1. What is a Graphic Designer?
A graphic designer is a visionary; bringing concepts and ideas to life whether by use of computer software or by hand. The designs created by a graphic designer inspire, offer messages, communicate ideas, provide information, and captivate those who view them. A graphic designer provides many types of services such as Photo editing services, Logo Design services, product photo editing, Image masking, etc.
The work of a graphic designer helps consumers recognize a company via the logo created with the images and selection of colors and designs. The promotion of products and ideas is the graphic designers’ bread and butter.
2. What you will learn as a Graphic Designer
There are many options available for those interested in a career as a graphic designer. There are educational opportunities both online and on traditional campuses.
For those who are self-motivated, have busy schedules, and need flexibility, online classes may be the best option. For those who need the structure of a classroom setting than taking courses on a traditional campus may be best.
Coursework for a degree in graphic design will most likely consist of traditional classes like art but also a host of specialized classes. Some of the most common Classes for graphic design students include:
- Art direction
- 3-D and 2-D design
- Digital photography
- Drawing
- History of graphic design
- Illustration
- Layout
- Life drawing
- Packaging
- Building a portfolio
- Critical thinking
- Color and design theory
- Branding and identify
3. Additionally candidates will be introduced to some of the leading software systems used in the industry inclusive of:
- Adobe Photoshop
- Adobe Illustrator
- Adobe Indesign
- Adobe Pagemaker
It’s important to note that each school is different and requirements for admittance into each school differ. If a student is interested in specializing in a particular area, it is important to make sure the school you are considering offers specializations you may be interested in.
4. Training to become a Graphic Designer
Training to become a graphic designer can start as early as high school with interested candidates taking classes in art, design, and computer technology. There are more than 100 colleges and institutions of higher learning that offer college degrees in graphic design. These programs are accredited through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. It’s important to make sure any program you are considering is accredited.
Many schools have a prerequisite of at least one full year of study in basic art and design prior to admittance to a bachelor-level program. Many schools require the candidate to send samples or a portfolio of their work to be considered in the admissions process.
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Because of the digital age, more and more formalized education programs are including computer program study as a part of the foundational elements of the graphic arts curriculum. In order to secure a bachelor of fine arts course work in sculpture, painting, art history, principles of design, architectural and mechanical drawing, computerized design, basic engineering, sketching and fashion design, textiles, and garment construction may be included.
Many programs suggest and include on-the-job training as a part of the course of study. This gives candidates the opportunity to utilize the skills they have learned in the classroom in real-life settings. If the school you are considering does not have clinical practice training or a hands-on component it may be necessary to complete an internship with a company for credit as part of your course of study.
Although practice training is not required in some programs, having hands-on experience proves invaluable when looking for employment. Certificates and associate’s degrees can also be a means to gaining entry into graphic design. Each candidate must decide for him or herself what bests suits their needs, interests, and level of focus.
5. Job Outlook for a Graphic Designer
Projections for graphic designers are better than average for a number of reasons including the fact that many of the graphic design services provided can be used in any number of businesses. From web graphics to graphics for major clothing companies, graphic design is everywhere and creative qualified graphic designers are in high demand.
Today, the median salary for a graphic designer is approximately $43,500 annually or $20.92 per hour. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, projected growth in the field is roughly 13% over the next ten years. In 2010, there were roughly 279,200 and the projection is for approximately 37,300 new graphic designers during the next decade. It’s important to note that because of the digital age growing worldwide, the demand for qualified graphic designers is slated to grow steadily to accommodate those needs.
6. Where Graphic Designers work
There are many places graphic designers are able to utilize their skills. Many works in advertising, publishing, specialized design services or are self-employed. Graphic designers have the opportunity to work in both the public and private sectors as well. This post was created with our nice and easy submission form. Create your post!