Think of anything visual, like advertisements, website designs, book covers, ad posters, they all made their way from the ideas and creativity of a graphic designer. Simply put, graphic designing is a form of professional art that aims for visual communication and spreading awareness about certain things. However, creating visual concepts doesn’t come that easy. For that you need a breakthrough, and what’s that? Qualification!
In the words of famous graphic designer Milton Glaser, there are three ways to respond of any work of art: Yes, No, and WOW! If you are willing to have that WOW element in your designs, then you probably need to understand this disciple with great academic focus but nothing can replace this educational backing.
So, if you are thinking hard about what kind of education do you need to be a graphic designer in UK, then you are probably thinking right because there is no shortcut. Education and Certification are a must!
What Graphic Design Qualification Do You Need to be a Graphic Designer in the UK?
There are two things that are core for Graphic Design Qualification:
- IT Skills
- Drawing Skills
Both these things in combination with other skills can make you an excelling graphic designer. With these, you will be able to execute the ideas of your brains into a visual representation and that is all that takes to be a graphic designer. Qualification is essential because in the world of cut-throat completion you need something that can help you move through the crowd without getting tangled up and this is what these degrees and courses can do to your journey.
As a graphic designer, you need to be good at imagining because that’s where things start from. You need to be creative so that you are able to come up with ideas and designs that are unlike ordinary ones. It is commonly seen that graphic designers go for a foundation degree, HND, or Degree in subjects like graphic designing, digital art, etc.
Foundation Courses can also help you if you want to take up graphic designing along with your main academic course. So you may get into a Foundation course to learn graphic designing. This type of course generally takes two years to complete. That way you will be able to badge a degree in this field as well. There are a lot many colleges that can help you get a degree or diploma course that students go for in hundreds of numbers.
Along with that, you need to have a strong grip on photo editing software and tools. Why? Because without this you are not going to enjoy your stay in this field. We are living in the digital print era, and knowing these modern editing tools can counts as an added skill in your portfolio.
You must know and be good at desktop design software such as Illustrator, InDesign or QuarkXPress, Photoshop, etc thoroughly. For learning these, you make take up certain courses in your college or through some private training providers in UK (there are many). In addition, there are many free graphic design programs that will help you hone your skills and master new techniques.
In addition to this, another way to enter into this professional graphic designing field is by getting into an internship program. In it, you will be able to learn a lot of things side by side working in a real company set-up.
Here you don’t have to worry about making mistakes because that is a part of internship- learning by doing. Just gather skills and get familiar with working in a professional field. This is the reason why internships are considered as one of the greatest ways to learn something from the very basics.
Based on your performance you might get a chance to secure a permanent job in that company if they like your work. This is the easiest way to enter into it because internships do not necessarily need any qualifications but just skills. Getting an internship or training program on your CV can bring added advantages to you as well. So it is a win-win situation.
Graphic Design Qualifications and Skills
You might be wondering that having these certifications is enough. Well, that’s not the whole truth. For standing out, you need skills, and this part should not be overlooked. You need applicable and relevant skills so that all your graphic design qualifications make you just the right fit for any job in UK. Some of the most essential skills that you need to back your graphic designing qualifications with are:
- The inflow of Idea- An empty brain can’t bring anything; there should be a constant flow of ideas in your mind so that you have a good stock to pick just the right design for any project.
- Creativity- Without creativity, you won’t be able to extract all the perks from this domain. It is essential because it will you’re your designs relevant and likable rather than just being ordinary.
- Sound Execution- If can’t give a visual form to your ideas then you are going to have a hard time in this field. However, with the right tools and software and great execution skills, this is possible.
The greatest combination of your skills and qualification asset can be brought into the light through your CV! Yes, getting noticed is hard so why not take the first step wisely. The portfolio is where all this starts from. In Your portfolio, mention all the qualifications and certifications you have but never ignore the styling element. This can be your way to crack an interview.
For graphic designers, CV matters the most. This is the place where they can show off their skills as well as their merit by using design skills. Don’t be afraid to show off your skills in the all over appeal of your CV.
So, have both qualifications and skills if you want to be a graphic designer in UK. With these certifications and degree courses shining bright on your CV any interviewer will think of you as a good employee for them. So, grab a chance, build skills and go for graphic design qualifications.
