Graphic Design Schools

The graphic arts world has infiltrated virtually every industry, leaving imagination as the only limit to graphic designers. Advertising, video games, corporate presentations and web design all incorporate aspects of graphic design and the field of graphic design is rapidly growing.

Getting into Graphic Design Schools

Having a general graphic design portfolio is the most important aspect of getting into graphic design school. Showing several different mediums provides the admissions board with an overview of the various talents potential candidates. Make sure to include in the portfolio some selections showing basic art skills demonstrating a solid art foundation. A personal statement and an interview will probably be required. Make sure to detail the concepts behind artwork in the portfolio explaining color choices, style and what the project was designed for. Express future goals and skills that the program could fulfill and understand the focus of the school program.

Graphic Design Schools – Programs and Courses

Graphic design schools will teach a combination of practical applications and theoretical aspects helping students gain a solid background for their future careers. Coursework is hands-on and usually includes digital illustration, web design, 3D modeling and animation, special effects, sound editing and video editing. Most bachelor’s degree programs also teach art history, computer applications, critical thinking and communication. Classes are offered from beginner to advanced programs and can be taken online, through correspondence or in a classroom setting. Some colleges offer classes in graphic design, but do not offer career majors in the field.

Graphic design can start with a workshop, a “career” school, an associate’s degree, a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree and can students can specialize in animation, digital media arts, web design, 3D graphic design, layout and photo editing. Students learn Photoshop, Illustrator and Quark and by the end of the program will be able to design by hand or computer. They also learn how to work with fonts, animation, photos and other aspects of design. A background in computer basics is essential to students in graphic design school. Because this field requires technical expertise, finding the right graphic design school helps future designers hone their career goals.

Top Graphic Design Schools

Learn which school has the most current technology and design software when choosing a graphic design school. The top schools in the country have the best reputations and the most up-to-date technology laboratories and include Carnegie Mellon University, Virginia Commonwealth University and the Rhode Island School of Design. Consider location, tuition costs, internships and job placement opportunities before making a final decision on which college to attend. Look for a school that focuses on any future career goals and consider a school accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design (NASAD). These schools must go through a lengthy process and pass rigorous standards to get accreditation.

With technology quickly changing a career in graphic design can take an artistic sensibility to an in demand professional. Picking a graphic design school that is up-to-date with current trends and technology is crucial. Tour the school, interview the faculty and discuss the success rate of previous graduates before choosing the graphic design school to attend.