To start a career in graphic design, learn core design principles and the software used for your intended work, build a focused portfolio, and gain experience through coursework, internships, or completed projects. In the United States, a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field is the typical preparation, though people with a bachelor’s degree in another subject may qualify for many roles after technical graphic-design training.
What graphic designers do
Graphic designers create visual concepts, by hand or with software, to communicate ideas. Their work can include advertising, brochures, magazines, reports, websites, logos, illustrations, and layouts. They decide how text and images work together, select typefaces and colors, present concepts, make revisions, and check finished work for errors.
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The job is collaborative as well as visual: designers may work with clients, art directors, writers, and colleagues. Some specialize by format or audience, such as packaging, book jackets, or experiential environments.
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What to learn before applying
Design foundations
Build skills in studio art and design principles, including how composition, typography, color, and imagery support a message. Graphic design programs commonly combine these foundations with computerized design, commercial graphics production, printing techniques, and website design. Writing, marketing, and business courses can also help with client work and collaboration.
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Software and production skills
Learn the tools relevant to the work you want to show, such as software for digital illustration, photo editing, and page layout. Keep your skills current through self-directed learning or formal training. Certifications are available from software vendors, but the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) does not establish that any particular credential is required or preferred by all employers.
Communication and work habits
Important skills include artistic judgment, creativity, analysis, communication, computer use, and time management. Practice translating a client or audience need into visual choices, explaining your decisions, responding constructively to feedback, and managing several deadlines.
Choose a preparation route
BLS says graphic designers usually need a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field. A person with a bachelor’s degree in another subject may complete technical graphic-design training to meet many hiring qualifications. Requirements vary among employers, so check job postings in the area and specialty you are targeting.
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Some programs require foundational coursework or examples of artistic ability for admission. A sketchbook can be useful for practicing rough illustrations or preparing samples, but it is optional—not a required purchase or a hiring advantage established by BLS.
Build a portfolio that proves what you can do
A portfolio is a central part of applying for graphic-design jobs. BLS advises: “Candidates for graphic design positions should have a portfolio that demonstrates their creativity and originality.” Include work that is relevant to the roles you want and show that you can make visual decisions with a clear purpose.
Coursework, internships, and other completed projects can all help you develop portfolio pieces. Choose a focused selection rather than relying on a list of tools or qualifications: the work itself should make your abilities visible.
Get practical experience and move into paid work
Internships can give aspiring designers a chance to work with designers and see a project move from concept to completion. They are one route to experience, not the only one; completed coursework and other projects can also help you build a portfolio.
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Random freezes, missing sound and display glitches usually trace back to one bad driver. Find and replace yours safely.Free scan · under a minuteWhen applying, tailor the portfolio to the role and be ready to discuss how you interpreted a brief, presented a concept, handled revisions, and met production needs. In an interview or client conversation, clear communication matters alongside visual skill.
Choose between employment and self-employment
Neither route is universally best. An employee role may place you on a design team or in a firm, working with colleagues and clients. Self-employment adds the work of finding projects and competing for contracts. BLS reported that 20 percent of U.S. graphic designers were self-employed in 2025.
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| Consideration | Employee role | Self-employed work |
|---|---|---|
| Work structure | May involve a design firm or team and collaboration with colleagues and clients. | Requires finding projects and competing for contracts as well as doing design work. |
| Schedule | Can vary with workload and deadlines. | May include evening or weekend client meetings. |
| Preparation | A portfolio, relevant training, software skills, and experience are useful. | The same design capabilities matter, with additional attention to client communication and finding work. |
The available national data do not establish which path offers greater income stability or satisfaction; weigh the day-to-day work and your circumstances rather than assuming one route is better.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Understand U.S. pay and job projections
The figures below are national BLS statistics, not starting-salary estimates or guarantees for a particular location. The BLS Graphic Designers profile was last modified August 27, 2026.
| Measure | U.S. figure | Reference period |
|---|---|---|
| Median annual wage | $62,960 | May 2025 |
| Employment | 253,100 jobs | 2025 |
| Projected employment change | 2 percent decline | 2025–35 |
| Average annual openings | About 16,000 | 2025–35 projections |
A projected decline in total employment can coexist with annual openings: BLS attributes many openings to replacement needs, such as workers moving to other occupations or leaving the labor force, rather than net growth. National figures also do not tell you what a particular city, state, specialty, or entry-level role will pay.
For current national figures and links to state and metropolitan data, consult the BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook profile for graphic designers.
Plan your next steps
- Pick a target. Decide what kind of design work you want to pursue, such as print, web, packaging, or another specialty.
- Build the foundation. Study design principles and the tools and production methods relevant to that work.
- Create portfolio projects. Use coursework, internships, or other completed work to demonstrate creativity, originality, and purposeful choices.
- Practice the working process. Present ideas, incorporate feedback, communicate clearly, and manage deadlines.
- Apply and keep learning. Pursue entry opportunities that fit your preparation and keep up with changes in computer graphics and design software.
Experienced designers may advance to chief designer, art director, or supervisory roles. Some people with a design background go on to teach at the postsecondary level.
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