Design

Major/Career Profile

General Description

The field of design involves the application of' aesthetics to business and industrial settings. Major areas of design include graphic design, interior design, display/exhibition design, and industrial design. Graphic designers use print, film, video, and computer media to visually communicate information. Interior designers create environments in various facilities such as offices, restaurants, community centers, and schools. Display/exhibit designers create presentations to grab the eye of the public. Industrial designers bridge the gap between art and technology by designing industrial equipment, appliances, vehicles, and special effects in film.

Designers must use words to present information or ideas clearly; to visualize finished designs, objects in pictorial or graphic material, and two-dimensional representations of objects; to make visual comparisons and to see slight differences in shapes and shades; and to distinguish colors. They need average ability to use numbers, coordinate eyes and hands or fingers rapidly and accurately; above average finger dexterity; and ability to reach and see. Designers must be able to tolerate criticism, to cope with their ideas being rejected, to be flexible and responsive to the wishes of clients, to make decisions based on experience, to judge the quality of things, to perform work that requires creativity and style, and to work under stress of deadlines. Neatness is important.

Career Options

Graphic Designer, Industrial Designer, Interior Architectural Designer, Display/Exhibit Designer, Furniture Designer, Car Designer, Model Maker, Package Designer, Technical Illustrator, Stage Set Designer, Teacher, Consultant, Commercial Artist, Photographer, Film/TV/Radio Production Technician, Architectural Illustrator, Public Relations Specialist, and Product Designer. Some of these careers require additional education or experience. Various entry-level trainee positions in business and industry are available for graduates regardless of academic discipline.

Typical Employers

Advertising/public relations firms, architectural interior design firms, colleges and universities, public and private schools, automotive industry, market research firms, self employment, engineering firms, machinery and product manufacturers, publishing houses, merchandising/retail industry, large corporations, design studios, and self employment.

Salary and Employment Outlook

Salaries will vary by size and type of employer, geographic location, course work and related experience. Entry-level salaries can range from $16,000 to $36,000 depending on area of design. The demand for designers fluctuates with the economy. Competition for entry-level jobs is usually keen. Opportunities are expected to increase for designers of medical and computer equipment and display exhibits.

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