Keiser University

Graphic Arts and Design

Lakeland Campus
Associate Degree
Graphic Arts and Design
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Keiser University offers this program on campus, and it is also offered in a hybrid format (availability varies by campus).
$12,908 per semester. This program spans 4 semesters at full-time enrollment.
Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 20 months (approximately 1 year and 8 months) and 60 credit hours.
A one-time $55 application fee applies on enrollment (subject to annual review).
Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid, including grants and federal student loans.

Graphic Arts and Design is an Associate Degree program offered by Keiser University in Lakeland, FL. The program takes 20 Months to complete, with tuition of $12,908 per semester.

Program Overview

…to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. While this Graphic Arts…

What sets this Program apart

Gain Job-Ready Skills for a Graphic Design Career

  • Color theory and design principles
  • Adobe Creative Suite proficiency, including Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign
  • Layout and visual communication techniques
  • Web design and interactive design fundamentals
  • Digital photography and image editing
  • Design theory and design process knowledge
  • Professional portfolio development
  • Typography and visual problem solving

Keiser University offers career-focused degree programs designed to support working adults, traditional students, and career changers. With on-campus, online, and hybrid learning options, experienced faculty, and comprehensive student support, Keiser helps learners achieve their personal and professional goals at all levels.

Admission Requirements and Process

Transfer credit. For students enrolling at Keiser University, credit for courses or degrees completed at another institution is subject to approval by the Dean of Academic Affairs. These courses or degrees must be similar in content and duration to those offered in the program for which an applicant has applied. The Dean of Academic Affairs makes the final decision of accepted transfer credits from the received transcript. However, only courses listed on official transcripts receive permanent official transfer credit. (To grant such credit, Keiser University must receive official transcripts--- those mailed directly to Keiser University by the previous institution---by the end of a student’s first semester.) Keiser University requires that, at a minimum, a student complete the final 25% of a program through the University. Active duty, reservists, and National Guard service members who are students can complete at a minimum 25% of a program at any time through the University and graduate. Therefore, Keiser University makes no blanket statement or promise of acceptance of credits from any other institution.

General Requirements

  • High School Diploma or GED
    Verification of high school graduation (transcript, diploma, etc.), verification of GED completion (GED scores or GED diploma), or proof of graduation from a foreign institution…
  • Entrance Examination
    Applicants must take Keiser University’s entrance examination or provide results of the SAT, ACT or ASVAB. The University requires a combined score of 910 on the SAT, a composite…
  • Application and Registration Fees
    A one-time $55 application fee and a one-time $145 registration fee are charged upon enrollment.
  • FAFSA (for Financial Aid)
    Students seeking financial aid complete the FAFSA using Keiser University’s federal school code, 015159.
  • Portfolio and Professional Blog
    To graduate with an Associate of Science degree in Graphic Arts and Design, a student must compile and present a comprehensive print and electronic portfolio of designs…

Application Process

  1. 1
    Contact an Admissions Counselor
    Contact one of Keiser University’s admissions counselors to talk through the program and your options.
  2. 2
    Attend an Open House or Campus Visit
    Attend an open house or plan a campus visit. Applicants are encouraged to visit the University in person.
  3. 3
    Meet With Your Admissions Counselor
    Schedule a convenient time to meet with your admissions counselor to determine if Keiser University is right for you.
  4. 4
    Submit an Application
    Submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. Applications for winter, spring or fall semesters should be made as early as possible, as these entry dates are normally the time of greatest enrollment.
    Apply Now

Program Schedule

Keiser University students take one class at a time. Keiser University term lengths are 4-week, 8-week and 16-week.

Keiser University publishes this program as approximately 20 months and 60 credit hours.

Tuition is charged per 16-week semester according to the credit hours scheduled.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • October 26th, 2026
  • November 23rd, 2026
  • January 11th, 2027
  • February 08th, 2027
  • March 08th, 2027
  • April 05th, 2027
  • May 10th, 2027
  • June 07th, 2027
  • July 05th, 2027
  • August 02nd, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Per Semester Tuition
≈ $12,908
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Keiser University charges tuition per 16-week semester according to the number of credit hours scheduled, not per program. The rates below are the university’s published Tuition and Fee Disclosure, effective Fall Semester 2026, and are subject to annual review.

Semester credit loadTuition per semester
Full time (12 to 17.99 credits)$12,908.00
Three-quarter time (9 to 11.99 credits)$9,681.00
Half time (6 to 8.99 credits)$6,454.00
Less than half time (0 to 5.99 credits)$3,227.00
Full time + (18 to 24 credits, approval required)$16,135.00

Required fees

  • Application fee — $55.00, one time on enrollment
  • Registration fee — $145.00, one time on enrollment
  • Education fee — $550.00 per semester, for programmatic participation and facilities resources

Other fees are charged per occurrence: withdrawal $100.00, re-entry $150.00, transcript $5.00, student ID replacement $15.00, returned check $35.00, late payment $10.00 and library late fee $10.00. Clinical, licensure, professional skill development and technical fees vary by program.

Financial aid

Keiser University participates in federal Title IV financial aid. Students seeking aid complete the FAFSA using the university’s federal school code, 015159.

