What is graphic design? Well, according to the Webster dictionary, the term graphic design means “the art or profession of using design elements to convey information or create an effect.” This is mostly accurate from our point of view — of course, graphic design jobs can be highly specialized, but it’s a fitting general description.
As for the second part, the answer is both yes and no. Yes, anyone can set out to learn graphic design. Education should be open to anyone who is dedicated to their graphic design programs! Does everyone master the skills needed to move on to a full-time graphic design career? No, they don’t. Graphic design careers take both talent and skill, which must be developed over time.
SO, WHAT IS GRAPHIC DESIGN?
What is graphic design? When we look at this question a little more in-depth, it’s not so black and white. Graphic design job descriptions can vary widely since there are so many things that fall under the umbrella of graphic design!
Graphic design is a wonderfully varied design industry discipline filled with niches and specialties. Individuals interested in a certain aspect of graphic design (layout, typography, print advertising, etc.) can specialize in their area of choice while still maintaining general knowledge of the industry. Specialization can often bring higher-paying work, but there may be more difficulty in finding a position that needs to be filled.
CAN ANYONE LEARN HOW TO DO IT?
A graphic design career begins with an educational foundation in the basic principles of design, art history, and design theory. These subjects and more are core elements of most graphic design programs. Individuals who choose to self-educate will need to make sure that they secure a well-rounded course of study in order to have the best chances of success in the design industry.
Learning graphic design takes time, dedication, and an affinity for the creative arts. While talent is largely innate, skill can be learned, and any dedicated and passionate student has the potential within them to have a successful graphic design career!
WHERE AND HOW CAN I LEARN GRAPHIC DESIGN?
Many students choose to pursue their graphic design education at a college specializing in creative arts or digital media programs, though many colleges have graphic design programs as a part of their course catalog. Some students choose to go to school for graphic design online, though this requires much discipline.
Each of these is a viable option, depending on the learning needs and style of the student. There are advantages and disadvantages to each approach. For a majority of students, learning graphic design through a traditional design college is the best option: financing is often easier to obtain (student loans and grants), courses are taught by verified professionals, and a well-rounded curriculum is assured.
If you often catch yourself marveling over the arrangement of elements in the advertisements you see daily, are intrigued by the packaging of your favorite products, or laugh every time you see the arrow in the FedEx logo (go look, we’ll wait) you might just have what it takes to have an amazing graphic design career!
WHAT IS GRAPHIC DESIGN? LEARN FROM THE BEST!
Here at F.I.R.S.T. Institute, we strive every day to be of service to our students and provide them with the very best graphic design education that we can offer. From a faculty composed of experienced design industry professionals to a broad spectrum of courses and a dedicated Career Development department, we ensure that our students receive the best possible educational opportunities. We give students access to everything they need to succeed, both in class and on the job.
If you’d like to know more about our Web Development and Graphic Design programs, please give us a call or send us an email! Our admissions team is standing by to answer any questions you might have.
