Graphic Designer

Graphic designers produce designs that get their clients' messages across with high visual impact. They work on a huge variety of products including websites, packaging, books and magazines, corporate identity (to give organisations a visual 'brand'), advertising, exhibitions and displays, computer games and TV and film title sequences.

Most graphic design work is now done on computer using specialised industry standard graphics and multimedia software packages. Graphic designers have to work closely with other colleagues involved in projects, such as copywriters, photographers and sales staff. They may also work directly with clients.

Graphic designers usually work 37 hours a week, Monday to Friday. Extra hours are common, especially to meet critical project deadlines. Part-time work may be possible. The work is usually done in an open plan design studio. It involves sitting and working at a computer for long periods.

Salaries may range from around £19,000 to £70,000 a year.

A graphic designer must have:

• creative flair, originality and a strong visual sense
• strong computer skills
• confidence to present and explain ideas to clients and colleagues
• an interest in graphics and typography.

There are nearly 40,000 businesses working in graphic design, ranging from major agencies to sole freelancers. Competition for vacancies can be keen. Gaining early experience and building a portfolio of work is an advantage. Some graphic designers create websites to show their work.

Most graphic designers have a degree or diploma. This may be in graphic design, illustration, fine art or a related subject. There are many courses available at universities and arts colleges across the UK. Many students take a one-year Foundation Diploma in art and design before applying for a degree or diploma course. The Diploma in creative and media may be relevant to this area of work and design apprenticeships may be available in graphic and multimedia design. A range of NVQs in design subjects is also available.

Employers generally expect new entrants to have learned the essential skills while completing their qualifications, but may support further study for a postgraduate degree. They may also provide in-house or external training in specific aspects of the job such as presentation skills. Graphic designers are expected to keep up to date with the latest trends in the industry.

Junior designers can progress to a senior position such as studio manager or creative director in an agency. Graphic designers can also specialise in a particular field such as packaging or magazine design. Many designers work on a freelance basis once experienced. There may be opportunities for experienced designers to work abroad in Europe and the USA.

Further details