What's the best college for a graphic design degree in Illinois?

I'm considering pursuing a graphic design degree but I'm not sure which colleges in Illinois are highly regarded for this field. Any recommendations or factors I should consider when choosing a college for graphic design?

In terms of Illinois schools offering strong programs in graphic design, one school that often comes up on lists is the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC). SAIC has a highly-regarded undergraduate program in Visual Communication Design, which encompasses areas such as graphic design, but also offers opportunities to explore other related fields like motion graphics, data visualization, and more.

Also worth considering is the University of Illinois-Urbana Champaign. UIUC has a solid graphic design program in its School of Art and Design, which provides a more traditional university experience than an art institute, if that's something you're interested in.

Lastly, Columbia College in Chicago is another solid option, known for its hands-on and industry-focused approach in their design program, providing students with practical skills necessary in the real world.

Factors you might consider when deciding upon a program include the curriculum and whether it matches your interests, the faculty's reputation and experience, opportunities for internships or real-world experiences, career placement rates after graduation, and resources like technology and studio space.

Do keep in mind that the "best" school differs for everyone based on factors such as your personal learning style, financial situation, career goals, and campus lifestyle preferences. Therefore, what works for one person might not necessarily be the best fit for another. Don't forget to visit campuses (virtually or in-person), to get a feel of the environment you'll potentially be studying in for the next four years.