Is a Graphic Design Degree Right for Me?

A graphic design major can be great for creative students who want to use their skills in a practical way. Graphic design degrees can lead to many career paths.

Graphic design can be a great major as it can lead to various careers in design, digital media, web design, and more. It may be a perfect fit for prospective students who are interested in art and want to find a practical way to utilize their skills.

If you are considering majoring in graphic design, you may be asking yourself, ''is a graphic design degree right for me?'' Let's explore the specifics of a graphic design major, some reasons to pursue one, potential careers, and more.

What Is a Graphic Design Degree?

Graphic designers are professional artists who create pieces of visual communication to convey messages with a variety of intents. They compose elements such as images, typography, colors, and more. Graduates can work in various fields, such as marketing, web design, and user experience design (UX design).

What Does a Graphic Design Major Study?

When pursuing a bachelor's degree in graphic design, students will study the fundamentals that are the foundation of becoming a successful graphic designer like color theory, design theory, illustration, typography, visual communication, and more. They will also become experts in various pieces of design software, like Adobe Photoshop and other Adobe software, as well as working with other mediums.

Depending on their concentration, students may also complete graphic design courses covering web design, animation, motion graphics, and others. Many programs will also require students to complete an internship. This will help build a skill set that will prepare graduates for a variety of graphic design jobs, both at the entry level and beyond.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Graphic Design

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the graphic design field's growth rate and the average salary are on par with the national average. Below, we'll discuss other reasons to pursue a graphic design program.

It's a Creative Field

A degree in graphic design is a great match for creative individuals who would like to hone their skills and use them in a practical field. Students will learn the principles of design and design techniques and how to implement them in various projects. If you want a fulfilling career in a creative field, graphic design may be for you.

Traditional Employment Options

The variety of companies that employ graphic designers is huge, including tech companies, social media platforms, retailers, various manufacturing companies, and more. The list is seemingly endless. For students looking for traditional employment, graphic design can definitely lead to that. A stable '9 to 5' style position is certainly attainable in the field.

Freelance Options

Alternatively, graphic design offers freelancing opportunities for students more interested in being self-employed. Designers and artists can take on various clients and complete design projects that deliver exactly what the client needs. This can allow for flexibility and versatility, never locking them into the same routine and the same old kind of work.

Large Variety in Your Work

Since graphic design is such a broad field with so many organizations and individuals needing work done, there is a large variety in the kind of work designers do. They will not often complete the exact same work they've done before. Each new design project will involve new challenges that need to be navigated, a new audience, a new message, etc. This can be particularly true in freelance design work, as each project could potentially be for a new client with completely different needs.

Strong Job Outlook

While graphic design can be a very competitive field, it is a profession in demand. Not only are designers' skills needed, but the field is projected to grow at a rate consistent with the national average over the next decade. Additionally, the average salary is similar to the national average, and there is room for advancement within the field. Overall, the job outlook for graphic designers is strong.

Job Opportunities for Graphic Design Majors

There are many career options for graphic design majors. Just some of the potential career paths include:

Graphic Design Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

Choosing a degree is a big decision that must be carefully considered. Let's look at some questions to ask yourself when considering a graphic design degree program.

Am I Interested in a Creative Career?

Graphic design careers are creative positions in which designers use their artistic abilities and knowledge of visual communication to convey a message requested by their employer or client. If you are not interested in art, or if you don't consider yourself a creative person, graphic design is probably not a good fit for you. Alternatively, if you are interested in art but dislike the idea of utilizing it for a career, it may not be the right path for you.

Do I Want to Work With Different Software?

Working in graphic design requires expertise in software like Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and other programs. It is a big part of most positions in graphic design. If you want to become very proficient with software, you'll fit right in. If these programs bore you, graphic design might not be the best use of your time and energy.

Can I Be Receptive to Feedback?

The graphic design industry involves working with organizations and individuals to create messages, marketing, brand identities, and much more. It requires receiving feedback, evaluating your work, and implementing the feedback. It will certainly also require receiving criticism, some of which you may consider fair and some of which you may not. It's important that you can be receptive to feedback and deliver what your employer or client wants. This ability is crucial for design work.