Graphic Design Programs in Portland, Oregon

Becoming a Graphic Designer in Portland, Oregon

Are you considering a career as a graphic designer in Portland, Oregon? This guide will help you understand the steps to becoming a graphic designer, the educational paths available, and the opportunities that await you in this creative city. A graphic designer is a professional who combines art and technology to communicate ideas through images and the layout of websites and printed pages. Whether you are interested in digital design, web design, or traditional graphic design, Portland offers a variety of educational paths to help you achieve your career goals.

About Portland

Portland, Oregon, known for its unique culture and artistic community, is an ideal place for aspiring graphic designers. The city is home to numerous galleries, design studios, and creative agencies. Nestled between the Columbia and Willamette rivers, Portland is famous for its beautiful parks, bridges, and eco-friendly initiatives. For more information about the city, visit the official Portland website.

Graphic Design Programs in Portland, Oregon

Portland offers several excellent graphic design programs to help you start your career. Here are three local schools with strong graphic design offerings:

1. Portland Community College (PCC)
   Located in the Sylvania neighborhood, PCC offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Graphic Design. This program provides a comprehensive education in design principles, typography, and digital media. Learn more about PCC’s Graphic Design Program.

2. Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA)
   Situated in the Pearl District, PNCA offers a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Graphic Design. This program emphasizes conceptual thinking, technical skills, and professional practice. Explore PNCA’s Graphic Design Program.

3. Portland State University (PSU)
   Located in downtown Portland, PSU offers a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and Bachelor of Science (BS) in Graphic Design. The program focuses on design theory, history, and contemporary practice. Discover PSU’s Graphic Design Program.

Graphic Design Employment Opportunities in Portland

Portland is home to a thriving design community with numerous employment opportunities. Here are some major design agencies and companies with in-house design teams:

1. Instrument
   Located in the Central Eastside, Instrument is a digital creative agency known for its innovative work with global brands. Check out Instrument’s career opportunities.

2. Wieden+Kennedy
   Situated in the Pearl District, Wieden+Kennedy is an internationally renowned advertising agency. Explore job openings at Wieden+Kennedy.

3. Nike
   Headquartered in Beaverton, just outside Portland, Nike offers numerous design roles within its in-house creative team. Visit Nike’s career page.

Prerequisites for Graphic Design Programs

To enroll in a graphic design program in Portland, you typically need a high school diploma or equivalent. Many programs require a portfolio submission to demonstrate your artistic abilities. Some schools may also have entrance exams or interviews as part of the application process.

Certification Options for Graphic Designers

While there is no licensing requirement for graphic designers in Oregon, obtaining certifications can enhance your skills and employability. Consider the following certifications:

• Adobe Certified Expert: Demonstrates proficiency in Adobe software.
• Certified Usability Analyst: Offered by Human Factors International, this credential focuses on user experience design.
• Certified User Experience Designation: Provided by the Nielsen Norman Group, this certification emphasizes UX design skills.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a graphic designer in Portland, Oregon, is an exciting journey filled with creativity and innovation. With a variety of educational programs and employment opportunities, now is the perfect time to pursue your passion. Contact a school 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.