Careers in Digital Media

 

A Report on the Graphic Design/Multimedia Job Market
by Almaz Negash
August 2007

Introduction

Students learn differently and have different strengths and talents. Some do well in math and science, some in social studies; and some in history. Some like teacher directed strict academics and others like a more creative approach. For the latter, hands-on learning might be more effective than lectures. No matter what style of education students gravitate towards, introducing sustainable, hands-on learning into high schools and colleges can be challenging.

 

This past year at West Valley Community College, a handful of dedicated educators have developed a new program called "Learningbytes" in order to reach out to students who are interested in the creative arts, and to advance the understanding of potential careers in the digital media/entertainment industry. The program works directly with middle school and high school students, teachers, and their parents to explore multimedia and entertainment as viable educational and career paths.

 

Background

Careers in multimedia and creative arts are in high demand in the United States. According to the United States Department of Labor, the National Association of Schools of Art and Design has accredited about 250 postsecondary institutions with programs in art and design. This in turn represents tremendous opportunities for students interested to study art and design. In addition, the U.S. Dept. of Labor cites the following key statistics in the study of Graphic Design:

 

According to the U.S. Labor Bureau; graphic designers are expected to have the most new jobs through 2014. However, the Labor Bureau asserts that job seekers are expected to face competition for such positions. For example, graphic designers with Website design and animation experience will have the best opportunities.

 

Although a bachelor's degree is required for most entry level graphic design jobs, students with an associate degree can also gain technical positions. It is important to note that almost three out of ten designers are self employed and many do freelance work in addition to holding a salaried job in design or in another occupation.

 

 

Areas of Concern in Graphic Arts/Design

 

Students who are interested in the multimedia and creative arts industry pose questions such as: What is the job of a creative artist?   Are there any job opportunities in the creative arts/multimedia sector?   What kind of degree/diploma is required? What kind of training is needed? These are questions of interest to anyone studying creative arts/multimedia or thinking about studying. Thus educators must play a key role in responding to these questions in order to provide students the necessary tools to join in the creative arts job market.

Types of Careers, Markets, and Multimedia Users 

  • Careers
  • Game Designer
  • Interactive Writer
  • Sound Producer
  • Web Content Producer
  • Webmaster
  • CD-ROM Developer Art Director
  • Graphic Designer
  • Interface Designer
  • Video Producer
  • Web Developer
  • Presentation Artist
  • Markets
  • Publishing
  • Advertising
  • Museums/Zoos
  • Education Media Companies
  • Software Startups
  • Advertising Software
  • Multimedia Users
  • Online games
  • Corporate website design
  • Reference Material
  • Product introduction CD-ROM games
  • Personal websites
  • ATM's/Kiosks
  • Technical Training Arcade games
  • Edutainment
  • Marketing
  • Trade Shows

[http://multimedia.marin.cc.ca.us/resources/CAREER.htm]

The work of a Graphic Designer/Graphic Artist

The graphic design work ranges from basic desktop publishing to complex concept development such as photography as well as illustration.   Usually the work of a graphic designer or artist involves planning, analyzing, and creating visual solutions to problems . Graphic artists use a variety of methods to get their message across.   They can use print media, electronics, and film.   In addition, they can use color, type, illustration, photography, animation, and various print and layout techniques. Primarily, graphic designers are responsible for developing the overall look for magazines, journals, corporate reports, and other such publications. Many graphic artists are also in charge of producing marketing brochures and logos for products and services.    [http://www.bls.gov/oco]
 

Graphic artists are required to understand the need of a client in order to design that which the customer is looking for. Hence, in order to compete in the creative arts, a graphic designer must have good interpersonal skills, an understanding of diverse cultures, and must plan and execute according to the needs of their clientele.

 

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