Graphic Design Courses in South Korea

Bachelor and Diploma in Graphic Design Courses in South Korea ....

Standyou Team
Standyou Team

Dec 19, 2023 06:16:46

Graphic Design Universities in South Korea for International Students

1. Hongik University

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Graphic Design, focusing on both traditional and digital media.

  • Fees: Approximately 3,000,000 - 5,000,000 KRW per semester for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs may have different fee structures.

  • Intake: Main intakes are in March and September.

  • Ranking: Known for its prestigious College of Fine Arts and Design, Hongik University is highly regarded in the field of arts and design in South Korea.

2. Seoul National University (SNU)

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s in Design, including specializations in Graphic Design.

  • Fees: Around 2,500,000 - 3,000,000 KRW per semester for undergraduate programs. Fees for graduate programs can vary.

  • Intake: Primarily in March, with some options for September intake.

  • Ranking: SNU is consistently ranked as one of the top universities in Korea with a strong reputation in design.

3. Ewha Womans University

  • Programs Offered: Offers a comprehensive Bachelor’s program in Graphic Design.

  • Fees: Approximately 3,000,000 - 5,000,000 KRW per semester.

  • Intake: March and September.

  • Ranking: As the world’s largest female educational institute, Ewha is renowned for its academic excellence, particularly in arts and design.

4. Korea University

  • Programs Offered: Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Graphic Design, with a focus on both theory and practical application.

  • Fees: About 4,500,000 - 6,000,000 KRW per semester for undergraduate courses.

  • Intake: March and September.

  • Ranking: Korea University is one of the leading universities in the country, well-known for its design programs.

5. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU)

  • Programs Offered: Undergraduate and graduate programs in Graphic Design and Visual Communication Design.

  • Fees: Around 3,500,000 - 5,500,000 KRW per semester for undergraduate programs.

  • Intake: March and September.

  • Ranking: SKKU is noted for its strong emphasis on combining traditional and modern aspects of design education.

General Information

  • Language of Instruction: While most programs are conducted in Korean, some courses or parts of courses may be available in English.

  • Admission Requirements: Include high school diploma or undergraduate degree, portfolio submission, language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for English, TOPIK for Korean), and additional materials like personal statements.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • Government Scholarships: Such as the Korean Government Scholarship Program (KGSP) for international students.

  • University Scholarships: Many universities offer scholarships based on academic merit or financial need.

Application Process

  • Research and Shortlist Universities: Based on your preferences, course offerings, and language of instruction.

  • Prepare Application Materials: Including academic transcripts, a portfolio for design programs, language proficiency scores, and other required documents.

  • Apply: Typically through the universities' official application portals. Be mindful of application deadlines.

Universities in South Korea

Courses in South Korea

M.Des (Master of Design) in South Korea


Graphic Design Courses in South Korea for Indian Students

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s Degree)

  • Duration: Typically 4 years.

  • Curriculum: Includes foundational courses in design principles, typography, digital design, illustration, and visual communication. Students also learn about multimedia design, web design, and user experience (UX) design, often through hands-on projects and studio work.

  • Language of Instruction: Most programs are in Korean, but some universities offer courses in English.

Master’s Programs

  • Duration: Usually 2 years.

  • Curriculum: Advanced studies focusing on specialized areas within graphic design, such as branding, interactive design, motion graphics, and design theory. These programs often involve a significant amount of research, culminating in a thesis or final project.

  • Admission Requirements: Typically include a bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field, a portfolio, and language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for English programs, TOPIK for Korean-taught programs).

Doctoral Programs (Ph.D.)

  • Focus: Highly research-oriented and suited for those interested in academic or advanced industry roles. Research areas might include design theory, digital media design, or design education.

  • Duration: Generally 3-4 years post-master’s.

Short Courses and Certifications

  • Offered By: Universities, private institutes, and online platforms.

  • Content: Focus on specific skills like Adobe Creative Suite, UX/UI design, or emerging design technologies.

Top Universities for Graphic Design

1. Hongik University: Renowned for its prestigious College of Fine Arts and Design.

2. Seoul National University (SNU): Offers a comprehensive design program with various specializations.

3. Ewha Womans University: Known for a strong focus on creativity and design principles.

4. Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU): Combines traditional art principles with modern digital techniques.

