GRAPHIC DESIGNERS FROM OUR DESIGN COMMUNITY
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home > EDUCATION > GRAPHIC DESIGN SCHOOLS FOR VISUAL COMMUNICATIONS
Visual communications is a diverse field with numerous career opportunities. Graphic design, fine arts, animation, interactive, and multimedia fall under the umbrella of visual communications. Other specialty areas include interactive media, photography, Web design, illustration, and video production. Common career tracts in the visual communication field include:
Visual communication programs can prepare you to join this growing industry. The National Association of Schools of Art and Design have accredited nearly 300 postsecondary schools with programs in art and design, including visual communications programs.The types of visual communication classes you chose depend on your degree level and field of study. Common courses include introduction to visual communication, principles of design, technical writing, type design, electronic imaging, business of graphic arts and more.
Visual Communication Courses
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job prospects within the visual communications industry should remain strong between 2008 and 2018. For example, graphic designers could see 13 percent job growth during that time period. Art directors could expect 12 percent job growth, while multimedia artists positions could increase by 14 percent.
Most visual communication careers pay well. The Bureau of Labor Statistics lists the following 2009 median salaries for these visual communication positions:
Most visual communication programs can be completed in two to three years and result in an associate's degree. Four year programs that result in a bachelor's degree are also available, and are typically recommended by most employers for entry-level positions in the field.
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