Should I go to Design School?
Out of context: Reply #5
- Started
- Last post
- 24 Responses
- hellobotto0
"A college in my town recently got a graphic design program."
Reputation of school can carry some weight. An okay portfolio can be lifted by a program with (perceived) clout.
"This is my area of interest/where my strengths are but I don't have much illustration experience."
You don't need illustration experience. It helps, but this is where illustrators come in handy. Not being snarky, it's why solid illustrators and copywriters are invaluable. Let designers design, coders code, illustrators illustrate, writers write, and accout folks be accountable when shit goes bad.
"It's a two-year program that's based on working in studios and learning design software."
If it's a springboard for learning new tech, then cool. I wouldn't overlook a Lynda subscription and asking some local shops if you could day-tern just to see how things operate.
"I'm wanting to secure a career in a creative field and design seems to be the most solid creative profession, as opposed to going to school for film, music or some general media studies program."
Fair observation, but know that marketing folks are now touting design skills when they're applying for positions. With broad appeal comes more compeition.
"Am I right in assuming graphic design is my best bet for a secure career?"
No. A good portfolio doesn't punch your ticket. Knowing people who can get you into a shop or having connections with decent clients PLUS a good portfolio gives you a viable shot.
"What kind of schooling did you have to get the job you're in now?"
4-year degree. But I landed my first job because a friend passed up an opening for another place and tossed me the lead. Before that my top prospect was making sandwiches. Granted it wasn't NY/LA, but still.
"Also, is a new program from a non-design oriented college going to get me a job or should I try a school that is more credible in the design industry?"
See above note. Design schools are stores which churn out product (you). Agencies often go shopping at the stores they like (or at least they used to).
Keep this in mind...any creative director will tell you, "I don't care where they went to school provided they have a body of work which complements what we try to do here."
In short, if a new 2-year program helps get you started = worth the investment. If you're hoping a 2-year program is a golden ticket = let's think about this. If you're hoping a 4-year program is a golden ticket = let's think about this x2. I've seen many folks go through a 4-year program who weren't solid to begin with (understandable) and didn't come out with decent books (oh man) and are now doing something other than design for their job.
- tl;dr version: if you aren't afraid of no ROI but it helps start you down a path, then yes. If you expect it to guarantee a job, then maybe not.hellobotto