Web Graphic Design: Career Info
What does a web graphic designer do? Organizations and businesses hire web graphic designers to design a website that best demonstrates the message a company wants the public to see. By identifying an employer's wishes, a web graphic designer sketches and then implements a website layout that is visually appealing. A web graphic designer can benefit from earning a bachelor's degree in graphic design.
Some form of post-secondary education is typically required for a successful web graphic design career, such as a certificate, associate's degree or bachelor's degree. Web graphic designers must also possess a keen eye for detail and have a knack for creative expression. Knowledge of one or more programming languages can also be a bonus.
| Required Education | Bachelor's degree in graphic design typically required |
| Other Requirements | Must have a firm understanding of changing technology, including software and tools for Web design |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | -4% (for all graphic designers)* |
| Median Salary (2019)* | $52,110 annually (for all graphic designers)* |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Web Graphic Designer: Job Description
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You may be wondering, 'What is web graphic design?' Web graphic design is the creation and selection of the layout, font color, font type, logos, pictures, and other visual and verbal aspects of a website. First, a web graphic designer determines what the employer wants out of the product. This includes what message is being sent out and what audience is being targeted. They then create sketches and samples of potential layouts for the website, before developing the finished product.
The work schedule of a web graphic designer can vary greatly. Those employed on a full-time basis can work a normal 40-hour work week. Extended or additional hours are expected when a project nears a deadline. Many web designers are self-employed and work on a freelance basis. In general, the website graphic designer job description requires professionals to be flexible and able to keep up with short-term deadlines.
Web graphic designers have to possess a keen eye for detail. The ability to express creative ideas is crucial. Understanding new fads and trends is necessary. A web graphic designer has to understand a target audience and how best to reach that audience through artistic work. This career requires a lot of discipline since a web graphic designer has to start projects, budget time and meet the necessary deadlines placed upon them by an employer.
Education Requirements for Web Graphic Designers
Employers generally look for web graphic designers with a bachelor's degree. Aspiring designers can enter into a fine arts program in graphic design at a university or college. The classes for this degree program include both hands-on studio work and classroom lectures. Coursework is made up of classes in design principles, computerized design, printing techniques, website design, and studio art.
Aspiring graphic designers can also earn a certificate or associate's degree in web design for graphic designers. These programs can take anywhere from two to three years to complete. These graphic design programs focus on hands-on technical skills. Continuing education is essential for success in this field. Designers must stay abreast of the changes and evolution of commonly used technologies and tools. It is also beneficial to be familiar with one or more programming languages and have an overall mastery of graphic design software.
Job Outlook & Salary Info
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a decline of 4% in employment for graphic designers between 2019 and 2029. Additionally, the BLS reported that the median annual salary for graphic designers was $52,110 as of May 2019.
Web graphic designers can either work for a specific employer or as a freelancer with various clients. Maintaining an up-to-date knowledge of design, printing techniques, and industry technology is essential for continued success in the field.