4 answers
Briana
Student
Colorado Springs, Colorado
4
Questions
Asked
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What college is best if I want to do graphic design, business and acting?
I want to attend a reputable college that offers strong programs in graphic design, business, and acting. I've heard that NYU (Tisch) is a good option, as well as the New School of Design. But, as I said, I'm not too sure.
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4 answers
Karin P.
Lecturer, Academic Advisor, Career Coach
1085
Answers
Göttingen, Lower Saxony, Germany
Updated
Karin’s Answer
Hi Briana,
Bachelor programs are designed to keep students pretty busy while they acquire the necessary skills for their targeted professions. Both acting and graphic design are going to require significant work outside the classroom. You'll also need to spend time getting into your community and networking to find jobs.
You can sometimes do a major and a minor or a dual degree program, but you'll have a significantly higher workload or extend your time in collage. Add to that the additional cost.
It's just not reasonable or doable to cram 3 vastly different degree programs together like you are planning. Not everything you enjoy needs to be a degree or a job. You can use your gen ed classes and electives to take a few courses and explore interests. You can even change your major if you have to. but you need to settle on one path eventually.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Bachelor programs are designed to keep students pretty busy while they acquire the necessary skills for their targeted professions. Both acting and graphic design are going to require significant work outside the classroom. You'll also need to spend time getting into your community and networking to find jobs.
You can sometimes do a major and a minor or a dual degree program, but you'll have a significantly higher workload or extend your time in collage. Add to that the additional cost.
It's just not reasonable or doable to cram 3 vastly different degree programs together like you are planning. Not everything you enjoy needs to be a degree or a job. You can use your gen ed classes and electives to take a few courses and explore interests. You can even change your major if you have to. but you need to settle on one path eventually.
I hope this helps! All the best to you!
KP
Michelle M.
Actress
3276
Answers
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
Hello, Briana !
To begin with, you will need to choose one career goal and get the degree that will qualify you for that career. Also, you don't need a degree in acting in order to obtain acting work. I also advise not Double Majoring or Majoring in one subject and minoring in another. It would be way too much work to try to do all three and and expect to be expert in all three at once.
The major subjects that you've mentioned would require a lot of time outside of classroom instruction. It is going to be very important to focus on one degree that will qualify you in the end for professional level work.
The New School does not offer an acting program under the Parsons School of Design. However, acting is offered as part of the School of Drama, which is a component of the College of Performing Arts at The New School. It is known to be a strong program for Acting. It requires an audition to be accepted into their program for Acting. The New School for Design is a very well noted school, but it depends on what type of "design" you are referring to. The New School has a strong and distinctive business program, particularly in management, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
I would also say that NYU is outstanding for all three of the subjects you've mentioned, but still, you'll need to have one major and no minor as these top realm schools are demanding and focus on one major will be the best path. I know it may be hard to choose one to get your degree in, but it may be down to design and business as a degree is not necessary for acting, just intensive training through single acting classes in college or in the community.
Because you could probably take "design" courses in college or online, it looks like you might want to explore strong Business Programs. It also seems as though you plan to move to New York City, NY for college. The Stern School of Business at New York University has been known to offer the strongest Business Program in NYC. There's also another college, City University of New York Baruch College which has Internship placement for their students in their Junior and Senior year. Of the three subjects you've mentioned, the one that seems degree and credential dependent would be Business. But it's up for you to decide which career you want to prepare for.
I left a few links below for you to get a glimpse of NYU and Baruch, but you can look for other videos of New School on You Tube. After you choose one focus to major in, it will be easier for you to explore colleges. I would also suggest returning here with more focused questions about the career you decide on.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
VERY QUICK TOUR OF NYU SCHOOL OF THE ARTS [VIDEO] https://youtu.be/_A70NVX_XQg?si=8KSkDMRWpm5aZ1vF
BFA ACTING PROGRAM AT NYU [VIDEO] https://youtu.be/oGDZ4fMLt04?si=8JCcxlYcISiitUtR
QUICK GLANCE AT BARUCH COLLEGE FOR BUSINESS [VIDEO] https://youtu.be/A8aqpjSDay4?si=dpEP8SQCVuG5Tsvl
THE BEST BUSINESS COLLEGE YOU'VE NEVER HEARD OF - BARUCH COLLEGE IN NYC - https://youtu.be/tODRgbw_nW8?si=NuQkIBUetrIPOylv
To begin with, you will need to choose one career goal and get the degree that will qualify you for that career. Also, you don't need a degree in acting in order to obtain acting work. I also advise not Double Majoring or Majoring in one subject and minoring in another. It would be way too much work to try to do all three and and expect to be expert in all three at once.
