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Career and School Info for Graphic Designers in Michigan



  School and Career Overview

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Here are some tips for selecting schools, based on an analysis comparing each school to all others across dozens of factors:

Schools Concentrating On Graphic Designers

  • Focus: For schools with a focus on this career area, look at Oakland Community College, Schoolcraft College, Kalamazoo Valley Community College, and University of Michigan.

Fastest Response From Schools

  • Request Info: For the fastest information for prospective students, look at the Spotlight schools on this page.

Student Body

  • Part-Time: For schools emphasizing part-time studies, consider Marygrove, University of Michigan-Flint, College for Creative Studies, and Madonna.
  • Diverse: For a diverse student body, consider Andrews, Mott Community College, University of Michigan, and Lansing Community College.
  • Adult Learners: For lots of adult learners, consider Marygrove, Spring Arbor University, Andrews, and Kirtland Community College.

School Setting

  • Out of State: For geographic diversity, take note of Andrews, University of Michigan, Gogebic Community College, and College for Creative Studies.
  • Dorms: For a residential campus environment, take note of Cranbrook, Andrews, Ferris State, and College for Creative Studies.

Excellence

  • SAT: For students with high SAT scores, look at University of Michigan and Madonna.
  • % Accepted: For selective institutions, look at College for Creative Studies, University of Michigan, Marygrove, and Ferris State.
  • Class Size: For small class sizes, look at Andrews, University of Michigan, Cranbrook, and Ferris State.

 

Read Reviews of Schools for This Career and State

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Spotlight Michigan Schools Related to This Career

The Art Institutes

  • Locations: Novi, Troy
  • Programs: 19 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Associate, Bachelor, Certificate, Diploma, Master

University of Phoenix

  • Locations: Ann Arbor, Clinton Township, East Lansing, Flint, Grand Rapids, Livonia, Portage, Southfield, Troy
  • Programs: One relevant program; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Bachelor

ITT Technical Institute

  • Locations: Canton, Swartz Creek, Troy, Wyoming
  • Programs: 8 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Associate, Bachelor

International Academy of Design and Technology

  • Locations: Troy
  • Programs: 7 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Associate, Bachelor

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Study from Anywhere at Online Schools Related to This Career

University of Phoenix Online

  • Programs: One relevant program; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Bachelor

AIU Online

  • Programs: 2 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Associate, Bachelor

International Academy of Design & Technology Online

  • Programs: 2 relevant programs; click the school name for details.
  • Degrees: Associate, Bachelor

Student/Alumnus Reviews of Schools for This Career and State

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Central Michigan University • Mount Pleasant, MI
Studying Bachelor Of Fine Arts (completion in 2006)

• 7/9/2011

"I was satisfied with the education I received and the social experiences I had while attending Central. It was an experience that created many lasting memories, friendships, and opportunities. I even met my wife at Central!"

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeI would recommend Central Michigan to people looking for the traditional college experience. If they are trying to save money, they might also try a vocational type school.
Program Reputation5My school was not necessarily recognized as a specialized "art school." It was a good school with a reputation of solid academic performance. As a student I was still expected to complete core curriculum classes such as math, science, and language arts. Our program was not as highly regarded as schools that focused solely on teaching art.
Program Quality5My program focused on the practical applications of graphic design. The beginning classes still taught a lot of the basic art theories. Later on, the classes became more centered on how to use graphic design in potential careers.
Instruction8The classes were taught by many graphic design professionals that currently work in the field or had relevant experience as graphic designers in the past. Many of my instructors were also well recognized in the graphic design community through awards and other recognition.
How Difficult4The classes were often critical of your work and challenged you to think outside the box and push your levels of creativity. However, the instructors often gave you ample time to explore different ideas and present something of quality.
Hands-On vs. BookishA vast majority of the school work was performed on computers or in studios. The curriculum was very much a "learn by doing" type of approach.
Schedule Flexibility3Many of my classes were only offered at a specific time. I specifically remember an art history class that was only offered early Friday mornings. Most of the other people I went to school with, that had different majors, had NO classes on Friday at all.
Academic Facilities10The facilities provided to me were excellent. At the time, we were working on cutting edge G5 Mac workstations. We also had access to mobile labs that featured Mac laptops. The instructors were pretty flexible in their office hours as well.
Social Life10The school had many social activities during the school year. Each dorm had planned activities and it was not a problem to find parties every weekend.
Placement Services1I was not provided any assistance in finding employment once I graduated. I was not made aware of any programs that would help me. I tried to find employment on my own.
Alumni Network3During the first few years after graduation, I would still get e-mails from some of my instructors asking how we were getting along in our careers. In the last few years, the only communication I have received from my school are requests for money. I am still able to keep up with some of the people in my program through social media.