Tuition Fees

  • Undergraduate Programs: Approximately 3,000,000 to 10,000,000 KRW per semester.

  • Graduate Programs: Similar or slightly higher, depending on the university and program specifics.

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Diploma in Graphic Design in South Korea

Key Features of Diploma Programs in Graphic Design

1. Duration: Diploma programs typically range from 1 to 2 years.

2. Curriculum: Focuses on fundamental aspects of graphic design, including typography, color theory, digital design, illustration, branding, and user experience (UX) design. Programs often combine theoretical knowledge with practical projects.

3. Technical Skills: Emphasis on software proficiency (Adobe Creative Suite, etc.) and digital design techniques.

Notable Institutions Offering Graphic Design Diplomas

  • Seoul Institute of the Arts: Offers specialized programs in various art and design fields, including graphic design.

  • Hongik University: Known for its strong arts and design programs, it may offer diploma or certificate courses in graphic design.

  • Korea National University of Arts (K-Arts): Provides comprehensive art and design education, which may include diploma programs.

Language of Instruction

  • Programs are predominantly taught in Korean, but some institutions may offer courses in English or have provisions for international students.

Admission Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: Required for admission into diploma programs.

  • Portfolio: Submission of a portfolio showcasing artistic skills and creativity.

  • Language Proficiency: For non-Korean speakers, proficiency in Korean is often required (TOPIK - Test of Proficiency in Korean); English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS) for programs taught in English.

  • Interview or Practical Test: Some programs may require an admission interview or a practical test.

Tuition Fees

  • The fees for diploma programs can vary but typically range from approximately 3,000 to 6,000 USD per year, depending on the institution and program specifics.

Scholarships and Financial Aid

  • Scholarships for international students in South Korea may not be as common for diploma programs as they are for degree programs, but some institutions may offer financial assistance or scholarships.

Career Prospects

  • Graduates can pursue roles in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, digital media companies, in-house design teams in corporations, or freelance opportunities.

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Bachelors of Graphic Design in South Korea

Key Features of Bachelor’s Programs in Graphic Design

1. Duration: Typically a 4-year program.

2. Curriculum: Includes foundational courses in design principles, typography, color theory, digital design, illustration, branding, and user experience (UX) design. Programs often focus on practical skills, software proficiency (like Adobe Creative Suite), and portfolio development.

3. Specializations: Some programs offer specializations in areas such as digital media, animation, UX/UI design, or multimedia arts.

Notable Universities Offering Bachelor’s in Graphic Design

  • Hongik University: Renowned for its strong arts and design programs, including graphic design.

  • Seoul National University (SNU): Offers comprehensive design programs with a focus on innovation and creativity.

  • Korea National University of Arts (K-Arts): Known for its emphasis on artistic expression and design.

  • Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU): Provides a blend of traditional art education with modern design practices.

  • Ewha Womans University: Offers graphic design programs with diverse design disciplines.

Language of Instruction

  • While most undergraduate programs are primarily taught in Korean, an increasing number of courses and programs are offered in English, catering to international students.

Admission Requirements

  • High School Diploma or Equivalent: With a strong academic record.

  • Portfolio: Submission of a portfolio showcasing artistic and design skills is often crucial for admission.

  • Language Proficiency: TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) for Korean-taught programs; TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs.

  • Additional Requirements: May include a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and interviews or practical tests.

Tuition Fees

  • The fees can vary but generally range from approximately 3,000 to 7,000 USD per semester. Public universities tend to be less expensive than private ones.

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Masters of Graphic Design in South Korea

Key Characteristics of Master’s Programs in Graphic Design

1. Duration: Typically 2 years.

2. Curriculum: Advanced coursework in design theory, visual communication, typography, digital media, UX/UI design, branding, and illustration. Programs often emphasize both practical skills and conceptual understanding.

3. Specializations: May include areas like digital media design, interactive design, branding, or multimedia arts.

4. Thesis or Final Project: Most programs require a thesis or a major design project that demonstrates the student's skills and understanding of graphic design.

Notable Universities Offering Master’s in Graphic Design

  • Hongik University: Known for its prestigious art and design programs, offering advanced studies in graphic design.

  • Seoul National University (SNU): Provides a comprehensive and innovative design program with a focus on creative solutions.

  • Korea National University of Arts (K-Arts): Offers specialized programs focusing on various aspects of art and design, including graphic design.

