Graphic designer

Entry Requirements:

You can get into this job through:

• a university course
• a college course

University

You could take a foundation degree, higher national diploma or degree in a design related subject like:

• graphic design
• art and design
• communication design
• illustration

Getting work experience during your course will give you an advantage when you start applying for jobs. Talk to your university careers service about work experience, internship and year placement opportunities, as well as any support offered to help you build a portfolio.

Entry requirements:

• a foundation diploma in art and design
• 1 or 2 A levels, or equivalent, for a foundation degree or higher national diploma
• 2 to 3 A levels, or equivalent, for a degree

College

You could take a college course in graphic design or art and design, and use this to join a company as a design assistant.

You would need a good portfolio to showcase your skills to employers.

Entry requirements:

Entry requirements:

Required Skills:

Digital skills : to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

Skills:

• design skills and knowledge
• to be thorough and pay attention to detail
• knowledge of media production and communication
• knowledge of the fine arts
• the ability to come up with new ways of doing things
• excellent verbal communication skills
• thinking and reasoning skills
• to be flexible and open to change
• the ability to work well with your hands
• the ability to use your initiative
• ambition and a desire to succeed
• knowledge of English language
• knowledge of computer operating systems, hardware and software
• the ability to read English
• active listening skills
• the ability to think clearly using logic and reasoning
• the ability to learn through your work
• operations analysis skills
• concentration skills
• physical skills like movement, coordination, dexterity and grace

What you'll do:

Graphic designers create visual branding, adverts, brochures, magazines, website designs, product packaging and displays.

As a graphic designer, you could:

• discuss the client's requirements and come up with creative ideas
• work out budgets and deadlines
• produce rough drafts and present your ideas
• prepare designs using specialist software
• make presentations to clients for feedback and approval
• keep up with design trends and developments in software tools

Location : You could work in a creative studio, in an office, at a client's business or from home.

Salary:

Starter : £20,000
Experienced : £40,000

These figures are a guide

Working hours:

37 - 40 hours a week

Working Pattern is evenings occasionally

Career Path:

With experience, you could:

• become a senior designer or creative director
• move into project or studio management
• go freelance or start your own design agency
• move into teaching or lecturing