Career Services

Graphic Design

Description of Major

Graphic designers use a variety of print, electronic, and film media to create art that meets a client's needs. Most graphic artists use computer software to design new images. Like other art majors, the graphic design artist must be proficient in other forms of art as well. Graphic design majors sometims opt to minor or double major in areas such as marketing or business, making them more marketable.
Learn more about the Graphic Design major at Carthage here.

Relevant Coursework

Computer Art Applications, Digital Imaging, Multimedia Production, Drawing, Studio Art (2D), Image Design, Page Design, Communications, Advertising, Digital Photography, Web Design

Current Outlook

Centrique, Carthage's student-published art and literary magazine is published each year with a collection of writings and art works submitted throughout the school year. Pieces are judged and awarded in a variety of areas. Centrique is currently celebrating it's 40th year.

The Current is Carthage's student-run weekly newspaper. It affords students the opportunity to develop as graphic designers, reporters, photographers, and business managers. It is open to students of all majors and encourages individual initiative and involvement.

Members of the all-student staff of The Driftwood, Carthage's yearbook, work throughout the school year to preserve the memories of Carthage traditions and achievements. Students learn about Carthage and work together with members of the Carthage community to develop themes, layouts, and other areas from concept to publication.

The H.F. Johnson Gallery of Art, located at Carthage, features traveling exhibits and student art exhibits throughout the year.

Why take Graphic Design at Carthage?

THE CARTHAGE ADVANTAGE

Carthage's graphic design program is designed to blend the theoretical and the practical, giving students grounding in the liberal arts tradition and the skills required for employment in the field. Great attention is given to developing your portfolio, an essential tool for future employment and graduate school.

Note that the graphic design major is housed in the Communications and Digital Media department, which also houses the communications major. This is a direct reflection of graphic design's relation to communications in the job market.

SALARY

Beginning salary for those with a bachelor's degree in graphic design is $22,000 - $31,000. Freelance salaries vary, but the ability to earn income on the side or part-time is often seen as a positive aspect of this field.

What can I do with a major in Graphic Design?

POSSIBLE CAREER PATHS

This list includes careers requiring differing degrees of education and training.

  • Graphic Designer
  • Design Director
  • Interactive Designer
  • Advertising Designer
  • Package Designer
  • Design Manager
  • Book Designer
  • Exhibit Designer
  • Art Director
  • Book Jacket Designer
  • Creative Director
  • Website Designer

COMPANIES EMPLOYING CARTHAGE GRADUATES OF THIS MAJOR

  • Kenosha News - Graphic Designer
  • Community State Bank - Art Marketing Director
  • The Racine Journal Times - Graphic Designer
  • Czarnowoki Exhibit and Service Specialist - Graphic Design Associate
  • Kenosha Unified School District - Substitute Teacher
  • Signs Now - Production Artist
  • Wickes Furniture - Advertising Designer
  • Frank Haack and Associates - Communications Specialist
  • Unlimited Graphics - Graphic Designer
  • Northwest Herald - Advertising Graphic Designer
  • Promotions Unlimited - Graphic Designer
  • Wick's Lumber - Graphic Artist
  • Digital Imaging Group - Graphic Designer

CARTHAGE GRAPHIC DESIGN MAJORS HAVE PURSUED GRADUATE STUDY IN

  • Art
  • Art Education

Learn more about the Graphic Design major at Carthage here.