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Graphic design is a portfolio-driven field — employers hire on your work, not your diploma. Demand for visual and digital content is broad, and the strongest path is pivoting toward UX, motion, or brand strategy as AI reshapes routine production. The portfolio is the product. Here's the honest picture.
Why it often pays off
Go in clear-eyed about
The portfolio is the product — specialize to climb
Build a portfolio that shows range and results, do internships, and aim toward a higher-value lane — UX/product design, motion, or brand strategy — that AI tools can't replace. Learn the industry-standard tools and partner design with strategy. Keep debt low, and a focused designer competes strongly in a content-hungry economy.
Graphic design is a strong choice for visually creative people who treat the portfolio as the real credential and aim toward UX, motion, or strategy. The skills are in demand, but the field is competitive and changing. Keep debt low, specialize, and adapt to new tools, and it can be both creative and financially sound.
Decide well: use the general will-it-pay-off check, compare with an art & design degree, and a communications degree.