Lansing Community College • Lansing, MI
Studying Graphic Design (completion in 2008)

• 7/9/2011

"It got me to where I am now so I guess I can't complain that much. I learned enough to start my own freelance graphic design consultation services with a number of clients, so I'm pretty happy I went there."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI would because even if you have to learn graphic design elements on old computers and old techniques, it's still good to learn because that old stuff was what all the modern software is based on. It helped me to learn the basics.
Program Reputation5I haven't heard anything bad about my school's Graphic Design program, though I haven't heard anything good either.
Program QualityGreat instructors with real life experience. Small class size enabled me to focus on the course work with help from the teacher. The downside was that the equipment we had to use was outdated and not really beneficial in today's work environment.
Instruction8Like I said earlier, the instructors were great, very experienced, and helped me along with my own career.
How Difficult3As long as you are creative and have no fears of using Macintosh computers, then you'll have no problems learning graphic design, especially not from this school.
Hands-On vs. BookishVery hands on, as the school couldn't afford the latest technology. We used old tech which requires a lot more hand-eye coordination than modern computers. Think dark room as opposed to Photoshop, that's about how archaic the technology was.
Schedule Flexibility10The good thing about attending a community college is the flexibility of the schedule. The one I attended was no different.
Academic Facilities3The school was outdated when it came to computers and the latest software. Now the school only offers Graphic Design Certificates, when just a few years back they offered an Associate's Degree in Graphic Design.
Social Life3It was a community college. Think of the sitcom 'Community' which parodies the fact that community colleges have no spirit or parties or notable events.
Placement Services3It was non existent. Pretty much do-it-yourself. Be nice to the teaching staff and ask them how they made it, etc.
Alumni Network3I don't know very many alumni's and every once in a while I'll get a letter from the alumni association telling me of something. It's not very helpful, though.

Specs Howard School Of Media Arts • Southfield, MI
Studying Graphic Design (completion in 2004)

• 7/20/2011

"I really got a lot out of attending the school. The classes are small and it was really hands on. It helped me pick things up quickly."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesIt is very reasonably priced and flexible with your schedule. The instructors are knowledgeable and always there to help.
Program Reputation9This particular program is fairly new. The school's reputation was built quickly through word of mouth.
Program Quality8They were very hands on. They had most of the latest software and technology.
Instruction8The instructors were very knowledgeable. Many instructors came had real world experience.
How Difficult6They start off really slow to make sure you understand the software and its tools. The learning curve picks up towards the end.
Hands-On vs. BookishMost of the classes have literature. But from the beginning you are working on a computer and learning the software.
Schedule Flexibility9The school is open all year. They offer classes in the morning, afternoon, and evening.
Academic Facilities6There isn't a lot of space. They do not have enough room for library facilities. But they had many computers with the proper graphic software installed on them.
Social Life4It's a small school and everyone attends class at different times. However, they do throw an excellent graduation ceremony.
Placement Services9I got a job before I graduated. The placement department works very hard to place you.
Alumni Network9We have access to alumni. All alumni information is on a secure site.

Tuscola Technology Center, College For Creative Studies • Caro, MI
Studying Advertising Design (completion in 2014)

• 7/27/2011

"My school is perfect for me. It's everything I wanted."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesAny graphic design student should be interested in this school. I recommend it based on my personal experience.
Program Reputation10This is an obviously prestigious school. The name and the reputation, as well as the students, deserve respect.
Program Quality10This field of study requires a lot of practice. My school provided the tools to practice with.
Instruction10Every instructor at this school is here for a reason. They are working on what they are passionate about.
How Difficult5No program of study should not challenge students. It just takes hard work.
Hands-On vs. BookishThis field has to use a mix. It is done well at the school.
Schedule Flexibility5College is a lifestyle. It is as flexible as it needs to be.
Academic Facilities10The school is well funded. The facilities are impressive.
Social Life10Being at college is a social experience. Being around others that share your passion upgrades the experience.
Placement Services10Most study programs lead students to careers. A lot of assistance is provided.
Alumni Network5People who attended school together naturally keep in touch. There is a massive alumni network to connect with.

