Since this is a rapidly growing field, professions in Graphic Art are expected to grow at a steady job rate. Most designers are hired by large design firms, advertising firms, or publishing firms, which then it-turn hire out their specialties to other companies. In this type of work, an employee should be ready to meet strict demands from clients under extreme deadlines, but this also results in a steady paycheck of around $40k-80k per year.
There is also the option of completing freelance work for those who prefer to work alone and be their own boss. This requires more dedication as the clients are not found for the person, and typically requires a substantially larger portion of time spent working since the artist will handle all phases of the projects. Although payment is usually on a per client basis, it can often be substantial since some of the better freelance graphic artists make well into the six figure salary range. Of course, a sense of business marketing is also a good quality to possess.
Art & Design Programs
Associates 2 years
Bachelors 4 years
Master's 2-3 years
Doctoral 1-3 years
Most entry level jobs for this type of position will require a Bachelor’s degree since this is a very popular job field. In 2008, there were 286,100 employed in some form of Graphic Arts field, and this vocation is literally growing by leaps and bounds. Many colleges now offer Graphic Art curriculums as well; they tend to focus on design aspects and liberal arts.
There is also the option of getting an Associate’s degree n this industry. This would be a 2 to 3 year program that would teach the technical side of Graphic Art, which would be perfect for those straight out of high school that are still a little unsure about the field. Most graduates can get a job as a graphic designer’s assistant with this type of degree, which is a solid foot in the door towards bigger and better things.
A graduate or Master’s degree is not that common for Graphic Art. However, there are a few programs available for those that wish to have a stand-out resume and extra study. A Master of Fine Arts degree is typically the way to go since there is no doctorate available for Graphic Art, or a MFA would allow someone to teach at a university level. The graduate thesis for this type of degree is much different from that of other academic choices; in Graphic Art, the students are not required to make a new development on their field but to show their status as a designer.
Graphic Art offers a wide range of possibilities for future employees since this field is used in just about every market available today. Everyone needs a way of displaying their products or services and that demand will only increase in the future with companies displaying their logos throughout cyberspace and in many other new venues. For those that are creative and are seeking a way to display their creativity in a growing job market, a degree in Graphic Art could literally lead to a lifetime of success.
