Several types of schools offer degree programs well suited for people interested in becoming a graphic designer. Students can choose from traditional, four-year universities, technical schools or design schools. Technical schools and design schools tend to focus more on the technical skills and artistic skills necessary to become a graphic designers. Most four-year universities, especially those with a liberal-arts platform, blend other types of education with technical and art skills.
To help train well-rounded graphic designers, most design programs focus on several different types of art classes. Some courses a graphic designer may take include studio art, design principles, computer design, commercial graphics, printing techniques and web site creation courses, according to the Occupational Outlook Handbook published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Liberal arts programs generally combine art courses with classes in art history, writing, psychology and marketing.
In addition to adequate design and computer skills, graphic designers should possess an understanding of communication skills and problem solving techniques. Communication and problem solving skills help designers interact with clients, setting goals and accomplishing tasks on time. The Bureau of Labor Statistics stresses that designers are often required to communicate ideas both verbally and visually, especially when beginning new projects. Graphic designers wishing to work on a freelance basis or become self-employed will benefit from taking business courses and learning the principles of running a small business, including project management, budgeting and basic accounting.
To ensure students are engaging in a program that offers top-quality education, experts at the Bureau of Labor Statistics suggest looking for schools and universities with proper accreditation. The National Association for Schools of Art and Design was developed in 1944 to develop national standards for undergraduate and graduate design degrees. As of 2011, the NASAD bestowed accreditation on more than 300 United States schools through a peer review process.
Earning a four-year degree is not the only method available for becoming a graphic designer. Some students choose to earn an associate's degree. Generally, associate's degree programs last two to three years and focus on technical design skills. Often, designers complete additional learning through employment as a graphic design assistant. Occasionally, graphic designers forgo traditional education altogether. Instead, these designers learn through a combination of self-education and apprenticing under a more skilled, experienced designer.