Graphic Designers

Employment for graphic designers is expected to grow by 2 percent, slower than average, through 2033, according to the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL). Companies and other organizations for which graphic design was once too time consuming or costly are now sprucing up company newsletters and magazines and developing or improving Web sites, among other things, requiring the skills of design professionals.

Employment should be especially strong for those involved with computer graphics, multimedia, and animation. As computer graphic and Web-based technology continues to advance, there will be a need for well-trained graphic designers. The DOL says that "as companies continue to increase their digital presence, graphic designers may be needed to help create visually appealing and effective layouts of Web sites and social media sites." Job growth may be affected, however, by the increasing use of artificial intelligence and other automated design tools, which could reduce companies' need for graphic designers.

Graphic designers work in many industries, and the employment outlook varies greatly by industry, as some industries will fare better in the coming years than others. Steady job growth for graphic designers is projected in the following sectors: software publishing, the construction industry; professional, scientific, and technical services firms; computer systems design and related services; and in the health care and social services industries. On the other hand, job opportunities with newspaper, periodical, book, and directory publishers will decline in the coming years.

The design field appeals to many talented individuals, so competition is expected to be strong in all areas. Beginners and designers with only average talent or without formal education and technical skills may encounter some difficulty in finding a job.