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Thursday 13 November 2014

Graphic Designer: Education Requirements & Career Info

Graphic designers are visual communicators who design and develop print and electronic media, such as magazines, television graphics, logos and websites. They may be employed by advertising firms, design companies, publishers and other businesses that need design professionals. This career is results-oriented, and graphic designers are concerned with providing final products that meet clients' needs.

Graphic Designer Educational Requirements

Earning a certificate or associate's degree in graphic design may qualify graduates for assistant or technical support positions in the field; however, most graphic design positions require at least a bachelor's degree. Students may benefit from attending one of the approximately 300 schools approved by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. Some graphic design programs only admit applicants who have completed at least one year of art and design courses. Admission may also entail submission of sketches and other artwork.

Bachelor's Degree Curriculum

Some colleges and universities offer Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design programs. These 4-year degree programs equip students with the technical and artistic skills necessary for entry-level employment or even higher positions in graphic design. Curricula are comprised heavily of design coursework, as well as liberal arts instruction. Courses may include:

    Typography
    Book design
    Drawing
    Advanced graphic design
    Computer-assisted design
    Digital media
    Photography

Other Requirements

Along with formal education, graphic designers must have artistic capacity and strong verbal, visual and written communication skills. Graphic designers must also have strong portfolios that showcase examples of their best work, which employers generally consider during the hiring process. Designers often work independently and must meet strict deadlines, so the ability to manage time and stay on schedule is important. Business and sales skills are also beneficial for this career, especially for graphic designers who are self employed.

Employment Projections

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of graphic designers was expected to increase 13% from 2010-2020 (www.bls.gov). Growth should be an effect of the rising number of advertising and electronic design firms, as well as increasing numbers of products and services that need to be advertised. Graphic designers with expertise in Web design, interactive media and animation were expected to see the greatest job opportunities, whereas designers in print publishing were expected to experience a decline in demand.

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