Brookings Main Campus
The difference is design.
Graphic design is all around us through visual communication and advertising. Graphic design is a profession that evolves with advances in digital technology and online mediums. Designers learn how to think creatively, communicate visually and enable positive user experiences through problem-solving. Students work with industry standard graphic design tools and apply them in all graphic design studio projects. The certificate in graphic design is a stand-alone program and may be taken by any student regardless of major, or may be selected by a variety of majors as part of their degree. The Graphic design certificate teaches students the basics of design principles and technical skills. This certificate prepares students for entry-level career opportunities in the graphic design studios, advertising agencies, interaction design agencies and in-house designer positions from various businesses. Depending on the employer, location, education level and experience, graphic designers can earn favorable salaries.
Is it for you?
This program will be a good fit if you:
- Have strong skills in art and design.
- Love working with technology.
- Have an eye for design.
- Have a creative, expressive, curious personality.
- Have excellent leadership and communication skills.
Career Opportunities
- Social media specialist
- Web/interactive designer
- Production designer
- UI designer
- UX designer
- Illustrator/multimedia illustrator
- Visual designer
- Digital designer
- Content designer
Suggested Majors
Undecided or still deciding on a major and future career?
If you are uncertain about your major and have questions about career planning, you are not alone. Choosing a major or career can be a very difficult decision. The exploratory studies program may be a good fit if you are unsure of your major and career focus. Entering the university in the exploratory studies program will help you gain confidence and valuable insights on majors and minors available at SDSU and future career choices.
In addition, FOCUS 2 Career, a self-guided assessment, education and career planning program, will help you reflect on your values, interests, personality traits and skills to provide valuable insight as you explore major and career choices. SDSU students may access FOCUS 2 Career by using their student email and password. After completing FOCUS 2 Career, you may find it helpful to discuss your results with a career coach in the Office of Career Development.