What is Computer Graphic Design?

<h3 id="section---ComputerGraphicDesignDefined">Computer Graphic Design Defined</h3> <p>Computer graphic design is everywhere in the modern world. You see it on street signs and in restaurants, television programs and magazines. You're seeing it right now as you read this. Computer graphic designers use technology to manipulate and combine words, images, color, typography and sound in order to elicit emotions and deliver messages to viewers. Continue reading for information about specific aspects of computer graphic design. </p> <h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutGraphicDesigners">Important Facts About Graphic Designers</h3> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td> Entry-level Education </td><td> Bachelor's degree</td></tr> <tr><td> On-the-job Training </td><td> None required but work experience and training can help with advancement</td></tr> <tr><td> Key Skills</td><td> Artistic ability, creativitiy, analytical skills, communication skills, time-management skills, and computer skills</td></tr> <tr><td> Work Environment</td><td> Work independently, in a team, or at a firm in visual arts studios</td></tr> </table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i> </p> <h3 id="section---DigitalDesign">Digital Design</h3> <p>Whenever you see an image that has been manipulated or changed, that is digital design in action. In this subspecialty, you focus on the aesthetics and perception of the image you create. Artwork and images created for an advertising campaign or a billboard are often the work of a digital designer. </p> <h3 id="section---MultimediaDesign">Multimedia Design</h3> <p>The presentation of information and images on a website is encompassed in multimedia design. Multimedia design can be used to combine timing and sound with text and images to grab your attention and explain a concept. Computer software programs such as QuickTime can be used to create animations or videos, which are a form of computer graphic design. </p> <h3 id="section---TypeDesign">Type Design</h3> <p>Often you might skim over the words in an ad or just read the text for its direct meaning, without noticing the typeface that was used. The formal construction of the words in an advertisement or design may not receive much notice by the reader, but it has an impact on how the image is perceived. By working in type design, you draw and present letters and words in ways that are aesthetically pleasing or unique in order to draw more attention to your message. </p> <h3 id="section---Education">Education</h3> <p>Undergraduate programs are available in computer graphic design at many universities, community colleges and trade schools, and graduates can qualify for entry-level design positions. If you're interested in teaching or managerial positions, a graduate degree might be necessary. Classes you might complete in a computer graphic design program include graphic communication, documentary production, broadcasting, illustrating, art fundamentals, mass media and critical thinking. </p> <h3 id="section---Portfolio">Portfolio</h3> <p>Building up a great portfolio can be crucial to getting hired. Using completed school projects is an easy way to flesh out your portfolio. You can also add computer graphic designs you have created in your off time to your portfolio and show your work to an instructor for some feedback. Additionally, participating in internship or externship opportunities may provide you with some practical experience in the field as well as the opportunity to build up your portfolio. </p> <h3 id="section---CareerOpportunities">Career Opportunities</h3> <p>As a computer graphic designer, you have several career options to choose from. If you are solely interested in expressing yourself creatively, you might want to become an artist. </p> <p>If you're more interested in helping a company, business or organization convey a message to an audience, then you might want to pursue a career as a graphic designer. In this career, you'd consult with your clients to understand the message they want to send and identify the target audience and then create appropriate media. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the expected overall job decline rate for graphic designers from 2021-2031 was 3%, though opportunities should vary widely by industry. For example, jobs as computer systems analysts were forecast to increase by 9%. As of 2021, graphic designers earned a median salary of $50,710. </p> <p>If you're more interested in organizing and formatting existing information and images, then you may want to consider a career as a desktop publisher. These professionals decide on the arrangement of text and images for brochures, calendars, newsletters, newspapers, books and magazines. However, you should be aware that a 14% decrease in employment is predicted for the 2021-2031 decade. In 2021, desktop publishers earned a median annual wage of $46,910, all per the BLS.</p>