Traits of Great Graphic Design Programs

Creativity and a shot at a lucrative career are the focus of graphic design programs across the country. Professional graphic designers can find opportunities in an almost unlimited number of places; magazine advertisements, billboards, and 3D animation used in a diverse array of electronic media applications. Online marketing is largely dependent on the proper use of graphics and the magazine industry still employs many professionals geared towards offering their knowledge and skill in graphic design. With a degree program in the field, one not only gains valuable experience, but gets to mix creativity with the learning process.

Studying graphic design allows one to partake in various projects; some can be solely for learning and some that have applications in the real world. Collaboration with other students and media professionals is also a focus which helps to prepare the student for a career in a large industry. The educational experience is therefore not one of merely getting through school. It entails actual work that mirrors the techniques and environment of the prevailing working culture. Students have a firsthand look at how they fit in and can be fully prepared for a job in a creative and demanding field.


Since working with graphics is so closely intertwined with advertising, many graphic design programs include concentrations on print media as well as digital media outlets on the Internet. Some, in fact, feature a liberal arts format in which the student gets a comprehensive background in the field to incorporate this knowledge in their work. The development of a unique personal style is often encouraged, even through basic courses such as art history, typography, and courses in business practices. Specialized curricula such as web design and motion graphics can provide the opportunity for one to focus their attention on in-demand graphics careers.

Other arts, film, or photography courses can be included in the program, as these are closely related to graphic design as well. The student may have a choice as to which they study, and may have a chance to personalize their program if this is desired. Throughout the course of study, a good graphics design school will provide the equipment necessary to maximize the learning experience. State-of-the-Art computers and popular graphics programs, along with word processing suites are often part of the learning process. Printers of different formats can be used as well, depending on the type of project being worked on.

Software for file management, video editing, website creation, and animation help in the learning process as well. The first step to selecting graphic design programs should be to assess what the school includes in its curriculum. Common graphics programs, understandably, are used quite a bit in the advertising and marketing world, and it should be a priority for a student to learn these and also use them to foster creativity. The collaborative and technical aspects should be emphasized, but also instruction from professionals in the field. Instructors with a diverse impact on the field can provide students with technical and experiential knowledge that can help in the real world.

The recognition of the students, faculty, and alumni by the school is important as well. This not only helps to emphasize the collaborative nature of the program, but to show the dedication to the facility's purpose. When the work of all is highlighted, confidence is further built that the program is able to prepare one for the hard and rewarding work ahead. The school's helpfulness in guiding the admissions process is a good indicator as well, while financial aid for tuition and other expenses can be helpful in many situations. It is wise to consider good graphics design programs which are part of well-rounded institutions that are reputable and integrated with their area of study.