The major subjects that you've mentioned would require a lot of time outside of classroom instruction. It is going to be very important to focus on one degree that will qualify you in the end for professional level work.
The New School does not offer an acting program under the Parsons School of Design. However, acting is offered as part of the School of Drama, which is a component of the College of Performing Arts at The New School. It is known to be a strong program for Acting. It requires an audition to be accepted into their program for Acting. The New School for Design is a very well noted school, but it depends on what type of "design" you are referring to. The New School has a strong and distinctive business program, particularly in management, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
I would also say that NYU is outstanding for all three of the subjects you've mentioned, but still, you'll need to have one major and no minor as these top realm schools are demanding and focus on one major will be the best path. I know it may be hard to choose one to get your degree in, but it may be down to design and business as a degree is not necessary for acting, just intensive training through single acting classes in college or in the community.
Because you could probably take "design" courses in college or online, it looks like you might want to explore strong Business Programs. It also seems as though you plan to move to New York City, NY for college. The Stern School of Business at New York University has been known to offer the strongest Business Program in NYC. There's also another college, City University of New York Baruch College which has Internship placement for their students in their Junior and Senior year. Of the three subjects you've mentioned, the one that seems degree and credential dependent would be Business. But it's up for you to decide which career you want to prepare for.
I left a few links below for you to get a glimpse of NYU and Baruch, but you can look for other videos of New School on You Tube. After you choose one focus to major in, it will be easier for you to explore colleges. I would also suggest returning here with more focused questions about the career you decide on.
I hope this helps and I wish you all the best !
Michelle recommends the following next steps:
Alexandra Grashkina-Hristov
International Tax Professional
188
Answers
Boston, Massachusetts
Updated
Alexandra’s Answer
Hi Briana,
It’s great that you’re thinking about colleges that offer strong programs across graphic design, business, and acting—finding a school that supports all your interests will definitely help you thrive.
In New York, you’re right that NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts has an excellent acting program and offers opportunities to blend arts with other studies through their varied colleges. The Parsons School of Design (part of The New School) is also known for its top-tier graphic design program and has integration with business-related courses. Another option in New York is the School of Visual Arts (SVA), which has strong graphic design and arts programs and connections to industry professionals.
Outside of New York, some schools offer great combinations as well. In California, USC (University of Southern California) has respected programs for business, cinematic arts (including acting-related fields), and design. Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles is also recognized for its liberal arts and film programs, combined with business. In the Midwest, Northwestern University offers strong theater and business programs, and you can also explore graphic design through their arts departments or nearby institutions.
Since you’re balancing creative and business interests, you may want to consider schools that encourage interdisciplinary studies or offer minors/double majors, so you can tailor your education to fit your passions.
Visiting campuses, attending virtual info sessions, and connecting with current students or alumni from these programs can give you a clearer picture of fit and culture before making your decision. No matter where you end up, prioritizing a school that supports your multiple interests will set you up for a versatile and fulfilling college experience. Best of luck!
It’s great that you’re thinking about colleges that offer strong programs across graphic design, business, and acting—finding a school that supports all your interests will definitely help you thrive.
In New York, you’re right that NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts has an excellent acting program and offers opportunities to blend arts with other studies through their varied colleges. The Parsons School of Design (part of The New School) is also known for its top-tier graphic design program and has integration with business-related courses. Another option in New York is the School of Visual Arts (SVA), which has strong graphic design and arts programs and connections to industry professionals.
Outside of New York, some schools offer great combinations as well. In California, USC (University of Southern California) has respected programs for business, cinematic arts (including acting-related fields), and design. Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles is also recognized for its liberal arts and film programs, combined with business. In the Midwest, Northwestern University offers strong theater and business programs, and you can also explore graphic design through their arts departments or nearby institutions.
Since you’re balancing creative and business interests, you may want to consider schools that encourage interdisciplinary studies or offer minors/double majors, so you can tailor your education to fit your passions.
Visiting campuses, attending virtual info sessions, and connecting with current students or alumni from these programs can give you a clearer picture of fit and culture before making your decision. No matter where you end up, prioritizing a school that supports your multiple interests will set you up for a versatile and fulfilling college experience. Best of luck!
