MFA in Graphic Design Cost

How Much Does an MFA in Graphic Design Cost?

Medium: MAs Average $13,800 a year at Public Universities; $36,300 at Private Universities.

Graphic designers create effective ways to communicate in print, electronic and film media. It usually takes two to three years to earn a Masters of Fine Arts in graphic design, and most programs emphasize practical skills as well as an academic approach. Students whose bachelor's degrees are not in graphic design may require an additional year to complete the MFA program.

Typical costs:

Tuition and fees for a master's degree program average $6,900 a semester at public universities and $18,150 a semester at private universities, according to the National Center for Education Services. A two-year master's degree program would run $27,600 -$72,580; a three-year program would be $41,300 -$108,900.
USNews.com ranks the top graphic design schools. The Rhode Island School of Design is ranked first with estimated tuition and fees of $66,250 for a two-year program. MFA degrees can be earned more economically through state universities. Colorado State University charges annual tuition and fees of $6,400 for state residents and $18,000 for nonresidents, making it $19,200 -$54,000 for its three-year program.

What should be included:

Admission to a graphic design MFA program typically requires a slide portfolio with samples of the student's art and design projects. Graduation generally means completing an extensive thesis project. The Princeton Review presents basic information about MFA programs in graphics.

Additional costs:

Graphic design projects require professional-quality materials. The San Francisco Art Institute averages the cost for materials and supplies at $1,200 a year, while the Maryland Institute College of Art estimates that its MFA graphic design students spend about $3,500 a year on books and design supplies.
Health insurance is included in the tuition cost for some schools, but can be an additional $800 -$1,900 a year.
Living expenses vary by location. Colorado State University estimates its average living expenses at $7,920 per academic year while the Rhode Island School of Design runs $9,860 to share a dormitory room, with meals. Check individual school websites for estimated local costs.

Shopping for an mfa in graphic design:

The American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) offers help in how to select a design school.
The National Association of Schools of Art and Design publishes an annual list of accredited schools, both online and in hard copy ($15). Search GraphicDesignSchools.com for schools offering an MFA degree in graphic design.

Article updated July 2008