Graphic Design Degree Program and Career Information
Graphic design involves the integration of art, graphics, text, and other visual elements such as color, to communicate an idea, usually of a commercial product or business. The arrangement of these elements is used in such media as advertising, corporate identity creation, publishing, brochures and catalogs, signs, letterheads, posters, packaging, and web sites. Graphic Design is also known as Visual Design.
Graphic Design Education, Training and Degrees
Most corporate positions for graphic designers have an entry-level requirement of a bachelor's degree in some form of visual communications. The larger the company, the higher the degree and experience requirements will be. Smaller firms might accept an associate's degree. As important as a degree is a portfolio showing talent and experience. Many degree programs in visual communications and graphic design assist the student in creating and assembling a strong portfolio of work to illustrate talent. Graphic design often encompasses computer graphics, so the more versed the student is in design software, the better are the chances for employment.
A few of the most popular degrees in this area include:Associate's Degrees
General Production
Graphic Design & Multimedia
Interactive Multimedia Design
Visual Communications
Bachelor's Degrees
Communication
Game Art & Design
General Production
Graphic Design
Interactive & Graphic Arts
Media Arts & Animation
Visual Communications
Visual Communications - Graphic Design
Visual Communications - Multimedia
Explore Career Opportunities in Graphic Design
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, about 228,000 people were employed as graphic designers in 2004. Approximately 70 percent were salaried employees, while nearly one-third worked freelance. Graphic designer positions are projected to grow slightly faster than the average for all jobs during the next decade, however, competition for graphic design jobs is expected to be strong.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average annual wage for a graphic designer in 2004 was about $38,000, although it is possible to earn over $100,000 per year as an art director.
Below are a few of the most popular professional careers in graphic design.Graphic Designer
Graphic designers, also known as graphic artists, combine art, graphics, text, and other visual elements to convey an impression, a concept or an idea, usually of a commercial nature. They usually work under the direction of an art director
Art Director
Art directors, sometimes referred to as creative directors, guide and supervise graphic artists in their work. They work with clients to develop a visual look of products or businesses that conveys the desired impression. They specify requirements to graphic designers who then perform the technical and layout work.
