Design
To design is to form or conceive in your mind a plan that is intended for a specific purpose. If you have ever created a grocery list or picked out shoes or accessories for an outfit, then you have designed. While design does require a passion for planning and implementation as well as an inherent inclination for creativity, many design skills can be—and sometimes must be—taught. Design encompasses more than good fashion sense or an eye for interior design. It is more about moving creativity toward a specific goal using a method or process.
Concentrations
Most people once thought of a design program as one that focused on decorating and making a wardrobe or room pleasing to the eye. Many industries have incorporated design as part of their marketing and advertising tools, especially with the advancement of technology. Technology-related design programs have become very popular online programs, especially for those returning to school and those seeking more flexibility in their careers. Some design programs are:
- Computer Aided Design
- Fashion Design and Merchandising
- Game Design
- Graphic Design
- Interior Design
- Media Arts and Animation
- Web Design
Qualities and Skills
Problem solving skills are essential to a graphic designer, and they must stay abreast of the most current software. Graphic designers must also be able to communicate their creative ideas verbally, visually, and through writing. Flexibility is a must since marketing trends and technology are constantly changing. A postsecondary degree is generally required to work as a graphic designer.
Interior designers and fashion designers must also be able to effectively convey a vision. In addition to creative flair, these designers will most likely need some sewing and drawing skills. Good presentation abilities and persuasiveness will also be helpful in this career.
Occupations
About twenty-five percent of graphic designers are self-employed, and many more do freelance work in addition to a full time job. This type of job is perfect for those who require a flexible work schedule. Web site designers, particularly, are in high demand and can easily work from home. Other aspiring technology positions include game designers and animators. Most people in this line of work have turned a hobby into a career.
More traditional occupations in design consist of fashion designers/merchandisers and interior designers. These types of designers also find flexibility in their careers and typically relish the line of work they have chosen.
Earnings
The interior designers and fashion designers generally earn more than salaried graphic designers, but the latter have more success in finding freelance work.
Online Colleges Offering Degrees in Design
The Art Institute Of Pittsburgh Online
All of The Art Institute Online’s programs are available as accelerated, online courses that focus on different course material every 5 and ½ weeks. The Institute’s online program combines online strategies developed by Socrates Distance Learning Technologies Group, a leader in online education, to provide a quality distance learning experience. All instructors have completed 100 hours of training through Socrates, and only Socrates Qualified instructors may teach courses at the Institute.
Champlain College
As a division of Continuing Professional Studies, online learning at Champlain College provides a flexible option for those students interested in education but find themselves hindered by logistics, time constraints, or other factors. The Champlain difference is that these online programs are developed to be relevant to professional life.
Bowling Green State University
While Bowling Green State University was originally established as an institution for educators and boasts today that it is the 14th largest producer of teachers in the United States, it offers more than 200 undergraduate majors. In addition to its seven undergraduate colleges, BGSU offers Master’s and doctoral level programs as well.
Benedictine University
Along with 17 other institutions, Benedictine University is part of the Association of Benedictine Colleges and Universities, and its mission and vision reflect Catholic and Benedictine traditions.
Boston University
Boston University is an independent, coeducational, and non-sectarian internationally recognized institution of higher education and research. With more than 30,000 students from all 50 states and 135 countries, it is one of the largest independent universities in the United States.
ITT Tech
Headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, ITT Educational Services, Inc. is a leading private college system centered on technology-focused programs. ITT mainly provides career-orientated degree programs to approximately 54,000 students.
DeVry University
A division of Devry Inc., DeVry University is a private accredited university that consists of campuses in the United States and Canada. Campuses offer programs from the Associate’s to the Master’s level in professional studies and business administration.
Baker College Online
Baker College is one of America’s largest private college systems, and Michigan’s largest, serving over 35,000 students. Baker College Online is a part of the Baker College system.
Penn Foster Career School
Located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Penn Foster Career School is the largest accredited, independent home-study school. Penn Foster offers over 80 quality distance education programs. Programs are designed to provide students with the essential skills for a new career in the fastest growing employment sectors.
Penn Foster College
Formerly known as the International Correspondence School, Penn Foster College is a popular and renowned post-secondary distance education institution. As the world’s leader in at-home education, Penn Foster has kept its tradition of academic excellence for over 100 years.
