Graphic Art & Design Degrees

People who enjoy drawing and working with various computer programs usually make great graphic designers. Graphic designers are employed by companies in the marketing, magazine and newspaper publishing, film, and multi-media industries. Graphic designers, whether they are responsible for completing projects individually or in groups, must be able to work effectively with others in order to create the types of graphic designs their companies or clients are seeking.

Graphic Designer Degrees

Many accredited colleges and universities sponsor online associate's degree and professional certification programs in graphic design. There are many entry-level positions students can qualify for after completing one of these types of programs. Most students completing college programs in graphic design are required to complete courses in design, studio art, graphics production, graphic design technology, printing techniques, and web development. Numerous graphic design specialists obtained bachelor's degrees through both online and traditional programs. Since consumer trends constantly change, it's important for graphic designers to be able to recognize these trends. As a result, many potential graphic designers also complete courses in sociology, psychology, writing, marketing, and business management. Many people with bachelor's degrees in other majors often earn a professional certification in graphic design before making a career transition. No matter the route one takes to begin a career in graphic design, it's very helpful for aspiring graphic designers to take art classes, so they can begin to develop a portfolio to eventually present to potential employers.

Career Training for Graphic Artists and Designers

Graphic designers frequently are provided with on the job training for the first few years of their careers prior to being promoted to management positions or jobs with more responsibilities. Graphic designers hoping to advance in a company should stay up to date with software and graphic design technology changes. Graphic designers frequently become teachers, run their own businesses, or become specialists in a facet of graphic design. Because nearly one fourth of graphic designers run their own businesses, they often work as teachers and offer freelance services.

Employment Outlook for Graphic Designers

Job growth for graphic designers is projected to increase at a higher rate than average growth in other industries. Demand for graphic designers is expected to be the highest in the computer design, publishing, and marketing industries. Graphic design specialists with experience working for multi-media companies will be better positioned to work for animation and web development companies. The growing telecommunications, video game development, and smartphone industries will also be fields where many graphic designers can find jobs through the near future. However, growth will be slowed as more companies outsource graphic design jobs to foreign countries. Skilled designers with advanced skills will continue to enjoy plenty of job opportunities. During 2007, the median annual earnings for graphic designers exceeded $40,000. Designers with salaries in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $31,620-55,030 annually.

Since better than average job growth has been projected in the graphic design industry, and numerous online programs are available to accommodate the schedules of working professionals, there has never been a better time to work in graphic design.