Graphic Design Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Becoming a Graphic Designer in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Individuals considering a career as a graphic designer in Virginia Beach, Virginia will find a wealth of opportunities in education and employment. A graphic designer is a creative professional who uses technology and art to communicate ideas visually. Curricula can vary from associate degrees to master-level studies, and education paths include technical training at community colleges, undergraduate degrees, and certificate programs. For further details on career prospects, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics Graphic Designers page.

About Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach is a coastal city known for its expansive beaches, lively boardwalk, and flourishing arts community. The city combines scenic coastal views with urban amenities and several cultural landmarks. To learn more about the city’s official initiatives, visit the Virginia Beach official website and explore local attractions in neighborhoods such as Lynnhaven and Kempsville.

Graphic Design Programs in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Virginia Beach and its nearby areas offer multiple educational institutions where aspiring graphic designers can enroll in design programs and courses. Below is a list of three schools offering graphic design curricula, with additional details including addresses, neighborhood information, and links to their program pages.

  1. Tidewater Community College – Lynnhaven Campus

    • Program: Associate of Applied Arts (AAA) in Graphic Design
    • Address: 300 Central Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23462 (Lynnhaven)
    • Description: Tidewater Community College offers a technical and creative curriculum focused on digital design tools, typography, and visual communication. Students complete portfolio reviews and engage in hands-on projects as part of their training.
    • Program Link: Tidewater Community College Graphic Design Program

  2. Regent University – Graphic Design and Visual Communications

    • Program: Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a concentration in Graphic Design and Visual Communications
    • Address: 701 Regent University Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (near the central business district)
    • Description: Regent University provides an immersive curriculum that emphasizes creative portfolio development, advanced design principles, and industry collaborations. Applicants typically submit a portfolio and meet standard undergraduate admission requirements.
    • Program Link: Regent University Graphic Design Program

  3. ECPI University – Virginia Beach Campus

    • Program: Associate and Bachelor Programs in Graphic Design
    • Address: 11024 Kempsville Road, Virginia Beach, VA 23464 (Kempsville)
    • Description: ECPI University’s program covers core courses in digital design, web and multimedia design, and user experience fundamentals. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for both technical and creative roles in modern design environments.
    • Program Link: ECPI University Graphic Design Program

Additional Option: If these programs do not suit every candidate’s needs, applicants may also consider opportunities in Norfolk, Virginia. For instance, Norfolk State University offers graphic design courses and is approximately 20 miles from Virginia Beach.

Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Virginia Beach

The local market for graphic design professionals is bolstered by numerous design agencies, marketing firms, and companies with in-house creative teams. Some prominent employers in the Virginia Beach area include:

  • The Marketing Store

    • Description: Located in the Virginia Beach Town Center area, The Marketing Store is a full-service advertising agency offering comprehensive design and branding services to various clients.
    • Address: 123 Main Street, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (Virginia Beach Town Center)
    • Employment Opportunities: Visit their official website for current openings and more details.

  • Dominion Enterprises

    • Description: This digital media firm, headquartered in the heart of the city near City Center, employs in-house graphic designers for branding, motion graphics, and digital content production.
    • Address: 600 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA 23451 (City Center)
    • Employment Opportunities: Explore career options on their official website.

Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs

Most graphic design programs require applicants to have a high school diploma or equivalent. Common prerequisites include:

  • A portfolio review showcasing creative work
  • A minimum GPA (typically between 2.0 and 2.5)
  • SAT/ACT scores (depending on the institution)
  • Some schools may also require an entrance exam or additional documentation

These admission requirements ensure that students are prepared for the rigorous curriculum and creative challenges of graphic design studies.

Certification Options for Graphic Designers

Certification can further validate a designer’s skills and enhance career opportunities. Two widely recognized certifications include:

  • Adobe Certified Professional (ACP): Demonstrates proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite tools such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
  • Other Industry-Recognized Certifications: Some institutions also offer specialized certifications in UI/UX design, digital marketing, and motion graphics, which are valuable in today’s competitive job market.

Educational and Arts Regulatory Bodies in Virginia Beach

Aspiring graphic designers in Virginia Beach can rely on a network of regulatory bodies at various levels:

  • City Level:

    • Virginia Beach City Public Schools – Oversees K-12 education, including arts programs.
    • Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Commission – Promotes arts initiatives and provides local grants.
      • Website: vbgov.com (Search “Arts Commission”)
      • Phone: (757) 385-4200

  • State Level:

    • Virginia Department of Education – Sets statewide education standards, including arts curricula.
    • Virginia Commission for the Arts – Funds arts programs and offers professional development resources.

  • Federal Level:

    • U.S. Department of Education – Oversees national education policies.
      • Website: ed.gov (Search “arts education”)
    • National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) – Provides grants and resources for arts initiatives.

State-Specific Degree Information

Virginia offers a range of degrees tailored for aspiring graphic designers:

Types of Degrees Available

  • Associate of Applied Arts (AAA): Emphasizes technical skills such as digital design tools.
  • Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA): Focuses on creative portfolio development and advanced design principles.
  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA): Provides specialized study in areas like UI/UX, branding, or motion graphics.

Admission Requirements and Curriculum

  • Admission:

    • Portfolio submission is required by most programs
    • Minimum GPA ranges from 2.0 to 2.5
    • SAT/ACT scores may be necessary, depending on the institution

  • Curriculum:

    • Core courses include digital design tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Suite), typography, and visual communication
    • Specializations may cover web design, packaging, motion graphics, and more

Professional Organizations

For networking and continued professional development, graphic designers can join organizations such as:

  • American Institute of Graphic Design (AIGA):
    • Advocates for design professionals and offers job boards, workshops, and portfolio reviews
    • Visit AIGA’s official website for further information

Career Information and Job Outlook

Career prospects for graphic designers in Virginia Beach are robust, with common job titles including Graphic Designer, UI/UX Designer, and Branding Specialist. Entry-level salaries typically range from $45,000 to $55,000 per year, while experienced designers can earn between $70,000 and $90,000 annually. Top employers include regional advertising agencies and digital media firms. More detailed job outlook information is available on the Bureau of Labor Statistics website.

Additional Resources

State-Level Resources

  • Virginia Career Works: Provides job training and career counseling.

City-Level Resources

  • Virginia Beach Creative Economy Initiative: Supports local arts and design businesses.
    • Website: vbgov.com (Search “Creative Economy”)

Get Started Today

The path to becoming a graphic designer in Virginia Beach, Virginia is well supported by a robust network of educational institutions and regulatory bodies. With clear curricular guidelines, professional certifications, and numerous employment opportunities, prospective students are encouraged to take the next step. Contact your preferred school using the forms provided on their website and begin your journey in the creative industry today.