  • Ewha Womans University: Known for its strong emphasis on design, offering diverse graduate programs in the field.

  • Sungkyunkwan University (SKKU): Combines traditional art education with modern design practices in its graduate programs.

Language of Instruction

  • Many graduate programs, particularly those aimed at international students, are offered in English. However, some proficiency in Korean can be beneficial, especially for accessing a broader range of resources and integrating into the local design community.

Admission Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree: In graphic design or a related field.

  • Portfolio: A strong portfolio showcasing the applicant's design skills and creativity.

  • Language Proficiency: TOEFL or IELTS for English-taught programs; TOPIK for Korean-taught programs.

  • Letters of Recommendation, Resume/CV, and Statement of Purpose.

  • Research Proposal or Project Idea: Especially for programs with a strong focus on individual creative work or research.

Tuition Fees

  • Fees can vary widely but generally range from about 3,000 to 8,000 USD per semester.

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Eligibility Criteria for Graphic Design Course Program in South Korea

Bachelor’s Programs in Graphic Design

  1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: Completion of secondary education is typically required.

  2. Academic Transcripts: Demonstrating good academic performance, especially in relevant subjects, if applicable.

  3. Portfolio: A collection of art or design work showcasing the applicant’s creativity and skills. This is a crucial component for admission into design programs.

  4. Language Proficiency:

    • For Korean-taught programs: Proficiency in Korean, usually demonstrated through TOPIK (Test of Proficiency in Korean) scores.

    • For English-taught programs: English proficiency test scores like TOEFL or IELTS.

  5. Additional Requirements: May include a personal statement, letters of recommendation, and sometimes interviews or practical tests.

Master’s Programs in Graphic Design

1. Bachelor’s Degree: Typically, a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field is required.

2. Academic Transcripts: From undergraduate studies.

3. Portfolio: A more advanced and comprehensive portfolio showcasing the applicant's design capabilities and creative thinking.

4. Language Proficiency: Korean or English proficiency, depending on the program's medium of instruction.

5. Letters of Recommendation and Statement of Purpose: Usually required.

6. Research Proposal or Project Idea: Particularly for programs with a focus on individual creative work or research.

PhD Programs in Graphic Design

1. Master’s Degree: In graphic design or a closely related discipline.

2. Academic Transcripts: From both undergraduate and graduate studies.

3. Research Proposal: Detailing the proposed area of study.

4. Portfolio: Showcasing significant work in the field of graphic design.

5. Language Proficiency: As per the medium of instruction of the program.

6. Letters of Recommendation: Typically required.

Additional Considerations

  • Interviews/Auditions: Some programs might include an interview or practical test as part of the admission process.

  • Specific Course Requirements: Certain programs might have prerequisites or specific subject requirements.


Intakes & Application Deadlines for Graphic Design Course in South Korea

Spring Semester Intake

  • Application Period: Often takes place around September to November of the preceding year.

  • Semester Start: Typically begins in late February or early March.

Fall Semester Intake

  • Application Period: Usually runs from May to June in the same year.

  • Semester Start: Generally starts in late August or early September.

Specific Deadlines

  • Exact deadlines can vary between universities. It's important to check the specific dates on each university’s official website or by contacting their admissions office directly.

  • Deadlines for international students might be set earlier to accommodate visa processing and other administrative procedures.


Fees for Graphic Design Courses in South Korea

Undergraduate Programs (Bachelor’s in Graphic Design)

  • Public Universities: Fees typically range from approximately 2,000 to 4,500 USD per semester.

  • Private Universities: Tend to be higher, generally ranging from about 3,000 to 7,000 USD per semester.

Graduate Programs (Master’s in Graphic Design)

  • Public Universities: Tuition fees can range from about 2,200 to 5,000 USD per semester.

  • Private Universities: Generally, fees range from 4,000 to 8,000 USD per semester, though they can vary based on the specific program and institution.

Additional Costs

  • Materials and Supplies: Students should budget for additional costs associated with materials and supplies necessary for their coursework and projects.

  • Living Expenses: Including accommodation, food, and transportation. Living in major cities like Seoul can be more expensive.

  • Health Insurance: Mandatory for all students, which may add an additional cost of around 20 to 60 USD per month.

  • Miscellaneous Fees: Application fees, student service fees, and other administrative costs may apply.