Graphic Communication Arts
Graphic communication or arts is the means by which designers use technology and visuals to convey messages, express ideas or sell products or services. Read on for more information about degree requirements, employment outlook and earnings for graphic communication professionals.
<h2 id="section---IsGraphicCommunicationArtsForMe">Is Graphic Communication Arts for Me?</h2>
<h3 id="section---CareerOverview">Career Overview</h3>
<p>In graphic communication or arts, creative and visual thinking come together with information and technology to educate a target audience or to entice consumers into purchasing products or services. The <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Graphic_Arts_Majors_Your_Questions_Answered.html">graphic artist</a> can often serve as the conduit between a business and their customers, as they transform strategic concepts and marketing messages into visual representations. The work of the graphic artist or designer can be found everywhere, from the ad on the side of a bus to the fancy animation on a website.
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<h3 id="section---EmploymentInformation">Employment Information</h3>
<p>As a qualified graduate of a graphic design or another related program, you may be able to find a job in advertising, multimedia design or publishing. A specialization in branding and corporate identity is also a possibility. You might even strike out on your own and work on a freelance basis for a variety of different companies. This is a highly competitive field, and experience in animation and website development may provide you with an advantage in the job market, especially if you're interested in pursuing a career as a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_are_the_Job_Duties_of_a_Web_Designer.html">Web designer</a>.
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<h3 id="section---JobGrowthAndSalary">Job Growth and Salary</h3>
<p>According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Graphic_Designer_Job_Duties_Career_Outlook_and_Education_Requirements.html">graphic designers</a> was expected to grow by 7% nationwide, or slower than average, between 2012 and 2022. As of May 2013, the median yearly wage for a graphic designer was $44,830 (<i>www.bls.gov</i>).
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<h2 id="section---HowCanIBecomeAGraphicCommunicationArtist">How Can I Become a Graphic Communication Artist?</h2>
<h3 id="section---EducationalRequirements">Educational Requirements</h3>
<p>As an aspiring graphic artist, you'll be able to choose from among several <a href="https://learn.org/multimedia/Graphic_Design_Degree_Options_-_Video.html">degree options</a>. According to the BLS, most entry-level positions require a bachelor's degree in <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Graphic_Arts_Bachelors_Degree_Programs.html">graphic arts</a> or <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Graphic_Design_Bachelor%27s_Degree.html">graphic design</a>. However, a <a href="https://learn.org/articles/What_is_a_Graphic_Design_Certificate.html">certificate</a> or <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Graphic_Art_and_Design_Associates_Degree.html">associate degree</a> in the same or a similar field of study might qualify you for a position as an assistant or design technician. <a href="https://learn.org/articles/Masters_in_Graphic_Arts_Program_FAQS.html">Master's degree</a> programs are also available and can help you stand out in the field.
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<p>Should you decide to begin a degree program, expect to take courses in 2-D and 3-D design, color, composition and drawing. You may also study art history and receive training in illustration and photography.</p>