Graphic Arts and Design

Keiser University’s Associate of Science in Graphic Arts and Design gives students a thorough foundation in both the creative and technical sides of the design field. Coursework covers graphic design theory, design principles, design process, and color theory alongside practical training in Adobe Creative Suite tools including Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and Adobe InDesign. Students also explore web design, digital photography, animation, and interactive design while building a professional portfolio of real-world projects. The program prepares graphic design students to communicate visually at a professional level and enter the workforce with the skills and knowledge employers expect.

Program Mission

The mission of the Graphics Arts and Design Program at Keiser University is to prepare students for successful careers in Graphic Arts, Graphic Design, and related fields. The program fosters helping students acquire the necessary knowledge and practical application of design theory and processes to grow professionally and academically throughout their careers and to become lifetime learners of their craft and contributing members of the design community.

Program Goals

Students in the Graphic Arts and Design program will graduate prepared to:

• Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of graphic design principles.
• Communicate and collaborate effectively and in a professional manner.
• Attain proficiency in industry-standard software and tools.
• Produce compelling and appropriate designs.

Program Highlights

Students in the graphic design program gain hands-on experience with industry-standard computer software, build a professional portfolio through the Graphic Design Portfolio course, and learn through real-world projects that prepare them for the design industry. Small class sizes mean more one-on-one attention from experienced faculty, and flexible scheduling options support working professionals, recent graduates, and career changers.

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.

Applicants desiring to enter Keiser University must submit an application to the Admissions Office well in advance of the start date. This permits proper scheduling and assures availability of classroom space. 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.

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. Transfer students are informed in writing of any credits accepted as transferable. Preliminary notification is presented, in most cases, prior to enrollment but in no case later than the end of a transfer student's first semester. Students are responsible for having official transcripts sent to Keiser University from their former institution(s). It may be necessary for students to forfeit some previously earned credit in the transfer process since college philosophies, objectives and programs may vary and change from year to year. Therefore, Keiser University makes no blanket statement or promise of acceptance of credits from any other institution.

Keiser University accepts transfer credits applicable to an applicant's program of study from other institutions recognized by the United States Department of Education (USDE). Keiser University accepts transfer of associate degrees that, upon evaluation, include the appropriate major course distribution without time limitations.

Transfer credits are granted only for courses in which a grade of "C" or higher was earned (2.0 on a 4.0 scale).

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.

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.

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.

Graduates of Keiser University’s graphic design associate degree program move into entry-level positions across a wide range of creative industries. From advertising agencies and public relations firms to web design companies and production studios, graphic designers find career opportunities in nearly every sector. This associate degree supports recent graduates and career changers alike by building both the creative vision and the computer software skills needed to succeed in the design industry from day one.

Career Pathways in Graphic Arts and Design

• Graphic designer
• Web designer
• Digital illustrator
• Art director assistant
• Social media content creator
• Print designer
• Digital photographer
• Freelance designer
• Multimedia artist
• UX designer
• Visual communications specialist

Although career services assistance is provided, Keiser University cannot promise or guarantee employment.

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.