Whether you should go to graphic design school depends on your skill and talent, but school can absolutely help. In this 2016 episode, I share my experience at the Art Institute of Atlanta, where I earned an associate degree in graphic design, plus what to research, why to take only paid internships, and what school really taught me: how to learn.
Key Takeaways
- School can help, especially with design basics and principles.
- Research programs and ask graduates what they would do differently.
- Always get paid internships.
- The most valuable thing I learned was how to learn.
Should You Go to Design School?
It depends on your level of skill and talent. In 2016 the industry had changed, with sites like Behance, then recently bought by Adobe, giving access to talent from all over the world.
Even so, school can help. My program covered the basics and principles of design, with a heavy focus on print: the printing press, formats, lithography, digital printing and screen printing. Now the focus is moving to digital, including file sizes, raster images, PNG and JPEG.
How Do You Choose a School?
Do your research. Look at programs and the results students get. Ask graduates what they thought, what they would change and what they would do differently before graduating.
Get different opinions, then follow your gut. Ask what you want to know, who you want to become and where you see this going.
Also consider whether you want to be employed or freelance. It is advisable to do both: work with someone first.
Should You Take Unpaid Internships?
Always get a paid internship. You should not work for free for anybody. If an art director wants to hand work off to you, you need to be paid.
The exception I describe is working for a design legend where the reputation gives you leverage. Otherwise, try to get some pay, even a few dollars an hour, because your time has value.
On Campus or Online?
There are great schools on campus and online. I lean toward a physical school because you get access to instructors, one-on-one time and collaboration with other students, including photographers, writers, illustrators and animators, who give you new perspectives.
What Was the Most Valuable Lesson?
Learning how to learn. Each instructor had a different method. When you graduate, keep that habit and apply it to whatever the industry is heading toward. In 2016 I pointed to virtual reality and 3D as areas I saw as opportunities to learn and grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need a degree to be a graphic designer?
The video says it depends on your skill and talent, though school can definitely help.
Is an online or on-campus program better?
It depends on your preference. I recommend a physical school for the access to instructors and collaboration.
Should I accept unpaid internships?
No. Always get a paid internship, even if the pay is small.
The Short Long Of It
School can speed you up, but the real gain is learning how to learn. Research programs, ask graduates, take paid work and keep learning after you graduate.
Suggested Reading
- 12 Graphic Design Secrets That Will Make You A Pro In No Time
- 4 Principles of Graphic Design Layout
- Graphic Design Terms Every Atlanta Business Should Know
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