California College of the Arts

Bachelor in Graphic Design

San Francisco, United States 4 years Taught in English Open to international students

Why students choose this program

  • Taught in English
  • Applications currently open

About Bachelor in Graphic Design

Applications for the Aug 2027 intake are open until Nov 15, 2026, and tuition fees are 53,838 USD per year.

The Bachelor in Graphic Design at California College of the Arts is a 4-year program for students who want to learn how to communicate ideas visually. This degree helps students become leaders in the field by teaching them craft, creativity, and collaboration. The program is based in San Francisco, a hub for technology and design.

The curriculum includes hands-on projects that focus on conceptual exploration and practical problem-solving. Students learn to think critically about how their work affects the world and have the opportunity to intern with technology companies, design studios, and cultural institutions. They develop skills in visual communication, craft, and collaboration.

Graduates of this program can pursue careers as graphic designers, art directors, visual designers, design managers, or creative directors. They can work for technology companies, design studios, or cultural institutions, using their skills to create innovative and effective visual communications.

About California College of the Arts

California College of the Arts, founded in 1907 with campuses in San Francisco and Oakland, is a leading institution for art, design, architecture, and writing. The college cultivates creative practice through studio based learning, critical inquiry, and interdisciplinary approaches. International students will find a supportive environment that emphasizes experimentation, professional development, and connection to the Bay Area arts ecosystem.

CCA’s curriculum blends rigorous technique with conceptual exploration, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees that prepare students for careers in fine arts, design, architecture, and creative writing. Faculty are practicing artists and designers who mentor students on portfolio development, exhibitions, and real world projects. State of the art facilities and access to galleries and studios help students translate ideas into professional work while building networks with local cultural organizations.

Living and studying in the Bay Area gives CCA students access to a vibrant creative economy, internships, and collaborative projects with tech and cultural partners. International applicants can take advantage of admissions advising, financial support options, and campus services designed to ease transition and promote success. For students seeking a hands on, concept driven education that connects craft to cultural practice, CCA provides an inspiring and career oriented experience.

English Test Requirement

This program asks for IELTS 5.5-6.0. Here's what that's worth on the other tests universities accept, based on the official concordance tables:

Duolingo

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85–95

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TOEFL iBT
46–59
PTE Academic
42–49
CEFR level
B1/B2
Convert your own score

Equivalences are approximate — confirm the exact test and score the program accepts.

Bachelor in Graphic Design: Frequently Asked Questions

What are the fees for Bachelor in Graphic Design?
Tuition: USD 53,838.39 per year. Application fee: USD 75.
What are the entry requirements for Bachelor in Graphic Design?
Entry requirements include: Education: High School; Academic performance: Grade B-A (60-70%, GPA 2.5-3); English: IELTS 5.5-6.0; Minimum age: 18.
How long is the Bachelor in Graphic Design program?
The program duration is 4 year.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 2026-11-15.
Is Bachelor in Graphic Design available online?
This is an on-campus program at California College of the Arts in San Francisco.

Similar Programs You Can Apply To

Direct application via Global Admissions is not available for this program. Browse similar partner programs below or visit the university's site to apply directly.

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