Graphic Design Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina
Becoming a Graphic Designer in Charlotte, North Carolina
Are you considering a career as a graphic designer in Charlotte, North Carolina? This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming a graphic designer, the educational paths available, and the local opportunities in this field. A graphic designer creates visual content to communicate messages through typography, imagery, color, and form. Whether you’re interested in digital design, branding, or print media, Charlotte offers a range of educational programs and employment opportunities to help you succeed.
About Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina, known as the Queen City, is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a thriving arts scene. As the largest city in the state, it offers a diverse range of cultural experiences and is home to notable landmarks such as the NASCAR Hall of Fame and the Mint Museum. For more information about the city, visit the City of Charlotte’s official website.
Graphic Design Programs in Charlotte, North Carolina
Charlotte is home to several institutions offering graphic design programs that cater to aspiring designers at various levels:
- Central Piedmont Community College
Located in the heart of Charlotte, Central Piedmont offers an Associate in Applied Science in Advertising and Graphic Design. This program provides a solid foundation in design principles and software skills. For more details, visit their Advertising and Graphic Design program page. University of North Carolina at Charlotte
Situated in the University City neighborhood, UNC Charlotte offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design. This program emphasizes creative problem-solving and prepares students for a range of design careers. Learn more on their Graphic Design program page.Queens University of Charlotte
Located in the Myers Park neighborhood, Queens University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Graphic Design. The program focuses on both traditional and digital design skills. More information can be found on their Graphic Design program page.
Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Charlotte
Charlotte hosts a variety of companies and agencies that offer employment opportunities for graphic designers:
- Red Ventures
Based in the Ballantyne area, Red Ventures is a digital marketing and technology company with a strong focus on data-driven design. Explore their career opportunities. Boingo Graphics
Located in the South End neighborhood, Boingo Graphics is a full-service print and design company. They offer creative solutions for branding and marketing. Visit their careers page.Luquire George Andrews (LGA)
Situated in Uptown Charlotte, LGA is a marketing and communications agency known for its innovative design work. Check out their employment opportunities.
Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs
To enroll in a graphic design program in Charlotte, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Some programs may require a portfolio submission or entrance exams to assess your design skills and creativity. It’s important to check the specific requirements of each program.
Certification Options for Graphic Designers
While there is no specific licensing required to practice as a graphic designer in North Carolina, obtaining certifications can enhance your career prospects. Consider pursuing:
- Adobe Certified Expert (ACE): Demonstrates proficiency in Adobe software, which is highly valued by employers.
- Noble Desktop’s Graphic Design Certificate: Offers comprehensive training in design principles and software.
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a graphic designer in Charlotte, North Carolina, is an exciting journey. With a range of educational programs and employment opportunities, you can build a successful career in this creative field. Reach out to a school today to learn more about their programs and take the first step towards your future as a graphic designer.
For more information on the job outlook for graphic designers, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ page on Graphic Designers.