A Career in Graphic Design

by Tony Jacowski

Graphic designers are predicted to hold the most jobs by 2014. Keeping in mind the future of the media and the need for creative work, graphic designers are projected to have the best employment opportunities of all creative professionals.

Job of a Graphic Designer

Graphic designers analyze, plan and make creative visual solutions for communication. They help to express the message in the most effective way, in the form of print, film or electronic medium. A variety of methods like color combinations, illustrations, photography, print and print-layout techniques are used in graphic designing.

Graphic designers create the layout and production designs for newspapers, magazines, corporate reports, journals and other publications. They also develop promotional displays, marketing and packaging brochures for various products and services and unique design logos for businesses.

In addition, they also make signs for government and businesses. The graphic designer also produces material for interactive media, Internet web pages and multimedia projects.

Job Qualifications

A Bachelor's degree is a must at the entry level in graphic designing. Some entry-level technical positions may require an Associate's degree. However, problem-solving skills and creative communication are essential.

Graphic designers should be familiar with computer graphics and the various design software available. A good graphic portfolio, with a collection of work samples showcases design ability effectively.

Graphic Designing Course Curriculum

Typical Graphic Design Curriculum Components:

 Studio art
 Computerized Design
 Principles of Design
 Printing techniques
 Commercial graphics production
 Web site design

Besides formal graphics training, there are some courses such as writing, art history, psychology, foreign language, sociology, cultural studies, business and marketing that are effective aids in understanding the intricacies of graphic designing.

It is the job of the graphic designer to give meaning to thoughts and ideas. When an idea is expressed, the job falls on the graphic designer to present it on paper and create a suitable combination of visual medium. This can be accomplished with pictures and animated presentations, which could include sound as well.