Put Your Artistic Talent to Work

Have you ever wondered what it takes to create the flashy images found in magazines, or on CD covers, books, logos and even interactive Web sites? Graphic designers are the professionals behind this work, and the talent behind several other forms of media messages. They work in many settings, including advertising agencies and corporate operations, and are also involved in the television, film, publishing and computer industries.

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Attending Graphic Design School

Becoming a successful graphic designer takes more than a passion for art. You’ll need the proper training that a graphic design school can offer. This profession requires traditional art abilities, like developing images on paper, and more high-tech skills that will be applied using a computer. Most often, earning an entry-level or advanced position as a graphic designer requires that individuals have a bachelor’s degree, but associate’s degrees are also available at some schools.

While attending graphic design school, students will study a variety of occupation-specific courses such as principles of design, computerized design, commercial graphics production and printing techniques. A well-rounded education is important, however, and students may also be expected to learn psychology, art history, sociology and cultural studies. Marketing and business skills are also helpful for graphic designers.

In addition to the knowledge graphic designers will gain in school, supplementary personal qualities will help a person be successful in this field. The American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA) describes designers as “lookers” who study the world and constantly consider it in terms of color and texture. They also think outside the box and search for ways to present ideas in a unique manner. “Making things is second nature for designers,” AIGA continues, and they are curious people, always asking questions about the world and how to communicate more effectively with others.

Professional Life

After becoming a graphic designer, individuals need to continue to keep their skills fresh. Staying abreast of current ideas and consumer tastes is important, as is maintaining familiarity with new computer software packages. Newcomers to the field generally must spend one to three years working before they will be able to move to a more advanced position. Designers may choose to become teachers in their occupation, or even open firms of their own. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook, competition for graphic design jobs is considerable, but need for qualified designers is growing at a pace similar to other occupations.

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