Key Information:
- New Jersey Institute of Technology has the #1 multimedia design bachelor’s degree.
- Bachelor’s in multimedia design often combine various fields such as graphic design, digital media, and computer animation.
- Graduates can pursue diverse career paths in sectors like advertising, entertainment, and web design due to their broad skill sets.
- Courses are designed to keep up with the latest technologies and tools in multimedia design, ensuring graduates are industry-ready.
In the 21st century, designers need to be able to do it all. That means there are several reasons to earn a degree in multimedia design. Students who are extremely creative can find many ways to express themselves when choosing this type of degree program. It is very diverse and allows the student to explore many different types of media. Blending different types of media can result in a multitude of opportunities, especially if the result is attractive and draws attention. Advertising agencies and entertainment companies are always looking for individuals who have new and innovative ideas.
Earning a Bachelor’s degree in multimedia design will allow a student to set his or her own career path. Once they find what they enjoy and are good at, the doors to opportunity will begin to open. With the right degree program, students can learn the skills they need to take advantage of the lucrative opportunities that may come their way. Students who have unique ideas and skills to match are highly sought after and can oftentimes set their own salary. This is especially true in the gaming industry.
Methodology: Ranking the Best Multimedia Design Degrees
To rank the best bachelor’s degree in multimedia design programs, Bachelor’s Degree Center editors look for accredited, reputable institutions offering the best opportunities for design professionals. Programs are ranked by legitimate data from IPEDS and Niche, including tuition rate, student satisfaction, and potential salary.
1. New Jersey Institute of Technology
The Bachelor of Arts in Digital Design from the New Jersey Institute of Technology prepares students to successfully apply digital design to every industry. A four-year program, students seeking a degree in multimedia design begin working hands-on with design, graphics, art history, color theory and general education courses to build a strong foundation. Every subsequent year builds on the other. Students with multimedia design degrees find lucrative careers all over the world.
The New Jersey Institute of Technology Hillier College of Architecture and Design (HCAD) has been around for over thirty-five years. The Institute provides merit-based scholarships from the university, state of New Jersey, and from corporations and private donors. To be eligible for these scholarships, students must be enrolled full-time.
What We Like: NJIT is a land, sea, and space-grant college.
Degree: BA in Digital Design
BA in Digital Design — New Jersey Institute of Technology
2. New England Institute of Technology
The Bachelor of Science in Graphics Multimedia and Web Design from the New England Institute of Technology focuses on helping students prepare for a rewarding career in this field. This degree in multimedia design provides foundational material in web video, SEO, logo design, animation, web content management, ePublishing, branding and the marketing of social media. Utilize the power of multimedia design degrees to help you move up the ladder of success.
Students receive study information via mobile devices and ePub content delivery. Upon graduation, students are given multiple opportunities to network and find gainful employment through their alumni community and career services. Financial aid is available, as well as institutional merit scholarships based on varied criteria.
What We Like: Scholarships include the Presidential Scholarship, Skills USA Scholarship, Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Scholarship, First Robotics Tech Challenge Scholarship and others.
Degree: BS in Graphics Multimedia and Web Design
BS in Graphics Multimedia and Web Design — New England Institute of Technology
3. Tulane University
The Bachelor of Arts in Digital Design from Tulane University is offered in the School of Professional Advancement. This program combines interactive and graphic design, giving students a work-ready foundation to enhance or further their careers. This is a 120-hour program that has three different tracks. Students are able to focus on Game Art & Animation, Graphic Design, or Interactive Design. After initial coursework, students go through a formal review process to continue their coursework. This degree in multimedia design creates opportunities for years to come.
The university has been in existence since 1834, beginning as a medical college. They are accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
What We Like: Tulane is currently one of 62 members of the Association of American Universities, an elite group of top research institutions.
Degree: BA in Digital Design
BA in Digital Design — Tulane University
4. Seton Hall University
The Bachelor of Arts in Art, Design and Interactive Multimedia from Seton Hall University prepares students for a rewarding career in design. There are three tracks to choose from: Graphic Design and Advertising, Interactive Design and Multimedia, and Fine and Digital Art. Their curriculum is challenging, taught by industry professionals who follow current trends. Students pursuing multimedia design degrees will be ready for the global market.
The curriculum teaches games design, UX, social design, and designing for web and mobile. Students are given internship opportunities that help them land viable positions. Founded in 1856, Seton Hall is a Catholic university.
