How to Be a Professional Graphic Designer

Graphic designers, also called graphic artists, "plan, analyze and create visual solutions to communications problems" by using graphics, colors, typesets, photography and animation in print and web layouts, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Becoming a graphic designer requires education, natural talent and experience with technical software.

Instructions

1. Apply to a college, university or design school that offers a bachelor's degree in graphic design. The BLS says a bachelor's in graphic design usually is the minimum requirement for entry-level graphic design jobs. You will take classes such as "studio art, principles of design, computerized design, commercial graphics production, printing techniques, and Web site design," the BLS reports.

2. Apply to a professional design school and earn an associate's degree or a certificate in graphic design if a four-year college or design school is not an option for you. Be warned, however, that an associate's degree or a certificate will allow you to work only as an assistant to a graphic designer or "for positions requiring technical skills only," according to the BLS.

3. Complete a two-year or three-year design program from a professional design school, if you already have a bachelor's degree in a different field.

4. Take a few business courses; many graphic designers are self-employed. The BLS says, "People in this field need self-discipline to start projects on their own, to budget their time, and to meet deadlines and production schedules. Good business sense and sales ability also are important, especially for those who freelance or run their own firms."

5. Apply to a design firm. Many graphic designers need between one and three years of work-related experience to advance in a design firm, reports the BLS.

Tips & Warnings

• According to the BLS, there are about 300 postsecondary schools that offer programs in art and design, and most offer a degree in graphic design. In order to be accepted into the degree program, you often have to complete a year of basic art and design classes; high school classes might satisfy this requirement. You also might have to present an art portfolio for admission, the BLS says.

References

• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics: Graphic Designers