Best Graphic Communications Schools in California

California has 8 colleges offering Graphic Communications programs tracked by the College Scorecard, producing 357 recent graduates. Graduates in California earn $33,842 on average within two years — 13% above the national average of $29,847, making the state one of the stronger markets for this field.

School choice matters significantly: California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo graduates earn $52,385 while Laguna College of Art and Design graduates earn $21,234 — a $31,151 gap. Research each program's curriculum, employer connections, and career services before deciding.

8
Schools in CA
$33,842
CA Avg. Earnings
$29,847
National Avg.
61
Schools Nationally

Public vs Private: Graphic Communications in California

Public Schools (1)
$52,385
avg. 2yr earnings
Private Schools (5)
$30,973
avg. 2yr earnings

Public schools in California produce comparable or higher early earnings for Graphic Communications graduates, often at lower cost — making them strong value options.

Graphic Communications Schools in California, Ranked by Earnings

#1
C

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · Public

$52,385
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $49,435
Graduates: 74
Acceptance: 29.8%
#2
A

Art Center College of Design

Pasadena, CA · Private

$38,289
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $63,126
Graduates: 17
Acceptance: 75.0%
#3
C

California Baptist University

Riverside, CA · Private

$34,526
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $33,784
Graduates: 49
Acceptance: 73.6%
#4
A

Academy of Art University

San Francisco, CA ·

$32,498
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $27,837
Graduates: 98
Acceptance: N/A
#5
U

University of Silicon Valley

San Jose, CA · For-Profit

$30,984
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $27,541
Graduates: 61
Acceptance: 51.3%
#6
C

California College of the Arts

San Francisco, CA · Private

$30,409
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $16,698
Graduates: 36
Acceptance: 73.4%
#7
L

Loyola Marymount University

Los Angeles, CA · Private

$30,409
2yr Earnings
Acceptance: 40.3%
#8
L

Laguna College of Art and Design

Laguna Beach, CA · Private

$21,234
2yr Earnings
1yr Earnings: $22,279
Graduates: 22
Acceptance: 77.6%

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best school for Graphic Communications in California?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo ranks #1 for Graphic Communications in California with median graduate earnings of $52,385 within two years of graduation. There are 8 schools offering Graphic Communications programs in the state.
How much do Graphic Communications graduates earn in California?
Graphic Communications graduates in California earn an average of $33,842 within two years of graduation. This is 13% above the national average of $29,847 for this major.
What is the hardest Graphic Communications school to get into in California?
California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo is the most selective Graphic Communications program in California with an acceptance rate of 29.8%. The average acceptance rate across Graphic Communications programs in the state is 60.1%.
Should I attend a public or private school for Graphic Communications in California?
In California, private Graphic Communications programs produce average earnings of $30,973 vs $52,385 at public schools. However, public schools typically cost less — consider net price relative to earnings when calculating ROI. There are 1 public and 5 private options in the state.

Other Popular Majors in California

All colleges in California →

Graphic Communications in Other States

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Data updated June 2026. Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.