You have seen the ads lately on TV. Get an online degree in art. Well, here is some background info. The basic job of a graphic designer is to convey a particular message through visual media, art, and ad copy. This message could be in the form of advertising (billboards, posters), marketing (brochures), product packaging (cartons), publishing (magazine and book covers, newspaper layouts), film and television graphics (beginning and opening credits), signs, signage systems, exhibits, interactive T.V., and computer graphics. A graphic designer has to find the best possible way of using color, lettering, images, and lightings so that a product or message stands out. In the 21st century, when individuals are bombarded with images from all corners, whether through television or the internet, finding a way to grab attention and drive home a message takes precise planning and execution. For this reason, graphic design has been identified as an extremely high growth career field, albeit a very competitive one. - Find Graphic Design Schools

Graphic Design Education and Training
For most graphic design jobs, a 4 year college program that leads to a bachelor’s degree is required. For some beginner level technical positions, an associate degree may suffice. Bachelor of fine arts programs are offered at many colleges and universities, and the curricula usually includes things like design principles, creation of commercial graphics and techniques for computerized design, 2D art, 3d art, and web design. One might also dabble in various aspects of art history, writing techniques, psychology, and sociological sciences. Graphic designers are required to work with other creative professionals like copywriters, art directors, photographers, and web developers, and thus, people skills are also extremely important.

Graphic Design Industry: Growth and Salary Potential
The industry is expected to grow at twice the national average rate for other occupations. Newer opportunities are expected to be generated from the rapidly expanding Web market. The median income in 2004 was $38,030, with the top earning professionals making $65,940.

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Source: US Department of Labor

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The Art Industry Offers Many Paths
Although the image of a tortured genius with a paintbrush in hand often first comes to mind when thinking of artists, the art industry provides a wide range of employment opportunities in a wide variety of media including film, video, and computers. - Find Schools offering Art Programs

Formal Education Helps Artists Get Their Food in the Door
Formal education, including online certificate and degree programs, is often especially critical for budding artists. Because artists will experience a great deal of competition in the workforce, they need to fortify themselves with the skills and experiences art and design programs offer. Educational programs from art and design schools tend to focus on the studio aspect of artistic studies while bachelors of fine arts programs from colleges and universities can provide an education in the humanities as well as studio art and art history.

Online Education in the Arts Can Provide Sound Technological Training
Online education programs in art can help students learn computer technology. Many jobs require knowledge of graphics and computer design software. Students should aim to amass a portfolio of their work during their degree or certificate program. An artist’s portfolio is a collection of his/her best work that can show prospective employers or clients the artist’s skill and background. - Find Schools offering Art Programs

Painting the Employment Picture
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2004, artists in all areas held a total of 208,000 jobs. The area of multi-media and animation employed nearly half of these workers. Art directors made up another large segment of the workforce. Sixty-three percent of artists were self-employed. They often contracted or freelanced their services to design firms, publishing houses, and advertising agencies.

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Source: The Bureau of Labor Statistics

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