20 answers
Kelly
Student
Singapore
10
Questions
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Is having a graphic designer degree worth it?
#design #graphic-design #art #designer
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20 answers
Ken T
Design
2
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Ken’s Answer
The way I hear your question, there are two parts.
(1) Do you need a degree to be a designer?
(2) Is a design degree worth the cost?
To answer the first one, you don't need a degree but it does help most people. For example, a designer named David Carson was influential in the 90's without a formal design degree. But this is probably the exception, like Bill Gates in the software world. Designers benefit a lot from good critique and feedback, which can be hard to find outside of a design class or program.
To answer the second one, many different institutions offer design degrees. The top private design schools can be expensive. But you can also get study design at a community college, or through an online program. I would also suggest applying for scholarships, not just from the school you're applying to, but from any source that might support your studies.
For me, a design degree was worth the cost. Working after classes, loans, and grants made it more accessible. But it's only worth it if it fits into your strengths. Are you too structured to be a painter, but not structured enough to be a computer programmer? Then design might be a good direction for you. Keep in mind that design is a broad field now. You may find that designing digital experiences makes the time and cost of a design degree more "worth it" for you.
(1) Do you need a degree to be a designer?
(2) Is a design degree worth the cost?
To answer the first one, you don't need a degree but it does help most people. For example, a designer named David Carson was influential in the 90's without a formal design degree. But this is probably the exception, like Bill Gates in the software world. Designers benefit a lot from good critique and feedback, which can be hard to find outside of a design class or program.
To answer the second one, many different institutions offer design degrees. The top private design schools can be expensive. But you can also get study design at a community college, or through an online program. I would also suggest applying for scholarships, not just from the school you're applying to, but from any source that might support your studies.
For me, a design degree was worth the cost. Working after classes, loans, and grants made it more accessible. But it's only worth it if it fits into your strengths. Are you too structured to be a painter, but not structured enough to be a computer programmer? Then design might be a good direction for you. Keep in mind that design is a broad field now. You may find that designing digital experiences makes the time and cost of a design degree more "worth it" for you.
James Newbery
Retail sales - training - leadership
40
Answers
Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
Updated
James’s Answer
The short answer is yes! the longer answer is doing a degree gives you a foundation for your goals within the creative industry. It gives you a learning platform to gain those skills and create your own brand - also gives you that confidence to go out in the wider community and showcase your brand and what you have to offer! It is also a good opportunity to create a portfolio of work to showcase to clients or job opportunities. It is also a great opportunity to meet people/network who have same interests as you. :)
Fiona G
Senior Communications Specialist
2
Answers
Arlington, Virginia
Updated
Fiona’s Answer
Not really - as long as you have an eye for what looks aesthetic and balanced, you can easily teach yourself graphic design. You can start with free platforms that have templates like Canva and free versions of Adobe programs. You should offer your services for free on a couple of small projects - perhaps for student groups on campus - so you can build a portfolio. Most graphic design work is done by communications professionals who can also do written projects or run social media accounts and content for the website. But here's the thing - you also don't need a communications degree to be a communications professional. You just need to write and edit well, show an aptitude for learning new skills, be a good problem solver and come up with innovative ideas, and get along with people - same as most jobs out there. Unless you want to really specialize, like in science, technology, medical fields, or continue in academia, the most important thing is being well rounded, having a good attitude, and double checking your work so you have a proven track record of not making mistakes.
Arah Bahn
User Experience Research and Design
6
Answers
Saint Paul, Minnesota
Updated
Arah’s Answer
Hi Kelly-
I would say yes, for the same reasons as have already been posted. I'd like to add emphasis on this one, though: a strong degree program can also help you hone some "soft" skills and emotional intelligence, which will come in handy in a graphic or UX design career. These skills include organizing and planning your work, writing, presenting, and working with a mix of people on project who have different skill sets, different fields of expertise, or diverse backgrounds in other ways.
Some people get good training on that early in life, and they may not need it so much as others. I know that I needed it in my degree programs - and I continued to learn and grow in this area through the first several years of my career. (And I'm still improving!)
Good luck to you!
I would say yes, for the same reasons as have already been posted. I'd like to add emphasis on this one, though: a strong degree program can also help you hone some "soft" skills and emotional intelligence, which will come in handy in a graphic or UX design career. These skills include organizing and planning your work, writing, presenting, and working with a mix of people on project who have different skill sets, different fields of expertise, or diverse backgrounds in other ways.
