How to Become Graphic Design Instructor

The next generation of graphic designers needs to be taught by intelligent and well-spoken instructors. Graphic designers who want to supplement their incomes and offer expertise to young students take positions as instructors at local universities. You can diversify your resume and build connections with young designers when you become a graphic design instructor.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Instructional samples of graphic design

1. Show your interest in teaching as you pursue your undergraduate degree in graphic design. You should take the lead in group projects in three-dimensional design courses and offer to assist teachers with projects before you graduate.

2. Prepare for a career as a graphic-designer instructor by completing a master's degree in graphic design. A graduate degree in graphic design allows you to gain a deeper understanding in typography, color schemes and formatting.

3. Seek teaching certification through your state's Department of Education if you plan on teaching below the university level. Most states require art teachers to demonstrate competency through certification tests and regular reviews by state officials.

4. Teach summer courses at a local high school to build up experience as a graphic-designer instructor. These courses allow you to pursue other projects while getting comfortable with teaching in front of a diverse group of students.

5. Attend graphic design and visual-arts conferences around the country to develop a network of professional contacts. You should speak with university professors who posses a similar design aesthetic. This may give you the opportunity to build relationships necessary for advancing your teaching career.

6. Work with fellow designers in your community on public art projects to draw attention to your portfolio. Teachers, university officials and local artists who view these projects may offer leads on teaching jobs.

7. Discuss the history of graphic design in academic articles. University presses and publishers who deal with visual-arts issues encourage submissions by graphic-design instructors who want to further the intellectual study of art. These articles can be good for showing to potential employers.

8. Create sample advertisements, paintings and other projects to show students how to become technically sound designers. You should look over your lesson plan, and use your years of graphic design experience to generate examples as guides for your students.

Tips & Warnings

• Write out a brief biographical sketch for the benefit of your students as you become a graphic-designer instructor. This sketch should feature your educational background and work experiences, offering an example of success in the design industry. Update this document regularly as you move from position to position.

Who Can Help Sponsored

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