In today’s competitive world, creating a brand identity through visual content is vital for the growth of any organisation. This has increased the demand for skilled graphic designers who can be a part of the marketing, communication, and brand strategy teams in a business. Acquiring a graphic design degree and relevant skills can help you land a graphic design job in this world dominated by generative AI like DALL-E and Midjourney.

If you are an aspiring designer looking to master the art of graphic design and start a career in this industry, read on to discover more details about the scope of graphic design.

What is a graphic design degree?

A graphic design degree programme provides you with the knowledge, skills, and practical experience to start your career in graphic design. The curriculum in a graphic design programme covers topics such as visual communication, design principles, visual theory, editorial process, spatial practices, UX design, branding, digital illustration, and print production.

The study programme is divided into theoretical and practical sessions where you will learn to use industry tools and work on projects that help you build a portfolio.

What are some important graphic design skills?

A graphic design degree equips you with various skills that are essential to become a successful graphic designer. Here are some of the top skills you can learn from a graphic design degree:

  •   Design principles

Understanding design principles is the primary lesson in a graphic design degree. You will learn about design fundamentals like image, print, motion, narrative, balance, contrast, alignment, hierarchy, and proximity which help you create visually effective designs.

  •   User Experience (UX) design

UX design focuses on creating user-centred experiences for digital interfaces, such as websites and apps. Graphic design programmes often introduce students to UX principles, including information architecture, user testing, and wireframing.

  •   Typography

Typography plays a crucial role in design, as the choice of fonts and how they are used can significantly impact the readability and aesthetics of a design. You learn about different typefaces, font combinations, and how to use typography to enhance communication in a graphic design degree.

You will also learn colour theory and how to combine different colours to create effective designs.

  •   Software proficiency

Students gain proficiency in industry-standard design software, such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), which is essential for creating and manipulating digital designs. Learning these design software gives you a competitive edge in the job market.

  •   Digital illustration

Digital illustration skills allow you to create custom graphics, icons, and illustrations that are often used in branding, advertising, and digital media.

What are the top career choices with a graphic design degree?

A graphic design degree opens the door to career opportunities in several industries as branding is a significant aspect of organisational growth. Some of the top career options are listed below:

  •   Graphic Designer

As a graphic designer, you'll create visual content for various purposes, such as advertisements, marketing materials, websites, social media, and more. You'll apply design principles, typography, and imagery to communicate messages effectively and capture the target audience's attention.

  •   UX Designer

User experience (UX) and user interface (UI) designers focus on creating user-friendly digital experiences. They design interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and other interactive platforms, considering factors like usability, accessibility, and visual appeal.

  •   Web Designer

Web designers specialise in creating visually engaging and functional websites. They work on layout design, navigation, and user experience, ensuring that websites are not only aesthetically pleasing but also easy to navigate and interact with.

  •   Art Director

Art directors oversee the visual style and creative direction of projects. They guide the design team, make decisions about visual elements, and ensure that the overall aesthetic aligns with the project's goals and brand identity.

  •   Motion Designer

Motion designers create animated visuals for various media, including video introductions, commercials, presentations, and more. They combine design elements with animation to convey messages dynamically and engagingly.

As long as visual communication remains an important part of brand building, graphic designers will be in high demand across various industries. If you are a creative individual looking to land a job in the design industry, check out the bachelor’s degree in graphic design offered at the London College of Contemporary Arts (LCCA), London.

LCCA offers a graphic design programme that teaches you the skills and knowledge in graphic design while also presenting practical learning opportunities. You will get access to state-of-the-art facilities and studio spaces to help you develop your skillset and build a portfolio. Enrol in the graphic design programme today to start your creative journey.

On the 19th October, LCCA will be hosting an exhibition featuring the work of the current graphic design students. Join us in a celebration of talent and skill as you immerse yourself in the world of endless creativity.

Click here to find out more.