If you have a passion for creativity and design, a career in graphic designing may be the perfect fit for you. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to start a successful career in graphic designing, including tips and tricks to help you get started on the right foot. From education and training to building a portfolio and finding job opportunities, this guide has got you covered.
Career in Graphic Designing
What is Graphic Designing?
Graphic designing is a creative and artistic process of visual communication that involves using various elements such as images, typography, colors, and layout to convey a message or idea to a target audience. Graphic designers use their skills to create visually appealing and impactful designs for a wide range of media, including print materials, digital platforms, advertisements, websites, logos, packaging, and more.
The primary goal of graphic design is to effectively communicate a message, evoke emotions, and engage the audience through visual representation. It is an essential aspect of branding and marketing, as it helps in creating a distinctive and memorable identity for businesses, products, or services.
Why Graphic Designing ?
The scope of graphic designing is vast and continues to grow with the advancement of technology and the increasing demand for visual communication in various industries.They are as follows:
1. Advertising and Marketing:
Graphic designers play a crucial role in creating eye-catching advertisements, banners, and promotional materials for businesses
2. Web Design and User Interface (UI) Design:
With the growth of the internet and online businesses, the demand for web designers and UI designers has increased significantly. Graphic designers are responsible for creating website layouts, user interfaces, and visual elements that enhance the user experience.
3. Print Media:
Traditional print media, such as brochures, posters, magazines, newspapers, and packaging, still relies heavily on graphic design. Graphic designers are involved in creating layouts and designs that are visually appealing and effectively convey the intended message.
4. Logo and Identity Design:
Creating unique and memorable logos is a vital part of brand identity. Graphic designers work to develop logos and branding elements that reflect the values and personality of a brand.
5. Motion Graphics and Animation:
The demand for motion graphics and animation has grown in various fields, including advertising, entertainment, and online content creation. Graphic designers with animation skills can create engaging visual experiences for their clients.
6. Digital Content Creation:
Social media platforms, content marketing, and online advertising require visually engaging content. Graphic designers are often involved in creating graphics and illustrations for digital content.
7. Product Design:
Graphic designers collaborate with product designers to create visually appealing packaging, labels, and product presentations that enhance the overall product experience.
8. Environmental and Exhibition Design:
Graphic designers may be involved in designing exhibits, signage, and environmental graphics for events, museums, trade shows, and public spaces.
9. Illustration:
Illustrators with graphic design skills find opportunities in children’s books, editorial illustration, infographics, and other areas that require visual storytelling.
10. Education and E-Learning:
Graphic designers can contribute to educational materials, e-learning platforms, and interactive educational content.
Elegibility Criteria for Graphic Designing Course
Graphic designing courses typically have few or no strict academic prerequisites and they are:
| Educational Qualifications | Many basic graphic designing courses do not have strict educational requirements. They are often open to students who have completed their high school education or equivalent (10+2). |
|---|---|
| Age | There is usually no specific age limit for enrolling in basic graphic designing courses, but they are typically offered to individuals over the age of 16 or 18. |
| Computer Skills | Basic knowledge of computers and operating systems is often beneficial, as graphic designing courses heavily rely on digital tools and software. |
| Creativity and Passion | While not a formal eligibility criterion, having a creative mindset and a genuine passion for graphic design will greatly enhance your learning experience and career prospects in this field. |
| Language Proficiency | Depending on the course location and medium of instruction, you may need to demonstrate proficiency in the language of instruction (e.g., English) to ensure you can understand the course material. |
Entrance Exams
The lists of some popular entrance exams conducted in India to take admissions in colleges.They are:
| Entrance Exam | Conducting Body | Programs Covered |
|---|---|---|
| Common Entrance Examination for Design (CEED) | Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) | Postgraduate programs in design, including Communication Design (Graphic Design) |
| National Institute of Design Entrance Exam (NID DAT) | National Institute of Design (NID) | Undergraduate and postgraduate design programs, including Graphic Design |
| Pearl Academy Entrance Exam | Pearl Academy | Undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Communication Design (Graphic Design) |
| MIT Institute of Design (MIT ID) DAT | MIT Institute of Design | Design programs, including Graphic Design |
| Srishti Entrance and Aptitude Test (SEAT) | Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology | Undergraduate and postgraduate design programs, including Graphic Design |
| DJ Academy of Design Entrance Exam | DJ Academy of Design | Undergraduate and postgraduate programs in design |
| World University of Design (WUD) Aptitude Test | World University of Design (WUD) | Various design courses, including Communication Design (Graphic Design) |
Graphic Designing Courses:
Graphic designing courses can range from basic introductory programs to comprehensive degree or diploma courses. There are different types of graphic design courses available.
