A graphic design apprenticeship can be obtained in a variety of ways, including through a professional organization or a local business. An apprenticeship is not required to become a graphic designer, unlike many other professions, but it is a good way to get real-world experience while still in school. Unless you have the skills to show that you know what you’re doing, this may be your first step in getting an apprenticeship if you are not currently enrolled in school for graphics or a related field.
Students typically take advantage of a graphic design apprenticeship while still in school or shortly after graduation. An employer may occasionally provide additional training. If you are not currently enrolled in a graphic design program or have no prior training in the field, you will need to build an impressive portfolio before being considered for an apprenticeship. A portfolio is a collection of your previous work in either hard copy or digital format. If you’re still in school, a portfolio is still important, but you’ll probably get plenty of samples to include in your projects.
To find a graphic design apprenticeship, inquire with local businesses to see what they have to offer. Your school may have a list of companies that hire designers, and you may even hear about potential apprenticeships from school instructors or other students. You’ll almost certainly be asked to fill out an application, just like you would for any other job, and to submit your portfolio or a link to online samples of your work. If the company likes what you’ve done, you’ll be invited in for an interview so they can figure out if you’re a good fit for their company.
Professional advertising organizations may be able to provide you with a graphic design apprenticeship. Often, the application process is the same. You will almost certainly not be paid for the work you do during your apprenticeship if it is sponsored an organization. Apprenticing for a company, on the other hand, usually combines on-the-job training with traditional classroom instruction. However, you should be aware that an apprenticeship is not required to work as a professional designer. The requirements for employment will differ from one company to the next.