Graphic Design

FAQ

• What does a graphic designer do?

  Graphic designers conceptualize and produce visual communications on behalf of brands in the form of advertisements and marketing materials, social media creative, brand assets like logos, websites and other interactive media. Typically using digital tools and programs, graphic designers establish and maintain a brand’s aesthetic and identity through visual means, ensuring the brand is recognizable, unique yet still reflecting contemporary trends. These designers might work in house for one brand, at an agency with multiple clients, or as self-employed freelancers on a project-by-project basis.

• How long does it take to become a graphic designer?

  While some courses can be taken in as little as 6-10 weeks, most diplomas and degrees offered take between one and four years to complete. These degrees and diplomas are typically full-time programs that encompass everything from the foundations of design principles to intermediate or advanced technical skills in Adobe Photoshop, whereas the individual courses are likely designed as complements, refresher courses or upskilling offerings for those who already have a basis in graphic design.

• What qualifications are needed to be a graphic designer?

  To be a viable candidate for a graphic designer job, you likely need a diploma or degree in a related arts field. But just as important is your portfolio, a selection of work that showcases your artistic range and versatility, technical skills and unique aesthetic while also highlighting your experience in school and working with brands during internships, freelance contracts or at previous jobs. To stand out, a portfolio should be made up of your best work, while still authentically reflecting your capabilities as a designer; selecting projects that reflect the type of work you might be doing in the job you’re applying for can also give you a leg up during the evaluation process, showing your familiarity with certain programs, clients or project requirements.

• What is the salary of a graphic designer?

  According to Talent.com, the average salary for a graphic designer is $50,500, though pay starts as low as $40,000 and goes as high as $76,000. A junior designer might start closer to $35,000 per year, according to Glassdoor. Further specializing can increase your pay; Motion Designers average a salary of $54,287 annually, while UX Designers make $70,869.

  An Art Director salary could average $83,494 a year, according to Indeed, but might make as much as $157,000 annually. The average Creative Director salary is $143,623, with a top end rate closer to $173,000 per year.

• Can you freelance as a graphic designer?

  Freelancing is very common among graphic designers, who often work with a variety of clients on projects of all sizes. Because design needs can ebb and flow for a company, particularly for smaller brands, there are ample opportunities for graphic designers to work on a project-by-project basis, being hired to produce brand assets, visuals for a particular campaign, assets for a website redesign, etc.

  Freelancing affords designers flexibility and autonomy in their work, while also creating space to carve out distinct niches or styles that clients specifically seek out, but this pathway can be a little more unpredictable than an in-house role. Designers who pursue the freelance path should be ready to manage themselves as a business, handling sales and marketing, while also having good accounting hygiene to be well equipped when tax season arrives.