Where do Graphic Designers Work?

by Sarah Clark
Career Training Directory Columnist

Graphic designers are creative professionals who use color, typography, images, and layout to communicate a message. They work for a variety of organizations, from advertising agencies and multinational corporations to nonprofits and government agencies.

Many people think that graphic designers work only for communications firms or design agencies, but graphic design jobs are found in all types of sectors. The computer software industry, for example, uses designers to create the front-end interfaces of their applications. Large corporations employ full-time graphic designers to support their marketing departments and create material: slides, brochures, logos, and business cards. Graphic designers may also work nonprofit organizations or government agencies, creating posters and newsletters to inform citizens of new programs or raise awareness of social issues.

Tools of the Trade

Why should aspiring designers care about this? The kind of place you see yourself working as a designer could affect the type of graphic design education choices you make today. If you work for a computer software company, for instance, you may wish to learn more about programming languages that can help you build a computerprogram interface, such as Javascript and HTML.

Likewise, if you plan to work for a large advertising agency, you might choose a curriculum that’s focused more on fine arts than computer programming or interactive design. You’ll be part of a creative team that produces an entire communications strategy, from websites and brochures to television commercials and sponsorships.

Your Graphic Design Education

As you plot your graphic design education, be sure to consider where in the design world you see yourself after graduation. The opportunities may be more diverse and far-reaching than you ever expected. And with the right training, you’ll have a shot at the career that tops your list.

About the Author

S. Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in postsecondary education and career development.

Source(s)

“Graphic Designers,” The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics