Skip to main content
    Admissions
    Find all the information you need about applying to PNCA in one place. Take the next step and start your application.
Admitted Students
Enrolling Students
International Students
Undergraduate Admissions Team
Graduate Admissions Team
    Academics Overview
    Learn more about our distinct art and design programs. Find out about our unique opportunities, studio-based classes, and dedicated faculty.
All Programs and Degrees
Career Design
Study Abroad
Pre-College Program
    Culture Overview
    Get a feel for life at PNCA. From campus culture to the surrounding Portland area, learn how we make aspiring artists feel at home.
Watershed
Galleries and Exhibitions
Online Galleries
Symposium
Community Events
Notable Alumni
    Cost & Aid Overview
    Get the latest information about tuition costs and financial aid opportunities available to PNCA students.
Tuition & Fees
Types of Aid
Steps to Financial Aid
Calculate Your Cost (NPC)
Request Info Visit Apply Give
About News Alumni Parents Academic Calendar
Willamette University

What Can You Do with a Graphic Design Degree?

Are you considering a path in graphic design? Graphic design skills are extremely valuable across a variety of industries, careers, job titles, and companies.

test

What is a Graphic Design Degree?

A graphic design degree teaches students how to communicate through visual elements. Most programs discuss foundational design principles such as color theory and composition. Oftentimes, programs allow students to pursue disciplines related to design, such as typography, motion graphics, and even branding.

Develop Skills in Graphic Design

Graphic design students are able to develop both technical skills and soft skills. Students can expect to gain expertise in:

  • Drawing and sketching
  • Specific software programs (such as C++, Photoshop, Illustrator, Python, and CAD)
  • Computer languages
  • Project management
  • Communication
  • Problem-solving
  • Creative design

At PNCA, students have several opportunities to showcase these skills in their portfolios. Outside the classroom, students can work with real-world clients through the Center for Design. Students will have the chance to complete design work that helps their portfolio stand out. 

test

What are Common Graphic Design Career Paths?

Graphic design skills provide a foundation that translates seamlessly to a variety of job titles. So, what jobs can you get with a graphic design degree?

  • Branding and Identity

    Help companies define how they’re seen by the world.

    • Brand Identity Designer – Creates cohesive visual systems for brands.
    • Logo Designer – Designs logos that capture a brand’s essence.
    • Packaging Designer – Develops creative packaging that reflects a brand and engages customers.
    • Environmental Graphic Designer – Designs signage and wayfinding systems in physical spaces.

  • Digital and Interactive Design

    Design engaging experiences for screens and software.

    • Web Designer – Designs web pages and online experiences.
    • User Interface (UI) Designer – Focuses on the look and layout of digital interfaces.
    • User Experience (UX) Designer – Ensures digital experiences are intuitive and user-friendly.
    • Motion Graphics Designer – Brings visuals to life through animation.
    • Game Artist – Creates 2D or 3D assets for video games.

  • Production and Studio Roles

    Execute and oversee the design process.

    • Graphic Designer – Brings together typography, images, and layout to communicate messages.
    • Production Artist – Prepares and refines design files for final output.
    • Art Director – Leads visual direction for campaigns or media productions.
    • Creative Director – Shapes the overall creative vision for a brand or project.

  • Marketing and Advertising

    Drive engagement and communicate ideas effectively.

    • Advertising Designer – Designs for print, digital, and social campaigns.
    • Marketing Specialist – Uses design in areas like social media, email campaigns, and event promotion.
    • Product Developer – Collaborates to design and launch market-ready products.

  • Editorial and Publication Design

    Design for print and long-form media.

    • Publication Designer – Creates layouts for books, magazines, and digital publications.
    • Layout Artist – Arranges text and images for visual clarity and impact.
    • Photo Editing Artist – Selects and edits images for publication.

  • Independent and Freelance Careers

    Work on your own terms with clients and collaborators.

    • Freelance Graphic Designer – Works independently across industries and projects.
    • Digital Illustrator – Creates custom illustrations for brands, books, or campaigns.
    • Multimedia Artist – Combines different media (sound, animation, visuals) to tell stories.

Common Graphic Design Employers

Students can consider different work environments. When looking for graphic design jobs, many industries that have a need include:

  • Advertising firms
  • Creative agencies
  • Design consultancies and studios
  • Marketing agencies
  • Communication and media companies
  • PR agencies

However, there are many private businesses that need skilled graphic designers on their team. At PNCA, we've had students work at creative design studios, art galleries, fashion brands, news companies, political campaigns, non-profit organizations, and even famous individuals.

PNCA is located in the heart of Portland, offering a variety of local connections in the art and design community. We've seen successful careers and paid projects with employers such as:

  • Nike
  • Portland Institute for Contemporary Art (PICA)
  • Mercy Corps
  • Design Portland
  • Willamette Week
  • Uniqlo
  • OMFGco
  • The New Yorker
  • Wieden+Kennedy
  • Portland Trail Blazers
  • adidas
  • Blanchet House
  • Pendleton
  • Adobe
  • NBC News Digital

How Do You Build Your Portfolio for Your Career?

Find an undergraduate program that supports your portfolio development. Many graphic design jobs require a bachelor's degree as well as a portfolio to demonstrate your skills in design. When choosing a university or college, find a program that provides opportunities to build your portfolio.

At PNCA, we offer a variety of opportunities for students to strengthen their portfolios. Students can gain real-world experience with clients through the Center for Design. We also require students to complete an internship and develop a thesis during their senior year. All these experiences help students develop the portfolio they will need when applying for jobs.

PNCA also hosts National Portfolio Day, lectures, guest artists, and workshops to help expand on-campus opportunities. Students can work with the Office of Career Design to review their portfolio and make it shine.

test

Is it Worth it to Major in Graphic Design?

Studying graphic design can provide a lot of skills and benefits to undergraduate students. Reading through common job titles can help students decide if it is the right fit. Both the technical skills and soft skills developed in graphic design extend beyond standard graphic design roles, making it a versatile major.

Experience, work environment, and career outlooks change often. The median income for specific graphic design careers also changes every year. Review the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics for up-to-date information related to these constant changes.

At PNCA, we know just how valuable our graphic design major is. We see successful career stories and are proud of the work our alumni are doing. Our BFA in graphic design prepares students to transition into the workforce.

Choose PNCA for
Graphic Design
    1 /
    Career Support

    Find the right level of support at Pacific Northwest College of Art. Our nationally recognized program focuses on turning skills into a long-term career path. Whether you're interested in UI, UX, art direction, or product design, you'll gain tangible experiences that connect you to your next step.

    test
    2 /
    Creative Location

    Located in the heart of a highly creative city, PNCA helps you build your network. We offer valuable workshops, powerful Design Series Lectures, and opportunities to build your resume. We also have connections nationwide. Learn more about popular career paths, employers, and even industries through other alumni who have developed their graphic design skills.

    test
    3 /
    Supportive Programs

    As a top arts college in the Pacific Northwest, PNCA can help you develop the right skills. Students can learn more about game design, animated arts, or even illustration. We offer several supportive programs to help broaden your skills in adjacent fields.

    test

Take the

Next Step

Request Information Apply Schedule a Visit

Willamette University

Graphic Design