A career change is always tempting when you are tired of your current job, but deciding on a new path can be very daunting. You certainly don’t want to start training in something where there aren’t many jobs left. However, it is currently the perfect time to pursue a future in Graphic Design. Want to know more? Just read ahead for some very compelling reasons why being a graphic designer is a fantastic option right now.
What do graphic designers do?
Put simply, a graphic designer is someone who creates visual designs for other people, be it through the creation of new art or using preexisting resources. This can either be done the old-fashioned way through physical mediums like paper, or more commonly, on a digital workspace with software. Also, it’s important to note that a graphic designer doesn’t just make art. It’s a very engaging field where you use art as a tool to accomplish complex tasks. That is why a degree in this particular field can present plenty of opportunities.
In today’s world of our social-media driven lives, having interesting and engaging visuals is more important than ever for businesses. That’s why despite the print media industry dwindling, the call for more graphic designers is constant. From logos to signs to menus, there’s a need for eye-popping images that will draw customers in.
Examples of Jobs
While it’s true that creating images is essentially what a graphic designer does, there is actually a large variety of jobs available. It’s the application of what a designer creates that is one of the sources of career diversity, which can allow you go into very different sectors. A restaurant might need help with an advertisement campaign, or a small startup might be looking for the perfect logo to compliment their business. On top of that, you can find yourself getting involved with:
• Animation
• Digital Designs
• Art Directing
• Video Editing
• Web Development
• Craft and Visual Designs
• UX Designs
• Industrial Design
• Motion Graphics
Reasons to get into graphic design:
Now that you are aware of the basics of graphic design, it’s important to know why getting into the field can be extremely fulfilling. After all, there are plenty of fields that might be better if you were only after the money. On top of getting paid though, here are four reasons why you might want to consider this career path.
1. Get paid to be creative
A lot of industries are pretty paint-by-numbers and dull. Why not go for a job where you can flex your imagination? That way, you keep things engaging and interesting for yourself. Having a hobby is important for your mental health. With graphic design, you can roll two things into one.
2. Work for Yourself
Of course, you will end up working for other people, but you do ultimately get to choose who those people are. Do you want to freelance for local businesses, or maybe even start a graphic design business? You have plenty of options, and that all starts with your own choice.
3. Variety of Work
As mentioned before, graphic design is heavily involved with many different industries. If you have a particular interest in a field, you can get involved through your work. Have a passion for music? Art and music go hand in hand. Always wanted to work with food? Restaurants need help with advertising and many other graphical-related aspects. The possibilities are endless, and you just need to go out there and get it.
4. Helping Create a Brand
Branding is an incredibly important, because it’s how a business or company can build up the power of its name. It is what the general public will forever associate with a certain product, and the start of every good brand is a graphic designer. Knowing that you are a part of someone’s success can be extremely fulfilling and empowering.
By the Numbers
Even with those advantages, it’s still important to know just how much you can expect to make as a graphic designer. Studies have shown that in the last few years, the average salary has stayed just around the $50,000 range. Of course, this all depends on who you work for and how much experience you have. However, it’s still a good number to keep in mind.
Where to Study
1. Royal College of Art
The Royal College of Art in London is one of the most famous design schools in the world, and for good reason. It consistently ranks near the top in many lists, including being named the top school for art and design by the QS World University Rankings, a title it has held for many consecutive years. The main catch is that they do not have an undergraduate program, and only have postgraduate courses.
2. University of the Arts London
Another well-known program in the UK is at the University of the Arts London, which has students from all over the world. On the QS World University Rankings, it stays near the top of the pack, placing second in art and design for 2019, 2021, and 2023.
3. Parsons School of Design
For something in the United States, there’s the Parsons School of Design in New York. A private art and design college, it is one of the oldest design institutions in the United States, and continues a long tradition of excellence in the field.
4. Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Possibly the most famous and storied institution on this list, some people might not even be aware that MIT has a top-notch graphic design program. Like Parsons, it is often named as one of the best art and design schools in the USA.
Final Word
Pursuing a graphic design degree will be a lot of hard work, but it can be extremely rewarding especially if you have a passion for it. Do your research to see if this industry is for you, and then you can start on a creative and very fulfilling journey.