Some people get good training on that early in life, and they may not need it so much as others. I know that I needed it in my degree programs - and I continued to learn and grow in this area through the first several years of my career. (And I'm still improving!)
Good luck to you!
Eric Jackson
Marketing/Advertising
7
Answers
Franklin, Tennessee
Updated
Eric’s Answer
My opinion is the degree is very valuable for your own maturation and development. I pursued a BFA and found that my work from sophomore year to senior year was vastly improved. You need the time to mature and refine your ability to creatively solve design problems. I hear many say you don't need a degree to get a job and for some that may be true. When I hire I require a BFA or 4 year agree with a design focus as I find those candidates work to be far stronger over time and they can handle critical feedback much better. During school I did lots of freelance work and some of it for free just to get more experience. That work is very helpful to helping you get real experience and feedback. I also have found that the 4 year degree helps designers adapt better working within timelines and being able to manage their work which is critical for your career.
David Berlinguette
UX Designer
2
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
David’s Answer
I would say "yes". But just keep in mind that it's always the first step in a long journey. I've come across many recent grads who think the world owes them something, and as a hiring manager their resume goes to the bottom of the pile. Always be humble, but confident (if that makes sense).
I went to a two year graphic design and illustration program. It was just as computers were starting to break through. Many might say the skills we learned were not relevant to the changing industry, but they absolutely were. Learning design principles (unity through proximity, unity through space, unity through shape, etc...) will be in the back of your mind for your whole career, and will help you to make better decisions than people who don't have that background. School also taught me the importance of deadlines. Because of that, this is something I've never messed around with. If I say I'm going to have a deliverable at a certain time, lacking a REALLY GOOD EXCUSE, I will have it.
Finally, school is fun! You have freedom to do cool work, find what you love, and meet like-minded people without having the fear of a paycheck hanging over you. Not for a moment have I regretted any time spent in the classroom, and I go back for skill sharpening as often as I can.
I went to a two year graphic design and illustration program. It was just as computers were starting to break through. Many might say the skills we learned were not relevant to the changing industry, but they absolutely were. Learning design principles (unity through proximity, unity through space, unity through shape, etc...) will be in the back of your mind for your whole career, and will help you to make better decisions than people who don't have that background. School also taught me the importance of deadlines. Because of that, this is something I've never messed around with. If I say I'm going to have a deliverable at a certain time, lacking a REALLY GOOD EXCUSE, I will have it.
Finally, school is fun! You have freedom to do cool work, find what you love, and meet like-minded people without having the fear of a paycheck hanging over you. Not for a moment have I regretted any time spent in the classroom, and I go back for skill sharpening as often as I can.
Gio Wilentz
Brand Design
2
Answers
Oakland, California
Updated
Gio’s Answer
Whether or not a degree is worth it depends largely on the individual. The degree itself is less useful than going through the program. I completed all but my last six classes before taking an internship that turned into a full time entry-level job. Every designer on my team advised me that it was a waste of money to finish the degree for the sake of having the degree (especially as a returning student with a decade of work experience), because your portfolio is the most important factor when applying for jobs.
If you are a type A person, who is good at leveraging the people you know and online training resources like LinkedIn Learning or Skillshare, a formal design program may not be necessary to learn everything you need to get your first design job. However, you have to be extremely good at managing your time and keeping on track with training goals. If you choose this route, joining an organization like AIGA and going to networking events, or finding mentors on LinkedIn, will be extremely important.
However, if you're like many of us, going through a formal design program through a university is an invaluable way to learn the basics of design: terminology, building an eye for good design, and—probably most important—learning productive ways to handle feedback and critiques. The people you meet in your program, both students and instructors, are also an invaluable network for those searching for their first design job.
If you are a type A person, who is good at leveraging the people you know and online training resources like LinkedIn Learning or Skillshare, a formal design program may not be necessary to learn everything you need to get your first design job. However, you have to be extremely good at managing your time and keeping on track with training goals. If you choose this route, joining an organization like AIGA and going to networking events, or finding mentors on LinkedIn, will be extremely important.
