Graphic Design Schools in Santa Cruz, CA

Updated February 20, 2026 Table of Contents

Compare graphic design programs in Santa Cruz, California. This guide helps you compare options in your area and understand common questions to ask schools. Program availability, admissions requirements, costs, and outcomes vary by school, contact schools directly to confirm details.

Graphic Design Schools Near Santa Cruz, CA

#1

University of California-Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA 0.9 miles away BOC Score 71.8
Tuition
  • In-state tuition: $16,005
  • Out-of-state tuition: $50,205
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Key stats
  • Admission rate: 66%
  • Graduation rate: 75%
  • Programs offered: 7
  • Annual completions: 413

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#2

Cabrillo College

Aptos, CA 6.1 miles away BOC Score 51.4
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 58
  • Annual completions: 868
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#3

West Valley College

Saratoga, CA 19.7 miles away BOC Score 69.0
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 39
  • Annual completions: 270
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#4

De Anza College

Cupertino, CA 23.4 miles away BOC Score 80.8
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 48
  • Annual completions: 1,006
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#5

San Jose City College

San Jose, CA 24 miles away BOC Score 47.4
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 31
  • Annual completions: 754
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#6

Gavilan College

Gilroy, CA 25.7 miles away BOC Score 56.5
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 33
  • Annual completions: 551
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#7

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA 26 miles away BOC Score 86.3
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 14
  • Annual completions: 719
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#8

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA 26.1 miles away BOC Score 77.5
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 12
  • Annual completions: 378
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#9

Evergreen Valley College

San Jose, CA 26.8 miles away BOC Score 50.6
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 16
  • Annual completions: 206

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

#10

Foothill College

Los Altos Hills, CA 27 miles away BOC Score 61.4
Tuition Contact school for pricing
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Key stats
  • Programs offered: 42
  • Annual completions: 1,240
  • Online programs available

Source: IPEDSCollege ScorecardACCSC

California Graphic Design Salary Snapshot

California
California Median Pay $75,130 $36.12 per hour
U.S. Median Pay $62,960 $30.27 per hour
Data Year: 2025 SOC: 27-1024 Source: BLS OEWS

What to Compare (Quick Checklist)

  • Software training (Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign)
  • Portfolio development and critique process
  • Credential level (certificate, associate, or bachelor’s)
  • UX/UI, web design, or motion graphics specializations
  • Real-client projects or capstone work

Next Steps

Compare programs side by side, then confirm admissions requirements and any licensing or certification steps.

Career Overview

Learn more about salary, outlook, and career paths: Graphic Designer career guide

Explore more Graphic Design schools in California or visit our Graphic Design training guide for program details, salary data, and certification requirements.

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