MACON, Ga. — Mercer University’s graphic design program has landed the University on the list of 2026 Top Design Schools by Graphic Design USA (GDUSA). According to GDUSA, 2026’s top design programs “blend craft, innovation and critical thinking — preparing adaptable creatives to shape the future design across industries.”
Mercer’s graphic design major, housed within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, provides students with the training and skills they need to have a successful career in design. The multi-disciplined, holistic approach equips students to tackle real-world graphic design tasks while developing other related, critical components of the industry, including marketing and business.
Sasha Kaye-Walsh, GDUSA website and social media editor, said the designation recognizes the Mercer graphic design program’s strength, the faculty’s dedication and the students’ talent and ambition.
“Each selected school meaningfully contributes to the evolving landscape of design education, and together they offer a clear picture of where the discipline is headed,” said Kaye-Walsh.
According to GDUSA, the selected institutions go beyond traditional design education. They cultivate critical thinking, adaptability and a passion for innovation, ensuring graduates are ready to lead and shape the future of design.
“We’re honored to be recognized among the 2026 Top Design Schools,” said Tennille Shuster, art chair and professor. “This distinction reflects the dedication of our faculty, the creativity of our students and our commitment to preparing designers to lead in an evolving visual landscape.”
In 2025, Mercer’s graphic design students won nine 2025 American Graphic Design Awards from GDUSA, making Mercer a winning design program for five years running. From more than 6,000 entries, only the top 10% were recognized as winners.
About Graphic Design USA (GDUSA)
Since 1963, Graphic Design USA (GDUSA) has been a source of news and information for graphic designers and the broader creative community. GDUSA covers news, people, project, trends, technology, products and services. In addition to the print magazine, the brand now encompasses a 50,000-visitor-a-month website, a monthly e-newsletter to 60,000+ e-subscribers, a digital edition of the magazine, and several national design competitions that culminate in showcases of the best in Graphic Design, Package Design, Web Design, In-house Design, and Health+Wellness Design.
