Career library · Design, art and media
Graphic designer
Making things look right, for print and for screens
What people in this work actually do
Understand what a client is trying to communicate, design logos, posters, packaging, social media and web graphics, take feedback without taking it personally, and deliver files that print and display correctly.
This may suit you if…
You notice when something looks wrong, you can take criticism of your work, and you are willing to learn the software properly.
Clients change their minds, often late and often without extra payment. Deadlines are tight. Entry rates are low and the field is crowded. You need a computer of your own.
We show these because nobody else will.
What people get wrong about this
That you must be able to draw. Most commercial design work is arrangement, typography and judgement rather than illustration.
What this looks like in a smaller town
Freelance design can genuinely be done from a small town for clients anywhere, provided you have a reliable connection and can communicate well in writing.
Ways into this work
There is almost always more than one route, and the cheapest is often perfectly respected.
Short graphic design course
Short skill course · Starts from Class Classes 11 and 12
A six to twelve month practical design course.
- How long
- 1 year
- What it costs
- Not yet verified
- Available near you?
- In district towns
How to do it
Find out what a usable second-hand laptop would cost, because that is the real entry barrier here.
Self-taught freelance design
Working for yourself · Starts from Class Classes 11 and 12
Learn the software from free material, build a portfolio, and find clients online.
- How long
- 1 year 6 months
- What it costs
- Not yet verified
- Available near you?
- Can be done online
How to do it
Choose one design tool, complete ten practice pieces, and ask two local businesses if you may redesign something of theirs free to start a portfolio.
Design degree
Degree course · Starts from Class Classes 11 and 12
A three or four year degree in design or applied art.
- How long
- 4 years
- What it costs
- Not yet verified
- Available near you?
- Mainly in cities
How to do it
Check which design entrance examinations your state or the national institutes hold, and when.
Skills that matter here
Managing your time
Finishing things by the day they are due.
Using a computer
Switching on, finding files, and not being afraid of the machine.
Designing something
Planning how a thing should look and work before making it.
Listening properly
Hearing what someone actually said, not what you expected them to say.
See whether this fits your family
School is one of five parts of growing up. See how your child is doing across all five, what to try next at their age, and what it would honestly cost in your area.
Start freeSources
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Short-term skill training
Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
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Recognised universities and degree programmes
University Grants Commission
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National Skills Qualifications Framework
National Council for Vocational Education and Training
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National Career Service
Ministry of Labour and Employment