Questions for Graphic Designers?

Question

I am a 17 year old High School Senior who is very much interested in becoming a graphic designer, I am quite curious about this career,

How does one become a graphic designer?

What classes in college must I take?

How much can I realisticly make being a G.D?

How do you find a job as a G.D?

And any other info would be much apreciated!

Answer 1

Most colleges offer degrees in Graphic Design. Some offer baschelors degree in Visual Arts specializing in Graphic Design.   Basically you'll have to take the same basic requirements for all college students in math, writing, science but your major classes will be art based and  involve several classes about computer design,design and color theory,  painting, drawing, art history.

or you can go to a trade school which offer 2 year programs for a cetificate not a degree.  (may get paid less than college graduate but your work will speak for itself.)

If you are talented and creative then you will find work.   Even the mediocre designer can do basic page layouts.  Any time you create something, save it and put it in your  poirtfollio.  You can make anywhere from $30,000 - 80,000 +.  One important thing to know, many graphic designers do freelance work so you have to be the type of person who can manage your time, seek out work,  and work independantly.  Many of them run their own business or work for publishing companies.

Jobs are listed everywhere online on sites like monster and even in the newspaper.