What We Like: Students are exposed to Catholic values which help promote the views of the University and the Catholic faith.
Degree: BA in Art, Design and Interactive Multimedia
BA in Art, Design and Interactive Multimedia — Seton Hall University
5. Duquesne University
The undergraduate program in Digital Media Arts in Multimedia from Duquesne University was designed to enhance critical thinking while promoting design, interactivity, visual communication and information management using technology. Students pursuing the multimedia concentration must complete 36 credit hours, with 12 credits of departmental core courses. A degree in multimedia design paves the way for the future.
Duquesne University is one of the top Catholic universities in the nation, founded 140 years ago. The university was ranked No. 16 in The Chronicle of Higher Education among small research universities.
What We Like: Duquesne is the only Spiritan institution of higher education in the United States, and was also ranked No. 51 overall in Best Value Schools by U.S. News and World Report.
Degree: Digital Media Arts — Multimedia
Digital Media Arts in Multimedia — Duquesne University
6. Creighton University
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design and Media from Creighton University prepares students for a great foundation in all aspects of this field. Students have two specializations: Multimedia and Filmmaking or Graphic Design. Students with multimedia degrees can create their own destiny.
Internships for students are available on and off-campus. Creighton University is in the top third of college rankings for National Universities according to U.S. News & World Report. The university is also well known for producing highly competent global citizens.
What We Like: The Creighton University program provides strong writing and analytical skills that can make students highly competitive.
Degree: BA in Graphic Design and Media
BA in Graphic Design and Media — Creighton University
7. University of Wisconsin-Stout
The Bachelors of Fine Arts in Graphic Design and Interactive Media at the University of Wisconsin-Stout gives students hands-on experiences. This program creates multiple career opportunities for students in a number of industries at major corporations. Students with a degree in multimedia design are also well-equipped to start their own businesses as consultants and designers.
The University of Wisconsin-Stout is the first institution of higher education to receive the Malcolm Baldrige Award. An institution with a global reputation for providing growth opportunities to move the industry forward, this program produces students ready to step into lucrative careers.
What We Like: UW Stout is a special-mission university, the only public polytechnic institute in Wisconsin.
Degree: BFA in Graphic Design and Interactive Media
BFA Graphic Design and Interactive Media — University of Wisconsin-Stout
8. University of Nebraska at Kearney
The Bachelor of Science in Multimedia at the University of Nebraska at Kearney is a program centered in the Communications department. Students will learn all the essential elements of multimedia to enhance their current knowledge and further their goals of working within the industry. This Bachelor of Science program focuses on applications and communication coursework for a well-rounded graduate. Students with multimedia design degrees are successful and thriving in today’s market.
The University of Nebraska at Kearney is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLD) and the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP).
What We Like: In addition to its exceptional on-campus programs, Kearney has also become a national leader in online education.
Degree: BS in Multimedia
BS in Multimedia — University of Nebraska at Kearney
9. Bellarmine University
The Design, Arts and Technology degree from Bellarmine University works to prepare students for careers in the multimedia design field and its challenges. Aimed to make students as marketable as possible, this program should be paired with a primary major and used as a supplement to strengthen competitiveness. Students pursuing a degree in multimedia design paired with a complementary major thrive in the industry.
Bellarmine University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. The university was also recognized as one of the top 200 in best national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
What We Like: Students enjoy an interdisciplinary curriculum from professionals in the field.
Degree: Design, Arts and Technology
Design, Arts and Technology — Bellarmine University
10. Park University
The Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Park University pairs print and digital design for an enriched experience. Students complete rigorous coursework focusing on software and techniques and graphic design concepts with the culmination of a competitive portfolio to position them in the global market. Students pursuing multimedia design degrees often have a competitive advantage in the marketplace.
Park University has been in existence since 1875 and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. Ranked No. 10 in the nation for the quality of its online program, No. 2 among private colleges and universities and No. 2 on the Most Affordable Online Colleges. It is also ranked 7th most affordable private college and university in the nation and first in the Midwest for tuition and fees according to U.S. News and World Report.
What We Like: Park is recognized for one of the highest ROI ratings of any US college.
Degree: BFA in Graphic Design
BFA in Graphic Design — Park University
11. Tarleton State University
The Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Studies at Tarleton State University prepares students for success in the digital design field. Using an interdisciplinary approach, students learn all the skills needed to excel in multimedia and interactive design, game and application design, digital graphics, electronic business and marketing and e‑marketing. The degree in multimedia design allows students to be competitive and work in lucrative careers.
