Career Overview

Graphic designers or graphic artists design and make communication and messages for electronic and print media through the use of color, illustration, photography, animation, and graphic affects. Graphic designers can be responsible for the overall design and layout of print publications like brochures and magazines. They can also produce displays, packaging, marketing brochures, business logos, and signs. Many graphics designers are also starting to specialize in developing material for web pages that include interactive media and multimedia design.

Education Requirements

Associate’s Degree in Graphic Design
Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design

Graphic designers must have a 4 year, bachelor’s degree in graphic design for most entry level positions. High end positions generally require at least 3 years of experience before designers can move up and get hired with more pay and responsibility. Most colleges offer bachelor’s degree in graphic design. Many colleges also offer 2 year, associate’s degrees and college certifications in graphic design. These graduates generally qualify for assistants to graphic designers. Graphic designers must keep up to date with new computer graphics and designer software after entering the career field.

Coursework

Studio Art
Principles of Design
Computerized Design
Commercial Graphics Production
Printing Techniques
Web Site Design
Advertising, marketing, promotions, public relations, and sales managers
Authors, writers, and editors
Photographers
Prepress technicians and workers

School Recommendations

The Arts Institute
Academy of Art University
The Art Institute Online
DeVry University
University of Phoenix

Employment Trends

Job Availability as of May 2008: 286,100
Projected Employment in 2018: 323,100
Average Annual Salary for Graphic Artists in 2008: $42,400

Related Jobs

Artists and related workers
Commercial and industrial designers
Fashion designers
Floral designers
Interior designers

Article Reference: Bureau of Labor Statistics