Kansas 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. Designers can work regular hours at a company or may work on a job basis as consultants or freelance artists. They can work in a variety of environments, including advertising or communications companies, newspapers, magazines or design firms.

Graphic Design Schools in Kansas

To become a graphic artist, formal education is required to enter the profession--you'll need to earn a bachelor's degree in graphic design from a college or university. Associate degrees and certifications are also available, but these graduates usually qualify as assistants to graphic designers or for positions that require technical skills only. Graphic design coursework often includes, but is not limited to, studio art, website design, printing techniques, computerized design and commercial graphics production. In addition to art and design classes, a liberal arts education that includes courses in marketing, writing, sociology, cultural studies and business may also be beneficial. However, formal education is not the only thing you'll need--graphic artists must also be creative, have an eye for detail and excellent communication and problem solving skills. There are many graphic design schools in Kansas--both online and campus-based--that can teach you everything you need to know to become a graphic designer.

Graphic Designer Salaries in Kansas

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) expects employment of graphic designers to grow 13 percent between 2008 and 2018. 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. There are more than 2,000 graphic designers in the state of Kansas. Earning your degree from one of the many Kansas graphic design schools can help you become one of them. BLS data shows that as of May 2009, graphic designers in Kansas earned a median salary of $37,890 a year. In addition, the 10th percentile earned a median salary of $23,040 per year while the 90th percentile earned $59,130 per year. Graphic designers tend to migrate towards the areas of Kansas City MO-KS, Wichita and Topeka, were job opportunities are more common. These three locations are also where they earned the highest annual median salary.

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 Kansas graphic design schools will help you achieve your goals.

Fast Facts for Graphic Designers in Kansas

• Cities with highest percentage of jobs relative to population: and Lawrence
• Cities with lowest percentage of jobs relative to population: and Wichita
• Cities with the highest absolute number of jobs: and Wichita

Salaries for Graphic Designers in Kansas

• Metro areas with the highest median salaries: and Wichita