A degree in graphic design can open up a range of potential career paths, from advertising to web design. Creative individuals who pursue a degree in graphic design can gain the skills and knowledge needed to create visually appealing images, logos, and layouts.
With a degree in graphic design, students can specialize in an area or explore different mediums. They may learn the basics of typography, page layout, illustration, animation, and photography.
Potential career options for those with a degree in graphic design include advertising designer, web designer, corporate communications designer, interactive media designer, multimedia artist/animator, and video game artist. Advertising designers create visuals for print ad campaigns that appear in magazines and newspapers. Web designers create the look and feel of websites using HTML and other coding languages. Corporate communications designers develop designs for company newsletters or brochures that present a company’s image and services to customers.
Interactive media designers create interactive projects such as CD-ROMs or other digital media presentations. Multimedia artists/animators are responsible for creating special effects or animated sequences used in movies or video games. Video game artists develop realistic characters or environments for video games.
Masters Programs Available
Those with a degree in graphic design may choose to pursue advanced training at the graduate level. There are many masters programs available including a Master of Fine Arts (MFA), Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MS), and even Phd programs. An MFA is typically considered the terminal degree program in the visual arts field because it focuses on developing creative problem solving skills and independent artistic expression that is not necessarily learned through classroom instruction.
MA degrees often focus more on research-based topics like art history or art theory than MFA degrees do; however, there are some MA programs that focus on developing practical skills such as studio practice or digital technology.
MS degrees tend to be more focused on technical skills such as computer programming or digital imaging software applications than either MFA or MA degrees are.
Conclusion
For those with a degree in graphic design there are many masters courses available that will help them further their career prospects. These courses range from research based topics such as art history to more technical courses such as computer programming or digital imaging software applications.