Graphic Designer

What is a Graphic Designer?

A Graphic Designer is a creative professional that works within the graphic design or graphic arts industry. These professionals use visual elements to convey messages via print or electronic media. Graphic Designers are also commonly called Graphic Artists or Communication Designers.

Job Responsibilities

Graphic designers use visual elements to convey ideas. They use images, text, graphics and other elements, created via software or by hand, to communicate messages to consumers. Their designs may be used in advertisements, magazines, newspapers, brochures, products packaging, reports and presentations, among many other mediums. Common job duties that these creative professionals may include:

• Meeting with clients, art directors and/or other interested parties to plan projects
• Using digital illustration tools and software to create graphic designs
• Creating logos, images, illustrations and other visual elements that convey specific messages
• Design layouts and select colors, images and textual elements to be used in them
• Present designs to clients and/or art directors for approval
• Make changes to designs/layouts as directed by clients/art directors
• Check designs for errors or issues before they move to the publishing or printing phase

Graphic Designers: Career Outlook

Employment of graphic designers is projected to grow 3 percent from 2022 to 2032, about as fast as the average for all occupations according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

About 22,800 openings for graphic designers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.

As companies continue to increase their digital presence, graphic designers may be needed to help create visually appealing and effective layouts of websites and social media sites. However, a decrease in print newspapers and magazines may limit employment growth for graphic designers who create advertisements for companies and products.

Getting Started as a Graphic Designer

Building a career as a Graphic designer generally means earning a college degree in Graphic Design. An Associate Degree in Graphic Design from Bryant & Stratton College is a great option for getting started on your career path. It offers a comprehensive foundation of the knowledge and skills needed for success.

Additional Training/Requirements

In addition to a college education in Graphic Design, BLS suggests that people interested in building a career in this field consider taking courses in writing, marketing and business to ensure their ability to work with design and project teams effectively. Many employers in this field prefer that candidates for Graphic Designer positions have some work experience, either via previous employment or through a solid internship program. Most employers expect candidates to show a professional portfolio when seeking employment. Some employers prefer to hire Graphic Designers who hold certifications in graphic design software outside of their education. These certifications are typically available through software vendors, and even when they are not required, earning them can provide Graphic Designers with a competitive advantage over other job seekers in the field. Before enrolling in a program, potential students are encouraged to research any relevant positions with which the student may wish to seek employment for a complete list of position requirements and pre- requisites.

Finally, once Graphic Designers enter the field, they must keep up with new technologies, software and techniques. Many Graphic Designers work independently to remain up to date with industry changes, while others take advantage of continuing education courses to keep current. These courses are typically offered by professional associations that represent Graphic Designers and are intended to help designers maintain their edge in this very competitive field.