What Jobs Does a Graphic Design Program Get You?
In today’s economy and with the high cost of an education, students are making well-informed decisions pertaining to careers. Most students are researching the outlook for specific programs and weighing the costs and time spent for education against the probable employment opportunities. There are many opportunities for graphic designers in today’s marketplace.
Types of Employment
Design, advertising, publishing and individual companies hire graphic designers. The hours are generally Monday through Friday and eight a.m. to five p.m. Employees in small design firms or freelancers work on a per job basis. Hours for such contract work may need to be adjusted to meet the needs of a client. Designers that run a business or consultants work much longer hours. Business may be conducted in an office, restaurant or a client’s office. Contract designers work under pressure to obtain more work with shorter deadlines.
Graphic designers work with computer graphics and design software. A degree in Graphic Design is a major plus for a website designer and the demand is high. Designers may decide to teach at the college level. Many instructors consult privately to supplement the instructor income. Some designers work for engineering services or technical consulting firms.
Potential Job Advancements for a Graphic Designer
An associate degree may be sufficient for an entry-level position; however, for advancement a bachelor’s degree is required. Excellent communication and problem-solving skills are vital for advancement in a design firm. A person fresh out of college will probably require one to three years of on-the-job training to advance to higher positions within a firm. Advancements to chief designer, art or creative director or management positions are available for a persistent and talented graphic designer.
Magazines, newspapers and motion picture design firms require graphic designers, although it may be necessary to accept a position in the mailroom to work up to a graphic design job. Many graphic designers build up a client list then start their own design firm. It is necessary to pay close attention to contracts signed with an employer before contacting a previous client.