The design field offers a variety of career opportunities and specialties for interested individuals, including graphic, fashion, interior, landscape, flora, and industrial design. These programs can be found at art schools, trade schools, colleges, universities, and schools of design.
Typical Graphic Design Educational Requirements
Graphic designers generally earn at least a four year bachelor’s degree from an art school, university, or college. These students will study topics like computerized design, studio art, CAD, graphics production, and printing. An associate’s degree can also earn a graphic designer a position in the field, and these individuals will work as design assistants.
Typical Fashion Design Educational Requirements
A two year associate’s degree is the minimal educational requirement needed to become a fashion designer. However, a Bachelor’s degree is often more desirable and can be obtained from an art school, college, or university. Courses studied will include:
- CAD
- Textile design
- Accessory design
- Marketing
- Garment manufacturing
- Pattern cutting
Typical Interior Design Educational Requirements
Prospective interior designers will need to obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredit college or university. Graduates from an associate’s degree program may be able to obtain a position as an interior design assistant. Coursework at both degree levels will include:
- Furniture design
- Architecture
- CAD
- Drawing
- Fabrics and Colors
- Economics
- Ergonomics
Typical Landscape Design Educational Requirements
Successful landscape designers will need at least a four year degree in the area, especially if they have chosen to pursue a specialization. Coursework will include such subjects as:
- Plant and soil science
- Botany
- Surveying
- Urban planning
- Landscape construction
- Landscape design
- Site design
Typical Floral Design Educational Requirements
Floral designers generally do not need a degree, but they can earn a certification from a community college. These programs will last weeks or months, and floriculture may also be available at the associate’s or bachelor’s levels. Topics studied include:
- Cutting and taping
- Flower care
- Ribbon tying
- Flower arrangements
Typical Industrial Design Educational Requirements
Industrial engineers will need at least a bachelor’s degree, but many employers will look for candidates with master’s degrees. Coursework in this area may include:
- CAD
- Methods of manufacturing
- Industrial materials
- Industrial processes