Graphic Design Careers

OVERVIEW

When companies or groups want to promote, communicate or move a product or message, they call on graphic designers. Graphic designers create images and concepts that combine words, visuals and pictures to communicate and promote a product. They can take on big projects, such as creating the overall layout and design of newspapers, magazines and websites. They can also take on smaller projects—designing logos, tickets or pamphlets.

The number of products affected by graphic design is limitless.

JOB PROSPECTS

The industry is expected to grow 13 percent, which is about average, from 2008 to 2018. Those with skills in web design and animation are expected to have the best chance at landing graphic design jobs in the future, because the demand for work with interactive media will increase. Work in the print publishing world, however, is expected to decrease.

SALARY

The median salary for graphic designers is $42,400 and can range from about $29,000 to $46,000.

TYPICAL WORK DAY

If you're employed by a large company or design firm, expect to work at cubicles with top-of-the-line computers in a likely well-lit room. The duties of the day likely depend on your client’s deadlines and needs. You often work in teams of designers for larger projects, too. Expect to also be included in meetings that develop and plan new ideas and products for clients.

When working for a client, graphic designers usually have sketches to provide before moving forward with finishing a project. They have to communicate what the final design will look like while also making sure to meet the client's needs.

If you're on your own, you set your schedule as it fits you and your client.

SKILLS REQUIRED

Graphic designers have to have the obvious skills: graphic and web design savvy. They also have to be creative and able to stay on top of the latest design software and methods. Designers also must perform under pressure and tight deadlines and be able to juggle multiple projects at once.

GROWTH PROSPECTS

Graphic designers have a variety of ways to advance in their field. They can move up to art director or supervisor positions and lead creative teams at their work. Some choose to leave the corporate sector and teach graphic design at colleges or universities. Others use their own advancement and years of experience as a designer to start their own companies and services.

PROS AND CONS

The field is growing and changing due to the shift from print to interactive web design. Graphic design is also very much rooted in creativity. Working in any type of art can be much more appealing than pushing papers in cubicles for some. The career also gives graphic designers the chance to move on to working independently full time if they gain enough experience and reputation on their own. You also have a vast selection of areas of graphic design to choose from.

However, graphic designers don't make loads of money and can start at low wages at the beginning of their careers. Jobs are being lost in the printing industry, and the job market for graphic designers isn't growing at an exceptionally rapid pace.

EDUCATION REQUIRED

Most companies require graphic designers have to have a bachelor's degree in graphic design or at least an associates degree. Designers who only have associate's degrees generally start off as assistant to graphic designers. If you've already earned a bachelor's degree in another field, you can complete a two- or three-year program in graphic design to gain the technical skills needed for the job.

SOURCES