Going to college for graphic design can be very rewarding, and it can also be a lot of fun!
Many prospective students are faced with the decision between whether to learn graphic design online, or in a physical classroom environment through a traditional graphic design school. For some the choice is a difficult one, for others the choice is easier to make. We’re breaking down the pros and cons of each!
PROS & CONS: LEARNING AT HOME
Choosing to learn graphic design online (also known as distance learning) can be a great choice for some students. On the plus side, any program that is web-based or can pretty much go where you go, meaning you can learn from home. That’s about where the pros of an online graphic design program start and stop.
On to the negatives: there is no real connection involved — students don’t get a chance to really interact with anyone face to face, or work hands-on in a group setting. It is much, much harder to learn and stay motivated in this setting, not to mention you miss out on the networking opportunities afforded by more traditional colleges for graphic design.
PROS & CONS: LEARNING AT SCHOOL
When you’re looking into learning graphic design, traditional graphic design schools can be a great way to break into the design industry. There are also many well-known schools in different locations all around the world that focus exclusively on the different areas of design.
Yes, a more traditional approach to learning (in this case physically attending courses in a classroom) might seem more limiting, but this stability actually ensures that students have a home base from which to explore, learn, and grow. Plus, future employers like to see a diploma from an accredited graphic design school that proves that you know what you’re doing!
HOW SHOULD YOU LEARN GRAPHIC DESIGN?
Answer: However you want! You should answer the question of how to learn graphic design in whatever way suits you best. You know your needs and your learning style better than anyone, so be sure that you’re taking in all of the information that you can and using it to your advantage.
We have seen numerous students over the years benefit from learning in a classroom setting with instructors and classmates physically present. There’s really nothing that can compare to the experience of being able to turn to the person next to you for input, or raising your hand and getting feedback from your instructor.
WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR EDUCATION, ONLY YOU KNOW WHAT’S BEST!
We can make suggestions all day long, and tell you the pros and cons as we see them, and we’re happy to do so. Our goal here at F.I.R.S.T. Institute is to make sure that you have all of the information you need to make the decision that is right for you.
EXPLORE COLLEGE FOR GRAPHIC DESIGN AT F.I.R.S.T. INSTITUTE
You’ll love our hands-on approach to learning graphic design! Here at F.I.R.S.T. Institute‘s Graphic Design School, we do all we can to ensure that our students receive the best possible educational opportunities while in college for graphic design. We give students access to everything they need to succeed in the design industry, including Career Development courses, both in class and on the job.
If you’d like to know more about our Graphic Design and Web Development program, please give us a call or send us an email! Our admissions team is standing by to answer any questions you might have about attending college for graphic design.
