Graphic Design Programs in Denver, Colorado

Becoming a Graphic Designer in Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado offers abundant opportunities for those pursuing a career as a graphic designer. A graphic designer creates visual concepts using computer software or by hand to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Education paths vary—from Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) programs that emphasize digital design and motion graphics to Associate of Applied Science (AAS) programs focusing on hands-on multimedia graphic design. Denver’s education and arts sector is supported by reputable bodies such as the Denver Department of Education and Denver Arts & Venues, along with state-level regulators like the Colorado Department of Higher Education (CDHE) and Colorado Creative Industries (CCI). Federal oversight by the U.S. Department of Education and the National Endowment for the Arts further ensures consistent educational standards. For career data and job prospects, review the Graphic Designer job outlook on bls.gov.

About Denver, Colorado

Denver, Colorado is a thriving urban center known for its cutting-edge arts scene and cultural diversity. The city’s official website, available at Denver.gov, provides comprehensive information about local programs and public services. With notable neighborhoods like LoDo (Lower Downtown), Capitol Hill, and Cherry Creek, Denver offers creative professionals numerous opportunities to network, collaborate, and grow within a bustling metropolitan environment.

Graphic Design Programs in Denver, Colorado

Denver is home to several esteemed institutions that provide graphic design programs. Below is a current list of three local schools offering courses and degrees in graphic design:

  1. University of Colorado Denver (CU Denver)

    • Program: BFA in Digital Design; MFA in Design
    • Unique Features: Ranked highly in Colorado for UX/UI and graphic design studies; curriculum includes courses in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Illustrator, Photoshop), web design (HTML/CSS), branding, and UX/UI principles with specializations such as motion graphics.
    • Address: 1073 Colorado Blvd, Denver, CO 80204 (University Neighborhood)
    • Website: CU Denver Digital Design

  2. Community College of Denver (CCD)

    • Program: AAS in Multimedia Graphic Design
    • Unique Features: Emphasizes hands-on projects and industry partnerships with a focus on Adobe Creative Suite and packaging design; no standardized tests are required for admission.
    • Address: 350 17th Ave, Denver, CO 80202 (Downtown)
    • Website: CCD Multimedia Graphic Design

  3. Metropolitan State University of Denver (MSU Denver)

    • Program: Undergraduate courses in visual arts with emphases that include graphic design elements
    • Unique Features: Offers a dynamic learning environment in a metropolitan setting with opportunities to collaborate in creative projects; prospective students should visit the academic section to review the tailored graphic design curriculum.
    • Address: 1301 Emerson St, Denver, CO 80204 (Downtown/Sunnyside)
    • Website: MSU Denver Academics

Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Denver, Colorado

Denver’s creative industry is supported by numerous organizations employing skilled graphic designers. Major employers include:

  • Think-cell Inc.

    • Description: A design-driven company known for its innovative software solutions, Think-cell Inc. employs talented graphic designers in the LoDo area.
    • Neighborhood: LoDo (Lower Downtown)
    • Website: Think-cell Inc.

  • IBM

    • Description: With a strong in-house design team, IBM offers expansive opportunities in user experience and branding. The company is present in the River North area and continuously searches for creative talent.
    • Neighborhood: River North
    • Website: IBM Careers

  • Mercedes-Benz

    • Description: Known for sophisticated branding and marketing campaigns, Mercedes-Benz maintains an in-house design team for their local operations in the Cherry Creek vicinity.
    • Neighborhood: Cherry Creek
    • Website: Mercedes-Benz Careers

Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs

Typical prerequisites for enrolling in a graphic design program in Denver include:

  • Education Requirements: A high school diploma or equivalent is expected.
  • Portfolio Submission: Prospective students must prepare a portfolio for program admission; BFA programs may require a portfolio review.
  • Standardized Testing: For a BFA, a minimum GPA (around 2.5) paired with SAT or ACT scores may be requested, whereas AAS programs typically do not require standardized tests.
  • Minimum Age: Applicants should meet the institution’s minimum age requirements.

Certification Options for Graphic Designers

Graphic designers in Denver may consider obtaining industry-recognized certifications to enhance their careers:

  • Adobe Certified Professional (ACP)
  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)
  • Google UX Design Certification

These certifications authenticate expertise in software and design principles, making candidates more attractive to local employers.

Get Started Today

Denver offers a robust environment for budding graphic designers with comprehensive education programs and numerous employment opportunities. With dedicated oversight from local, state, and federal education bodies—including the Denver Department of Education and the Colorado Department of Higher Education—aspiring professionals are well-supported from the beginning of their careers. Now is the time to explore your educational pathways and take the next step. Contact a school directly via their inquiry forms to learn more about enrolling in a graphic design program and start shaping your creative future.