The ideal graphic design student
Anyone who wants to work in the graphic arts can benefit from graphic
design training. The best candidates, however, are visual, creative,
well-organized and computer-savvy. Professional designers must also be
able to work well with others, taking direction from clients and design
directors while maintaining productive working relationships with fellow
designers and developers. They must also be able and willing to spend
long hours in the design studio, particularly in the earliest stages of
their careers.
What to expect from a graphic design program
According to The College Board, graphic design majors master the
computer and design skills necessary to create the look of product
packaging, magazines, logos, websites and more. Students learn the
basics and best practices of good design, a process that requires a
solid understanding of how typography, images and page layout can
transmit ideas to and affect the viewer in an emotional way. In today's
job market, designers must be well-acquainted with cutting-edge graphics
software such as Adobe InDesign or QuarkXPress.While graphic design courses vary from one institution to the next, most programs offer instruction in the following subjects:
- Color theory
- Composition
- Graphic design techniques
- History of design
- Typography
- Photoshop and other graphics software
- Basic Web design
Popular careers for those with graphic design degrees
With the advancement of visual technologies like the Internet,
television and smartphones, more businesses than ever rely upon graphic
design professionals to connect with potential customers. According to
the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), positions among graphic
designers are expected to grow by 13 percent in the decade preceding
2018, with much of the demand stemming from advertising and computer
design firms. Those with Web design and animation experience will enjoy
the best prospects while those with marketing or business management
experience are more likely to land managerial positions or
directorships. Here just a few of the careers that require or benefit
from graphic design training, as noted by the BLS:- Graphic designers or artists
- Illustrators
- Desktop publishers
- Advertising, marketing, promotions, public relations, and sales managers
- Art directors
- Web designers
- Photographers
Ongoing graphic design training and certification will help professionals keep their skills (and resumes) sharp. Adhering to additional standards, such as the Standards of Professional Practice set forth by the American Institute of Graphic Arts, is another excellent way designers emphasize their quality and professionalism.
The benefits of online graphic design training
Thanks to its computer-based nature, graphic design is ideal for online learning. Online graphic design degree programs are typically asynchronous, meaning students can access materials and videos whenever and wherever it is convenient rather than during a scheduled class session. This makes online education an excellent option for those who want to maintain full time jobs while in school. Note, however, that graphic design is often a collaborative field, so it is important to establish a community, online or otherwise, with instructors and fellow students.Online graphic design training may be convenient, but that does not necessarily mean it is easier than classroom-based courses. In order to be successful in an online environment, students must be focused and well-organized. They must also be good self-starters and able to work well with limited supervision.