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While the field of graphic design is a creative one, it also offers advancement potential for those who wish to increase their level of responsibility and salary. Further education in graphic design, such as a masters degree in graphic design, can be helpful to those designers who desire to advance to the highest paying positions in the field.
How Much can I Earn with a Masters Degree in Graphic Design?
An entry-level graphic designer can expect to earn a median salary of $35,000 (2008 figures), according to the American Institute of Graphic Arts. A graphic designer employed as an art director or creative director (two of the highest positions for graphic designers), can expect to earn a median salary of $95,000. Masters in graphic design are often required for these high-level positions. These positions are also most common at larger graphic design firms and companies employing teams of designers.
Can I Enroll in Graphic Design Masters Programs?
The answer would be “yes,” if you have completed your bachelors degree studies. Some masters programs may require you to have completed previous coursework in graphic design and/or to have real world work experience in the field. Others may offer additional coursework to make up for a lack of experience. The most obvious choice of bachelors degree for someone eventually planning to enter graphic design grad school would be one in graphic design. However, bachelors degrees in journalism, marketing, advertising, public relations and art can also be good stepping stones to a masters degree in graphic design.
What can I Expect to Learn in the Masters Program?
When studying for your masters degree in graphic design, you can expect to take advanced coursework in design principles, color theory, typography, printing styles, and the philosophy and science of communication as well as learn the latest graphic design software programs. There may also be coursework in the management or direction of graphic design teams.
How Much Will an Advanced Graphics Degree Cost me?
According to the National Center for Education Services, tuition and fees for graphic design masters programs average about $7,000 per semester at public universities and about $18,000 per semester at private universities. Most masters programs in graphic design take two to three years for completion. You’ll also need to figure in the cost of books, software and supplies, which can vary from program to program depending on the coursework involved. On average, the cost of these items for a graphic design masters student is estimated at $2,400 per year.
Whether you have a bachelors degree in graphic design or are just entering college and thinking about future advanced degrees, consider the possibilities of a masters in graphic design. If you’re a creative individual with a passion for art, it could be an ideal educational path for you.
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