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Graphic Designer

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AVG. SALARY

$48,070

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EDUCATION

Bachelor's degree

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JOB OUTLOOK

Stable

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Arts, Audio-Video Technology and Communications cluster Visual Arts pathway.

Education Level

Education training and experience are required at different levels for success in different occupations.

Bachelor's degree

Graphic designers usually need a bachelor's degree in graphic design or a related field. Candidates for graphic design positions should have a portfolio that demonstrates their creativity and originality.

Insider Info

Additional Information

"Computers can do a lot, but art still needs a heart," says Aries Galindo, a website designer in Seattle.

"Organizations may have the computer and technology, but it's really all based on the fundamentals of being an artist. You have to know how to draw a circle by hand, eye the center, read a ruler, use a pen and pencil," says Galindo.

Try to get a part-time or summer job that will familiarize you with day-to-day requirements and give you some basic experience. Design studios, ad agencies, department stores and florists are all possibilities for a bit of design experience.

"Get hands-on practical training," suggests Sherry Stinson. She is a graphic designer. "There's no book or course in the world that will teach you some of the things you need to know."

What about volunteering? School papers and local newspapers and magazines are a good place to start. Also consider nonprofit organizations like your local museum.

Start analyzing the design approaches used in ads, magazines, and websites. Look at the fonts, the layout of the pages and the style of the art or photography. What message is the designer trying to convey?

You'll also need to get a portfolio together that demonstrates your creative abilities. Both schools and prospective employers will demand to see one before they admit you to a program or give you a job.

Most graphic designers have a college diploma or other post-secondary diploma or degree. Programs that will get you into the field include visual arts, graphic arts or commercial art.

Extra Requirements

Certification programs are generally available through software product vendors. Certification in graphic design software demonstrates competence and may provide jobseekers with a competitive advantage.

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

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