Tarleton State University provides multiple opportunities for digital media studies majors in diverse jobs. The University is a member of the Texas A&M University System and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on College. The College of Business is also accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
What We Like: With two tracks to choose from, students have the option to focus on Multimedia Production and Video Game Design.
Degree: BS in Digital Media Studies
BS in Digital Media Studies — Tarleton State University
12. Thomas More University
The degree in Multimedia Design from Thomas More University provides a foundation for students in interactive design, motion graphics, and animation. Training on state-of-the-art equipment, as well as teachings from professors currently in the industry make a significant difference for students who are pursuing multimedia degrees to set themselves up for a career in this area. With a two-dimensional design approach, students learn UX design, social media design, animation, web design, animation and other topics necessary to be successful. This program’s degree in multimedia design helps graduates acquire competitive positions within the industry.
Thomas More University is ranked as one of the best regional universities in the South and ranks highest among other private and public colleges and universities according to U.S. News and World Report. The university is also accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
What We Like: TMU began as a women’s college, Villa Madonna College, paired with a men’s college named for Thomas More.
Degree: Multimedia Design
Multimedia Design — Thomas More University
13. Fordham University
The New Media and Digital Design program at Fordham University ensures students are well prepared to create, lead and succeed in any capacity as it relates to digital technology. This is an interdisciplinary program helping students understand cultural, aesthetic, and economical areas of design theory and practice in this digital age. Students pursuing multimedia degrees will receive training from professional faculty in the fields of video and multimedia storytelling, digital communication, digital business strategy and development, and more.
The university is accredited by Middle States and was ranked #66 in National Universities by U.S. News & World Report.
What We Like: There are three tracks to consider: New Media and Information, Art, Text and Design, and New Media and Commerce.
Degree: New Media and Digital Design
New Media and Digital Design — Fordham University
14. Marist College
The Bachelor of Science in Digital Media at Marist College gives students an opportunity to freely explore all the possibilities of this degree. Students are taught by working educators, designers and artists. The coursework has three major tracks: Graphic Design, Animation, and Digital Arts but has the flexibility to allow broader-based education and training. Students in the program pursuing multimedia design degrees gain a competitive advantage in the market.
Marist College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
What We Like: Marist College has a sister campus in Florence, Italy and offers extensive study-abroad opportunities.
Degree: BS in Digital Media
Bachelor of Science in Digital Media — Marist College
15. University of St. Thomas
The Bachelor of Arts in Digital Media Arts by the University of St. Thomas is designed to build the foundational capacity to prepare students for careers within the digital media field. Students learn multiple disciplines to create a well-rounded graduate ready to perform in a number of roles in the digital media space. Students may also concentrate on media design or production. This program is a four-year plan preparing students for careers in television and computer-based audiovisual media, film, sound designers, screenwriters and more.
The University of St. Thomas is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
What We Like: The University of St. Thomas is Minnesota’s largest private university.
Degree: BA in Digital Media Arts
BA Digital Media Arts — University of St. Thomas
16. Wright State University
The Bachelor of Technical and Applied Studies in Multimedia Design from Wright State University provides students with the knowledge, skills and foundation for careers in this field. An interdisciplinary program, the coursework integrates the technical and professional skills necessary for success in this industry to work in a variety of fields and operate as a leader. Students pursuing multimedia degrees of this nature will be able to globally compete for in-demand positions within the industry.
Wright State University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, with the BSCS named among the best in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
What We Like: Wright State University is named for local heroes, the Wright Brothers.
Degree: BTAS in Multimedia Design
Bachelor of Technical and Applied Studies in Multimedia Design — Wright State University
17. Queens University of Charlotte
The Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design from Queens University of Charlotte teaches students how to produce high-impact visual content to support the demands of 21st-century design. Coursework takes students through interactive, print, animation and UX/UI in order to maintain competitiveness for a successful career, but to be assertive enough to carve their own lane. This program also has a study abroad component and professors who currently work in the industry. Individuals with multimedia degrees make things happen.
Queens University of Charlotte is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges and has two Pulitzer Prize finalists, two MacArthur Genius Award Fellows, a Fulbright Scholar and North Carolina’s Poet Laureate as part of the faculty.
What We Like: Queens ranks #13 overall among Regional Universities of the South by U.S. News & World Report for 2021.
