Question: What Training is Required for Desktop Publishing or Graphic Design Jobs?
Unlike many jobs in the computer industry, desktop publishing training and educational requirements most often take the form of non-degree courses and on-the-job training.
Answer: While some employers may find a related degree attractive, such as in printing or graphic arts, it is not usually a prerequisite for desktop publishing. Graphic design jobs, depending on the job specifics, are more likely to require a degree or certification training. For self-employment, the ability to demonstrate your knowledge and creativity (such as through a portfolio) is more crucial to potential clients than any degrees or certificates.
Desktop Publishing Skills
Although a degree is not usually required, there are still certain skills necessary to successfully compete for desktop publishing jobs — even as a freelancer. Specific software requirements will vary by employer but general skills and knowledge include advanced PC or Macintosh computer skills, basic to advanced design knowledge, prepress skills, and understanding of printing technologies. Much of this knowledge can be obtained from books, courses, and on-the-job training. A potential employer may require certification training or may simply need to see an applicant demonstrate software proficiency or other skills during a pre-employment screening.
Desktop Publishing Job Titles vs. Job Descriptions
However, it is also essential to understand what type of job you are competing for. Often the terms desktop publishing and graphic design are used interchangeably, or the job title may be completely different. If the real job is graphic design, many employers will expect more formal training. If contemplating desktop publishing or graphic design jobs, study the job descriptions and educational requirements for the types of jobs that interest you to determine if more formal education or desktop publishing training will likely be needed.
Critical Skills
The Bureau of Labor's Occupational Outlook Handbook lists creativity as a crucial element of all design occupations, including graphic design jobs. While those holding desktop publishing and graphic design jobs may produce much the same type of materials, desktop publishing is described more in terms of the mechanics of producing books, business cards, newsletters, and packaging. Computer skills and manual dexterity are considered critical for desktop publishing. Web design is also seen as an increasingly important part of both occupations.
Degree Advantage
A degree is a distinct advantage for employment although not absolutely necessary. For some graphic design jobs, at least a bachelor's degree may be preferred and a master's degree even more desirable. For desktop publishers, less formal education including on-the-job or vocational training is often sufficient for employment.
Desktop Publishing vs. Graphic Design Jobs
The Handbook suggests that desktop publishers "with more artistic talent and further education may find opportunities in graphic design or commercial art" making a definite distinction between the fields — based on education and creativity. For the most part, desktop publishers are currently seen as replacements for compositors and typesetters, taking over traditional methods of prepress work using their computers and software.
Material in this FAQ comes directly or indirectly from three previous articles at About Desktop Publishing:
Desktop Publishing Outlook Through 2010
Find Desktop Publishing or Graphic Design Jobs
