What Graphic Designers DoDesign or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.
- Determine size and arrangement of illustrative material and copy, and select style and size of type.
- Confer with clients to discuss and determine layout design.
- Create designs, concepts, and sample layouts, based on knowledge of layout principles and esthetic design concepts.
- Develop graphics and layouts for product illustrations, company logos, and Web sites.
- Use computer software to generate new images.
Graphic Designers Education, Salary, and GrowthOnly you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.
Minimum EducationBachelor Degree
Career ProspectsGood (Increasing by 1-5%)
Training Time2 to 4 years
Job Openings20,000 Annually
Median Earnings
$76,440 in California
$61,300 Nationally
$0
$25K
$50K
$75K
$100K
$125K
$150K
$175K
$200K
$225K
$250K
Real Talk Reel
We've curated a playlist for you to get a glimpse into a day in the life of this career.
@niyushii
Is This Career Right For You?
YOU Like
- Being creative or artistic
- Influencing or leading others
- Working with my hands
you value
- Accomplishing things
- Having freedom
- Receiving recognition
you are skilled in
- Active Listening
- Coordination
- Critical Thinking
- Speaking
- Judgment and Decision Making
- Monitoring
Go Deeper: Graphic Designers Explained
Graphic DesignerExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.
How Do You Train for This Career?
Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.
Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years
Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years
Hybrid CollegeA hybrid college combines online learning with the student support typically offered on college campuses, giving students flexibility and accessibility while still providing a comprehensive educational experience.
🎓 College
⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years
Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.
🎓 Skills-Focused
⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years
find training near you
Find local programs, apprenticeships, or degrees to start your path.
Enter your location to see training near you
What Is the Arts Media & Performance Industry?
Arts Media & PerformanceThe primary activities of this group involve creating, producing, and promoting artistic and cultural works, facilitating entertainment and sports-related activities, and sharing news and information to audiences through various media platforms.