About Graphic Design Degrees: Our online degree programs in Graphic Design are geared toward graphic designers who are seeking a continuing education Diploma, Certificate, Associate, Bachelor's or Master's degree in the specialty concentrations of graphic design development, web graphic design, webmaster, multimedia, Internet applications, visual communications information architecture, e-commerce design applications and more.
Online Graphic Artist Information Artists create art to communicate ideas, thoughts or feelings. They incorporate a variety of methods, like painting, sculpting, or illustration and an assortment of materials, including oils, watercolors, acrylics, pastels, pencils, pen and ink, plaster, clay and computers. Artists' works may be classified as realistic, stylized, or abstract and may depict objects, people, nature or events.
Artists Artists generally fall into one of three categories: Art directors formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual communications media. Fine artists, including painters, sculptors and illustrators create original artwork using a variety of media and techniques. Multi-media artists and animators create special effects, animation, or other visual images using film, video, computers or other electronic media.
Conveying Materials Clearly to Clients Graphic designers work closely with clients, determining each client’s specific needs. They develop a design that will communicate the desired message for enhancing the client’s business, while adding beauty and creativity. The completed product may be presented in any number of formats, including promotional displays, layout and production of newspapers and magazines, marketing and media brochures, logos for business products, web page design and content, corporate reports and publications, signs and billboards, credits for television and movies, and animation projects. Graphic designers may also be contracted for weddings and other social functions in a variety of tasks, including invitations, programs and multimedia needs.
The growing presence of interactive media in cell phones, video games, PDA’s and web sites has increased the demand for well-educated, technologically up-to-date graphic designers. As a result, training for graphic designers includes a number of computer-related classes, as well as a balance of training in traditional and commercial art. Depending upon the chosen specialty, the use of professional computer graphics and design software programs has expanded the creative and artistic options for both designers and clients; so proficiency in these programs is required.
A bachelor’s degree program in graphic design may also include liberal arts classes in business, art history, psychology, writing, foreign language, sociology and cultural studies. These classes aid the graphic designer in navigating the business world and communicating sensitively with people from varied backgrounds.
Competition is keen for the best graphic design jobs; especially since many talented individuals are drawn to this career field. But those who have earned a bachelor’s degree in graphic arts, and who are trained in both web design and animation, are in the best position to win one of these exciting jobs. Approximately 25% of graphic designers are self-employed, working as freelance consultants; while others enjoy a career that involves the combination of a salaried job with consulting work. Employment in this field is expected to grow at least 10% though 2016.
