Become a Computer Graphics Specialist
Computer graphics are everywhere: movies, television, computers, video games, kiosks, ATM machines and even gas pumps. As technology continues its expansion, more applications for computer graphics appear in unexpected places. A few years ago, who would have imagined creating graphics for cell phones or refrigerators?
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A computer graphics specialist is typically responsible for the design and creation of these images. This occupation is highly visual and technical. Not only must these specialists have a flair for visual design, they must also have a knack for using the tools of the trade: complex computer programs. If you enjoy the visual arts and love technology, consider a career as a computer graphics specialist.
Computer Graphics Specialist Degrees
Computer graphics specialists generally hold a degree in computer science or related discipline such as programming or graphics design. Depending on the area of specialization, computer graphics specialists also pursue degrees focused on design engineering or Computer Aided Design (CAD).
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Computer Graphics Specialist Job Description
After earning a degree and landing your first job as a computer graphics specialist, what can you expect? Computer graphics specialists spend their days working on projects for employers or customers.
The daily job duties of a computer graphics specialist can include:
- Brainstorming ideas with team members
- Creating preliminary sketches
- Pitching new ideas
- Designing with computer graphics programs
Depending on the career focus, these projects could involve Web pages, animated corporate logos, television, video graphics, video game graphics, software programs and engineering projects.
While many computer graphics specialists work for employers, others choose to follow a career path as freelancers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that about 25 percent of graphics designers are self-employed.
Computer Graphics Specialist Salary
Salary estimates vary for computer graphics specialists. The BLS reports that graphics designers earned a median annual salary of $39,000 as of May 2006. Higher salaries are reported for senior designers, design directors and those holding ownership or partnerships in design firms.
In December 2008, a salary search performed on Indeed.com showed an average computer graphics specialist salary of $50,000.
