How Does a Student Choose a College Graphic Design Program?

With the popularity of graphic design as a career choice, many about to enter their first years of studies are asking “How does a student choose a graphic design program?” There are a variety of very important things to consider when selecting a graphic design program but first, you must analyze your commitment to becoming a graphic designer. Do you love to draw and create already? Is your computer full of graphic design software and do you find it “fun” to work on projects? If so, you are probably a good candidate for a career in graphic design. The first place to start is determining which kind of school to enter.

Some schools offer certificates, two year programs or four year programs. Each has their own pros and cons to weigh and consider. For instance, a certificate may be quick to acquire, but your employment network may be quite limited. A two year program tailored specifically to graphic design is great so long as you don’t change your mind half way through and decide instead you want to be an attorney. However, keep in mind that you could transfer to a four year program after completion. A four year program might not be as focused as an art center and you may have a wide variety of students in your classes. You should consider all of the options and apply to a curriculum that gives you a strong graphic arts education and opportunities to advance your career.

Another thing to deliberate when choosing a school is the work experience you will achieve as a student. Programs that offer internship opportunities are invaluable toward creating networks that can help you get your first job. Some entry level job descriptions to research are web designer, junior designer, and prepress production artist. With additional training, you could also become an art director or a project leader. Reading job descriptions are a great way to determine exactly what you will need to learn while you are in school. What types of student organizations are available for you to gain experience? Student groups also have excellent alumni networks that again, can help you to get the job and paycheck you want.

Industries you could work in are vast and include such areas as advertising, the Internet, entertainment, publishing, and in-house design for practically any type of traditional business. Have students in the programs you are considering done internships? How beneficial was their experience? Where have former students been hired and what kind of jobs are they doing today? These are important questions to ask so be sure to get contact information, usually e-mail, for previous students. These are typically supplied by professors or admissions counselors.

Another question to take into account is “What is the full curriculum of the graphic design program?” Read the course descriptions of all of the classes (which you can usually find online) and see which ones catch your interest the most. This might help you in determining what the main focus of each program is. Also, who teaches the classes? Are the instructors industry leaders who have been doing graphic design for many years, or are they primarily graduate assistants? Examining faculty credentials can provide insight into how courses might be taught as well.

Another thing to take into account when looking at the classes is what is the ratio of students to graphic design instructors? Having a good balance between faculty and students is important to make sure you do not just become one of the crowd. For some courses it might not be as important but for your major courses, you want to ensure you will be able to get the instruction you need.

The ratio of faculty to students is important but the ratio of equipment to students might even be more important. How many computer stations are available and what types of software can you work on? Make sure that equipment is up to date and maintained. Check out the library and other work spaces such as dark rooms and studios. You want the places where you are going to be spending the bulk of your time to be comfortable and in good working order.

When choosing a graphic design program, there are a lot of factors to consider. Do your research, weigh the options and then you will feel comfortable knowing you made the right decision.

For more information about a college graphic design school in Canada, see St. Clair's Graphic Design Program.

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