
Graphic designers, also called graphic artists, create effective and visually aesthetic designs, layouts and corporate communication strategies for clients. Some graphic designers work on-site at a firm or company; others are consultants or freelancers who work out-of-office on a contract basis. Graphic designers can work in a variety of environments, including advertising or communications companies, newspapers, magazines or design firms.
Graphic Design Schools in Massachusetts
A four-year degree in graphic design from a college or university is typically required for most graphic design positions. Associate degrees and certifications are also available, but these graduates usually qualify as assistants to graphic designers or for positions that require technical skills only. As a student, you'll take courses in studio art, principles of design, website design, computerized design, printing techniques and commercial graphics production. Some designers may find it helpful to take additional courses in psychology, writing, marketing, business and foreign languages. It is important to note that graphic designers must also be creative and have the ability to showcase their ideas to clients or art directors. Whether online or campus-based, Massachusetts graphic design schools can help you gain the education and training you need to become a successful graphic designer.
Graphic Designer Salaries in Massachusetts
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for graphic designers should increase and employment is expected to grow 13 percent between 2008 and 2018. Those with animation and website design experience will be the most in demand. With more than 5,400 graphic designers in the state, Massachusetts graphic design schools are the perfect place to start your career as a graphic designer. BLS data shows that as of May 2009, Massachusetts graphic designers earned a median salary of $48,140 a year. In addition, the 10th percentile earned a median salary of $30,760 a year while the 90th percentile earned $77,450 a year. Graphic designers tend to migrate towards the Boston-Cambridge area, were job opportunities are most common.
Check out the list of Massachusetts graphic design schools to find a location that's most convenient for you.
Schools for Graphic Designers in Massachusetts are listed below.
These schools offer particularly quick info upon request, and we have written detailed profiles for each (click school names to see the profiles).
Request info from multiple schools, by clicking the Get Info links.

The Art Institutes
Brookline
The Art Institutes (AI) provides programs that stimulate the minds of its students with programs in design, the arts, game programming, culinary cuisine, and fashion.

Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University
Waltham
Center for Digital Imaging Arts at Boston University (CDIA) provides career training for several different art related programs, including photography and 3D animation.

American Career Institute
Braintree, Cambridge, Framingham, Springfield, Woburn
There's no better time than right now to become a medical professional, and American Career Institute can help launch your career. Free job placement assistance for graduates.

ITT Technical Institute
Norwood, Woburn
With over 100 campuses in 34 states nationwide and online programs offered as well, the ITT Technical Institutes may have a program that is convenient for you. ITT Tech is dedicated to teaching technology.
| School | Locations | Degrees | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DeVry University Online | Online | Bachelor | |
| AIU Online | Online | Associate, Bachelor | |
| The Art Institute of Pittsburgh Online Division | Online | Associate, Bachelor, Diploma | |
| Ashworth College | Online | Diploma | |
| Herzing College | Online | Associate, Bachelor |
The map below shows job statistics for the career type by metro area, for Massachusetts. A table below the map shows job popularity and salaries across the state.
Listed below are metro areas ranked by the popularity of jobs for Graphic Designers relative to the population of the city, as of 2008. Salary data was obtained from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
A Relative Popularity of 1.0 means that the city has an average number of the particular job, for its population, compared to the rest of the US. Higher numbers mean proportionally more jobs of that type.| Metro Area | Jobs | Salary (2008) | Relative Popularity |
|---|---|---|---|
MASSACHUSETTS | |||
| Framingham | 380 | $58,210 | 1.5 |
| Boston | 3,660 | $49,160 | 1.3 |
| Pittsfield | 50 | $38,120 | 1.1 |
| Lawrence | 90 | $50,630 | 1.1 |
| Barnstable | 140 | $37,820 | 0.9 |
| Springfield | 400 | $51,210 | 0.8 |
| Haverhill | 90 | $42,100 | 0.8 |
| Brockton | 100 | $46,440 | 0.7 |
| Lowell | 120 | $51,230 | 0.6 |
| Taunton | 40 | $46,880 | 0.6 |
| Worcester | 240 | $46,750 | 0.6 |
| New Bedford | 50 | $40,810 | 0.5 |
| Leominster | 30 | $34,170 | 0.4 |
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