Design Jobs, Programs, Schools and Career Information

Most employers hire fashion designers that have an Associate or Bachelor's Degree, with preference given to graduates of a fashion design program accredited by the National Association of Schools of Art and Design. To attend one of these programs, most students must have attended basic art classes and submit samples of artwork.

Almost a quarter of all fashion designers are self-employed, therefore students often double-major, earning an additional degree in Business, Marketing or Merchandising.

Coursework typically includes history of fashion, computer-aided design, color theory, textiles, sewing, patternmaking and tailoring, design of shoes, belts, hats and other types of clothing, accessorizing and ornamentation, and fashion trends.

Many practicing designers got initial experience working in stores or participating in internships with design firms. They frequently submit their designs to contests as a way of gaining recognition, and their portfolio of designs is essential to finding employment.

Costume design for performing arts, film, and television productions is an example of a specialty area in fashion design.

Floral Design Schools

Floral designers or florists usually get their start on the job, although a certificate from a community college, private program or vocational school goes a long way to helping a budding designer get hired. These programs can take from one week to a year to complete, and a high school diploma or equivalent is typically required to be accepted as a student.

Associate degrees and Bachelor's degrees in Floral Design, Floriculture or Horticulture are available from some colleges and universities.

On-the-job training is important for all floral design students, as they gain real-world experience in running a business. Designers who wish to demonstrate their accomplishments can become certified through the American Institute of Floral Designers.

Courses may include plant identification and handling; design trends and techniques, such as working with color or texture; and presentation skills, such as working with ribbons, bows, baskets and protective wraps.

Most floral designers work in small independent floral shops that prearrange floral arrangements for purchase by walk-in customers. Some floral designers assist interior designers in creating live or silk displays for hotels, restaurants and private residences.

Graphic Design Schools

Graphic designers rely on knowledge of advanced software and complex design techniques to make their clients' vision a reality. A Bachelor's degree is required for most entry-level graphic design positions, and many universities, colleges and private design schools offer fine arts or graphic design degrees.

Vocational schools and community colleges offer 2-3 year Associate degrees in graphic design, emphasizing technical proficiency. Graduates of these programs are qualified to work as assistants to graphic designers.

Coursework usually includes design software skills, principles of design, printing and graphics production, website design, color management, four-color design for print, pre-press layout, color theory, and animation.

Many graphic designers work independently for companies that do not specialize in graphics, or may work from home. There are many levels of skill in graphic design, largely because the demand for diverse and complex software skills is constantly changing. Because of this, many accomplished graphic designers are self-taught and self-employed. Graphic designers must be able to communicate well with clients and be creative under pressure.

Industrial Design Schools

Because of the many complex requirements involved in such work, a Bachelor's degree is required for most industrial design jobs, even at entry level. Many programs are accredited through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, and most students must have completed basic design courses and submitted samples of artwork. Master's degrees are common among industrial designers.

In addition to an internship at a design or manufacturing firm, 4-year degree program coursework often includes computer-aided design, industrial processes and manufacturing methods, materials and safety, and engineering and science.

Industrial designers often work in manufacturing, specialized design services, wholesale trade, or architectural or engineering careers.

Interior Design Schools

A Bachelor's degree is typically required to qualify graduates for participation in a 1-3 year design apprenticeship program. Some professional schools and colleges offer 2-3 year Associate degree or certificate programs that qualify graduates to work as design assistants. Programs are accredited through the National Association of Schools of Art and Design and National Council for Interior Design Accreditation.

The National Council of Interior Design administers the licensing exam for Interior Design Qualification, which interior designers must pass to work in many states. Six years of education and experience, of which two years are postsecondary education, are required to be eligible to take the exam.

Coursework may include computer-aided design, color and fabrics, drawing and perspective, architecture and spatial planning, furniture design and interior finishes, and ethics and psychology.

Interior designers may specialize in commercial or residential design, and may prefer to work with a particular type of client, such as restaurants, apartment builders or luxury homes.

Landscape Design Schools

Most landscape architects hold a 4-year Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture (BSLA). A Master of Landscape Architecture (MLA) takes two years to complete for those who have the BSLA, or three years if the students has a Bachelor's degree in another field.

For those who wish to study landscape architecture, but do not seek to become registered practitioners, a Master of Arts or Master of Science in Landscape Architecture is another path of education.

Landscape design education includes geology, plant and soil science, surveying, conservation, construction, computer-aided design, landscape ecology, geography and urban planning.

The BLS notes that approximately 20 percent of Landscape Architects are self-employed. The rest typically work in architectural, engineering, and related services industries.