EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN 2 NATURE OF WORK Graphic designers use color, type, illustration, photography animation and various types of layouts to create visual solutions to communication problems. They work with print, electronic, and film media. Graphic designers work on layouts of magazines, newspapers, reports, journals, and other publications. They may also work to design and build displays, signs, packaging, brochures, and logos for various companies. QUICK FACTS Graphic designers use color, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various types of layouts to create visual solutions to communication problems The average annual salary is $48,000 [1]. In order to become a graphic designer, you must have a degree in graphic design. Jobs in graphic arts and design are projected to increase 10% in the next six years which is about average compared to all other careers [2]. Graphic designers can either work on projects in a team setting or work alone doing freelance. They utilize computer-based programs to create captivating marketing solutions for businesses. After they have come up with a concept and designed mockups, designers typically pitch their ideas to clients. If the pitch goes well, designers will proceed to create real life creations of their ideas. A good candidate for a graphic designer is someone who has artistic skills, technical skills, communication ability, organization, and problem solving ability. People who believe in themselves and can make others believe in them and their ideas are especially great for this career. TRAINING/EDUCATION In order to become a graphic designer you must complete a training program to earn a bachelor s degree, an associate s degree, or a certificate. You can receive a degree in graphic design or fine arts from many colleges, universities, and private design schools. Classes in any of these programs typically include: 2-D and 3-D design Branding and Identity Color theory Computerized design Commercial graphic production

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN 3 Design theory Illustration Layout Photography Portfolio building Principles of design Printing techniques Studio art Typography Web design For those getting an associate s or bachelor degree, you will also take some liberal arts courses including: Art History Business Marketing Psychology Sociology Writing Throughout your educational experience and before you get a job, you must build a portfolio. A good portfolio is what will set you apart from competition in this field. Portfolios are the main item interviewers look at when choosing a designer. They want to see that you have creative and artistic ability and can be versatile in your designs. For those of you with hectic lifestyles or no time to attend class, online courses in graphic design may be for you. There are a variety of programs that offer online courses with the convenience of taking them where you want, when you want, and at what speed you want. In an online program you will still cover the same material that you would in a classroom. You even have the convenience of interacting with instructors and peers via discussion and message boards, but from the comfort of your own home. Online courses consist of reading, listening to, or viewing lectures, participating in class discussion via

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN 4 message boards and live chat sessions, and completing assignments and exams submitted online. No matter which method of education you choose it is important to check for accreditation. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD) is the primary body for accrediting graphic design schools [3]. By choosing a program accredited by NASAD, you are ensuring that your education meets the standards of quality necessary to become a graphic designer. Accreditation is not a requirement to be certified or to work as a graphic designer, however, accredited programs have great benefits including: 1. The guarantee of quality standards in education- you will receive the highest quality of training available in this field. 2. Financial aid- you can only receive federal and state funded financial aid in accredited programs. 3. Furthering your education- graduate programs will look to see that you earned a degree from an accredited program when determining whether to accept you into their program or not. JOB OUTLOOK Jobs in graphic design are projected to grow 10% in the next six years [2]. The demand will continue to grow as the expansion in entertainment marketing on television, movies, video, and the internet grows. Also, many advertisers, publishers, and computer design firms will increase and so will their need for graphic designers. In the world of graphic design there is fierce competition. There are many talented designers all having something different to offer companies. Education is an important part in helping you build a solid portfolio and a solid portfolio will give you the advantage over the pack. JOB UPLOOK Graphic designers can go on to become chief designers, art and creative directors, or teachers of design. Most graphic designers also work freelance for various people and companies later on in their career.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN 5 EARNINGS The average annual salary for graphic designers is $48,000 [1]. This of course is only the average. Your salary will depend on your education, talent level, experience, location of company, size of company, and who you are working for. This is a highly competitive field not only in skill level but in pay as well.

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT GRAPHIC ART AND DESIGN 6 LINKS Eyes on Tutorials: http://www.eyesontutorials.com/ Graphic Design & Publishing Center: http://www.graphic-design.com/ Graphic Design USA: http://www.gdusa.com/index.php Professional Association for Design: http://www.aiga.org/ National Association of Schools of Art and Design: http://nasad.arts-accredit.org/ REFERENCES [1] Indeed.com, Graphic Designer, [Online document], 2009. [cited 2009 September 10], Available HTTP: http://www.indeed.com/salary?q1=graphic+designer&l1=&tm=1. [2] Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Graphic Designers, [Online document], 2008-09. [cited 2009 September 10], Available HTTP: http://www.bls. gov/oco/ocos090.htm. [3] All Art Schools, Graphic Design Job Description, [Online document], 2009. [cited 2009 September 10], Available HTTP: http://www.allartschools.com/faqs/graphic-design-job.php. [4] Pay Scale, Graphic Arts/ Design, [Online document], 2009. [cited 2009 September 10], Available HTTP: http://www.payscale.com/research/us/industry=graphic_arts_%2f_de sign/salary.