Graphic Design Schools
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Many colleges and universities offer degrees in graphic design, but which university you'll want to attend really depends on what area of graphic design you want to get into.
If you’re looking to create graphics for advertisements or marketing publications, you may want to select a college with a good marketing program, as well as a good graphic design program. However, if your goal is to work in animation or film, you’ll want to look for colleges that have a strong program in those areas.
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Choosing a Graphic Design School
However, mo matter what you do, you’re going to need at least a bachelors degree for most entry level jobs – although some positions will only require an associate degree. You’ll probably going to want to get the four year degree, though, because you’ll be able to learn more about graphic design and command a higher salary when you do complete your education.
A few decades ago, graphic designers did most of their work using pencil and paper, while today, nearly everything is done on computers. As such, one of the things you’ll want to look at in choosing a graphic design program is how many classes in computer design you’ll be taking. To really get the most out of your degree, you’ll need to learn as many different graphic programs as you can. The programs you'll want to learn may also depend on the career path you plan to pursue – check with a firm that specializes in your field to see what programs they use regularly.
However, that’s not to say that you’ll want to find a school or program that focuses solely on computer graphics. You’ll most likely be required to take at least a few standard art classes during your first year in school. If you have a specific field you want to work in, it’s a good idea to find a few elective classes to supplement your program, or even consider minoring in that area. If you’re thinking about going into business for yourself or doing freelance graphic design work, a minor in business may be helpful.
As a graphic design student, you’ll take classes on principles of design, computer-aided design, commercial graphics, and possibly even web site design or a class specifically focused on creating graphics for websites. Since you’ll be working closely with your clients and colleagues, it’s not a bad idea to take a basic writing course – especially one that focuses on technical or business writing – to improve your communication skills.
But don’t expect to stop taking classes once you finish your degree. Graphic designers have to stay current with the newest graphic software, so you may need to do some continuing education classes during your career. Fortunately, most companies will pay for your training. However, if you’re a freelance graphic designer, you’ll either have to learn the new programs on your own or pay for the classes yourself.
With most colleges offering associates, bachelors, or even masters degrees in graphic design, chances are you’ll find a program that you enjoy and that suits your specific career goals. You may even be able to find an online program that fits your needs. The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, the Penn Foster Career School, and several other colleges offer online degrees in graphic design and related fields that allow you to work full-time while pursuing your goal of a career in graphic design.
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