Graphic designer : Training

Most learning is on the job, except for formal training in industry-specific software. As a graphic designer, you will need to be skilled in using a variety of packages such as Quark Xpress, FreeHand, Illustrator, Photoshop, 3D Studio Max, Acrobat, Director, Dreamweaver and Flash. Designers involved in media design may be required to learn about TV special effects systems. Some employers will fund participation on training courses, but it is common for freelance and self-employed designers to self-fund.

There may be part-time study opportunities in software, but most graphic designers learn new skills in-house to meet the demands of a particular project. Learning will continue throughout your career in order to keep up to date with new advancements in graphic technology.

Membership of professional bodies can enhance professional knowledge by providing access to useful resources, advice and training. Chartered Society of Designers (CSD)  and the International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD)  offer professional membership levels according to your qualifications and experience.

The CSD offers a structured programme of continuous professional development (CPD) through attendance at seminars and other professional development activities such as acting as a mentor. Each seminar or activity carries a CPD value, which will be entered on a member's personal CPD record within the CSD's database. Members achieving 100 CPD points in any one year will be awarded a Professional Practice Certificate.