| Course Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Certificate or Diploma Courses | Short-term courses introducing basics of graphic design, covering design principles, typography, color theory, and design software. Suitable for beginners or those looking to enhance specific skills. |
| Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design | Full-fledged program lasting three to four years, providing in-depth understanding of design concepts, software proficiency, and practical experience through projects and internships. |
| Master’s Degree in Graphic Design | Advanced studies and specialization options for individuals seeking to deepen knowledge and expertise in specific areas of graphic design. |
| Online Graphic Design Courses | Remote learning options offered by institutions and online platforms for graphic design courses. |
| Specialization Courses | Courses focusing on specific areas like web design, motion graphics, illustration, packaging design, or user interface (UI) design, allowing individuals to develop expertise in particular fields. |
| Continuing Education and Workshops | Workshops and short-term continuing education courses to help graphic designers stay updated with the latest design trends and software advancements. |
| Industry-Specific Training | Tailored graphic design courses offered by organizations or industries to meet their specific design needs. |
Types of Graphics Designing
Graphic designing encompasses various specialized areas, each catering to different design needs and mediums. Some of the common types of graphic designing include:
1. Print Design
2. Digital Design
3. UI/UX Design
4. Web Design
5. Motion Graphics
6. Illustration
7. Packaging Design
8. Environmental Graphic Design
9. Infographic Design
10. Typography Design
11. Social Media Graphics
12. Icon Design
13. Advertising Design
14. Interactive Design and Visual Identity Design
Fees of Graphics Designing
The fees for graphic designing courses can vary significantly depending on various factors, including the type of course, the institution or university offering the course, the course duration, the level of study (e.g., certificate, diploma, bachelor’s, master’s)
| Course Type | Approximate Cost (INR) |
|---|---|
| Certificate or Diploma Courses | 10,000 to 50,000 or more |
| Bachelor’s Degree in Graphic Design | 4 lakhs to 10 lakhs or more |
| Master’s Degree in Graphic Design | 5 lakhs to 15 lakhs or more, depending on the institute |
| Online Graphic Design Courses | 10,000 to 50,000 or more |
Salary after Graphics Designing in India
The salary ranges for graphic designers in India are as follows:
| Designation | Annual Salary Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Entry-level or Junior Graphic Designer | 2.5 lakhs to 4 lakhs per annum |
| Mid-level Graphic Designer | 4 lakhs to 7 lakhs per annum |
| Senior Graphic Designer | 7 lakhs to 12 lakhs or more per annum |
| Creative Director or Lead Graphic Designer | 12 lakhs to 20 lakhs or more per annum or more |
Salary of Graphics Designers in Abroad
In United States Graphics Designers can earn an average annual salary ranging from $40,000 to $70,000 or more. The salary can vary based on factors like experience, location (e.g., major cities may offer higher salaries), and the size and reputation of the company.
Top Colleges offering Graphics Designing in India and Abroad
| Top Colleges in India | Top Colleges Abroad |
|---|---|
| National Institute of Design (NID), Ahmedabad | Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – USA |
| National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) | ArtCenter College of Design – USA |
| Pearl Academy, Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, Bengaluru | Royal College of Art (RCA) – UK |
| Srishti Institute of Art, Design, and Technology | Central Saint Martins (CSM) – UK |
| Industrial Design Centre (IDC), IIT Bombay | Parsons School of Design – USA |
| MIT Institute of Design (MIT ID), Pune | California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) – USA |
| DJ Academy of Design, Coimbatore | Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) – USA |
| Indian Institute of Art and Design (IIAD), New Delhi | Politecnico di Milano – Italy |
| Wigan & Leigh College India (WLCI) | University of the Arts London (UAL) |
| Arena Animation |
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