Do you know who created Nike’s logo? Who placed the photos and text on the pages of all the college brochures you receive in the mail? Who created the look of the characters and places in your favorite video or smartphone games? Chances are, a graphic designer created all of these visuals—company logos, college brochures and even game characters.
For this month’s College Major of the Month, let’s explore the field of graphic design.
What is graphic design? Graphic design is a college major that requires creativity, art and design knowledge, strong computer skills with certain design and publishing programs, and excellent communication skills to talk with and accept feedback from clients.
Graphic designers use type and images (photography, illustrations, etc.) to create print and digital materials that promote brands and products, inspire others, and convey messages. Graphic designers create everything from advertisements, company logos, marketing brochures, and product package designs to magazines, websites, corporate reports, books, and videos.
Graphic designers typically meet with clients to discuss project scope and ideas, and then produce a design that meets the client’s criteria and conveys the client’s identity and message. Possible job titles for graphic designers include: art director, creative director, medical illustrator, layout designer, multimedia designer, interactive designer, email marketing designer, web designer, web production artist, mobile designer, and game designer.
Graphic designers can work for almost any type of company, particularly in a communications department or for an advertising or marketing agency. Many graphic designers also work as freelancers, which means they own their own graphic design business.
What education and experience is required for graphic designers? Graphic designers typically need a bachelor’s degree in graphic design. Graphic design programs typically require courses in studio art, principles of design, computerized design, commercial graphics production, printing techniques, and website design. Courses in writing, marketing, or business may also be helpful.