Graphic Designer: Education, Training, and Certifications

Written By: Jennifer King Logan

Published: 4/27/2022

Although graphic designers are often hired on the strength of their portfolios, it's equally important to have an education in design. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most graphic arts jobs — from general designers to 3D animators to website developers, and even up to managing creative directors — need a bachelor's degree in graphic design. This guide provides more detail on the degree levels and educational opportunities for graphic artists.

Education Requirements For Graphic Designers

Degrees in graphic design are available at every level. Although it's possible to earn a PhD in design at a few international universities, most students in the U.S. opt for an associate, bachelor's, or master's degree in graphic design.

Application Process

To apply to a bachelor's program in design, applicants usually need to submit an application, transcripts from all previous high school and college coursework typically demonstrating a GPA of at least 2.8, and one or more of the following: an essay, letters of recommendation, and a resume or list of extracurricular activities. An in-person or virtual interview, including a review of the applicant's portfolio of student work, is often the final step in the process. Some schools, however, may require first-year students to complete two or three introductory design courses before they're accepted into the program.

Applying to a master's program in graphics is fairly similar. Applicants need to submit their college transcripts with their application form, and they're typically required to show a GPA of 3.0 or higher. They may also be evaluated on the quality of their portfolio of design work.

Enrolling in an associate or certificate graphics program, on the other hand, is fairly simple. Students usually need to submit only their high school transcripts with an application.

Further Education for Graphic Designers

In addition to taking design courses at colleges and universities, graphic designers have several options for extending their skill sets through education. While still in school, graphic design students may want to serve one or more internships, even if it's not a requirement for graduation. This real-world experience allows students to work with clients and develop actual design concepts that they can later include in their graphic design portfolios.

Graphic designers who want to level up their skills, or prospective design students who want to learn more about the field before enrolling in a graphic design program, may be interested in taking other types of courses. Websites like Udemy, edX, and Coursera offer free and subscription graphic design courses that can be completed online. The content of many of these courses have been developed by design experts at organizations such as Adobe.

Graphic Designer Certifications

Certification is not generally required for most graphic designer jobs. However, in this highly competitive occupation, earning certification may make you a more attractive job candidate. Certification not only demonstrates expertise in a particular area, it also shows that you're committed to long-term professional growth. The following is a list of some certifications available for graphic designers.

Careers for Graphic Designers

Graphic designers work in a wide range of industries and work environments. Some work for design firms or professional service providers, some work as in-house graphic designers for larger organizations, and some work for themselves, creating designs for a host of clients. Most designers specialize in either print design — the visual look and layout for printed items, such as magazines, books, and advertisements — or in digital design for websites, mobile apps, mobile ads, and animations. With so many graphic design career paths available, it's not surprising that median annual salaries for graphic design positions vary significantly, ranging from about $47,000 to $77,000.