Degree: BA in Graphic Design
BA in Graphic Design from Queens University of Charlotte
18. California University of Pennsylvania
The Bachelor of Science in Digital Media Technology at the California University of Pennsylvania prepares students to not only design, but deliver visual and printed content through websites, motion graphics, digital animation, videogames and video. With an intent to keep students competitive in the diverse and growing industry of digital media, this accredited program offers technical, hands-on courses for a strong foundational knowledge to support the industry’s demand for individuals to have a degree in multimedia design.
This program is one of 13 in the country with national accreditation for graphics from the Accrediting Council for Collegiate Graphic Communications (ACCGC). Students learn from the latest design hardware, software and faculty who work and teach with real-world scenarios.
What We Like: California University got its unusual name from its hometown of California, PA — founded in the same year as the 1849 Gold Rush.
Degree: BS in Digital Media Technology
BS in Digital Media Technology — California University of Pennsylvania
19. Liberty University
The Bachelor of Science Studio & Digital Arts: Graphic Design at Liberty University helps students gain an understanding of the techniques and expectations in critical and conceptual thinking and how to effectively problem solve within the industry. The program is designed to integrate a Christian worldview with best practices and successfully prepare to network and acquire lucrative roles in digital media. Students with multimedia degrees get jobs with major corporations and networks.
Liberty University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges along with continued demand for the program surpassing initial indicators.
What We Like: Liberty claims the largest student body of any Christian college.
Degree: B.S. in Studio & Digital Arts: Graphic Design
BS Studio & Digital Arts: Graphic Design — Liberty University
20. Point Park University
The Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia at Point Park University helps encourage students who love technology learn new technologies and the strategies of storytelling to infuse into digital photography, graphic and web design and audio and video. There are two different concentrations available: Graphic Design and Multimedia. Both of these majors provide an overall foundation to build a successful career. In graphic design, students learn the aesthetic components of digital media, while in the multimedia concentration, students learn social media, radio production, reporting and web publishing.
Point Park University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The University continuously ranks highly for their number of programs and education offered.
What We Like: Point Park’s career-focused program also encourages students to join national societies and work with the print or web versions of their student media for additional exposure.
Degree: BA in Multimedia
BA in Multimedia at Point Park University
21. Wilmington College
The Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Studies from Wilmington College is part of a partnership with Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, opening the doors for students pursuing a degree in multimedia design. This program prepares students for successful careers in the multimedia design field, keeping track with current pace and changes within the industry. An expansion on the Audio/Visual Production, Graphic Design, and Web & Multimedia Design components, students are given opportunities for hands-on interaction to build their initial skills that grow leaders.
Wilmington College is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is ranked 13th in the entire 11-state Midwest region for Social Mobility in the Midwest according to U.S. News & World Report.
What We Like: The Wilmington College Peace Resource Center is an influential voice in the global movement for peace and justice.
Degree: BA in Multimedia Studies
BA in Multimedia Studies from Wilmington College
22. Long Island University
The Bachelor of Fine Art in Digital Art and Design from Long Island University is designed to accommodate students pursuing successful careers in multimedia. Students graduate well-versed on all aspects of this industry, equipped with the tools and creative skills to become designers. There is a mandatory internship course requirement prior to graduation to provide hands-on experience and a deeper look into considering getting a multimedia degree.
Senior year, students must create traditional and interactive portfolios, further enhancing their capabilities and marketability on a global basis. Long Island University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
What We Like: Students are able to explore a range of software and media, as well as interning with major corporations that help solidify their role in the industry.
Degree: B.F.A. in Digital Art and Design
BFA in Digital Art and Design — Long Island University
23. Springfield College
The Bachelor of Science in Digital, Web and Multimedia Design from Springfield College successfully prepares students for a world in the multimedia industry. Students matriculate from this program as experienced designers learning the creative, technological, digital, web and multimedia aspects of the industry. A career path in this field will have a great foundation. Students learn video game design, animation and FX, advertising, web design, how to lead and operate in business, communication, graphic design and scientific and medical simulation.
Students are able to spend a semester at the Gnomon School of Visual Effects, gaining valuable hands-on experience for the same cost as being an on-campus student.
What We Like: Students graduate with a strong portfolio and the knowledge, skills and abilities needed to adapt to an everchanging environment in digital media.
