How to Become a Graphic Designer

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Elements of visual presentation and communication are everywhere. Magazines, web design, advertisements and product packaging all depend on attractive design to make their products and services eye catching and attract consumers. Specially-trained professionals design items that are visually appealing to the masses. This is the job of graphic designers.

What does a graphic designer do?

Graphic designers (also called graphic artists) plan, create and analyze visual presentations and communications in electronic, film and print media. A wide variety of methods are used, including animation, color, illustration, photography, style, type and other visual elements.

Graphic artists develop the overall layout and design of corporate brochures, journals, magazines, newspapers, and other publications. They also create promotional displays and brochures for marketing and packaging. Graphic artists also design logos for businesses and products and create environmental graphics to enhance buildings. They create design elements for websites, multimedia and interactive projects.

Graphic designers meet with clients to determine objectives for the intended audience. They take cognitive, physical, social and cultural factors into consideration when planning and implementing designs. Graphic designers prepare layouts or sketches for presentation, either by hand or using computer technology. Click here to find out how to become a graphic designer.

What kind of training does a graphic designer need?

For entry-level positions, a bachelor degree in graphic design or fine arts is generally required, and is what most in the field have. But an associate degree may be sufficient for some technical or assistant graphic designer jobs.

The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) grants accreditation to over 280 schools offering art and design programs. For many schools, including art and design schools, students must complete at least one year of basic art and design courses before they are admitted to bachelor degree programs in graphic art, and may also need to submit examples of artistic ability.

Graphic design graduates should have a solid understanding of computer graphics and design software to compete for most jobs in graphic arts. To keep skills current, graphic designers must stay updated with new software, either through software training programs or other continuing education programs. Click here to start on your path to a graphic designer career.

What are the prospects for a career in graphic design?

Graphic design jobs are expected to grow about as fast as average for all occupations, increasing 10% between 2006 to 2016 – from 261,000 jobs to more than 287,000 jobs. (1) Demand for websites, cellular phones and video games contribute to the growth in this field.

Prospects for jobs in graphic design are expected to be the best for graphic designers who have a bachelor degree and significant work experience. Candidates with website design and animation experience partnered with extensive knowledge of computer design software will also have an advantage in the job market.

How much do graphic designers make?

The average entry-level graphic designer salary is between $40,100 and $53,500 per year, with the highest 10% making over $60,240 (2). Salaries for graphic designers who advance to higher levels may see earnings up to $71,000 or more per year.

A career in graphic design is a great choice for someone who has strong creative, communication and problem-solving skills. Graphic designers must be able to present their ideas in visually and verbally. They must also have a keen eye for detail and be adaptable to new ideas as trends and consumers' tastes rapidly change.

Now what? The next step is easy!

Take the first step today and request free information from our selected top online arts and design schools, or simply use the form below to find the program that is right for you!