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Do I need to gain a formal qualification to get in to Graphic Design? is just a portfolio and experience ok?

I have a degree in Landscape Architecture where I studied design modules and learnt to use Photoshop, and I gained a skill in presentation and layout. I want to get into Graphic Design and I have created a portfolio of work using Photoshop, Indesign, and Illustrator to produce examples of brochure design, leaflets, posters, photography, advertising, marketing and corporate ID. I had a job for 12 months where half of my job was doing graphic design work using Coral draw. I am currently gaining experience (been doing it for 15 months now) as a Junior Graphic Designer at a Design company, but it’s occasional. I have done a course in Web design, so now I am capable of using Dreamweaver as well. Do I need to gain a formal qualification to get in to Graphic Design? or can I get in by having just having a portfolio and some work experience? Will employers ignore me because I have no formal qualification in GD?

Public Comments

1. it sounds to me like you should have gotten a minor! jk...you have all the experience that VC majors learn...so i'd say you're fine as long as you have that portfolio. if you want a certificate, try the local Vocational school. it'll be basic stuff, but you do get some sort of reccomendation and certificate for it, adn it's a very short program. personally, it sounds to me that you have more than enough experience to work as a graphic desinger!!
2. looks like you and I are sailing in the same boat. I too took courses in Graphic Design, however due to some issues, I wasnt able to finish my last semester. But I still continued practicing, I even did some Graphic work for my job, which gave me stuff to put on my resume. But, get this: you can go to a job interview, and even if there are 10 other people there all with Degrees, what will really catch the Employers attention is: (ta-daaa) -The Portfolio. You need to create, (if you haven't already) a really strong portfolio. Presentation is what is important. Print it on high quality paper, try glossy. If you can get a leather portfolio case, do it. Employers will remember your portfolio if it stands out. Also be sure to print more than one copy of your work to leave with the Employer. Hope this helps (I have an interview this Friday and I have to do everything I just suggested to you, lol) Have fun, and hope you get the job! p.s. make sure you dress the part. You are a Graphic Designer: Your dress should reflect your skill... Go Get Em!