Graphic Design Degrees

Designer Robin Mathew once said, "Design is where science and art break even." Good graphic design uses imagery to convey messages and ideas, a process that requires a great deal of technical skill but also creativity. It is this mesh of analytical and artistic talent that makes graphic design such a popular discipline among students and such a valuable skill to employers.

The ideal graphic design student

Anyone who wants to work in the graphic arts can benefit from graphic design training. The best candidates, however, are visual, creative, well-organized and computer-savvy. Professional designers must also be able to work well with others, taking direction from clients and design directors while maintaining productive working relationships with fellow designers and developers. They must also be able and willing to spend long hours in the design studio, particularly in the earliest stages of their careers.

What to expect from a graphic design program

According to The College Board, graphic design majors master the computer and design skills necessary to create the look of product packaging, magazines, logos, websites and more. Students learn the basics and best practices of good design, a process that requires a solid understanding of how typography, images and page layout can transmit ideas to and affect the viewer in an emotional way. In today's job market, designers must be well-acquainted with cutting-edge graphics software such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress.

While graphic design courses vary from one institution to the next, most programs offer instruction in the following subjects:

Color theory
Composition
Graphic design techniques
History of design
Typography
Photoshop and other graphics software
Basic Web design

Popular careers for those with graphic design degrees

With the advancement of visual technologies like the Internet, television and smartphones, more businesses than ever rely upon graphic design professionals to connect with potential customers. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), positions among graphic designers are expected to grow by 13 percent in the decade preceding 2018, with much of the demand stemming from advertising and computer design firms. Those with Web design and animation experience will enjoy the best prospects while those with marketing or business management experience are more likely to land managerial positions or directorships. Here just a few of the careers that require or benefit from graphic design training, as noted by the BLS:

Graphic designers or artists
Illustrators
Desktop publishers
Advertising, marketing, promotions, public relations, and sales managers
Art directors
Web designers
Photographers

Most employers within these industries prefer to hire those with at least a bachelor's degree in graphic design, though sometimes the combination of a certificate or associate's degree and the right experience will suffice. Those who choose to freelance may get by with limited formal training, but must be able to provide potential clients with an impressive portfolio and solid work references.

Ongoing graphic design training and certification will help professionals keep their skills (and resumes) sharp. Adhering to additional standards, such as the Standards of Professional Practice set forth by the American Institute of Graphic Arts, is another excellent way designers emphasize their quality and professionalism.

The benefits of online graphic design training

Thanks to its computer-based nature, graphic design is ideal for online learning. Online graphic design degree programs are typically asynchronous, meaning students can access materials and videos whenever and wherever it is convenient rather than during a scheduled class session. This makes online education an excellent option for those who want to maintain full time jobs while in school. Note, however, that graphic design is often a collaborative field, so it is important to establish a community, online or otherwise, with instructors and fellow students.

Online graphic design training may be convenient, but that does not necessarily mean it is easier than classroom-based courses. In order to be successful in an online environment, students must be focused and well-organized. They must also be good self-starters and able to work well with limited supervision.

Choosing the right graphic design program

Graphic design programs vary tremendously by institution, degree type and learning environment. Students pursuing either online or campus-based degrees should research their options thoroughly to find a program that suits both their professional goals and learning styles.