How to Become a Graphic Designer?
Explore your creative potential with our guide on how to become a graphic designer in India, including courses after 12th, eligibility, and career paths
In this Career Outline
Introduction to Graphic Designer
"A graphic designer turns vision into visuals, making ideas tangible and engaging." — Jane Doe
Communication design, or graphic design, involves creating visual elements to communicate ideas and engage audiences. Graphic designers use tools and software to craft images, text, and illustrations aimed at promoting, educating, or attracting customers. Their goal is to enhance brand visibility through various media, including typefaces, colors, layouts, and animations. They often collaborate with artists and digital creators on campaigns.
Steps to Become a Graphic Designer:
Step-1
Start by enhancing your artistic abilities. Practice drawing, sketching, and using digital tools like Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. Understanding the basics of design principles, color theory, and typography will give you a solid foundation.
Step-2
After 12th, you can enroll in a graphic design course that offers specialized training. There are several diploma and degree programs available that cover everything from basic design to advanced digital techniques.
Step-3
Your portfolio is your visual resume. Start working on projects, whether personal or freelance, to showcase your skills. A well-rounded portfolio demonstrates your versatility and creativity to potential employers.
Step-4
Mastering design software is crucial. Adobe Creative Suite, CorelDraw, and Sketch are some of the industry-standard tools you need to be proficient in. There are plenty of online tutorials and courses to help you get started.
Step-5
The design industry is constantly evolving. Stay current with the newest trends, techniques, and software advancements. Explore design blogs, join online communities, and attend workshops to maintain a competitive edge.
Step-6
Internships and freelance work are invaluable in gaining real-world experience. Working on live projects will not only build your confidence but also expand your network in the industry.
Step-7
As a graphic designer, your personal brand is important. Create a professional website or blog to showcase your work, share your design process, and connect with potential clients and employers. Networking is key in this creative industry.
Eligibility Criteria
| Eligibility Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Must possess at least 50% aggregate marks in 12th grade from a recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC, etc.). |
| Educational Background | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Undergraduate Degree | A degree in Graphic Design, Visual Arts, or Fine Arts is preferred. A Bachelor’s in Computer Science can be advantageous but focuses more on computer applications rather than graphic design. |
| Postgraduate Degree | An M.Design (Master of Design) or M.A. (Master of Arts) in Graphic Designing can be beneficial for advanced knowledge and specialization. |
| Entrance Exams | Some institutes may require entrance exams or portfolio reviews for admission to design courses. |
- Must have at least 50% in 12th grade from any recognized board (PUC/CBSE/ICSE/ISC). Cut-off varies by college.
- A Bachelor’s degree in computer science provides a broad view of computing but isn’t specialized in graphic design.
- Obtain a degree, diploma, or certification in graphic design from a recognized institution.
- An M.Design or M.A in Graphic Design offers advanced knowledge and can enhance career prospects.
- Some institutes and colleges may require Entrance exams after 12th or portfolio reviews for admission to design courses.
Not eligible to pursue this career?
Find out different career options based on your current academic accomplishments. Enquire with our career experts and build a roadmap to your career success!
Tasks to perform as a Graphic Designer:
Knowledge & Skills Required
Graphic Designers must possess a wide array of skills to succeed in their careers. Here are the key knowledge areas and skills needed to excel in this field:
| Knowledge Required | |
|---|---|
| Understanding of balance, contrast, and harmony | Familiarity with designing for web and mobile platforms |
| Understanding of color schemes and their psychological effects. | Understanding of print production processes and techniques |
| Expertise in font selection and typeface combinations | Understanding of user experience and interface design concepts. |
| Skills Required | |
|---|---|
| Problem-Solving | Creativity |
| Technical Proficiency | Time Management |
| Communication | Attention to Detail |
Understanding What are soft skills? and why is it important,as they complement technical abilities and enhance overall performance in the field of Graphic Designer.
The Knowlegde and Skills don't intrigue you?
Your career may not align with your interests. Identify them and match with careers requiring those skills for faster growth and success!
Job roles offered for a Graphic Designer:
Once you become a Graphic Designer, you have a variety of career options and projects available:
Create ads to persuade consumers, working on campaigns for corporations, associations, or government entities. A degree in graphic design is usually required, and a strong portfolio is essential.
Oversee the visual style of publications, advertisements, and media. They guide design teams and ensure the visual presentation aligns with the intended message.
Design graphic interfaces using fonts and images. They arrange elements to create visually appealing designs and often advance to supervisory roles.
Produce engaging content by combining text, sound, images, and video. They work in advertising, gaming, and film, often in a more relaxed creative environment.
Create visual content for advertising and marketing. They work with clients to develop designs and prototypes, making revisions based on feedback.
Not sure where you fit in?
With countless career options, choosing the right path can be tough. Analysis and guidance sessions help clarify what to study, pursue, and achieve.
Career Opportunities for a Graphic Designer:
Graphic Designers can opt for various fields of work in the companies listed below:
| Macquarie Group | Advanced Bio Mechanics Pvt. Ltd. | WSD Consultant Pvt. Ltd. |
| Replicon | Nymble | Urban Pro |
| Uber | Paytm | Vedantu |
| Myntra | BYJU’s |
Colleges offering courses for Graphic Designer:
Here is the list of colleges offering the Best courses after 12th:
| School of Design, University of Petroleum and Energy Studies, Dehradun | Arch College of Design and Business, Jaipur |
| National Institute of Fashion Technology, Delhi | LPU - Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar |
| National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad | Indian Institute of Art and Design, Delhi |
| National Institute of Electronics & Information Technology, Srinagar | Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad |
| Vogue Institute of Art and Design, Bangalore | Chandigarh University (CU), Chandigarh |
End Note
Pursuing a career in Graphic Design can be a fulfilling journey that allows you to express your creativity while making a significant impact in various industries. If you're ready to take the next step, connect with our experts at SetMyCareer to guide you with Career counselling after graduation along your career goals and help you find the right path to success.
In this Career Outline
You don't fit in as a Graphic Designer?
Find out your best suitable career by booking an appointment with our experts
Book now
Get In Touch
No. 14/595, 1st Floor, Nanjappa Reddy Layout, Koramangala 8th Block, Bangalore 560095