Guide to Graphic Design Education and Training

A career in graphic design can be an exciting and lucrative one. It allows you to express yourself in creative ways at the same time as challenging you with new technology. As a graphic designer, you can find yourself working in many industries such as advertising, education, entertainment, web design or journalism.

In order to have the best chance at a promising career it is important that you get the proper graphic design education and training.

When considering a career in graphic design you need to:

1. Obtain graphic designer education and training.
2. Choose the institution that is right for you.
3. Concentrate on gaining valuable experience.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find graphic design schools that offer Bachelor's degrees

A university with graphic design degree programs is going to provide you with the best, most complete and well-rounded education you can get. A university can also provide you with internships, job placement and other tools needed upon graduation.

I recommend: Have a look at graphic design programs offered at the Art Institute of Cincinnati, the University of Phoenix, or Brooks Institute.  

Get an Associate's degree in graphic design at a community college

Many community colleges offer programs in graphic design. A two-year program gives you experience, an internship and job placement as well. A community college is cheaper in price and more accommodating to working adults.

I recommend: Find a local community college at Community College Web or Community College USA.

Go to a technical school to get graphic designer education and training

A technical school provides training that is more concentrated in preparation for the workforce immediately. Graphic design training programs may be a short as two weeks, or as long as two years.

I recommend: Search for technical graphic design schools at Technical Schools Guide or ACTE Online.

Get internships in the field while in school

An internship gives you valuable hands-on experience in a real working environment. Some internships are paid, but most are not. Do an internship during summer breaks while in college.

I recommend: Find an internship at AllGraphicDesign.com or ArtsOpportunities.org.

Find online graphic design courses

Online graphic design schools may generally not be as credible as bricks and mortar schools, but they are low-cost, easy access and effective. Most of the programs can be completed in your spare time at your own pace, but will give you the tools you need to success in graphic design.

I recommend: Earn one from the Art Institute Online, eLearners, University of Pheonix or from American InterContinental University Online.  

Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• Apply for financial aid, which is available in every level of training.
• Have a very professional, well-written resume.
• Spend much time putting together a good quality portfolio featuring samples of your best work.

The official source of Graphic Design Education and Training is
the Graphic Design Education and Training page at Business.com