Henry Ford Community College • Dearborn, MI
Studying Graphic Design & Advertising Minor (completion in 2010)

• 8/15/2011

"I enjoyed completing both online and in-person classes at Henry Ford. I would have liked the graphic design courses to be a bit more modern and up to date."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeI believe the school provides a great opportunity to see if one enjoys design while also getting to know all of the aspects of design, including the history. I would recommend someone to get their Associate's degree from here and to pursue an art-specific school for further degrees.
Program Reputation5It is not a formal art school, but it also has a large student body currently. I think it's a good start to test the waters of design and to receive an Associate's degree.
Program Quality3I went to school for the credentials, though I felt I sat through many courses bored and unchallenged. I passed with excellent grades, but I felt the program was not up to par with today's standards of design (in both the graphic and web world).
Instruction5It varied with the teachers. Some teachers were very objective with design and art, whereas others accepted a variety of techniques and visions--so it varied along with each professor for me.
How Difficult1I enjoyed the classes I took. It felt extremely easy only because I was so interested in design so I didn't mind additional projects. However, nothing was extremely difficult within the courses.
Hands-On vs. BookishMost all of my classes required hands on learning, whether we used computers or made art in front of the classroom. The art history classes were really the only courses that required strictly from the book learning.
Schedule Flexibility8I thoroughly enjoyed taking classes at the times that were offered--it helped with going to school and working, although the time gaps between classes were sometimes a bit frustrating.
Academic Facilities7They had updated Mac computers, which made the computer rooms more enjoyable rather than working on outdated ones. For other classes including drawing and sketching, the facilities were average.
Social Life1I only took classes that I needed to complete my degree rather than taking full days and living near campus. I lived in another city so I rarely stayed for anything more than my work.
Placement Services7Although the school offers many meetings and job placement conferences, I was not interested in this from them. I had never attended the meetings, though I do know there are many programs available from the school.
Alumni Network5I had never been too involved with the school's network or support, though I did take courses online and all of my counselors and advisers were extremely helpful and informative.

Kendall College Of Art And Design • Grand Rapids, MI
Studying Graphic Design/Illustration (completion in 1995)

• 8/27/2011

"I'm glad I attended Kendall College of Art. The teachers, staff, and fellow students all combined to form a perfect learning environment. I've been back to the school since that time to attend supplementary courses, and it has only gotten better! They have grown since 1995, but they still have many of the same wonderful, dedicated instructors. Also, some of the most talented students have joined the staff as adjuncts and formed new and relevant classes for today's student. Kendall is a very exciting college."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesKendall College of Art and Design was and is a great experience for any dedicated Design student. Kendall has demonstrated to me that they are very dedicated to providing a rich learning atmosphere for their students both during their college years and beyond. Kendall prepared me to enter the design world well equipped to secure a career position and they provided the necessary career services to find that job!
Program Reputation9Kendall College of Design has a VERY good reputation nationally for Graphic Design and Illustration. Other than CCS (Center for Creative Studies) in Eastern Michigan, it is the best Art College in the state. I would say KCAD and CCS are about on par nationally.
Program Quality8Kendall College of Design is an excellent college that stays current with all the emerging techniques and media that comprise the skill set necessary for today's Graphic Artist. Class size allows for personal interaction and individual attention from instructors. Great casual camaraderie among students and plenty of opportunities to form student groups and events.
Instruction9Instructors, throughout my four year attendance, fostered artistic development through hands on assignments and projects, too numerous to mention, which taught the necessary skills to help become proficient and comfortable creating artwork that catches employers' eyes and lends itself well to its intended application. It was a very rigorous program that honed my skills in drawing, painting, and computer application. In 1995, Kendall had a very good computer art program. I have since taken Flash courses and I see that today their computer art program has grown considerably since that time.
How Difficult10The workload was pretty strenuous at times. Often I would try to take an Art History course to offset the time needed for artwork completion in studio courses. Some Instructors assigned much more work than others.
Hands-On vs. BookishMost everything we learned to do was by example and by actually working with the media (paints, pastels, etc.) or software. Books were not required for most studio classes EXCEPT for the introductory courses during the first year. Perspective had a book and the art history courses required books.
Schedule Flexibility7Scheduling was usually pretty flexible. I was usually able to get all the classes I wished to attend. Often I was able to get all the classes I needed to attend for that semester and still set aside a day or a half day with one class or no classes so I would have uninterrupted time to complete assignments.
Academic Facilities9We have an excellent library, and I still make use of it. The computer lab is wonderful with plenty of workstations, all of which are loaded with the entire Adobe Suite for web and print. Also, there are multimedia and 3D programs loaded onto many of the workstations. Instructors keep on top of the need for new software purchases, and it shows!
Social Life9When I attended students were always sharing their knowledge and skills with each other. Also, there were always student posted events, seminars, parties, stuff like that. I made close friendships that I still have today. Two of my closest friends are fellow students, one of which I helped to get a job at the corporation where I work.
Placement Services8Career assistance through career services at Kendall is very good. Kendall beats the bushes for employers to post jobs and visit the college grounds. During one career day I was able to secure an internship at American Greetings during the Summer of 1995. Also, it was through career services that I found and acquired all but one of the four professional design positions I have held since graduation.
Alumni Network7Pretty good overall. I was involved with the Alumni for a few years, and we put out a yearbook on CD utilizing Flash rather than print. Students are encouraged to stay in touch and most of my friends still check the website's job bulletin. It was from the job bulletin that I found a small freelance job with the corporation I now work for full time. That worked out very well for me!

