As the world of graphic design grows, so does the demand for designers “who are able to work across platforms and technologies, seamlessly interweaving print, media, user-experiences, and the markets they serve,” according to College Majors 101. Rochester Institute of Technology describes graphic designers as “visual problem-solvers” whose major prepares them to effectively utilize various concepts and forms of media with the purpose of entertaining, engaging, and educating an audience. For anyone interested or planning to major in Graphic Design, here are a few potential career options.
Related: Getting Your Graphic Design Degree
Graphic designer
Median annual salary: $46,900
Graphic designers maintain archives of previous work samples; develop graphics, logos, and layouts for products and companies; and review final layouts. Their duties include meeting with the art director to develop a project’s scope, creating visual elements to convey a message and present it to art directors.
Art director
Median annual salary: $86,760
Art directors work with clients, department heads, and creative directors. With clients, they determine objectives and budgets; with department heads, they discuss client requirements and presentation concepts in order to coordinate creative activities; and with creative directors, they develop design solutions. Additionally, art directors manage the design staff, review and approve designs, and present designs to their clients for approval.
Creative director
Median annual salary: $83,429
Creative directors lead departmental teams that are responsible for not only creating but implementing works for different company projects.
Multimedia artist/animator
Median annual salary: $63,970
Multimedia artists and animators design graphics and animation, edit animation, and develop promotional products such as technical illustrations and brochures to be used in manuals and products.
Software quality assurance tester
Median annual salary: $85,340
Software quality assurance testers design test plans, scripts, and procedures. They identify and analyze document problems and participate in product design reviews to ensure a positive user experience.
Technical artist
Median annual salary: $67,249
Although they work in various industries, technical artists use advanced computer software tools to develop digital media and artistic projects.
Pre-press technician
Median annual salary: $36,734
Pre-press technicians prepare material for the printing process and ensure it adheres to company requirements and is completed properly.
Related: Visual Arts and Design Majors and Potential Jobs
A degree in Graphic Design will provide you with the skills to work in many different industries and different parts of a company, including creative, advertising, and marketing departments. For those worried about stability, “the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that occupational growth for graphic designers will hold steady through 2024,” according to My College Guide. Additionally, they also estimate the growth of this industry to increase by 27% between 2014 and 2024. This versatile degree just might be what you were looking for!
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