Curriculum

Speech; Natural Science rows: General Biology, General Biology Laboratory, Advanced Biology, Advanced Biology Laboratory, Environmental Science, General Chemistry, General Chemistry Lab, Advanced Chemistry, Advanced Chemistry Lab (drop the duplicate 'General Biology' row); heading 'Behavioral/Social Science (3.0 credit hours)'

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
GRA1100CGraphic Design Theory3
GRA1044CIntro to Marketing and Self-Promotion3
GRA2151CDigital Illustration3
GRA2150CDigital Image Editing3
DIG2109CDigital Publishing3
DIG2034CSocial Media and Digital Marketing3
DIG2280CDigital Video and Audio Editing3
DIG2292CPost Production3
GRA2142CWeb Programming3
GRA2867CDigital Photography3
DIG2300CAnimation3
GRA2590CGraphic Design Portfolio3
AMH1010American History Pre 18773
AMH1020American History Post 18763
IDS1107Strategies for Success3
POS1041Political Science3
PSY1012Introduction to Psychology3
SYG1000Sociology3
SPC1010Speech3
CGS1000CIntroduction to Computers3
CGS1003CIntroduction to Computer Information Systems3
ENC1101English Composition3
ENC2102English Composition II3
AML1000American Literature3
ENL1000English Literature3
CWL1000Contemporary World Literature3
MAT1033Intermediate Algebra3
BSC1005General Biology3
BSC1005LGeneral Biology Laboratory3
BSC1006Advanced Biology3
BSC1006LAdvanced Biology Laboratory3
BSC1050Environmental Science3
CHM1045General Chemistry3
CHM1045LGeneral Chemistry Lab3
CHM1046Advanced Chemistry3
CHM1046LAdvanced Chemistry Lab3

Career Outcomes

While Keiser University provides employment placement assistance, it cannot promise or guarantee employment.

What to expect as a Keiser University student

Keiser University’s graphic design programs suit students at any stage of their creative journey, from recent high school graduates to working professionals ready for a career change. With on-campus options across Florida or hybrid learning, the program fits your life while building the skills and portfolio you need to compete in the design field. Whether your goal is freelance work, a role at an advertising agency, or a position as a web designer, Keiser gives you the education and hands-on experience to get there.

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Top Questions About Earning an Associate Degree in Graphic Arts and Design

Can I earn a graphic design degree online at Keiser University?
Keiser University offers the Graphic Arts and Design associate degree on-campus or in a hybrid format, so you can choose the learning environment that fits your schedule and lifestyle.
What careers can I pursue with a graphic design associate degree?
Graduates of the Graphic Arts and Design program pursue roles such as graphic designer, production artist, web designer, digital illustrator, layout artist, and multimedia artist. Career opportunities exist across advertising agencies, public relations firms, publishing companies, print shops, web design firms, and many other industries.
Can I transfer credits from another institution?
Yes, Keiser University accepts transfer credits for undergraduate and graduate-level programs. Our admissions team will work with you to review your transcripts and determine your transfer eligibility. Credits transfer based on several factors including accreditation and course equivalency. Learn more about credit transfer requirements and eligibility requirements.
Is financial aid available for graphic design students?
Absolutely. Students in the graphic design and arts program may qualify for grants, scholarships, and tuition assistance programs. Military veterans may also qualify for education benefits. Speak with a dedicated financial aid counselor to explore all available options and create a plan that fits your situation. Learn more about Keiser University’s Financial Services.
Are graphic design programs at Keiser accredited?
Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees. Learn more about Keiser University accreditation. While the Graphic Arts and Design program doesn’t require programmatic accreditation, the curriculum meets the academic standards required under this accreditation.
Do I need prior art or computer experience to enroll?
No prior art experience or computer experience is required. The program welcomes students at all skill levels, from complete beginners to those who already have some familiarity with design software. What matters most is a willingness to learn and a passion for creative work.
How long does it take to earn an associate degree in graphic design?
The Graphic Arts and Design AS program at Keiser takes approximately 20 months to complete. Completion time may vary based on course load and any transfer credits applied to the program.
How much does it cost to earn this degree?
Tuition at Keiser University varies by degree program. Keiser offers financial aid, military and veteran benefits, scholarships, and tuition reimbursement to those who qualify. For more detailed cost information, please contact an admissions advisor. Get more information about Keiser University’s tuition and costs.
What courses are required in the Graphic Arts and Design program?
The associate degree in graphic design includes courses in Graphic Design Theory, Digital Illustration, Digital Image Editing, Digital Publishing, Web Programming, Digital Photography, Animation, Fundamentals of Branding, and Graphic Design Portfolio. General education courses in areas like English, mathematics, and behavioral science round out the program. Your academic advisor will help map out your course path based on your goals and any transfer credits you bring in.

Campus Address

Lakeland Campus
2400 Interstate Drive
Lakeland, FL 33805

Why Accreditation Is Important

Keiser University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, educational specialist and doctorate degrees.

The Keiser University catalog lists no separate programmatic accreditation for this program.

  • Eligible for federal Title IV financial aid
  • Credits earned toward a respected credential
Ready to get started?
Apply to Graphic Arts and Design at Lakeland Campus.
Graphic Arts and Design