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:

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

Prerequisites

None. No prior art or computer experience required.

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.

Estimated Student Costs

Required and Optional Fees for Programs: Fees are costs set by the university in addition to tuition (and room and board, if applicable). These fees may be required for your program or optional depending on the courses you take, and they support the costs associated with completing an approved program of study. Fees are defined in the or supplement and listed on the school’s billing statement or invoice. Fees that are optional will not be paid using GI Bill® benefits and will be the responsibility of the student choosing these additional options. For additional guidance, please see your Program Director or Admissions Counselor.

Accreditation Statuses

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. . While this Graphic Arts and Design program doesn’t require programmatic accreditation, it meets the academic standards required under this accreditation. The SACSCOC accreditation ensures Keiser University meets rigorous quality standards, which is crucial for students as it affects access to federal financial aid, the transferability of credits to other accredited schools, and recognition of degrees for graduate programs and employers. This accreditation signifies that the institution adheres to standards that ensure educational quality and institutional effectiveness.

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 includes Keiser University's general requirements plus any program-specific requirements listed below, followed by the university’s application process.

Transfer credit. Credit for courses completed at another institution is subject to approval by Keiser University’s Dean of Academic Affairs, and those courses must be similar in content and duration to the courses in this program. Keiser University requires that a student complete at least the final 25% of a program through the University; active duty, reservist and National Guard service members may complete that 25% at any point in the program. Official transcripts must reach Keiser University by the end of the student’s first semester, and Keiser University makes no blanket promise to accept credits from any other institution.

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.

The 60-credit curriculum blends graphic arts and design coursework with general education, moving from design theory and digital tools through illustration, imaging, publishing, photography, animation, web, and video before culminating in a professional portfolio course. Representative courses are listed below.

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

Placement Rate

Keiser University publishes the following in its 2025 Undergraduate Placement Rates report for AS Graphic Arts and Design.

Keiser University’s notes on this report: “Does not include international campuses.” “Report as of April 2026, 16.43% has been verified through 3rd party.”

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

How to Apply

1. Submit your online application
2. Speak with an admissions advisor
3. Provide transcripts or transfer credits
4. Enroll and choose your start date

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.