What Can You Do with a Graphic Design Degree?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the majority of graphic design jobs require some level of college education. A few jobs need only a two-year associate degree, but most entry-level positions require a four-year bachelor's degree. Graduates who want to pursue managerial positions in the industry may want to consider earning a master's degree in design.

Graphic design can be a great career choice for people who enjoy storytelling through visual media. The BLS notes that as of 2030, there were more than 254,000 graphic design jobs, and that number is projected to increase to about 261,000 by 2030.

A look at current job listings for graphic designers and similar job titles reveals where the most employment opportunities can be found. Concentrated in California, Texas, Florida, and New York, some of the major employers include CDM Smith (engineering and construction), Deloitte (professional services), and CBRE Group (real estate). The following graph gives professionals a better sense of some of the industries currently hiring graphic designers.

Graphic designers develop the visual presentation of both printed items, such as advertisements and magazines, and digital items, such as websites. Their objective is to convey a message or tell a story through their choice of colors, typography, images, and other design elements. Designers often work in teams with other creative professionals, including art directors, writers, and marketing specialists, although some artists work primarily alone. All graphic artists work closely with clients to understand the intended purpose and message of the end product and to ensure they deliver what the client wants.

Important Qualities for Graphic Designers

In addition to having an extensive knowledge of design, production methods, and design-related software, graphic artists benefit from developing the following soft skills.

• Collaborative mindset: being open-minded and respectful so that the design team can capitalize on the best of team members' ideas
• Communication skills: actively listening to understand others and speaking clearly and persuasively
• Problem-solving ability: framing the parameters of a problem, evaluating alternatives, and developing practical yet innovative solutions
• Dependability: meeting deadlines and remaining calm and focused when working under pressure

There are several ways graphic designers can advance their careers through education and experience. One possibility is to pursue a master's in graphic design or an MFA in design, both of which feature design courses that develop advanced graphic design skills and specializations Another option is to earn certification in a particular aspect of design. For example, Adobe — the maker of the most popular graphic design software programs, such as InDesign and Photoshop — offers several certification programs. Pursuing work from high-profile clients can also add prestige to a designer's portfolio.

Graduates with bachelor's degrees in graphic design are not limited to working in this field. The following are some related occupations.

Industrial Design

With their expertise in designing three-dimensional objects that also serve a marketing-related purpose, some graphic artists may decide to become product designers, which falls under the occupational category of industrial designer. These specialists typically develop concepts for products themselves as well as for packaging design. Industrial designers earn a median annual salary of $71,640, and demand for these professionals is expected to increase by 6% through 2030.

Fine Art

Some graphic designers, especially those who particularly enjoy drawing and illustration, may opt for careers as fine artists. They can utilize their knowledge of design concepts and their business acumen to successfully establish themselves as artists, creating work in their choice of media. The median annual wage for craft and fine artists is $49,120, and the BLS projects a 14% increase in the need for artists over the next eight years.

Advertising

Designers who focus their careers on promoting products and services may eventually work their way up to jobs as advertising, promotions, and marketing managers. These professionals develop and implement strategies for generating interest in their employers' brands. This often includes overseeing advertising and other promotional campaigns, as well as managing the promotions team. The median annual salary for this type of manager is $141,490, and the BLS projects 10% growth in demand, which is slightly higher than the national average.

Interested in related online degrees? Learn more about industrial engineering, fine art, and marketing.