Overview of Graphic Communications

Graphic communications is a creative field that puts together visual elements (images, fonts, objects, photographs, videos, etc.) to communicate a message. It’s a combination of visual arts, editorial design, advertising, and digital media production. Professionals in the field use their creative and technical skills to conceive and develop graphics that are both appealing to the eye and convey information— be it an advertisement, a photograph, a magazine, or a website. They work with clients, colleagues, and other departments to bring ideas to life.

What are the Career Opportunities associated with Graphic Communications?

The field of graphic communication offers a variety of career opportunities, from entry-level graphic designer, to art director, to multimedia developer, to web designer. With a degree in graphic communication, you can pursue a career in advertising, marketing, media, television, film, game and user interface development, and web-based design.

Are there Internship or Co-op Opportunities Related to Graphic Communications?

Many schools and universities offer internships or co-ops as part of their graphic communication program. Internships or co-ops allow students to gain professional experience in the field while also gaining academic credit towards their degree. Most internships last for one semester, and some may include travel to other locations while working. Organizations that offer internships and co-ops include advertising agencies, graphic design companies, web development firms, creative studios, and production companies.

Are there Specialized Tracks or Concentrations within Graphic Communications?

Within the field of graphic communication, degree programs usually provide specialized tracks or concentrations that students can specialize in. These include: digital media design, interactive media, interactive development, web design, art direction, advertising design, and motion graphics. Depending on the particular school, some specialized tracks may even include courses in interactive design, user experience design, virtual reality and augmented reality.

How Graphic Communications Prepares Students for Graduate School or Further Education?

A degree in graphic communication prepares students for further education in the field by introducing them to the core principles of design, such as composition, typography, and color theory. It also builds the technical skills students need for filmmaking, digital media design, interactive media, and other specialized fields. Through courses in media production, animation, graphics, and digital photography, students learn how to create visual media that communicates powerful messages.

Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Graphic Communications?

The impact of artificial intelligence on graphic communication is far-reaching. AI has had an impact on the way designs are created, from faster and more accurate computer-generated imagery to automated rendering and optimisation tools. On the other hand, it can improve the way designers interact with technology with voice-interactive tools, allowing for quick creation and changing of designs. AI has also been used to recommend designs and styles to designers, as well as to automate marketing tasks such as content curation and personalisation.

The Career Outlook for Graphic Communications?

The career outlook for graphic communication professionals is generally positive. According to the most recent Bureau of Labor Statistics data, the number of jobs in this field is projected to grow eight percent between 2018 and 2028. This growth is mostly due to an increased demand for digital media, marketing campaigns, and interactive design. To meet this demand, more and more companies are turning to professionals with a background in graphic communication.

Here are the top reported starting salaries for graduates in Graphic Communications:

Art Center College of Design, Salary: $63,126

Rochester Institute of Technology, Salary: $51,726

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, Salary: $49,435

Illinois State University, Salary: $47,259

Ringling College of Art and Design, Salary: $44,528

University of Wisconsin-Stout, Salary: $42,536

University of Central Missouri, Salary: $40,481

Brigham Young University, Salary: $40,362

Baker College, Salary: $39,944

Roger Williams University, Salary: $37,588

For privacy reasons, not all schools report the first year salaries for students who earned their bachelor’s degree in Graphic Communications.