Graphic designer job description

Graphic designers design creative assets. Assets can be print publications like books, reports, brochures, product packaging, or posters. You may also make digital design assets like icons, social media graphics, and website design elements (some graphic design positions may incorporate web design too). You’ll also be involved in visual branding, designing assets like organisation logos and letterheads. You’ll most likely be using design software like Adobe Photoshop, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Illustrator, and similar. You’ll either work in-house for an organisation, for a graphic design firm, or can strike out on your own as a self-employed, freelance graphic designer. The job mixes creative thinking with pragmatism. You’ll come up with fresh, unique ideas for your designs while also delivering designs that meet a client’s brief. You’ll also handle contracts, timesheets, and client relationships.

Tasks and responsibilities for a graphic designer

What do graphic designers do? Key tasks and responsibilities include:

Talking to clients to understand what they want from a graphic designer
Agreeing upon graphic design briefs
Creating job quotes that estimates the time and costs required for contracted design work
Advising clients on different design approaches you can take
Formulating ideas and concepts for a design
Presenting different design options to clients and listening to their feedback
Using design software to make fresh designs that meet the brief

How to become a graphic designer

Study

Although no specific formal education is required to work as a graphic designer, it is common to hold a tertiary degree in graphic design or a related area. During your study there may be hands-on work experience or internship opportunities.
Build your graphic design portfolio

When applying for graphic design jobs, potential employers will want to see what you’ve designed in the past so they can get a sense of your abilities and style as a professional graphic designer. You can build your portfolio through study, making logo designs on a volunteer basis for other organisations, or simply by creating your own briefs and designs.

Pathway options

Junior

Junior graphic designer

Most common qualification: Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715)

Mid

Graphic designer

Most common qualification: Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715)
Product designer

Most common qualification: Advanced Diploma of Creative Product Development (CUA60420)
Visual designer

Most common qualification: Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715)

Senior

Art director

Most common qualification: Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715)
Creative director

Most common qualification: Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715)

Qualifications that are relevant to future graphic designers are available throughout Australia. Relevant courses may be available for online learners or delivered in-person, or a mix. Courses cost different amounts depending on the area of study and whether you are eligible for Commonwealth government support.

Certificate IV in Design (CUA40720)

Study method In-class

In this course you’ll learn all about design generally, including graphic design. You’ll learn about design elements and principles, typography and logotype design, branding, creative processes, critical thinking, using design software, digital media and multimedia, and work health and safety practices. You’ll also have opportunities to build a strong portfolio. The course takes six months of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) to complete.

Diploma of Graphic Design (CUA50715)

Study method In-class Online

This course will give you the fundamentals of graphic design theory and practice. You’ll work to develop designs to briefs to build your portfolio. You’ll also learn about the history and theory of visual communication, 2D and 3D graphic design, and more. The qualification takes 12 months of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) to complete.

Bachelor of Design (Graphic Design)

University-level courses mix theory and practice. This allows you to build a job-ready portfolio as well as hone your research and communication skills. You’ll learn all about different design traditions, undertake workshops, and see graphic design in its cultural context. A Bachelor’s degree takes three years of full-time study (or part-time equivalent) to complete.