Top 10 Best Graphic Design Schools in Europe in 2023 (2024)

Author: Justyna Cyrankiewicz — Last update: 4 August 2023

Studying Graphic Design in Europe offers a unique opportunity to learn and grow in a region known for its rich artistic heritage and innovative design culture. Europe is home to some of the world’s leading design schools and universities, offering high-quality education and a diverse, international environment. Let’s have a look!

🏆 Top Universities to Study Graphic Design in Europe

While there are no official rankings for the best schools and universities in Europe that offer a degree in Graphic Design, the following institutions are frequently mentioned in various top lists, online magazines, and renowned websites such as The Guardian and QS:

🏛️ Design schools vs Universities

Both design schools and universities offer valuable learning experiences, however it is important to keep in mind how courses differ:

• Design schools often provide a more hands-on, industry-focused approach, emphasising practical skills and real-world projects.
• Universities offer a broader academic education, combining design studies with other disciplines for a more comprehensive understanding of the field. Private institutions often have more resources and may offer more specialised programmes, while public universities may offer a broader range of courses and have lower tuition fees.

Accreditation can be a vital indicator of a school’s quality and recognition in the field. But still, looking at the curriculum to ensure it covers the necessary skills and knowledge areas is also crucial. On top of that, it can also be helpful to consider the work of current students and professors to gauge the level of creativity and innovation at the school.

Study.eu Tip: There’s a wealth of online content for learning Graphic Design, which can give you an excellent introduction to this profession. Nonetheless, a structured degree programme can provide a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the field, access to experienced faculty, and opportunities for networking and collaboration (which are invaluable in the creative world!).

💸 Tuition fees for Graphic Design degrees

On average, tuition fees for Graphic Design degrees in Europe are between €2,000 to €18,000 per year for Bachelor’s degrees and between €4,000 to €20,000 for Master’s degrees.

However, these costs can vary significantly depending on the institution and the country. Private universities, for example, can charge up to €30,000 or more.

Additionally, students may need to invest in personal equipment and design software, although some universities may provide access to necessary tools and programmes.

Tuition-free or low-cost options are also available in countries like Germany or Austria, especially for EU/EEA citizens. However, the application process for these degrees can be highly competitive.

📝 Are there English requirements at Design schools in Europe?

Yes, if courses are taught in English, students are usually required to provide evidence of their English proficiency.

If English is not your native tongue, you might have to prove your skills with a test certificate. The most common tests accepted are IELTS or TOEFL iBT, but some universities might also accept Duolingo English Tests, Cambridge Certificates, or even a university-specific English test.

Some institutions offer Pre-Sessional English courses to boost students’ language proficiency before the programme begins.

It’s always best to check the specific requirements on the university’s official website.

🖊️ Other admissions requirements

In addition to English proficiency, other standard admission requirements include:

• Motivation (Cover) Letter
• Academic Transcripts from previous education
• Letters of Recommendation/References
• CV
• Portfolio*

*A portfolio is not always required for admission. However, it is a crucial tool for job applications after graduation so it’s always best to begin building one as soon as possible and keep expanding it during your time at school or with personal projects.

Each university has its own specific requirements - which can even vary depending on the course you would like to join - so it’s essential to check the application process on the univerity website.

💻 Career Outcomes

Besides from roles such as graphic designer, art director, illustrator, or multimedia artist, a degree in graphic design can open the door to a world of diverse and exciting career paths.

The skills learned in these programmes go beyond the realm of design, extending into to many other fields such as marketing, advertising, or even web development. Additionally, as AI continues to shape various industries, graphic designers will become key in developing AI-powered tools for a stable and effective diffusion of information.

In brief, a graphic design degree offers a broad spectrum of career outcomes, from traditional graphic design roles to dynamic opportunities in multimedia, branding, and AI integration. With their versatile skill set, students will find themselves at the forefront of visually shaping the world we experience in both traditional and cutting-edge fields.

🔎 Similar subjects I could study

If you're interested in a broader scope of study beyond Graphic Design, there are many related Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees that cover a range of creative disciplines:

• Communication Design: crafting effective and clear communication through visual elements. It involves creating designs that convey specific messages to target audiences.

• an exploration of the art of visual storytelling through moving images. These programs cover a range of topics, from scriptwriting and directing to cinematography and editing.

• Game Design: creating the content and rules of a game, including the game’s environment, storyline, characters, and user interfaces.

• Industrial Design: designing functional, aesthetically pleasing, and user-friendly products. It combines art, business, and engineering.

• Interior Design: creating functional and aesthetically pleasing indoor spaces. It covers aspects like space planning, colour theory, and furniture design.

• Photography: capturing images that tell a story or record an event. It covers various genres, including portrait, landscape, fashion, and documentary photography.

• Product Design: designing and creating new tangible products or improving existing ones. It requires a good understanding of both functionality and aesthetic appeal.

• Visual Arts: this broad field includes disciplines like painting, sculpture, and printmaking. It focuses on creating artworks to be appreciated primarily for their beauty or emotional value.

You can find more thorough descriptions of these degrees in our guide on choosing the right creative subject.

Remember, the programme chosen should align with your career goals and personal interests. Always do your research and consider multiple options before making a decision.

Want to learn more?

108 Graphic Design Programmes in Europe