Can You Get a Job in Graphic Design or Video Editing with a Communications/Journalism Degree?

A communications or journalism degree can indeed be a valuable asset in the graphic design and video editing fields. Your skills in storytelling, effective message communication, and understanding visual content can all be applied in these creative roles. While specific design software training might be beneficial, your existing knowledge and experiences can serve as a strong foundation.

Consider enhancing your design skills with tools like CorelDRAW Graphics Suite. This software offers powerful features for vector illustration, layout, and photo editing, complementing your existing skills and allowing you to create compelling visual content for your projects.

Personal Experiences and Tips

I cannot speak to someone's chances of success when transitioning from one field to visual graphics. However, my experience may offer some hope. My bachelor's degree was in aerospace engineering with a minor in chemistry. Now, I own and operate a graphic design business for over a decade successfully. I got my first full-time job in graphic design without any design degree, having studied computer science. The key factors that made it possible to land a full-time position were a nice portfolio and some freelance experience. These same tips can help.

In a related story, I stepped into a TV station at 17 years old. I was a student, minor in art, and began a 32-year career at PBS. The station on campus used students for all positions. During my career, I hired many unpaid interns who later stepped into jobs in TV or filled open positions when interning. To intern, contact any or all broadcast facilities you are interested in. Ask to speak to the production manager, news department, creative service director, or art director. Show up with a professional appearance, a good resume, and some letters from professors or references if possible. Interning is a job, and demonstrating professionalism and dedication will open many doors.

Success Factors

Further increasing your chances of getting a job involves doing the same as these success stories. If you have a killer portfolio and perform well on any assessments or skill tests, you will increase your chances even further. Internships and experience are invaluable, but so is a well-crafted portfolio showcasing your skills and creativity.

To summarize, a communications/journalism degree can be a stepping stone to a career in graphic design or video editing. While specific design skills are beneficial, a solid foundation in storytelling, message communication, and visual content can set you on the right path. Consider enhancing your skills with appropriate software, and take advantage of any opportunity to gain experience through internships or freelance work. With a strong portfolio and professional demeanor, success in these creative fields is indeed possible.

Conclusion

While transitioning from communications/journalism to graphic design or video editing may seem challenging, it is certainly a feasible path. By leveraging your existing skills and experiences, and by acquiring the right tools and a killer portfolio, you can transition smoothly into a fulfilling career in these creative fields.