However, if you're like many of us, going through a formal design program through a university is an invaluable way to learn the basics of design: terminology, building an eye for good design, and—probably most important—learning productive ways to handle feedback and critiques. The people you meet in your program, both students and instructors, are also an invaluable network for those searching for their first design job.
Pamela Galante
Senior Graphic Designer
23
Answers
Manchester, New Hampshire
Updated
Pamela’s Answer
I would look at job postings of industries/companies you could see yourself applying to someday. If they are saying a degree is a "must" or a "plus," then I would say it is important. There will always be instances where your portfolio could outshine a degree, or that you may find a company where a degree is not required. I think more often than not, design jobs will require a 4 year degree.
If you think you have the natural talent and drive to do what it takes to build up a portfolio and your skills without a degree, then that is certainly something to think about. But I think that college can be helpful and a useful life experience, and it just may require you looking for a school that can give you the necessary skills, but not cause you deep into debt. You definitely do not need to/should not go to a fancy art school that will put you hundreds of thousands of dollars into debt to achieve a degree. I believe that there are good programs out there that will not cost you an arm and a leg.
I went to an in-state liberal arts school with a Graphic Design program where I could graduate with a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts). YLooking for programs that are balanced in their print/digital design, or a bit digital heavy will be a plus. Finding a program that gives you the option to get a BFA vs a BA (Bachelor of Arts) in Graphic Design could also be a plus.
Look into schools around you to get an idea of what their Design programs are like
Can you speak to teachers/graduates/current students at those schools?
Look into job listings for companies/industries you could see yourself working in, to see what their educational requirements are
If you think you have the natural talent and drive to do what it takes to build up a portfolio and your skills without a degree, then that is certainly something to think about. But I think that college can be helpful and a useful life experience, and it just may require you looking for a school that can give you the necessary skills, but not cause you deep into debt. You definitely do not need to/should not go to a fancy art school that will put you hundreds of thousands of dollars into debt to achieve a degree. I believe that there are good programs out there that will not cost you an arm and a leg.
I went to an in-state liberal arts school with a Graphic Design program where I could graduate with a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts). YLooking for programs that are balanced in their print/digital design, or a bit digital heavy will be a plus. Finding a program that gives you the option to get a BFA vs a BA (Bachelor of Arts) in Graphic Design could also be a plus.
Pamela recommends the following next steps:
Nico Berthelot
3
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Nico’s Answer
Absolutely! Graphic design is such a huge field that you can jump from one expertise to another (branding, logo design, UX/UI design) pretty easily, depending on what you like to do. People always need designers!
Jake Martin
Graphic Designer/UX Designer
4
Answers
Auburn, Alabama
Updated
Jake’s Answer
I would say that getting a graphic design degree is totally worth it. While you'd no doubt be able to get a design job without one (granted you work hard to teach yourself and have an eye for it) not all graphic design roles are of equal quality. The things I've learned in my graphic design degree have been things I would have never even thought to teach myself, especially the subtleties and complexity of typography.
Yes there are amazing designers that didn't get degrees and terrible designers that did, but in my experience, having the formal training and collaborative experience you get in a formal design program is a massive advantage and will allow you to get the more exciting design jobs rather than just the "marketing person who makes social media graphics and flyers."
Yes there are amazing designers that didn't get degrees and terrible designers that did, but in my experience, having the formal training and collaborative experience you get in a formal design program is a massive advantage and will allow you to get the more exciting design jobs rather than just the "marketing person who makes social media graphics and flyers."
Evan Aubrey
Designer @ HBO Max
2
Answers
Seattle, Washington
Updated
Evan’s Answer
While studying graphic design in university can give you a good understanding of the fundamentals, there are also plenty of online classes (through udemy, or even youtube) that can provide you with a similar curriculum.
When it comes to finding a job in graphic design, it's true that many employers still look for folks who obtained a degree in that field. However, if you have a strong portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge of design fundamentals and goes beyond (knowing when/how to break or bend those rules), that will speak louder than a degree to any employer.
When it comes to finding a job in graphic design, it's true that many employers still look for folks who obtained a degree in that field. However, if you have a strong portfolio that demonstrates your knowledge of design fundamentals and goes beyond (knowing when/how to break or bend those rules), that will speak louder than a degree to any employer.
Rhudaynath Diwate
Engineer
4
Answers
Pune, Maharashtra, India
Updated
Rhudaynath’s Answer
Hi, interesting question, I am Software Engineer and we work closely with Graphics Designers. Now a days, they are called as UX (User experience designers).