Degree: BS in Digital, Web and Multimedia Design
BS in Digital, Web and Multimedia Design from Springfield College
24. University of Hartford
The Bachelor of Arts in Multimedia Web Design and Development from the University of Hartford directly preps students for a successful career in multimedia design. Students are immediately immersed in the foundational knowledge needed to build and design websites, create motion graphics, animations and games. Students are also given foundational knowledge from a business perspective in order to freelance or operate as a consultant. Students graduating from this program with multimedia degrees have become game and web developers, graphic designers, mobile app developers, network administrators, internet marketers and more.
The University of Hartford was founded in 1957 by the joining of three smaller Harford-area schools. UH is an integral part of the community, hosting two magnet schools on its campus
What We Like: This program is very flexible, allowing students to have electives of their choice to further enhance their skill set for the business world.
Degree: BA in Multimedia Web Design and Development
BA Multimedia Web Design and Development — University of Hartford
25. Full Sail University
The BS in Digital Arts and Design from Full Sail University prepares students for a wide range of career directions or higher degrees. Students receive instruction in both 2D and 3D art, motion graphics, current software, and design. Full Sail’s courses are taught by experienced practitioners bringing their full knowledge to digital art. Best of all, students who already have their foundational courses can complete the on-campus degree in only 20 months.
Full Sail University is a fully accredited, for-profit university specializing in all of the elements that make a multimedia design and art career possible. The university is known for its unconventional and extremely hands-on approach to education.
What We Like: Full Sail began, quite uniquely, as a recording studio, and is a leader in audio, media, and business.
Degree: BS in Digital Arts & Design
BS in Digital Arts and Design — Full Sail University
What Is Multimedia Design All About?
Multimedia design is one of the fastest-growing and incredibly diverse industries in the world. Media is what drives the world of communication. It includes the fundamentals of graphics, content, sound technology, video, photography, and any other type of online video or audio content you can think of. Multimedia design brings all of those forms of media together in an environment where amazing things can be produced. If it can be thought, of someone in the multimedia design industry can come up with a way to create it.
Multimedia design plays a role in many different industries. In the entertainment industry, it is used for music videos, to create video/online games, sound effects, and any type of audio/visual spectacle you can think of. In journalism and communication, it is used to relay information, conduct interviews, and to reach massive audiences. When it comes to marketing and advertising, it is used to create banners, ads, campaign strategies, digital billboards, and commercials of every kind.
Students with a Bachelor’s in multimedia design can also find work in the communication and journalism fields. Being able to effectively communicate using multiple forms of media is one of the best ways to move up the ladder and advance your career. Having the right degree program is your ticket to higher wages and a long-lasting career that you can be proud of. With today’s technology and the right multimedia design degree, many students are being able to choose their career path and set goals that may not have been possible in the past.
Individuals who choose to pursue a career in multimedia design are creative, insightful, and innovative. They tend to visualize concepts and look for ways to make things happen. In today’s technologically advanced world, almost nothing is impossible. Designers can choose to work for a company or they can start off on their own and work with a variety of agencies. With the right multimedia design degree and the right tools, the world can be their office. There are very few limits on multimedia design and how it can impact the world around us.
Is Multimedia Design a Good Career?
Multimedia design is one of the most lucrative and exciting careers available for individuals who have the talent and the skill to be able to consistently create unique and attention-grabbing projects. Being able to create the graphics and imagery of a video game, website, music vide, animated production, or any other type of multimedia project is not something everybody can do. With the right multimedia design degree program, students can explore their world and create the environment they want to live in. Choosing an online program allows them to start working toward their goals before graduation. They are able to begin work in entry-level positions right after entering college.
Multimedia design opens the door to many different types of opportunity. Graduates can choose to work independently allowing them to connect with agencies, companies, or other individuals. If they don’t want to start out on their own, they can find work with companies that specialize in marketing, entertainment, communication, or journalism. They can literally choose from hundreds of different careers, each one having its own unique set of benefits. Working as part of a collective group gives the student a chance to learn from the experiences of others.
With technologies rapid rate of advancement, students are able to do more than they ever thought possible. They can explore their imagination and be as creative as they want. The more innovative and insightful they are, the more successful they will be. Every student has their own set of goals. When entering the field of multimedia design, those goals will be their guide to a very successful and productive future.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics sees growth potential in career options like special effects, video production, and video editing. Learning the technical skills of multimedia artists may include information technology and liberal arts at the same time.
Related Rankings:
15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Multimedia Design