Graphic Designer

Do you adore painting, drawing or sculpting? Are you naturally creative, a great communicator and feel comfortable with computers? You may just want to explore the possibility of pursuing a career in graphic design.

What Graphic Designers Do

There’s a graphic designer behind pretty much any type of visual around you, both online and off. Using software such as Photoshop and illustrator, graphic designers help create and lay out compelling images and graphics to meet the marketing and communications needs of companies, institutions and nonprofits. Typical tasks include designing social media posts, magazine ads, billboards, product packaging, brochures, billboards, websites and logos. Other aspects of the job include:

• Collaborating with colleagues and clients from the start to ensure all goals of a particular project are met.
• Brainstorming creative concepts and seeing them through to completion.
• Revising work according to client and director feedback.

How to Become a Graphic Designer

Most jobs require a Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design or an arts-related field. Successful graphic designers also take courses in business and marketing, and internships can help build skills and an understanding of the various aspects of the field. Throughout your education you’ll learn the science behind using fonts, colors and space to effectively create a desired message for print or digital projects.

Good news is you can start building a solid graphic design foundation by taking high school art and design classes. These along with a portfolio may actually be a requirement when applying to college programs, so be sure to collect the pieces you’re most proud of.

Graphic Designers Jobs

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 261,600 people held graphic design jobs in 2014, and the outlook shows it will remain the same through 2024. Most work full time, however, 1 in 5 are self-employed, meaning they may not hold typical 9-5 hours and need additional skills to help them market themselves, acquire new clients and manage invoicing.

The median annual wage for graphic designers is $45,900, although experienced designers and art or creative directors can expert to earn up to around $80,000.