Overview

The Graphic Design programme at Murray State University provides a professional foundation for students aiming to master the aesthetic ordering of type and image. This curriculum prepares individuals to interest, inform, and persuade audiences through diverse media ranging from traditional print to modern digital interfaces.

Ranked as the top programme in Kentucky and among the best in the Southern United States, the department offers a prestigious environment for creative growth. Students benefit from high-level institutional recognition and a curriculum that balances artistic theory with practical application in the modern design industry.

Why Graphic Design at Murray State University?

The institution boasts exceptional facilities, including a dedicated computer lab equipped with 22 Macintosh workstations running the latest professional creative software. Students have access to advanced hardware such as large-format poster printers, laser cutters, vinyl cutters, 3D printers, and CNC routers.

The learning environment is supported by 1,616 square feet of specialised studio space, allowing for hands-on exploration of both physical and digital media. Faculty members are seasoned professionals with extensive experience in national design organisations, ensuring that teaching methods remain aligned with current industry standards.

Beyond core academics, the university offers unique opportunities for interdisciplinary study, such as certificates in game design and the ability for honours students to complete a specialised thesis. This flexibility allows students to tailor their education to specific career goals within the broad field of visual communication.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: USD 7836 per semester
National fee: USD 5436 per semester
Local fee: USD 5160 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum covers a broad spectrum of visual communication techniques, from foundational digital art to advanced system design. Modules may include:

Graphic Design : Digital Art
Graphic Design: Type and Image
Graphic Design : Layout and Design Systems
Web Design
Graphic Design: System Design
Graphic Design: Senior Portfolio
Illustration
Advanced Web Design
Motion Graphics and Animation
User Interface Design
Package Design
Typography
Poster Design

Careers with Graphic Design

Graduates are prepared for diverse roles across the creative industries, focusing on the visual identity and communication needs of various organisations. Potential career paths include branding and identity design, where professionals create symbols and systems to differentiate products and services.

The programme also equips students for roles in digital technology sectors, such as web and mobile application design, film, television, and video production. Traditional opportunities remain strong in areas like packaging design, signage, architectural graphics, exhibit design, and publication layout for printed media.

Programme Structure

Courses included:

Graphic Design: Type and Image

Graphic Design: Layout and Introduction to Design Systems

History of Modern Design

Graphic Design: System Design

Web Design

Illustration

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-08-10 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-07-19 00:00:00 , International
Starting 2027-01-13 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-11-15 00:00:00 , International

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

100

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IELTS

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Credits

120 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Murray, United States

Disciplines

Graphic Design View 609 other Bachelors in Graphic Design in United States

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Academic requirements

GPA

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

100

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

PTE Academic

Schedule a PTE test!

IELTS

Prepare for Your English Test

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Learn your IELTS Score

AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Transcripts for all years of high school with a minimum GPA of 2.0

If transcripts are not written in English, you must also submit certified translations

High School Diploma OR Graduation Certificate

If the graduation certificate is not written in English, you must also submit a certified translation

Proof of Financial Support

Bank Statement (issued within the last 6 months) showing a balance of at least $25,436 OR

Scholarship Letter

Copy of Passport for applicant and all dependents

No NECO Results will be accepted. Please submit WAEC results.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

15672 USD / year

≈ 15672 USD / year
Out-of-State

10872 USD / year

≈ 10872 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

10320 USD / year

≈ 10320 USD / year

Additional Details

Regional Tuition - $10,872 per year

Living costs

Murray

United States

900 - 1400 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Graphic Design.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Additional Details

Living costs

Murray

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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