University Of Michigan • Ann Arbor, MI
Studying Clinical Psychology (completion in 1982)

• 9/6/2011

"I received a stellar education there. My degree opens doors, even though it's not my current profession."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI would recommend it for budding psychologists. I don't know what it offers to budding designers.
Program Reputation10It is one the country's best. It is also one of the most difficult programs to get accepted into.
Program Quality9U of M is the best school in the country for clinical psych. The professors are first-rate and the curriculum is challenging.
Instruction9Classes are taught by full professors, not assistants - most of the time. I use the information I learned to this day in everything I do, every single day, even though my degree is not related to my current career.
How Difficult9Clinical psych is technical, abstract and difficult. I took 15 credits each semester, but there were no fluff classes.
Hands-On vs. BookishIt was equally split. I had practicums, internships, and labs, plus a ton of reading and writing assignments.
Schedule Flexibility5I didn't investigate these options as I didn't need them, and at the time, there were no online options. I know today they offer more night and weekend courses.
Academic Facilities9There are several very large libraries on campus. I don't know about other facilities as I haven't been to class there in many years.
Social Life5I am not a social person and did not attend such events, but there is an active frat/sorority community and Student Union. The school spirit is huge there, especially for the sports teams.
Alumni Network10U of M alumni are a very active group. My college's alumni assoc. support is something I don't know about because I don't avail myself of it.

Siena Heights University • Grand Blanc, MI
Studying Computer Information Systems (completion in 2010)

• 9/15/2011

"I loved it and would recommend anyone going there for any major."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?maybeThere are probably better schools out there for Graphic Design/CIS but still a great experience overall.
Program Reputation3It is a private Catholic school known mostly for drama and theatre majors.
Program Quality10A good school which provided a good education, though still not enough with specific graphic design.
Instruction6Teachers were OK and knowledgeable but didn't seem to have a real passion for the art.
How Difficult5Computer technology comes naturally to me so most of the workload wasn't real difficult.
Hands-On vs. BookishTeachers were there to help but not particularly passionate.
Schedule Flexibility6They let you work on your own time a lot and make assignments up regularly.
Academic Facilities8There were lots of computer labs and tech support, though it could have been better.
Social Life8I loved it but I may have chosen another school if I could have.
Placement Services7I worked right out of school and make pretty decent money.
Alumni Network4They have a good alumni association but not a lot from my field.

Delta College • University Center, MI
Studying Graphic Arts Technology (completion in 1996)

• 9/29/2011

"I loved my time at Delta! The entire experience was diverse and rewarding."

Ratings are on a 1-10 scale

CharacteristicRatingComment
Would Recommend?yesI would and I have, and I will continue to. My college is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year and I will attend the festivities that they have planned. I continue to enjoy the facilities, like the library and pool and fitness facilities. It is a great resource in our community!
Program Reputation10Delta is very highly accredited and has been consistently throughout its 50 year history. The art and design department has always been one of the highest rated in the country for colleges of this size.
Program Quality9Delta was a great place to study graphics because the program was new at the time that I was attending and they always kept up with the technology. They had great professors and the classes were smaller and more intimate because it was a community college rather than a large university. Also, because so many of the students were adults, the class scheduling was diverse in terms of times and locations throughout the region.
Instruction9Delta College is a community college, and because of this everything is always career focused. They work very closely with local companies to provide the types of skilled workers needed in this area.
How Difficult8I felt academically challenged throughout my time at Delta, more so in some classes than others, as you would expect. If ever my work load became too intense, there were always resources and plenty of options for help.
Hands-On vs. BookishI thought that my class experiences were a great mix of both. Great attention was paid to having the proper equipment and supplies, as well as the right texts and visual materials to convey the material.
Schedule Flexibility10There are many locations for classes and on-line opportunities also. Classes are offered days, nights and weekends, and there are many opportunities for other flexible options.
Academic Facilities10Delta is constantly upgrading their facilities and curriculum. Like I said previously in this survey, they are very focused on the local job market and work very hard to stay on top of the needed technology to employ people locally.
Social Life7I was an adult student at Delta so many of the extra-curricular activities did not interest me, but they were available. I met and socialized with many people that I met while at Delta, and continue to see many of the friends that I made while I was there.
Placement Services7The resources are always there for help in finding a job, no matter how long you've been a graduate. Alumni are always invited to participate in job fairs and career placement services.
Alumni Network8It has always been what you make of it, which I guess would apply to almost anything in life. I was more involved with alumni projects earlier, but opportunities are always available for support and networking if the individual wants it. I have been back a few times for more classes and many events.
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