What to Look for in a Graphic Design Program
by Sarah Clark
sarah.clark@graphicdesignschoolreview.com
Graphic Design School Review Columnist
Choosing a graphic design program can be tough. Colleges, universities, and art institutes offer various courses of study in graphic design. This framework will help you choose a graphic design program more methodically.
The American Institute of Graphic Design, an organization representing professional graphic designers, along with the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, an accrediting body of design programs, offer some of the following recommendations when choosing a graphic design school.
Curriculum
Become familiar with each program's curriculum. Some schools may offer graphic design as an emphasis within a fine arts program. If you are interested in using your degree primarily to gain employment using graphic design skills, you will probably want to enroll in a program that offers the most courses in graphic design. As such, a degree program dedicated to the study of graphic design, rather than a general arts program, may be better suited for you.
Faculty
Knowing about the faculty of the programs you're looking into can help you make a better choice about graphic design programs. Research faculty members to determine which ones share your interests. You will likely benefit from taking courses with faculty members who have conducted research in your area of interest.
Technology
As technology is a vitally important aspect of graphic design, you'll want to get a sense of how much each school invests in technology. You'll also want to determine if the school is keeping up with the latest advances in technology. Knowing how to use the latest graphic design software program can put you in a better position to secure a job after graduation.
Career Services
Find out if the schools you're considering have a dedicated career specialist or career development department that assists with job placement. During your studies, you'll likely undertake an internship - a common way of gaining on-the-job experience during school. A good career services department can help you identify internship and employment opportunities.
These tips can help you navigate through the labyrinth of graphic design programs. With thorough research and planning, you can feel confident about your choice of graphic design program.
About the Author
Sarah Clark is a freelance writer based in Arlington, Virginia.
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