UX is more than just Graphics Designer, but they come from same roots.
I think, this is great field. As you know, underlying technology remains same, the human interface/interactions changed over time.
You remember old days, where people had to take months to learn Softwares.
Now a days, we see, kids user apps pretty smoothly.
That's the difference what UX brings to any software... ease of use!
UX is more than just Graphics Designer, but they come from same roots.
I think, this is great field. As you know, underlying technology remains same, the human interface/interactions changed over time.
You remember old days, where people had to take months to learn Softwares.
Now a days, we see, kids user apps pretty smoothly.
That's the difference what UX brings to any software... ease of use!
Dennis Prendergast
Account Manager
64
Answers
Morristown, New Jersey
Updated
Dennis’s Answer
Kelly yes it is! I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Visual Communications (Graphics) and even if later you may not apply that Degree to that field of Graphic Design - A College Degree is Beneficial to having for many many potential Occupations.
Good Luck with the Graphic Designer career if that's the path you choose!
Good Luck with the Graphic Designer career if that's the path you choose!
Vaidehi Dave
Technical Instruction Design
12
Answers
Edison, New Jersey
Updated
Vaidehi’s Answer
I would say if you have graphic design background, adding some of the latest design skills like adding UX/UI design methodologies on your resume can help a lot. Most of the companies these days will look for those buzz words in designers. Many non designers have become good designers for well known companies by doing small bootcamps or even one of the famous google UX design course. UX design can add value to your graphic design skills.
Jody Pritchard
Art Director
1
Answer
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Updated
Jody’s Answer
YES! Getting a BFA in Graphic design excellerates your career. It's a very competitive field and extremely difficult to get a well paying job. There's a lot of untrained designers that get client work, but their work isn't usually very good, and they can't get clients that pay more.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Kelly,
Is having a graphic designer degree worth it?
Obtaining a graphic design degree can be a valuable investment for individuals looking to pursue a career in the field of design. Here are several factors to consider when evaluating whether a graphic designer degree is worth it:
1. Education and Skill Development: A formal education in graphic design provides students with a structured curriculum that covers essential design principles, software proficiency, and industry best practices. This educational foundation can help individuals develop a strong skill set that is crucial for success in the competitive field of graphic design.
2. Industry Recognition and Credibility: Having a degree in graphic design from a reputable institution can enhance your credibility as a professional designer. Employers often value candidates with formal education in the field, as it demonstrates a commitment to learning and mastering the craft of design.
3. Networking Opportunities: Attending a graphic design program allows students to connect with industry professionals, fellow designers, and potential employers. Building a strong network within the design community can open doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship.
4. Specialized Knowledge and Expertise: A graphic design degree equips students with specialized knowledge in areas such as typography, color theory, branding, user experience (UX) design, and more. This deep understanding of design fundamentals can set graduates apart in the job market and enable them to tackle complex design challenges effectively.
5. Career Advancement: In many cases, having a graphic designer degree can lead to better career prospects and advancement opportunities. Employers may prefer candidates with formal education when hiring for senior or specialized roles within their organizations.
6. Creative Development: A structured design program can help nurture creativity and encourage experimentation with different design techniques and mediums. Students have the opportunity to receive feedback from experienced instructors and peers, which can foster growth and innovation in their work.
7. Portfolio Building: Graphic design programs often include projects that allow students to build a diverse portfolio showcasing their skills and creativity. A strong portfolio is essential for securing freelance projects, internships, or full-time positions in the design industry.
In conclusion, while it is possible to become a successful graphic designer without a formal degree through self-study and practical experience, obtaining a graphic designer degree can provide numerous benefits such as structured education, industry recognition, networking opportunities, specialized knowledge, career advancement prospects, creative development, and portfolio building.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD): The RGD is an organization that promotes excellence in graphic design by establishing professional standards for designers. Their resources provide valuable insights into the importance of education in the field of graphic design.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on employment trends, job outlooks, and median salaries for various occupations including graphic designers. This information can help individuals assess the value of pursuing a graphic designer degree.
Design Council: The Design Council is an organization that advocates for the value of good design across various sectors. Their research reports and case studies offer perspectives on how formal education impacts the practice of design professionals.
God Bless You,
JC.
