How a Graphic Design Major Prepares You for the Job Market
A graphic design degree prepares students to enter many careers that need knowledgeable and talented individuals. Graphic design majors learn the basics principles of design and visual communication, including graphics production, printing techniques and computerized design. Graphic design students explore their artistic and web design skills, as well as establish new graphic and digital designs using cutting-edge computer programs and industry-specific design software. Students also learn about communication and problem-solving skills, which are needed in this competitive and fast-paced industry. They study marketing and client-building strategies for graphic design careers, which place a strong emphasis on clients' needs.
Best Career Paths for Graphic Design Majors
Graphic design majors can put their artistic talents and marketing skills to good use at various jobs. The best career paths for graphic design majors are:
- Graphic Designer. Graphic designers are artists who use visual communication to get messages across in print and electronic media. Graphic designers are needed in a variety of fields to develop the layout and design of magazines, newspapers, journals, corporate reports and other publications. They may be in charge of promotional displays, packaging and marketing materials for products and services, as well as designing logos and signs for businesses. Web graphic designers do the layout for Web sites, as well as create material to be used in interactive media and multimedia projects. Graphic designers must keep up with consumer needs, as well as the cultural and social factors that affect their target audience. By understanding the needs of consumers, graphic designers can better develop communication strategies, in addition to create designs and layouts that communicate their intended message. Graphic designers made an average salary of $42,400 in 2008, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Multimedia Artist. Multimedia artists create special effects, animation and other visual images for motion picture and video industries, advertising and computer systems design services. They often draw images by hand and use computers to create pictures that form animated images or special effects seen in movies, television programs and computer games. Some multimedia artists produce storyboards for television shows, commercials and movies that require a series of scenes, such as a comic strip, which allow advertising agencies to preview images before they air. Multimedia artists work on computers and programmers to make three-dimensional images and make them move. Multimedia artists can also work in advertising, newspapers, periodicals, software publishing and book publishing by producing layouts, designs and illustrations. According to the Bureau, multimedia artists made an average salary of $56,330 in 2008.
How to Market Your Graphic Design Degree
Graphic design students learn a great deal of skills and useful information that can be applied to many jobs. They key to securing a graphic design occupation is knowing how to market your degree and skills. You can begin by promoting your knowledge of visual communications, Web site design, media art and other art skills that you've obtained in school. In addition, show samples of your work to display your talents and style. You can also bring creativity and technical knowledge to the workplace. Your ability to develop meaningful relations with clients and help them further their business is definitely worth promoting.
