innovation in the arts. CalArts encourages experimental practice across disciplines including art, film, music, theater, dance, and animation, and offers a compact, studio-focused learning environment where students develop original work under the mentorship of practicing artists and industry professionals.

The institute promotes interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on learning, supporting individual artistic development with cutting-edge studios, performance spaces, and digital labs. Small class sizes and intensive critique-based courses help students refine their voices and build professional portfolios, while visiting artists, festivals, and partnerships provide exposure to the wider creative industry. Academic advising, portfolio coaching, and career development services support transitions to festivals, galleries, studios, and commercial roles.

International students find a welcoming community and opportunities to participate in collaborative projects, residencies, and public exhibitions that elevate their practice. CalArts fosters a culture of experimentation, critical inquiry, and professional networking, making it a strong choice for creative learners who seek rigorous mentorship, cross-disciplinary exploration, and direct engagement with the contemporary arts scene in the United States.