An Eye For Detail and Flair For Good Layouts: Desktop Publishing Degree
If you know how to create an appealing layout using text and images, then a desktop publishing degree can be a great help for getting started in this creative industry. As a desktop publisher you will be in control of all the design elements that go into making publications look professional. It is an industry where you work with computers and specialized software to create the layouts for everything from magazines and books to newspapers, printed materials and online publications. A good desktop publisher does more than just look page layouts look great, but also makes information legible and easy to read.
Desktop Publishing Degree Information
Associate of Applied Science in Desktop Publishing
Enrolling in an associate’s level program will help you to learn how to use the software needed to for page designs, layouts, writing and editing. Some courses even provide internships where you can get hands-on experience with the process. In some cases you might also be required to complete a portfolio project. After graduating from this type of program you will be able to develop and produce corporate documents as well as other publications with ease. It usually takes about two years to complete the curriculum and you can expect coursework that includes web design, multimedia design, and desktop publishing fundamentals. After a course like this you’ll be able to look at layouts in a new way and know exactly what is required to draw the attention of readers.
Bachelor of Science in Desktop and Web Publishing
When you are ready to move beyond the fundamentals you can enroll in a Bachelor of Science program. This type of program is great if you want to learn advanced design as well as technical skills for the desktop publishing industry. In most cases the course also requires the completion of a portfolio project, which is invaluable as a showcase to prospective employers. Internships are quite common and the course will take about four years to complete. Classes can include typography, design communication, visual arts fundamentals and more.
Further Education
Although there are no specific graduate degree programs, you can enroll in master’s programs in related fields after attaining your bachelor’s degree. Graphic communication is a popular choice as it can open doors in fields such as marketing, advertising and product management. For an additional edge over other job seekers you can also take the Adobe Certified Expert certification exam to prove your proficiency with using their desktop publishing software.
Desktop Publishing FAQs
Can I Study Desktop Publishing Online?
Because desktop publishing is focused around the use of computers and software it is possible to take online courses. The courses that are available on the internet are typically diploma and certificate programs. To take a desktop publishing course online you need your own computer and will usually have to purchase the relevant software as well. Be aware that some of these programs might require you to take on-site classes in addition to what you learn online. Online courses differ, but usually it takes about six months to earn a diploma. Courses can include anything from videos and assignments that can be downloaded to access to lectures, group discussions and online support. Because technology and software in this industry are always changing and improving, taking online courses can help you to stay updated about new developments.
What Are The Duties of A Desktop Publisher?
When employed as a desktop publisher you will typically be required to tie together existing material in a visually appealing layout or work with a team of writers as well as designers to do the same. It will be your job to select the position of text and artwork when creating page layouts and use your judgment for setting formatting properties. You will also need to know how to properly convert files for either printing or online publishing and how to communicate with commercial printers for physical publications. Depending on the size of the firm where you are employed you might be required to perform additional duties, such as writing original text or correcting the grammar, punctuation and spelling of provided text. Generally, your duties will vary widely depending on the type of project or employer you are working with.
What Are My Career Options After Studying Desktop Publishing?
A good understanding of desktop publishing is useful in any industry that deals with the designing, printing or publishing of online documents. It is a skill that is useful when working in advertising, graphic design as well as publishing. Many students use desktop publishing to prepare themselves for a career in the graphic arts and work in industries as diverse as marketing, publishing, and packaging. Because desktop publishing can also help you to create brochures, presentations and various in-house documents, it can be useful for jobs in corporate communications or even administrative assistance.
What Salary Can I Earn With A Desktop Publisher Degree?
In the field of desktop publishing there is a strong correlation between experience and pay levels. This means that the longer you work in the industry and gain experience the better your salary tends to be. Desktop publishing tends to be a full time job, but there are people who do it on a freelance basis. Depending on your skills and experience you can expect an hourly rate of between $14 and $29. This translates into an annual salary between $29000 and $75000. The average desktop publisher in the United States earns a rate of approximately $21.07 per hour as of 2019.
Who Are The Ideal Candidates for Desktop Publishing?
Although your studies and on-the-job training will prepare you with all the knowledge you require for desktop publishing there are a couple of essential skills that will come in useful. Strong computer skills are a must as you will be working with them on a daily basis. It is not just technical skills that will stand you in good stead, but soft skills and certain personality qualities as well. Amongst these are artistic aptitude, good critical thinking skills and active listening. Additionally, good speaking skills, a penchant for being detail-oriented and well organized are useful, as is good time management skills. Finally, creativity is one of the most important skills you can have to be successful at desktop publishing.
Why Choose Desktop Publishing
Although desktop publishing can seem like a technical task, the design element is very appealing if you are a creative person. It is also a job that can be done in a comfortable office environment and it will allow you to collaborate with a diverse group of people, from writers to photographers and designers. Since desktop publishing is such a useful skill, it can give you an advantage even if you decide to work in other career fields.
