Finding Your Graphic Art Career Niche
There are probably more specialties within the graphic art field than you knew. Find out which one suits your talents..
Career Specialties
A graphic art career can take many different forms. As you gain experience in the field, you may decide that you want to focus on a particular area or specialty. Here are a few graphic art careers to consider:
- Advertising Designer / Commercial Designer – Graphic designers who find employment in the advertising arena may find that business and marketing knowledge, in addition to design skills, will come in handy.
- Animator – Integrated with traditional graphic design elements, animation can be a powerful communication tool. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, graphic designers with animation and web design skills will have the most job opportunities over the next few years.
- Art Director – Art directors coordinate all the parts and people involved in a project in order to maintain the quality of the final product or publication.
- Desktop Publisher – These graphic artists design the layouts for small publications. They take the text and the graphics and organize them so that they are attractive and make sense.
- Illustrator – If you want to focus on drawing, painting and creating computer-generated artwork, consider a career as an illustrator.
- Production Artist – Desktop publishers, production artists work on layouts for publications. However, they generally work on large publications under the supervision of art directors.
- Web Designer – Career opportunities for graphic designers with web design skills are on the rise. As a web designer, you will integrate your traditional graphic art skills with web technology.
Start a Graphic Art Career
If you're ready to start a graphic art career, getting your education will put you on the track to success. Find graphic design schools in our directory, and request information about programs that interest you.
Graphic Design Resources
Getting Started
- Job Description
- Choosing a Degree
- Prepare for Graphic Design School
- Courses You'll Take
- Get an Online Degree
- On-the-Job Training
- Tips for Your Portfolio