How to get an academic associate’s degrees in the field of graphic design images
How to get an academic associate’s degrees in the field of graphic design images?
In a time of growing unemployment, graphic design remains a great choice for the creatively inclined who wishes to avoid “starving artist” status. However, the graphic design program options can be overwhelming, and you might encounter difficulty figuring out the best way to get an associates degree in graphic design. Here are some tips to help guide you through the process.
As a first step towards an associate’s degree in graphic design, consider the general types of programs available, starting with online graphic design schools. Online programs tend to focus on the technical aspects of graphic design. These programs will provide you with more exposure to applied practice than to design theory and general education classes. The graphic design courses you will find in an online program might include computer graphics, illustration, typography, digital media, Raster graphics, and web publishing. Trade schools will also provide crucial hands-on graphic design experiences including internships and externships. However, while the median graphic design salary in the US is $42,870/year, advancement is necessary to make higher salaries, and employers often look for well-rounded candidates who have taken classes outside the realm of graphic design. Therefore, a third option, graphic design at a community college, might provide you with more long-term options.
It is also important to think about length of time you are willing to invest in your graphic design associates degree. Keep in mind that time spent in school will be time not spent working and earning money. Schools offer a range of choices when it comes to programs and degrees including two semester certificates, four semester certificates, 3 year certificates, and associate degrees. Contact an admissions counselor at each school you are considering and discuss which graphic design jobs strike your interest so that the counselor can give you advice on the length of program needed for those skills. Furthermore, you might find that schools structure their graphic design programs differently, and that one school fits the best selection of courses you need into the least amount of time.
Related to the issue of time is that of money. Consider the money you have to spend up front and also how much you expect to make when you graduate with your associates degree in graphic design. Ranging from $600 to $5,400/year in tuition, community colleges with graphic design programs tend to be less expensive than both technical schools and 4-year schools which generally run between $4,500/year for an in-state public 4-year school to $8,000/year for a technical school. Do not forget to factor in the cost of books, and since you are looking at a graphic design degree, computer software. Books alone can often exceed $1,000/year. Ask potential graphic design programs for book/technology lists so that you can include these costs in your calculations.
When you know which kind of program fits your needs, and have estimated how much you wish to spend on your associate’s degree, you should begin locating specific programs. Use online resources such as Graphic Design USA to search programs by zip code or specialty.
If you are an upcoming high school graduate and are interested in getting an associates degree in graphic design, check out the website of your nearby community college and talk to an admissions counselor there. Community colleges will frequently offer scholarships to high school grads and these are great opportunities to finance your associate’s degree in graphic design.
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