Career Outlook

Graphic designers have important role in visual communications.

Graphic Design at a Glance

Education Required

A Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design is generally required to break into this profession. Graphic designers must keep up with new and updated computer graphics and design software, either on their own or through formal software training programs.

Typical Tasks Performed

Graphic designers create visual concepts, by hand or using computer software, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers. Some responsibilities include:

Meet with clients or the art director to determine the scope of a project
Advise clients on strategies to reach a particular audience
Determine the message the design should portray
Create images that identify a product or convey a message

Outlook for Employment

Employment of graphic designers is projected to grow about 7 percent through 2024. Graphic designers will continue to play important roles in the marketing of products. With the increased use of the internet, graphic designers will be needed to create designs and images for portable devices, websites, electronic publications, and video entertainment media. Most graphic designers work full time, but schedules can vary depending on workload and deadlines.

Industries That Employed the Most Graphic Designers in 2014:

Specialized design services – 10%
Advertising, public relations, and related services – 8%
Newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers – 7%
Printing and related support activities – 7%
Wholesale trade – 6%

Please note that these are national statistics and projections that might vary by location.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2016-17 Edition https://www.bls.gov/ooh/arts-and-design/graphic-designers.htm#tab-1