Graphic Design Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Becoming a Graphic Designer in Honolulu, Hawaii

Graphic design is an evolving profession that combines art and technology to communicate ideas visually. In Honolulu, Hawaii, aspiring graphic designers can choose from various educational paths including Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) degrees, Bachelor of Science (BS) programs with a design focus, and specialized certificate programs. These programs blend fundamentals—such as typography, color theory, and digital tools like Adobe Creative Suite—with practical internship experiences to prepare students for the competitive world of graphic design. Research-based criteria, such as portfolio submission and minimum GPA requirements (typically between 2.5 and 3.0), are commonly expected by these programs.

Aspiring designers in Honolulu should also pay attention to the city’s robust educational and arts regulatory framework. Key agencies include:

  • City and County of Honolulu Department of Education – Oversees K-12 education and arts programs. Visit their website at hawaiipublicschools.org or call (808) 784-5500.
  • Honolulu Commission on Arts and Culture – Promotes and funds public art projects. Their official website is honolulu.gov/arts and they can be reached at (808) 768-6622.
  • Hawaii State Department of Education – Manages statewide policies including career and technical education. Details are available at hawaiipublicschools.org.
  • Hawaii Arts Alliance – An advocate for arts education and cultural preservation; visit hawaiiartsalliance.org or call (808) 533-6066.
  • Hawaii State Board of Regents – Oversees the University of Hawaii system, including graphic design programs. Their website is hawaii.edu.
  • Hawaii State Foundation on Culture and the Arts – Funds arts programs statewide. Check sfca.hawaii.gov for more information.
  • U.S. Department of Education and the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) provide national oversight and support through ed.gov and arts.gov, respectively.

About Honolulu, Hawaii

Honolulu is a bustling city known for its scenic views, historical landmarks, and thriving cultural scene. The official city website (honolulu.gov) offers additional insights into local government and community events. Neighborhoods such as Waikiki, Kakaako, and Manoa each contribute unique cultural and artistic flavors that can inspire future graphic designers. With a strong commitment to educational excellence and cultural enrichment, Honolulu provides the ideal backdrop for aspiring design professionals.

Graphic Design Programs in Honolulu, Hawaii

Aspiring graphic designers can explore several local institutions offering a range of design programs and courses. Here are three prominent options:

  1. University of Hawaii at Manoa

    • Program: BFA in Studio Art with an emphasis on Graphic Design
    • Address: 2500 Campus Road, Honolulu, HI 96822 (Manoa neighborhood)
    • Overview: The university offers collaborative projects with local businesses, integrating both traditional and digital design skills.
    • Website: hawaii.edu

  2. Hawaii Pacific University

    • Program: BS in Digital Media with a Graphic Design track
    • Address: 2233 McCarthy Way, Honolulu, HI 96822 (Downtown Honolulu)
    • Overview: This program emphasizes digital marketing, branding, and modern design methodologies.
    • Website: hpu.edu

  3. University of Hawaii – West Oahu

    • Program: Certificate and course offerings in design fundamentals
    • Address: One University Place, Kapolei, HI 96707 (Approximately 20 miles from central Honolulu)
    • Overview: While primarily known for its community-focused curriculum, UH-West Oahu provides dedicated courses in visual communications and design.
    • Website: uhwo.hawaii.edu

Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Honolulu

Honolulu’s thriving local economy offers numerous opportunities for graphic designers across various industries. Some notable employers include:

  1. MVNP

    • Location: Waikiki, Honolulu
    • Overview: A local marketing and design agency known for innovative campaigns and creative projects.
    • Website: mvnp.org

  2. Sae Design

    • Location: Kakaako, Honolulu
    • Overview: Specializes in creating compelling visual identities and digital experiences for a range of clients.
    • Website: saedesign.com

  3. Hawaii Tourism Authority

    • Location: Downtown Honolulu
    • Overview: This prominent agency focuses on promoting Hawaii’s tourism sector, employing in-house design teams to create visual content that attracts global audiences.
    • Website: hawaiitourismauthority.org

For further details on job prospects, refer to the Graphic Designers job outlook on bls.gov.

Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs

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

  • Educational Background: A high school diploma or equivalent is required.
  • Portfolio Submission: Most programs request a portfolio showcasing artistic ability and prior design work.
  • Academic Performance: A minimum GPA ranging from 2.5 to 3.0 may be expected.
  • Entrance Exams: Some programs might require standardized tests or additional entrance exams.

These requirements ensure that candidates are well-prepared to engage with core courses such as Graphic Design Fundamentals, Digital Tools (including Adobe Creative Suite), and electives like branding, web design, or motion graphics. Additionally, many BFA programs require an internship component comprising 120–240 hours of practical experience.

Certification Options for Graphic Designers

Professional certifications can further bolster a graphic designer’s credentials. Noteworthy certifications include:

  • Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Validates proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Google UX Design Certification: Emphasizes user experience principles and practical application for digital projects.

These industry-recognized certifications complement academic credentials and are valuable in securing competitive roles in graphic design.

Get Started Today

Honolulu presents a unique blend of cultural richness and educational excellence, making it an excellent location to launch a graphic design career. Whether exploring degree programs at institutions like the University of Hawaii at Manoa, Hawaii Pacific University, or UH-West Oahu, prospective graphic designers have access to high-quality education and local employment opportunities. Interested individuals are encouraged to contact these schools directly through their inquiry forms to learn more about program details, tuition fees, scholarship options, and internship opportunities. Embrace the opportunity to build a career in graphic design in one of the most dynamic urban settings in Hawaii.