First, some facts. Of the Graphic Design graduates from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona we've analyzed , here's how many have used (or NOT used) their degree in their career:
These are estimates based on AI analysis of 10 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Slightly above average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 68%, Graphic Design graduates from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona have a slightly higher likelihood (+1%) of finding work in this field compared to the average graduate across all fields:
And for comparison, here's the chart for all profiles we've looked at across all degrees.
Also, after graduating, only 30% of these graduates have pursued further education other than another Bachelor's degree (such as a Masters degree or other), compared to the average across all profiles of 35%. This suggests a Bachelors degree is enough for most Graphic Design graduates, and it's normal to look for work straight after graduation.
See the details:
Relevance score: 50%We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2015 from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona with a Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design. Also pursued further education since (see below). JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONIndustry AnalystThe CARLAB Dec 2018 - May 2019 FURTHER DEGREES DONE SINCE GRADUATINGTransportation designArtCenter College of Design 2017 - 2024 ABOUTNo information provided. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
If we take a look at the job titles for graduates from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona with a degree in Graphic Design, the most common roles are heavily centered around graphic design and marketing. Many of these graduates found themselves working as Graphic Designers, Graphic Design Interns, or in hybrid positions that also include marketing functions. For instance, roles like Graphic Designer, Marketing Director/Graphic Designer, and Creative Director highlight how these individuals often blend their design skills with other responsibilities. This trend of combining graphic design with marketing is evident as graduates transition into positions where they can utilize their visualization skills to provide aesthetic direction in marketing strategies.
However, not all jobs listed are directly related to graphic design. Some graduates have taken on roles that stray from traditional design, like being a Restaurant Owner or a Sales Consultant, where graphic design skills are only somewhat relevant. There are also positions like Communications Specialist and E-commerce Manager that might touch on design but primarily focus on marketing or analytics instead. Overall, the majority of alumni appear to be in positions that leverage their Graphic Design education, although the connection to their degree varies quite a bit across roles. It’s a mixed bag, but for the most part, the jobs align well with what they studied, especially for those actively working in design or marketing roles.
Here is a visual representation of the most common words in job titles for Graphic Design graduates (this is across all Graphic Design graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to California State Polytechnic University-Pomona):
So, looking at the career trajectories of graduates from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona who studied Graphic Design reveals some interesting patterns. Right after they graduate, a good chunk of these students land roles as Graphic Designers, often in small to medium-sized companies or even as interns, which is pretty standard in the industry. Many of them seem to stick with graphic design in various capacities for their first couple of years, gaining experience and ramping up their skills. Some take on roles that combine design with marketing, which makes sense given how intertwined those fields are, especially in today's digital landscape.
Now, fast forward five to ten years, and it looks like many of these graduates have transitioned into more senior roles, including Creative Directors or Marketing Managers, which is a solid progression if you ask me. A few have even started their own businesses or gone freelance, reflecting the trend of creatives wanting more flexibility in their work. However, it's important to note that not everyone found a direct path in graphic design. A handful of graduates have ventured into unrelated fields, like teaching or sales, which can happen if the opportunities in design aren't fully there. Overall, though, it seems like many alumni have carved out satisfying careers relevant to graphic design, which is encouraging if that's the path you're considering.
Getting a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design at California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, or anywhere for that matter, definitely comes with its challenges, but it's not impossible! You'll find that it strikes a balance between creative projects and technical skills, like mastering software and understanding design principles. Classes can get pretty intense, especially when you're juggling deadlines for projects, but if you're passionate about design and enjoy the creative process, it'll feel more rewarding than grueling. Just be ready to put in a decent amount of late nights and critiques from your professors and peers! Overall, it's about what you make of it—if you’re dedicated, you’ll thrive in this program.
Most commonly, in the LinkedIn profiles we've looked at, it takes people 4 years to finish a Bachelor degree in Graphic Design.
Looking at these graduates from California State Polytechnic University-Pomona, it seems like the money they’re making varies quite a bit. The early graduates like the ones from 2010 and 2011 seem to have climbed the ladder into solid marketing and creative director roles, which are usually well-paying positions. However, we also have some grads who have bounced around freelance gigs and lesser roles, suggesting they might be taking home less than their peers. The more recent grads from 2018 and 2019 are still finding their footing, with some landing decent roles in established companies, but others seem to be struggling a bit with inconsistent job choices. Overall, it looks like if you hustle and land the right positions, there's definitely some good money to be made in graphic design, but it can also be a bit unpredictable at times!
Here is a visual representation of the most common words seen in the "about" section of LinkedIn profiles who have a Bachelor degree in Graphic Design (this is across all Graphic Design graduates we've analyzed, not just those who went to California State Polytechnic University-Pomona). This may or may not be useful:
Here are all colleges offering a Bachelor degree in Graphic Design (ordered by the average relevance score of their Graphic Design graduates, best to worst) where we have analyzed at least 10 of their graduates: