Can I make a good living and progress with an Associates Degree in Graphic Design or Bachelor's?

Answer 1

you might consider going for a BFA (Bachelor of Fine Arts), unless of course, you're not artistically talented.

Answer 2

It's more about your talent & your portfolio than your education. I got a Bachelor's degree myself, but now that I've been working as a graphic designer for several years, I see that the degree really isn't that important. However, the first job I had, they would not have hired me if I had had only an Associate's degree -- they wanted to be able to say that all their designers had a 4-year Bachelor's. I'm not sure how common this is though, and I'm sure that if my portfolio had been a drop-dead knock-out, I would have been in the door even if I were a high school drop-out. And no way would I ever think about getting a Masters, unless you are wanting to teach one day. I thought about getting my Masters but now I see that work experience teaches you FAR more than another year or two of school.

And as far as making a living ... that depends on where you work and your talent. I work in a fairly small market and have six years of experience, and I make $14/hour as a graphic designer. In a big city, you can make a lot more, though cost-of-living will be higher as well.

Answer 3

There has been lots of talk in the design field about "too many grads, not enough jobs." There's some pretty fierce competition, especially in cities. Theres a chance you could get a job with the associates, as long as you don't mind doing production work for the rest of your career. I would have to say you need a bachellors, but a great portfolio can supercede all else. Ususally the only assosciates degree in GD comes form a community college, which I tried. Very very bad idea. After attending a real art school, i realized the incredible difference in education. If you want a better chance, go to an art/design school SPECIFICALLY. Also, pay attention to design magazines/blogs/history. That's my best advice.

Answer 4

The degree does not make the man. Your talent and portfolio will get you the job. My boss is an art director for a multi-million dollar international corporation, and he has no degree. I make a very good living in graphic arts with an associates. Some of my co-workers have degrees, some don't. What matters is how much effort you are willing to put into your career. With anything in life, you get what you give.

Answer 5

Sure you can. But the degree doesn't speak for much really.It helps but a super impressive and professional portfolio goes further. And if you're really talented and have real passion for design then you'd go far. It's a combi of talent, willingness to learn, hardwork & passion.