Graphic Design Job Research

What is the job

The demand for specialist action props varies enormously from film to film, and Graphics Artists may spend six weeks working on four duplicate copies of one major "hero" prop (e.g. an ancient book of alchemic signs, that requires them to work closely with a paper specialist, book binder and leather manufacturer, and involves a high degree of hand-finish), or for shorter periods on numerous dressing props that can be made quickly and used on a number of sets. Graphics Artists may work closely with the Production Designer, Props Master, Standby Props, and the Art Director(s). If they are responsible for making an important action or "hero" prop, which will be on screen for a large part of the film, they often meet with the Director during pre-production to discuss exact requirements.


Typical career routesGraphics Artists usually start their careers at junior levels in the Art Department, working on a number of films. They may assist the Set Decorator, or work as general Art Department Assistants, learning how Art Departments work, and practising their drawing and graphics skills wherever possible.

Essential knowledge and skillsGraphics Artists must have a good understanding of graphics techniques, including fonts and calligraphy. They also need excellent knowledge of computer image manipulation and drawing software, e.g., Photoshop, Illustrator, etc.

Key Skills include:
 excellent calligraphy skills;
 effective communication skills;
 ability to work alone, and as part of a team;
 precise attention to detail;
 creative flair;
 knowledge of the requirements of the relevant Health and Safety legislation and procedures.



The page layout aspect of graphic design deals with the arrangement of elements (content) on a page, such as image placement, and text layout and style
Photoshop -manipulate photos, typography and create images with a variety of effects.

· Illustrator -create logos and typography.

The current median wage for graphic designers is around $35,000, with most designers earning between $20,000 and $60,000. While full-time salaried graphic design positions are available, many graphic designers work on a contract, freelance basis. For graphic designers who set out on their own, business savvy plays an important role in their ability to succeed.

Universities and colleges in Scotland and the UK that offer courses on graphic design


HNC/D Graphic Design, This can be found at city of Glasgow college
About This Course:
The HNC/D Graphic Design course is a broad-based education, including practical graphic design projects and related support studies and encourages you to take responsibility for your own creative development.
When you successfully complete the HNC/D course, you achieve the HNC/D in Visual Communication .
What You Need:

· NC in Art and Design, Illustration or Graphic Design or Introductory level course in 2D Design, OR:
· Art & Design at Higher and English at minimum Intermediate 2.
· You will also be expected to submit examples of your art & design work to support your application. Tips on supplying your portfolio [LINK TO TBC]
· If you don't have the required qualifications, we'll consider you for a place based on your experience and examples of your work.



This can be found at the university of Dundee
Why study Graphic Design at Dundee?

Graphic design is about the visual communication of ideas. At Dundee we will challenge you with a range of design briefs, set either by tutors or by external professionals, which will enhance and inform your creative outcomes. Your learning experience will be supported by lectures, tutorials, workshops and visits to design agencies.
We will help you to develop your drawing and computer-aided design skills. Throughout the course you will use research, analysis, evaluation and self-criticism, which will assist you to arrive at the best possible solutions to design challenges. You are encouraged to maintain a keen interest in current trends and developments. By the end of the course you will have acquired the skills that you need to support your success within the design industry.
Skill development

We will help you to develop your drawing and computer-aided design skills. Throughout the course you will use research, analysis, evaluation and self-criticism, which will assist you to arrive at the best possible solutions to design challenges. You are encouraged to maintain a keen interest in current trends and developments. By the end of the course you will have acquired the skills that you need to support your success within the design industry.

Entry Requirements
Students applying for Graphic Design must successfully complete our 1 year Art and Design (General Foundation) course. In this instance you should apply using the UCAS code WW12.
Alternatively, if you have already completed a recognised foundation course or equivalent elsewhere then apply directly to Graphic Design.
The following are the minimum requirements, please note qualifications have to be obtained at the first sitting of examinations.


NQ Graphic Design, This can be found at cardonald college Glasgow.

Course Description
Creative ideas are at the heart of this popular course which provides an ideal foundation for those who wish to progress to the HNC/D Visual Communication Graphic Design for print & new Media. An excellent course involving the study of typography, digital technology and the design concepts necessary to understand the process of visual communication.
Subject Includes
Art and Design Project, Typography, Digital Photography, Magazine Design, Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Label and Packaging Design, Illustration, Corporate Identity and Advertising.
Entry Requirements
4 Standard Grades including Art & Design and English at General/Credit level or Intermediate 2 at C or above.
Portfolio of art and design work.
An interview is part of the selection process. This can be arranged at the applicants school or centre.
Progression Routes
HNC/D Visual Communication Graphic Design for Print & New Media.



HND Visual Communication, This can be found at Falkirk college this course would help you get into a graphic design course.
Visual Communication has seen a rapid growth in the areas of digital media, screen-based graphics and multimedia. The creative use of images, symbols, and words to visually communicate ideas and messages to a wide range of audiences and consumers is increasingly in demand. Visual Communication plays an important role in shaping and influencing cultural ideas, tastes and values through magazines, advertisements, promotional materials, product packaging, web design, illustration and animation. This exciting course develops creative, aesthetic and technical design skills to prepare students for employment as Graphic Designers or further degree-level study in design, computer arts or animation. In year 1, students are introduced to a variety of industry-standard digital design software and gain a practical knowledge of typography and graphic design processes. Year 2 further develops individual design concepts, aesthetics, technical skills and a professional approach to design. Design projects include: screen and print graphics; typography; web design; photography and animation. Sketchbooks are used for concept development, design research, problem solving and presentation of design ideas.
Duration
Full-time Two Years - Part-time routes may be discussed at interview.
Content
Digital Imaging Contextual Studies Typography Graphic Design 2D Computer Animation Creative Process Photography Design Production Web Design New Media Design Working in the Creative Industries Portfolio Production
Career Paths
Graphic Design (Design for Print and Screen Graphics) Advertising Computer Arts and Design Film and TV Design (Screen Graphics) Games Design Web Design (Graphics)
Progression
BA Art and Design at Forth Valley College BA Hons Degree in a related discipline
Entry requirements
Mandatory: All applicants are required to attend an individual interview with a portfolio of relevant art and/or design work. Plus one of the following: 2 Highers ? preferably Art and English and 4 Standard Grades at Level 3 or above Successful completion of a relevant access course or an appropriate group of National Qualification Units Alternative qualifications and/or relevant experience will also be considered on an individual basis