✨ Danuta Chapin, MFA
Designer and Art Director
17
Answers
Arlington Heights, Illinois
Updated
✨ Danuta’s Answer
If you want strong programs in graphic design, business, and acting, the best options are NYU (Tisch + Stern) and The New School (Parsons + College of Performing Arts). Both are in New York City, giving you access to industry hubs. NYU is stronger in acting and business, while Parsons at The New School is world-class in design.
Double-majoring is very hard. I studied industrial design, fine arts, visual communications, and a minor in tapestry and sculpture, and I learn to sew professionally, cause I love fashion;) The more you know, the more options you get. You can also change your path, work with your school counselor to guide you, and take internships to get real work experience so you know what you're getting into and if you like your path. Network!
My daughter is at NYU and has changed her path 3 times. It is good to follow your heart and gut. You do not know everything at the beginning of college, so be flexible and research, and ask advisers.
Colleges That Cover All Three Areas
NYU (Tisch + Stern) | Tisch offers design for stage/film, plus access to creative media programs. Stern School of Business is consistently ranked among the top 10 in the U.S. Tisch School of the Arts is one of the most prestigious acting programs worldwide. Best for students who want elite acting training with strong business and creative design opportunities.
If acting is your top priority, NYU Tisch is unmatched. Pairing it with Stern gives you world-class business training, and you can take design courses through Tisch’s design for stage/film or cross-register at Steinhardt.
The New School (Parsons + College of Performing Arts) | Parsons is ranked #1 U.S. design school and globally recognized. The New School offers business programs tailored to creative industries (Business of Design, Management, Marketing). College of Performing Arts offers drama and music programs. Best for students who want cutting-edge design education with interdisciplinary business and acting opportunities.
If design is your top priority, Parsons is the best in the U.S. You can combine it with The New School’s business and performing arts programs for a creative, interdisciplinary education.
USC (University of Southern California) | Strong design/media programs through the School of Cinematic Arts. Marshall School of Business is highly ranked. USC School of Dramatic Arts is well-regarded. Located in Los Angeles, ideal for film/acting plus design/media crossover.
Carnegie Mellon University | Top-ranked design program/ Tepper School of Business is strong. School of Drama is one of the oldest and most prestigious acting programs. Great for students who want rigorous academics across all three fields.
Yale University | Yale School of Art (graphic design MFA is world-class). Yale School of Management is highly respected. Yale School of Drama is legendary. Best for graduate-level specialization, though undergrad options are more limited.
I hope this helps. Best of luck!
Double-majoring is very hard. I studied industrial design, fine arts, visual communications, and a minor in tapestry and sculpture, and I learn to sew professionally, cause I love fashion;) The more you know, the more options you get. You can also change your path, work with your school counselor to guide you, and take internships to get real work experience so you know what you're getting into and if you like your path. Network!
My daughter is at NYU and has changed her path 3 times. It is good to follow your heart and gut. You do not know everything at the beginning of college, so be flexible and research, and ask advisers.
Colleges That Cover All Three Areas
NYU (Tisch + Stern) | Tisch offers design for stage/film, plus access to creative media programs. Stern School of Business is consistently ranked among the top 10 in the U.S. Tisch School of the Arts is one of the most prestigious acting programs worldwide. Best for students who want elite acting training with strong business and creative design opportunities.
If acting is your top priority, NYU Tisch is unmatched. Pairing it with Stern gives you world-class business training, and you can take design courses through Tisch’s design for stage/film or cross-register at Steinhardt.
The New School (Parsons + College of Performing Arts) | Parsons is ranked #1 U.S. design school and globally recognized. The New School offers business programs tailored to creative industries (Business of Design, Management, Marketing). College of Performing Arts offers drama and music programs. Best for students who want cutting-edge design education with interdisciplinary business and acting opportunities.
If design is your top priority, Parsons is the best in the U.S. You can combine it with The New School’s business and performing arts programs for a creative, interdisciplinary education.
USC (University of Southern California) | Strong design/media programs through the School of Cinematic Arts. Marshall School of Business is highly ranked. USC School of Dramatic Arts is well-regarded. Located in Los Angeles, ideal for film/acting plus design/media crossover.
Carnegie Mellon University | Top-ranked design program/ Tepper School of Business is strong. School of Drama is one of the oldest and most prestigious acting programs. Great for students who want rigorous academics across all three fields.
Yale University | Yale School of Art (graphic design MFA is world-class). Yale School of Management is highly respected. Yale School of Drama is legendary. Best for graduate-level specialization, though undergrad options are more limited.
I hope this helps. Best of luck!