Graphic Design Programs in Long Beach, California
Becoming a Graphic Designer in Long Beach, California
If you’re considering a career as a graphic designer in Long Beach, California, you’re in the right place. This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a graphic designer, including education paths, local schools, and employment opportunities. A graphic designer uses visual elements to communicate ideas and messages, working in various fields such as advertising, web design, and branding. There are multiple educational paths to becoming a graphic designer, including bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, and certificate programs.
About Long Beach
Long Beach, California, is a coastal city known for its bustling port, diverse culture, and thriving arts scene. Located in Southern California, Long Beach offers a unique blend of urban and beach lifestyles. The city is home to attractions like the Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific, and the Long Beach Museum of Art. For more information about the city, visit the official Long Beach website.
Graphic Design Programs in Long Beach, California
Long Beach offers several excellent options for pursuing graphic design education:
- California State University, Long Beach (CSULB)
- Located in the East Long Beach neighborhood, CSULB offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design. The program prepares students for professional careers with courses in typography, motion graphics, and media design. For more details, visit the CSULB Graphic Design program page.
- Long Beach City College (LBCC)
- Situated in the Lakewood Village area, LBCC provides an Associate Degree in Graphic Design. The program covers essential skills such as digital imaging, web design, and illustration. Learn more about their offerings on the LBCC Graphic Design page.
- Otis College of Art and Design
- While not located directly in Long Beach, Otis College in nearby Los Angeles offers a comprehensive BFA in Communication Arts with a focus on graphic design. This program is approximately 25 miles from Long Beach. Visit the Otis College website for more information.
Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Long Beach
Long Beach hosts a variety of companies and agencies where graphic designers can find employment:
- InterTrend Communications
- Located in Downtown Long Beach, InterTrend is a full-service communications agency specializing in Asian American marketing. They offer opportunities for graphic designers in branding and digital media. Explore their career opportunities.
- Designory
- Situated in the East Village Arts District, Designory is a global marketing agency focusing on content creation and digital solutions. They frequently seek graphic designers for their creative team. Visit the Designory careers page for current openings.
- Studio One Eleven
- Based in the Downtown area, Studio One Eleven is an architecture and urban design firm that occasionally hires graphic designers for environmental graphics and branding projects. Check out their employment page.
Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs
To enroll in a graphic design program, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many programs, especially bachelor’s degrees, require a portfolio of creative work. For example, CSULB’s BFA program requires a portfolio with at least six pieces and a minimum GPA of 3.0 in major courses.
Certification Options for Graphic Designers
While there is no specific licensing required to practice as a graphic designer in Long Beach, certifications can enhance your career. Consider obtaining an Adobe Certified Expert certification to demonstrate proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite applications. Staying updated with industry trends and technology is also crucial for success.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a graphic designer in Long Beach, California, is an exciting journey. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, you can find the path that best suits your goals. Reach out to local schools today to learn more about their programs and take the first step toward your future in graphic design.
For more information on the job outlook for graphic designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.