Portrait of a Career: Painting Yourself into a Graphic Design Job
Graphic Design Overview
The graphic design industry is responsible for the majority of modern print media, including brochures, posters, advertisements, and magazine ads. It also encompasses video games and animated features. A graphic design program can help you start your career in multi-media art and animation, computer game programming, web design, advertising, or commercial design.Graphic Design Program
A graphic design program is designed to teach you how to use a variety of print and graphic technology, such as digital photography and photo printing. Through your curriculum in a graphic design program, you can learn to use computer technology to develop three-dimensional images that can be manipulated by using special computer programs and devices. This computer technology enables you to build a portfolio of your completed designs and modules to show potential employers.Available Jobs
Graphic designers usually specialize in a particular area of graphic design such as illustration, animation, print media, programming, logos, or web design. A graphic design program can prepare you for careers in advertising as an art director or a designer. You could also find your place as a computer game programmer, a logo specialist, a cartoonist, or many other design positions.Job and Salary Outlook
The job outlook for graphic designers is promising. While the earnings for entry-level graphic designers are moderate, there is usually potential to advance in both position and salary in this field. A large number of graphic designers are also self-employed and do freelance work, often in addition to design contracts.The average salary for graphic designer is between 40,000 and 80,000 dollars a year, varying widely depending on the field of specialized design. Well-trained graphic designers continue to be in great demand, and may be qualified to earn substantial salaries.