Is having a graphic designer degree worth it?
Obtaining a graphic design degree can be a valuable investment for individuals looking to pursue a career in the field of design. Here are several factors to consider when evaluating whether a graphic designer degree is worth it:
1. Education and Skill Development: A formal education in graphic design provides students with a structured curriculum that covers essential design principles, software proficiency, and industry best practices. This educational foundation can help individuals develop a strong skill set that is crucial for success in the competitive field of graphic design.
2. Industry Recognition and Credibility: Having a degree in graphic design from a reputable institution can enhance your credibility as a professional designer. Employers often value candidates with formal education in the field, as it demonstrates a commitment to learning and mastering the craft of design.
3. Networking Opportunities: Attending a graphic design program allows students to connect with industry professionals, fellow designers, and potential employers. Building a strong network within the design community can open doors to job opportunities, collaborations, and mentorship.
4. Specialized Knowledge and Expertise: A graphic design degree equips students with specialized knowledge in areas such as typography, color theory, branding, user experience (UX) design, and more. This deep understanding of design fundamentals can set graduates apart in the job market and enable them to tackle complex design challenges effectively.
5. Career Advancement: In many cases, having a graphic designer degree can lead to better career prospects and advancement opportunities. Employers may prefer candidates with formal education when hiring for senior or specialized roles within their organizations.
6. Creative Development: A structured design program can help nurture creativity and encourage experimentation with different design techniques and mediums. Students have the opportunity to receive feedback from experienced instructors and peers, which can foster growth and innovation in their work.
7. Portfolio Building: Graphic design programs often include projects that allow students to build a diverse portfolio showcasing their skills and creativity. A strong portfolio is essential for securing freelance projects, internships, or full-time positions in the design industry.
In conclusion, while it is possible to become a successful graphic designer without a formal degree through self-study and practical experience, obtaining a graphic designer degree can provide numerous benefits such as structured education, industry recognition, networking opportunities, specialized knowledge, career advancement prospects, creative development, and portfolio building.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
The Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD): The RGD is an organization that promotes excellence in graphic design by establishing professional standards for designers. Their resources provide valuable insights into the importance of education in the field of graphic design.
Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): The BLS offers data on employment trends, job outlooks, and median salaries for various occupations including graphic designers. This information can help individuals assess the value of pursuing a graphic designer degree.
Design Council: The Design Council is an organization that advocates for the value of good design across various sectors. Their research reports and case studies offer perspectives on how formal education impacts the practice of design professionals.
God Bless You,
JC.
Matt Huang
Design and Innovation
22
Answers
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Just want to point out unlike other design professions, such industrial design or fashion design, graphic designer can work in many industries such as advertising, technology (many UX designers have graphic design background), and fashion (textile design).
Biswadeep Saha CCIE#42925 (Data Center)
Engineer
6
Answers
New Delhi, Delhi, India
Updated
Biswadeep Saha’s Answer
Yes it is, though it needs lots of creativity however you get value and appreciation for your work. Advt Agencies are at high although profile gets very demanding keeping in compitition in mind. If you have a hobby of ART and design can easily align it to Graphic design field
Matheus Ribeiro
Designer
2
Answers
Porto Alegre, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Updated
Matheus’s Answer
Sure. With a graphic designer degree you will have a lot more knowledge than those that don't. With this knowledge, you'll be able to better understand how some concepts and techniques are made. During the university, you will also know a lot of people that will help you to be a better graphic designers and will have a larger connection network.
Valerie Enriquez
Art Director
2
Answers
Los Angeles, California
Updated
Valerie’s Answer
No.
Your portfolio is the most important piece of information about you, along with your ability to talk about your work. If you're a thoughtful communicator that's passionate about problem solving, you will get you a job anywhere that's worth your time.
The idea of the degree means something to some. It can show that you had the patience and discipline to finish what you started. However, no need to spend a lot of money or go into debt. The private schools don't promise much more than a network, so it all depends on your hustle.
Your portfolio is the most important piece of information about you, along with your ability to talk about your work. If you're a thoughtful communicator that's passionate about problem solving, you will get you a job anywhere that's worth your time.
The idea of the degree means something to some. It can show that you had the patience and discipline to finish what you started. However, no need to spend a lot of money or go into debt. The private schools don't promise much more than a network, so it all depends on your hustle.