Connecticut Graphic Design Schools and Careers

A graphic designer, also called a graphic artist, communicates ideas visually by creating effective and appealing web pages, illustrations, marketing campaigns and other print and media art. Some graphic designers work on-site at a firm or company; others are consultants or freelancers who work out-of-office on a contract basis. Designers may work for corporate businesses, design firms or media companies of all sizes. They may also work at newspapers, magazines or publishing companies.

Graphic Design Schools in Connecticut

A four-year degree in graphic design from a college or university is typically required for most graphic design positions. Many schools require students to complete a year of basic art and design courses before enrolling in a bachelor's degree program. Graphic design coursework often includes, but is not limited to, studio art, website design, printing techniques, computerized design and commercial graphics production. To be an even more effective designer, you can take additional courses in art history, business, psychology, writing, marketing and cultural studies. Graphic designers also need to have good communication and problem solving skills as they must be able to work with clients, copywriters, vendors and anyone else involved in a design project. Earning an online or traditional degree from one of the many Connecticut graphic design schools is the first step to becoming a graphic artist.

Graphic Designer Salaries in Connecticut

As the demand for graphic designers continues to increase, employment should grow 13 percent between 2008 and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Designers with a background in website design or animation will see an increased demand for their services as more clients and companies move towards interactive media. With more than 2,500 graphic designers in the state, Connecticut graphic design schools are the perfect place to start your career as a graphic designer. As of May 2009, BLS states that graphic artists earned an hourly median wage of $24.72, or $51,410 a year in Connecticut. Opportunities for graphic designers can be found statewide, but are most common in the Bridgeport area, the Springfield MA-CT area and New Haven.

Whether you want to work for a big advertising company, start your own design firm or do part-time freelance work, earning a degree from one of the following Connecticut graphic design schools will help you achieve your goals.

Fast Facts for Graphic Designers in Connecticut

• Cities with highest percentage of jobs relative to population: Bridgeport, New Haven and Danbury
• Cities with lowest percentage of jobs relative to population: Waterbury, Norwich and Hartford
• Cities with the highest absolute number of jobs: Bridgeport, Hartford and New Haven

Salaries for Graphic Designers in Connecticut

• Metro areas with the highest median salaries: Bridgeport, Danbury and New Haven