What To Study To Become A Graphic Designer

Graphic design has roots in visual storytelling, symbolism and communication, but this career path is far from static. The field continues evolving alongside e-commerce, digital marketing and the growing demand for interactive, emotionally resonant branding. 

This dynamic profession blends creativity and strategy, making it ideal for those who love artistic expression but also thrive on structure, problem-solving and purposeful design. Graphic design is a rewarding career path if the imaginative and analytical sides of communication are equally appealing to you.

Do you know what it takes to become a graphic designer? A well-rounded educational plan will help you build a portfolio that stands out in a crowded market.

What Is A Graphic Designer?

Graphic designers have an essential responsibility, shaping how businesses connect with audiences across platforms. These professionals use visual elements to convey a message or story.

Primarily applied to the marketing and advertising industries, graphic design is the art of visual storytelling using eye-catching and impactful design. Graphic design largely draws on human psychology to create materials that prioritize user experience and integrate emotion and logic in equal measure. 

Applications include:

• Advertising and marketing
• Web design
• Editorial design
• Packaging 
• Branding
• Animation 
• Illustration
• Programming
• Video editing
• Game design
• Typography

What Degree Do You Need To Become A Graphic Designer?

Like all design disciplines, graphic design is a thoughtful, intentional craft. Professional designers must understand the foundational principles that guide visual communication, such as color, line, shape, form, texture, imagery, composition and typography.

While many hiring managers prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree in design or a related field, you’ll find a formal education is not always necessary. What matters most is mastering the core elements of design and building fluency in industry-standard tools.

Courses that teach design theory and practical software skills — especially those covering Adobe Creative Cloud programs like Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator — can give you a competitive edge, help you build a portfolio and prepare you to tackle real-world projects.

What Should You Study To Become A Graphic Designer?

Several undergraduate paths are available if you’re interested in a graphic design career. While a dedicated program offers the most direct route, it’s not the only option.

Many degree programs let you hone transferable skills that are highly relevant to design work, including visual communication, critical thinking and digital proficiency. This flexibility means you can enroll in courses that align with your current interests while still building the groundwork for your bright future.

• Graphic design: If you want to specialize in graphic design from the get-go, you should find a comprehensive graphic design course that covers all relevant principles and software.
• Art: A bachelor of arts or bachelor of fine arts degree can equip you with the artistic background necessary to transition into graphic design, including composition and color theory. While you’ll need to supplement your studies with additional technological education, art classes provide an outstanding jumping-off point for aspiring designers. 
• Computer science: Computer science courses can provide the technological know-how and problem-solving skills you need to get hired as a graphic designer. Web development and user interface technology are particularly applicable to the industry. However, you’ll probably need to pursue additional education in visual design and aesthetics. 
• Commercial and advertising arts: Advertising and graphic design are two sides of the same coin. A degree in commercial and advertising arts typically covers many elements involved in graphic design, such as web design, visual communication tools and branding. 

• Marketing: An education in marketing can provide foundational graphic design principles and applications, as it covers related elements like critical thinking, campaign goals, user experience and the impact of design. 
• Photography: Studying photography can help you develop an appreciation for many of the foundational principles of graphic design, such as visual composition and visual hierarchy. Though transitioning directly from a photography course to a graphic design role may not feel like a natural fit, additional practical training can bridge the gap between the two.

Bachelor’s and postgraduate graphic design programs may seem highly specialized if you haven’t had the opportunity to study the subject in high school. Completing an associate degree in graphic design lets you experience the subject firsthand and hone your applicable skills before deciding if you want to pursue a four-year degree — with a lower time commitment and less cost. 

How To Prepare For A Career In Graphic Design

Alongside your official studies, there are plenty of things you can do to enhance your chances of becoming a professional graphic designer and accelerate your career progression.

• Master your skills: Becoming proficient in graphic design platforms will increase your employability. InDesign and similar programs have a learning curve, so practice until you are familiar and confident with them.
• Apply your knowledge: Practical experience lets you put your education and skills to work. Look for internships, freelance opportunities, volunteer projects and entry-level jobs to begin honing your craft before you graduate.
• Create a strong portfolio: To stand out in the competitive field of graphic design, you need a robust portfolio that showcases your breadth of skills and versatility. Include only your very best projects, plus case studies that cover each project’s goal, outcome and the reasons behind your design decisions.
• Network: Start growing your base for future collaborations. By attending industry events and joining networking groups, you can introduce yourself to prospective employers and future clients, and meet like-minded people with valuable experiences.
• Pursue further education: If you want to excel in your field and stay up to date with the ever-changing digital world, you need to incorporate continuous learning into your career. A career in graphic design requires a hunger for learning and self-improvement through official courses or self-study. 
• Look ahead: During your studies, start reaching out to industry professionals or design agencies to gain valuable insights and develop connections. Ideally, your educational institution should help you transition from school to career, but don’t be afraid to take the initiative and pursue industry success independently.

Pursue Your Career In Graphic Design Today

At Mount Wachusett Community College, we believe anyone can realize their dreams. Whether you are a high schooler, mature student or want to change your career, MWCC has everything you need to hit the ground running in the graphic design industry.

Our graphic and interactive design certificate program will teach you the latest interactive software and cover the foundations of this rewarding field. After earning your certificate, you can go on to finish your graphic and interactive design associate degree in 12 sessions or dive headfirst into your first graphic designer job. Students complete MWCC programs ready to transfer to four-year institutions or start thriving careers, thanks to the head start their associate degrees provide.

If you want to pursue a career in graphic design, what are you waiting for? Submit your free online application or reach out to request more information.