Is a graphic design degree still important in building a successful design career?
Yes it is, but more than that, it is important to have a certification and something that prove that you have the knowledge (your portfolio). Both of them are really important.
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A lot of places that hire graphic designers where the pay is worthwhile won’t even look at a resume without a degree. You won’t even get your portfolio looked at. When there can be literally well over 100 applicants for 1 job opening, there has to be a bar set to weed out the chaff . A degree is that bar.
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@Semi_Hayat I realize this isn’t what you asked, but since you are posting in the student section and asking about a degree, I have to share my two cents. My suggestion would be that you think long and hard about pursuing a career in graphic design. Cheap or free software, templates, a DIY mentality, AI, a glut of designers in the job market, and contest and crowd sourcing sites chocked full of designers or “designers” willing to work for pennies on the dollar have done a number on the job market for graphic designers. While I don’t think the career is going away altogether, I think you’ll need to be a stand-out applicant to make a go of it. So, in that respect, yes, I’d say a degree is important. If you do decide to pursue a degree, please don’t go into debt to get the degree. You don’t want to be one of the hundreds vying for an open position while saddled with a bunch of student debt.
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Educational requirements for a viable graphic design career differ from one part of the world to another. In Europe and North America, a lack of formal education is a serious handicap that usually means no job prospects. Other parts of the likely differ.
However, the question of making a good living at design is different than becoming a good designer. Being self-taught will leave serious holes in your education and skills, no matter where in the world you live.
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