Graphic Design is the art and academic discipline that focuses on creating visual art content communicating and interpreting specific messages to the targeted audience. Nowadays, most educational institutions provide at least one graphic design course in their curriculum as graphic designers are high on demand in the job sector.
The art of graphic design can be dated back to ancient cave paintings. The term “graphic design” was coined by the printing industry during the 1920s. Over the decades, it has gained more popularity, and this particular art discipline has branched out further. Some of the related design fields are Interface design, User experience design, and Experiential graphic design.
Contrary to popular belief, graphic design is a form of art that can be learned. Many people believe that the creation of art cannot be taught; it is a gift that one is born with. However, with the increasing popularity of graphic design, you can pursue and learn all about it and gain a proper education in that field.
Education on Graphics Design
You can pursue a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from different universities worldwide or go to a school explicitly dedicated to this field of academic discipline. Suppose you cannot acquire a bachelor’s degree. In that case, you can still pursue a career as a graphic designer by pursuing technical training that will help you achieve most of the hiring qualifications.
High school students who will pursue a degree in graphic design should do a fundamental art and design course at the school to help them massively later on. Different schools have different kinds of programs – some more extensive than others. However, most programs have similar courses, including principles of design, studio art, commercial graphics production, website design, computerized design, and printing techniques.
Students of business, writing, and marketing are also highly qualified to work with a graphic designer. They should keep in mind to create a portfolio of their designs as a part of their education because, in the job field, the portfolio will be their leading representative. Moreover, partnering with a reputable branding studio and adapting to the latest technological advancements are essential to stand out in any business endeavor.
With the constant technological change, it is recommended that graphic designers – both amateurs and professionals – keep up to date with new software and design formats to move at the same fast rate pace as the rest of the world. The other forms of unconventional education suggested for graphic designers besides computer skills are Communication skills, Artistic ability, Time-management skills, Analytical Skills, and Creativity.
To further improve your chances to become a successful graphic designer, graphic design students are suggested to work as an intern at an organization that would help them acquire more extensive skills and knowledge. Furthermore, students can also participate in organized competitions or contests where they will compete with other graphic designers. This will help the budding graphic designers to showcase their designs and learn from other graphic designers too.
Degrees for a Graphic Designer
- Graphic Design Degree
- Multimedia Design Degree
- Digital Art & Animation Degree
- Communications or Marketing Degree
Required Skills
A list of a few essential skills and competencies graphic designers must learn are:
- Fundamental knowledge of HTML and coding
- Ability to use design tools and programs such as Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator, and InDesign.
- Understanding typography, page layout, printmaking, and strategy.
- Knowledge of print and digital requirements for formatting.
- Knowledge of interactive media to create motion graphics, video games, animation, or audio.
Career Options
People often get concerned of choosing graphics designing as a career path, as many think that it is just one career. However, you can work on different sectors as a graphic designer. If you are planning on a career as a Graphic Designer, you can opt for these options:
- Freelance Graphic Designer
- In-house Graphic Designer
- Advertising, Marketing Firms, and Public Relations
- Management, Technical Service, and Scientific.
- Interactive Art Director
- Art Director
- Printing and Print-Related Activities
- Creative Director
- Book, Newspaper, Periodical, and Directory Publishers
- Digital Design Agencies
In conclusion
If you’re looking into pursuing higher education in Graphic Design and a full-time career as a Graphic Designer, then start preparing for it right this moment. Hone and enhance your existing creative and other technical skills and join programs to help you gain new knowledge and skills.
Learn to communicate and represent your ideas in an interactive manner that will experience both you and your audience. It would help if you build a foundation in basic design and art and learn digital art and design skills. Once you do that, then move forward to pursue a degree in graphic design, pick an area you want to specialize in, create a portfolio, and then you are ready to start and set up your career.