Best Digital Arts Degree | Top Ranked Digital Arts Major | MatchCollege

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What is Digital Arts?

A digital arts degree is a field of study emphasizing the use of digital technology as a conduit for the creative and presentation process.  Techniques of digital artists are used by large publishing houses and small businesses around the world in advertisements, commercials, print media, movies, and websites.

Digital arts can be solely created via a computer as seen in algorithmic art and fractals or from other sources like an image build with vector graphics.  In either case, the degree path of Digital Arts teaches students the nuances and psychology behind effective visual messaging.

A professional digital artist can be expected to create pieces that engage the user, invoke a conversation, influence consumers, inspire individuals, and knit together organizations.  Higher level coursework of Digital Arts may include elements of 2D art theory, 3D art theory, hardware manipulation, state-of-the-art software, digital art conventions, and aesthetics.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$52,290

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

29.12%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

210,710

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2023 Best Digital Arts Degree

Harvard University is a well-known private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It has outstanding undergraduate programs and facilities including the world’s largest university library as well as laboratory and scientific centers.  The university offers a graduate degree in digital media design. Students enrolled in the course will be able to enhance their skills and knowledge in the latest tools such as web design, still photography, and video. It also develops the perspective of students to harness emerging technologies through coursework wherein they’ll gain real-life experience in applied learning. The program can be accessed online.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Columbia University in New York offers a comprehensive range of academic fields including business, finance, engineering, agriculture, and more. It was founded in 1754 and was initially named King’s College after King George II.   The university’s school of art has developed a combined program that concentrates on photography, painting, sculpture, new genres, moving images, printmaking, and digital arts. Students will be taught and work alongside professionals who have years of experience in the field. Throughout the courses, students will develop unique abilities that enhance their creativity in the educational and professional field. 

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

The University of Southern California is the oldest research university in its area that attracts local and international students. It offers programs in arts, engineering, business, and study abroad programs and internships.

The Animation and Digital Arts major is one of the programs offered by the university and developed by the school of cinematic arts. Students will obtain knowledge in experimental animation, science visualization, character animation, and interactive animation. Students are also required to participate in projects and internships that prepare them to become competitive individuals with successful careers in the industry. 

Acceptance Rate

11.42

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Carnegie Mellon University offers a variety of program options that allow students to choose which field of study is suitable for them. It is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and provides an urban campus environment that provides a peaceful and fun learning experience for students.

The university offers a program that focuses on integrative design, technology, and arts for individuals who aspire to become creators, makers, and collaborative innovators in the art industry. The program covers courses in media design, innovation & entrepreneurship, animation, game design, intelligent environments, and soft technologies. Students will obtain a unique experience with the support of other undergraduate students and talented faculty in the student-centered campus of the university.

Acceptance Rate

15.44

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Northeastern University is known for offering interdisciplinary and experiential learning for local and international students. It also provides more than 300 graduate and undergraduate degree programs including global learning, student research, internships, and training.

One of its various programs in art and design, the university has provided students with an option to take a bachelor’s degree in digital arts. Students will study interactive art, visualization, motion graphics, documentary films, short animated films, and many more. The university and the College of Arts, Design, and Media have built student resources such as studios and student centers that provide experience, techniques, and knowledge of media arts.

Acceptance Rate

18.05

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

With over 50,000 students and a 137-year tradition of offering high-quality research education, the University of Texas at Austin is the largest in Texas. It is an Ivy League institution with 17 libraries and several facilities, including the McDonald’s Observatory.

Students who are interested to pursue a career in arts can enroll in the university’s undergraduate degree in digital arts and media. It has a plan of study wherein students will learn about technology that they can use for creative production. Students will also be guided by professors who are experts in the field that tackles traditional disciplines in arts and media. Upon completion, students can also receive certificates in game development.

Acceptance Rate

31.82

Student to Faculty Ratio

N.A

The University of Florida was established in 1853 to empower students to influence and lead the next generation in ways that favor the world’s cultural, social, and economic well-being. It is based in Gainesville, Florida, and annually serves over 55,000 students.

The college of arts has outlined a bachelor’s degree in digital arts and sciences wherein students can earn about arts, engineering, and communication. It lasts up to four years and students must complete the 120-credit hours to graduate. Also, students who wish to enroll in the program are required to submit a portfolio of their original work. Some of the courses are focused on digital visualization, creating mobile games, design and production studio, project methodologies, and many more.

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

George Washington University has been dedicated to making the world a better place for more than 200 years by offering high-quality education. It is based in Washington, D.C., and serves more than 27,000 students each year.

