Many employers seek graduates of programs that have been accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. The association establishes standards for graduate degrees and had accredited about 300 schools as of January 2011. A list of qualifying programs is available on the association's website. Also consider the location of the school and investigate the job opportunities in the area. If you intend to stay in the city after graduation, you will want to know about the graphic design opportunities there. Select a school with faculty who are actively working in the field. This level of education will provide real world knowledge via a working artist / teacher as well as an education through the classroom. Compare schools based on the criteria that is important to you. If you are primarily interested in being self-employed upon graduation, look for a school that offers courses in business management. Consider the resources that are available to help students and graduates find internships and jobs. Ask about the placement statistics for graduates.
Most MFA programs require a bachelor's degree and may also expect specific coursework to have been taken. MFA applicants should demonstrate strong artistic abilities as well as an awareness of the design practices in their chosen genre. Most graduate schools require a portfolio of work to be submitted along with the admission application as well as a personal statement regarding your graphic design skill and desire to be involved in the field.
The Graphic Design MFA is most often a 60-credit program which takes students four to five semesters to complete. Required design classes typically include visual literacy, typographics and history of graphic design. Upon graduation, students should leave the program with a portfolio of their work and hands-on experience through either internships or part-time employment in their chosen field of graphic design.
A graphic designer, also referred to as a graphic artist, may juggle many types of jobs -- from conceptualizing the initial design while working closely with a client to discussing budgets and deadlines. You may choose to work for institutions or private individuals. A graphic designer may work to create overall branding for a client by designing logos, business cards, fliers, signs, posters and websites. Graphic designers use computer software and artwork to create multimedia presentations, animations and video graphics. Some careers that a graphic design may pursue are: advertising designer, creative director, online producer, publications designer, visual designer and graphic coordinator, to name a few.