How to become a graphic designer in New Zealand

Why become a graphic designer?

Graphic designers create artwork or designs for published, printed or electronic media such as magazines, brochures, television advertisements and websites.

Becoming a graphic designer requires both creative and technical skills. Knowledge of industry technology and software is required to transform artistic outputs into digital art.

Graphic designers are in high-demand. With online becoming increasingly competitive, employees are looking for skilled workers to help them communicate their products and services, and to stand out against their competitors.

Alternative job titles

Graphic Artist
Illustrator
Digital Designer
Mac Operator
Visual Communication Designer

Getting Started

Understanding the best way to become a qualified graphic designer in New Zealand looks complicated but is easy. Here are the steps you need to take to start your career as a graphic designer.

Step 1

Choose and enrol with a registered training provider

Step 2

Complete in a level 4 certificate program

Step 3

Progress to level 5 and 6 diploma program

Quick Facts

 

Average Pay

$45k - $105k per year

 

Length of training

20-100 weeks

 

Available Jobs

21*

*TradeMe Jobs, April 2022

Graphic Designers need to be:

• Organised

• Motivated

• Creative

• Accurate, with an eye for detail

• Able to accept criticism

• Able to work well under pressure

• Problem solvers

• Good at communicating, and able to work well in a team.

Careers and Industries (you will work in)

• Design and advertising agencies

• Print production and publishing companies

• Film and multimedia companies

• Web design companies

• Signmaking companies.