George Washington has developed a graphic design program that concentrates on strong technical skills and design principles wherein students can learn about contemporary practices and design theory. Students will work on assignments and projects that are built upon abstract principles, established methodologies, and traditional approaches. Throughout the program, students will also gain various research methods, visual communication processes, and ethical exploration.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Syracuse University, founded in 1870, provides an interdisciplinary education through its numerous schools and colleges. The university, which is based in New York is well-known for its excellent research programs.  With the help of the visual and digital arts department, the university offers a computer art and animation program that explores the various possibilities of digital media. Students will study 3D computer animation, creative computer programming, sonic art, physical computing, and more. Students will also be mentored to have an artistic voice in the industry. Also, students can participate in two-week immersion in film and animation.

Acceptance Rate

44.38

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

In 1841, Jesuits founded Fordham University. It has awarded nearly 700 prestigious scholarships and 200 Fulbright scholars to students over the last five years. Fordham University has five campuses that serve over 20,000 students each year.  The department of new media and design has various major and minor courses as well as internship, job board, and study abroad programs. Students will learn to link practice and theory to help them succeed in digital arts technology careers and areas. It has faculty members who have years of experience in graphic design, digital business, information science, and many more.

Acceptance Rate

45.88

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

The University of Central Florida is a metropolitan educational institution dedicated to improving opportunities for students and communities through creative learning, economic mobility, education, and exploration. It is based in Orlando, Florida, and was founded in 1963.  Individuals who are interested to pursue a degree in digital arts can participate in the bachelor’s program of the university that concentrates on digital media. Students will study game design as well as social and web platform design. It also provides students with techniques and theory as well as a broad understanding of humanities, technology, and arts.

Acceptance Rate

44.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

30:1

Located in New York, the Fashion Institute of Technology is a premier institution known for its college of art, communication, design, business, and fashion. It provides students with professional excellence that fosters creativity, imparts a global perspective, and educates students.

Digital Arts and Graphic Design is one of the programs offered by the university. Students enrolled in this field of study will learn the use of visual imagery using pencil, chalk, airbrush, paint, and various computer applications. The program also develops the skills of students that they use in creating designs for magazines, catalogs, newspapers, and other promotional publications.

Acceptance Rate

53.89

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

For more than 170 years, Moore College of Arts and Design has been home to women who want to expand their creative and innovative ideas with the help of the college’s inclusive community. It has a mission to sustain the diverse culture of the society and its environment. 

It offers adult, youth, undergraduate, graduate, and post-baccalaureate studies in art education wherein students can choose to take courses in digital arts, fashion design, fine arts, business, illustration, interior design, photography, graphic design, and many more. The digital arts program can last up to four years and students will learn about various techniques and skills needed for their educational and career advancement. Throughout the program, students can also be eligible for scholarships or financial aid. 

Acceptance Rate

46.99

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Located in New York, the SUNY College at Cortland has been serving a total of 6,295 students on its 211-acre campus area. It gives students a variety of high-quality courses that helps them have a rewarding career in their chosen fields.

It has a major program that emphasizes graphic design and digital arts  wherein students will have in-depth exposure to the field. The program features studios and laboratories wherein students can learn about two-dimensional design, digital arts, drawing, typography, printmaking, graphic design, and more. Graduates of this program can be employed as an animator, web page designer, graphic designer, digital image creator, and other related careers in the field. 

Acceptance Rate

46.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

16:1

On its Central New York campus, SUNY College at Oneonta serves over 600 students. It provides a wide range of degree, and training programs to assist students in achieving their educational and career objectives.

The college provides aspiring designers to participate in the digital art degree program wherein they can learn about the basic skills in design, digital, and drawing. Students will also focus on web design, 3D modeling, digital photography, illustration, and digital print among others. The four-year program also provides students with various services such as scholarships, financial aid, internships, and more. 

Acceptance Rate

56.04

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Bennington University is a private university in Vermont that enrolls around 1,000 students each year. It is equipped with faculty who are focused on providing students with an excellent education and teaching them how to become leaders in today’s demanding society.

The digital arts degree of Bennington University allows students to work closely with professional faculty to design the sequence, content, and structure of the various areas of study related to art. Students will learn to create their projects and work with CSS, JavaScript, and HTML as well as have knowledge and skills in animation, media studies, video and film, computer science, sculpture, and more. The curriculum also provides lectures and seminars that are hosted by industry professionals.

Acceptance Rate

60.79

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Located in Brooklyn, New York, Pratt Institute has been operating since 1887 and provides world-class academic programs in fine arts, architecture, and engineering. Its campus offers a unique architecture that provides green space and a welcoming environment for students.

