Graphic designing is an academic discipline of projecting visual communications intended to transmit specific messages to various social groups. As you all know, we are practically surrounded by the work of graphic designers. Advertising is omnipresent and more or less every advertisement creative is incomplete without an element of graphic designing in it. Right from bus stop advertisements, music album covers, movie posters to logos are all done by graphic designers. They are required in all kinds of industries like science, multimedia, and fashion. A graphic designer’s main job is to send a message or communicate information by using visual elements.

The average annual salary is about $54k, where the highest hourly wage could be as high as $43/hour to as low as $17/hour, making the average $27/hour. It is certainly an interdisciplinary branch of design. You may also enter other careers such as marketing specialists, UI/UX designers, creative directors, video editors, animators and whatnot. Learning and mastering this subject will open a pool of career opportunities for you.

Skills Required

To be a graphic designer, one must have a diploma in the related field and a portfolio. A portfolio showcases your skill set and plays a major role in getting you shortlisted for your dream job. Some other assets include having at least two years of professional experience and some scientific training if you’re planning to enter the science and engineering industry.

Other skills required are critical thinking, time management, creativity, active listening and comprehension. You as a graphic designer will have to deal with strict deadlines and standards so it’s crucial that you take in every detail within a short time frame.

Prospects of the Graphic Design Industry

As the world shifts to an online-centric culture, the demand for graphic designers has increased especially in cities and urban areas. From 2019 to 2029, BC expects to see about 4,750 job openings in graphic design and there will be an approximate 1.8% rise increase in job openings. 

If you have formal education in program areas such as animation, multimedia production, visual arts or web technologies you’ll certainly be able to land yourself in a job as a graphic designer. These are only a few areas however if you’re generally trained in art, you can enter the graphic design industry.

Graphic Design Diploma at VCC

Vancouver Career College (VCC) offers a two-year diploma program in this subject. You can learn advanced design tools like Photoshop and Illustrator, design for UI/UX and other design principles. On top of that, VCC will also give you access to drawing tablets and other electronic devices along with creative groups to discuss and critique work. This hands-on experience will prepare you for your future job in the related field and you will gain the desired skill set. You can check more details and information about their courses on their program page.

Admission Requirements 

There are two different kinds of admission requirements. You as an applicant can choose which one you’d like to apply for. 

A) Standard Admission Requirements (Year 1) 

• English 12 with a minimum ‘C’ grade or English Language Proficiency at the English 12 ‘C’ level or equivalent
• Interview with Selection Committee
  • Prior to the interview students are required to provide:

• Personal portfolio
• Resume and letter of intent clearly listing reasons for pursuing the diploma

B) Advanced Admission Requirements (Year 2)

• Completion of a graphic design certificate program equivalent to the first year of the program, from a recognized institution as determined by the department. If necessary, additional first-year courses as determined by the department.
• Interview with Selection Committee

Prior to the interview students are required to provide:

• Professional portfolio
• Resume and letter of intent, clearly listing reasons for pursuing the diploma
• Three references from people who have worked with the applicant in a relevant professional or academic environment

For more information on application submissions, please see the Submission Guidelines

Why Graphic Design Industry is Important?

Graphic design is a creative yet critical industry. Businesses are starting to see how much they rely on visually appealing advertising that can only be accomplished by a talented team of graphic designers. 

If you consider yourself a creative person and want to apply your skills in multiple kinds of industries, then this is the best option for you. It’s the chance for you to apply your skills and passion while being successful in an ever-changing economy. Happy designing !

Source: VCC Graphic Design DiplomaCareers with Graphic DesignPayScale SalariesGraphic Designers Work BC