Design Frequently Asked Questions

• Following are the estimated tuition and fees for registering in the Graphic Design Program 2023.

  Washington State Resident Tuition: $1,945.70 Program fees: 623.00 Total: $2,568.70 Non-Resident (U.S. Citizen) Tuition: $2,126.46 Program fees: 623.00 Total: $2,749.46 International Tuition: $4,341.66 Program fees: 974.52 Total: $5,316.18

• What is the average salary for a Visual Design in Seattle?

  5/20/2024 – According to Glassdoor, the average salary for a visual designer in Seattle is $101,092 per year, with an estimated total pay of $115,510. Built In Seattle reports the average salary is $95,667, with an average additional cash compensation of $34,800, and an average total compensation of $130,467.

• What is the average salary for a UX Design in Seattle?

  As of April 2024, the average salary for a UX designer in Seattle is $115,381 per year, or $55.47 per hour. The majority of UX designer salaries range from $103,600 at the 25th percentile to $172,980 at the 90th percentile. The average salary for a senior UX designer is $129,325, with a median of $126,000

• How much hand drawing did you do in school? Is that a necessary skill?

  Drawing is helpful, but what is most important is being able to convey ideas visually through a sketch. Creative concepting is more important than technical drawing skills.

• Do you feel the Academy prepared you to get a job? How quickly did you get a job?

  Yes. It’s a very career-oriented program.

• What type of extra expenses should I plan on?

  Materials and supplies vary from quarter to quarter, estimated at $100/quarter. You may want to pay for extras like Lynda.com tutorials, a laptop, fonts, software, printer, etc.

• How important is web/mobile design in this program?

  Approximately 25% of the graphic design curriculum is focused on web/mobile design.

• What should I include in my Portfolio?

  Include eight to twelve pieces of artwork. You might include typography, posters, advertising design, drawings, photographs, paintings, computer illustrations, etc. Photographs of three-dimensional work are acceptable. If submitting video, motion, or web work, please submit links.

• How much financial strain do you feel from work/school?

  It depends on your current financial trajectory. If you’re paying on your own, you should have savings to help you through…loans are available as well as financial aid. Working during school is difficult but possible. Limit outside work hours to 10-20 hours if possible.