The school of arts offers an undergraduate degree program that concentrates on digital arts that cultivates professional artists in the fields of gaming, interactive arts, and animation. Students will be guided by experienced professionals that teach them about social responsibilities and how to emphasize curiosity and become empathic individuals for a rewarding career in digital arts. Students will also focus on the areas including 3D animation, motion arts, interactive arts, and 2D animation courses. 

Acceptance Rate

55.5

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Florida Southern College is equipped with 130 full-time faculty members that serve more than 3,000 students on its campus in Lakeland, Florida. It is known for providing outstanding professional, excellent research, and superb liberal arts programs.

The institution offers innovative and creative ways through its digital arts and media program. Students of this course will learn how to market and provide messages across various mediums by designing text, photographs, and videos. Students will also receive academic resources such as modern facilities, video equipment, computer laboratory, software, and many more.

Acceptance Rate

52.13

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Established in 1826, the Maryland Institute College of Art is recognized as one of the most outstanding institutions that provide excellent visual arts studies. Students can enroll in the various graduate, undergraduate, and professional degree programs.

Individuals who are interested in becoming digital artists can take the graphic design program wherein students will receive an undergraduate degree in the field. Students will learn to create unique designs for apps, posters, books, magazines, advertisements, logos, games, and countless other media. The program also gives students the opportunity to develop their skills in book arts through its state-of-the-art studio within its campus.

Acceptance Rate

63.89

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Hampton University has been providing academic and research excellence for the community of Hampton, Virginia, and beyond since 1868. It promotes a diverse learning experience that builds the character of students to become industry professionals and responsible individuals for society. 

The university’s Department of Fine and Performing Arts has a mission to establish professional attitudes for students through their academic programs to help students gain confidence and become responsible individuals in the local and global community. It offers undergraduate degree programs that focus to develop the skills and knowledge needed for continuing education or a successful career in the field. Through the program, students can also receive financial aids and other student resources such as academic counseling and career advising.

Acceptance Rate

36

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Nossi College of Art is located in Nashville and offers programs that focus on video and film, photography, graphic design, culinary, and illustrations. Through its various art-related programs, students are provided with skills that are essential for a rewarding career in their chosen industry.

Digital Design and Media Degree program help students to learn how marketing, business, and technology impact graphic design. Motion graphics, advanced typography, photography, web language, adobe design, basic drawing, and color theory are some of the courses included in the program. Students will be mentored and guided by faculty who are dedicated to sharing their knowledge, ideas, and skills to help students develop their understanding of the methods and techniques needed to become competitive and successful artists. 

Acceptance Rate

50.22

Student to Faculty Ratio

8:1

Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Chatham University offers 4-year degree programs for the students in the community. Today, the university serves more than 5,000 students who are taking professional, graduate, and undergraduate programs.

The bachelor’s in digital arts is one of the most recognizable programs offered by the university. It provides various opportunities for students by developing their technical, creative, and conceptual skills in graphic design, photography, and film. Upon completion, graduates of this program are able to have great roles in the media arts production or will be eligible to participate in graduate degree programs in the same or related field. 

Acceptance Rate

62.19

Student to Faculty Ratio

10:1

Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, aims to challenge students to become responsible individuals who understand the importance of their role in the community. It offers full-time and part-time academic programs that provide convenience and flexibility to its students.

Students who aim to become digital artists can enroll in the graphic design programs of the university. They can choose to earn a bachelor’s degree in fine arts or arts, depending on what suits their needs and goals. The programs can be accessed in person wherein students will be taught by respected professionals in the industry who are dedicated to providing them with theoretical and hands-on practice lessons needed to achieve success. 

Acceptance Rate

63.11

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The University of Tampa is located in Florida that offers more than 200 degree programs such as certificates, majors, minors, professional, and undergraduate. It is also known for providing academic and research excellence that helps with the economic growth of the world.

Department of art and design offers six bachelor’s degrees including visual arts and graphic design. Students enrolled in the programs will receive a high-quality curriculum that concentrates on providing personal achievements and growth that ensures educational and career success. Graduates of the programs will learn to use the methodologies, processes, techniques, and knowledge to their real-world projects. 

Acceptance Rate

44.75

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

As a liberal arts institution, Point Loma Nazarene University offers liberal arts programs as well as business, psychology, marketing, technology, and more. Established in 1902, the university is located in San Diego, California.

Individuals who are interested to learn or develop their skills in drawing, photography, art history, painting, sculpture, illustration, printmaking, and the like are welcome to enroll in the university’s digital art degree. Students will be provided with various resources such as art studios, academic centers, libraries, and galleries that enhance their ability and knowledge in their chosen field. Also, students will feel supported through the university’s environment-friendly campus that houses a community of students who are also known for being great performers and artists. 

