Graphic designers must possess a combination of skills, including creativity, technical computer and design skills, and the ability to understand how to reach an audience. They are responsible for helping marketing departments, small business owners, large corporations, nonprofit groups and government agencies communicate their brand or cause to a specific audience through effective design. Graphic designer work with a number of different media, including the Internet, print, and even digital media. They must have a working knowledge of illustration, the appropriate computer software, typography and font creation, layout, storytelling, color, photography, shape, spacing, light and more. As more and more advertising space is sold and purchased online, graphic designers need to have cutting edge web design skills too, especially if they are freelancers or independent contractors. Graphic designers can work for a large company as an in-house professional, for a graphic design or multimedia design firm, or as a freelancer. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that around 25% of graphic designers are self-employed. Graphic designers must have excellent communication and client relationship and customer management skills, as well as the ability to understand the message a client wishes to broadcast to his or her audience. Graphic designers who have the best jobs and retain the top clientele are always learning about new techniques, styles and media that will make their work cutting edge and their clients’ material stand out.

Graphic designers must have at least an associate’s degree or professional certificate to find work. Freelancers with a great amount of talent and the ability to market their own brand can use a certificate or entry-level degree to give their resume some more validity and attract customers. Graphic designers who want to find work in a firm or as an in-house professional will probably need at least a bachelor’s degree to get a job. Because the nature of the job is always evolving, continuing education classes may be necessary to stay cutting edge.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics also predicts that the job outlook for graphic designers is expected to grow at an average rate. Jobs are competitive for graphic designers, so those with more professional and educational experience will probably find the best jobs. The median salary range for graphic designers in 2006 was between $30,600 and $53,310. Many graphic designers do freelance work to supplement their incomes, and those who work for specialized design projects or advertising projects earned an average of $41,600 to $43,410.

Top Online Programs

A.A. in Information Technology B.S. in Web Development B.S. in Communications	University of Phoenix – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – The University of Phoenix prepares students for the rapidly evolving multi-million dollar industry of World Wide Web designing and interactive media. The programs offered at the institute teaches students everything from developing their skills in drawing and design to learning programming and scripting techniques.
B.F.A. in Web Design A.A.B.A. in Visual Communications B.F.A. in Digital Design	American InterContinental University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – For those interested in the exciting career of web design, American InterContinental Universitye will help them prepare with their staff of knowledgeable and skilled professionals who have had prior experience working in the web design industry. The program is a great choice for those seeking to pursue a career in web design, web development, graphic design, graphic art, or web publications designer.
B.S. in Web Development B.S. in Communication A.A.S. in Information Technology	Kaplan University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - Kaplan University offers a web design degree that could be completed in as few as 12 months. This allows students to earn their degree at an accelerated pace and be on their way to advancing in their career in web design.
B.S. in Web Design A.S. in Web Design Diploma in Web Design	The Art Institute of Pittsburgh – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - The Art Institute of Pittsburgh provides students with the opportunity to learn the latest software and programming applications to compete in the highly competitive, yet rewarding, web design industry. They place special emphasis on the practical application of web development skills and how to effectively use them for organizations.
B.A. in Visual Communications B.A. in Art B.A. in Art History	Ashford University – Bachelor's Degree - Dedicated to helping intellectual, professional, and creative individuals, Ashford University offers one of the best web design degrees online. Their web design courses are very convenient and achieveablefor students who have restricting schedules.
A.S. in Web Graphic Design B.C.I.S. in Web Development B.C.I.S. in Web Game Programming	DeVry University – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – DeVry University has helped thousands of students apply practical skills to produce high-quality graphics and develop many types of graphic media. They are ideal for many students because of their affordable and convenient programs available online.
A.S. in Web Design B.F.A. in Graphic Design B.A. in Fashion Merchandising	International Academy of Design & Technology – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree - Since 1977, the International Academy of Design and Technology Online has helped thousands of students prepare for a career in which their creativity and talents are respected and valued. Their affordable courses allow individuals with a passion for web design to advance in their career.
B.S. in Web Design & Multimedia B.S. in Visual Communications A.S. in Graphic Design & Multimedia	Westwood College – Associate's & Bachelor's Degree – Westwood College's programs consists of courses in design theory, web design, imaging and advanced web technology to help students build valuable portfolios for potential employers. They offer their programs completely online, allowing flexibility for working individuals or individuals with other time contraints.