Acceptance Rate

73.66

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Top Colleges Digital Arts Majors

For prospective students considering a degree in digital arts and visual art, you have never had as many choices to sift through. To illustrate, students can find undergraduate certificate programs and undergraduate degrees in addition to master’s degree programs.

In addition to classroom-based courses, students can also enroll in online learning degrees in digital arts. The combination of degree programs plus learning modalities can be dizzying for students. In an effort to simplify the process for prospective students, we have summarized the degree programs below.

To ease the process of connecting with accredited programs, we have also created a complete portal with online college programs and top degree programs in the field of study.

Digital Arts Certificate Programs

Online certificate programs can come in two different flavors: undergraduate and graduate. Undergraduate degrees are foundational programs that provide new students with the basics to obtain a job in the field or move on to a degree program in the field.

Graduate certificate programs, on the other hand, are for experienced professionals and qualifying students. The clustering of classes provides targeted skills to help students remain competitive, upskill, enhance their career, or prepare for a vocational transition. Certificate programs may last a year to two years depending on the scope of the program and course load of each student.

Associate Digital Arts Majors

Associate degrees can be conferred as an Associate of Arts (AS) in the field or a subset such as game design, motion design, entertainment design, or animation. An associate degree can be earned in class or online and is designed to be a 2-year program for full time students. The AS degree program blends general education courses with core classes to provide students with a well-rounded education. General education courses may include classes such as statistics, communications, history, philosophy, psychology, and creative writing.

Core classes in an AS program will correlate to the area of specialization. For example, students studying animation will take classes in drawing, principles of design, visual culture, color and design, 3D animation, visual storytelling, studio arts, and writing in the digital age. On the other hand, if a student elects to specialize in motion design classes will be colored by studio arts, cinematography, studio visits, motion graphics, and math for designers.

Digital Arts Bachelor’s Degrees

A bachelors degree in digital arts is conferred as a Bachelor of Arts (BA) or a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA). As the most popular degree chosen, the bachelor’s degree will take around 4-years to complete. BFA and BA programs fuse general education courses with core curricula to provide an integrative set of thinking skills for students. Core curriculum at this level will generally include classes such as:

• Motion Graphics
• Design
• Rapid Visualization
• 3D Design
• Motion Graphics
• Multimedia for Designers
• Innovation & Problem Solving
• Product Design
• Design Theory
• Advanced Sound and Audio
• Digital Audio Recording
• Professional Communications
• Typography
• Web Design
• Managing Data
• Materials Behavior and Processing

 Master Digital Arts Major

Graduate degrees at this level in digital arts will typically be conferred as a Master of Arts (MA) or a Master of Fine Arts (MFA). Master’s degrees will take students 1-2 years to complete with a substantive portion of the program taking advanced classes and building a robust portfolio.

Some masters degree programs will allow students to customize their curriculum by working closely with an academic advisor. Other programs provide students with a defined set of curricula with a prescribed set of known outcomes. In either case, graduate students will have access to top-tier professors in accredited institutions to prepare them for career enhancing material in the arts.

Employment in Art & Digital Arts

For students that earn a college degree in Digital Arts, there are several fields of specialization that one can pursue. The options range from computer graphics, computer technologies, teaching, corporate communications, advertising, photography, web production, consulting, modeling, editor, production designer, and visual effects supervisor. Digital arts students and design video production can be combined to fulfill a digital arts education. Digital arts majors in arts degree programs can leverage adigital arts guide to create a robust digital arts portfolio. A digital art student in the digital arts program lead to arts students graduated from key university programs.

Top Employers of a University Digital Art Student

• Motion Picture Studios 8,530
• Computer Design Firms 4,360
• Software Publishers 3,250
• Public Relations Firms 2,790
• Information Technology Consulting 1,650

States with the Highest Number of Digital Artists

• California 10,910
• New York 1,960
• Washington 1,800
• Texas 1,720
• Georgia 1,430

Top Paying States for Digital Artists

1. California $82,680
2. Connecticut $78,870
3. Massachusetts $77,370
4. District of Columbia $76,530
5. Washington $76,130

How Much Do Digital Artists Make?

The BLS has estimated that the field will expand by 8% which will add some 15,900 jobs in the coming decade. The median annual income of a digital artist is $52,290 with the top 10% earning nearly $116,000 a year while the bottom ten percent average $38,520 a year.

Given the broad nature of the Digital Arts degree, compensation after graduation can vary greatly from career field to career field given prior experience and geographic location. Related fields include teaching, curriculum design, research, consulting, production, editing, modeling, web production, and advertising.