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First, some facts. Of the Graphic Design graduates from James Madison University 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 14 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Slightly above average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 70%, Graphic Design graduates from James Madison University have a slightly higher likelihood (+3%) 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 0% 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:
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Relevance score: 100% We think this person has gone into a career highly relevant to their degree.
DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2022 from James Madison University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts - BFA in Graphic Design. No other secondary education since. JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONJunior Graphic Designer Syzygy Event Production Jan 2024 - Present ABOUTI am a creative and diverse individual with an eye for design who is very excited by the opportunity to work with your group. I recently graduated with a bachelors degree in graphic design from James Madison University.I began my design career with an interest in the fine arts, studying at both Golden West and Laurel Ridge community college before earning my associate degree. My fine arts background along with my Vietnamese heritage allows me to bring a unique perspective to the design process as I draw inspiration from a variety of places.In addition to my collegiate experience, I have enhanced my design skills by working for the Information Technology Club as well as the Media Group in Vietnam since 2013. I also worked in the Human Resources department at Laurel Ridge, which provided me the opportunity to gain perspective on communication and how essential elements of design work can be. Later, I worked as a designer for Student Affairs Communication and Marketing at JMU. I assisted on a wide range of projects, gaining experience in a variety of areas such as client communication, the Adobe suite, team collaboration, social graphics, print materials, time management, and more.Overall, I am a hardworking, detail-oriented, creative individual that would love the opportunity to speak more and demonstrate my skills as a designer. I promise to bring a creative, professional, and diverse perspective to your companys work. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
When looking at the career paths of graduates from James Madison University's Graphic Design program, it's interesting to see a mixed bag of job types. Many alumni have found roles that directly align with graphic design, including positions like Graphic Designer, Senior Graphic Designer, and Graphic Design Contractors. These roles typically require the specific skills and knowledge gained during their degree, such as visual communication, branding, and multimedia production. For instance, a lot of graduates secure positions at creative studios, non-profits, or even corporate settings where graphic design is at the forefront of their work. This showcases a solid connection between their education and their career choices in design.
However, a significant number of graduates have ventured into jobs that don’t really tap into their graphic design skills. Many worked in roles like Marketing Directors, Social Media Managers, and Project Management Analysts, where the focus is more on marketing strategies or administrative tasks rather than artistic or design work. While some of these positions might use a hint of creativity or design elements, they aren't centered on graphic design principles. In short, while there’s a commendable number of alumni working directly in graphic design roles, a noticeable portion have drifted into other fields that don’t fully utilize their design education, highlighting a divergent path for many graduates.
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 James Madison University):
Looking at the career trajectories of graduates from James Madison University's Graphic Design program, it's clear that many of them have found their way into positions that are at least somewhat connected to their degree, especially in the early years following graduation. A bunch of graduates landed roles that are directly related to graphic design, such as graphic designer positions, multimedia editors, and marketing specialists. However, it's also notable that some have ventured off the direct design path into roles like project management and even administrative roles. This mix suggests a flexibility in the job market, but also raises questions about whether all of these individuals are fully utilizing their design skills in their careers.
Fast forward a few years, and it looks like a significant number of grads are still in the creative or marketing realms, which is definitely a good sign. Many seem to have advanced to senior positions or specialized roles in graphic design and marketing. Yet, others have strayed further into unrelated fields or more generalized roles that don’t seem to leverage their specific design education to the fullest. So, while there are promising career paths for many, particularly those who stay dedicated to design-related jobs, it's also apparent that some of the graduates have ended up in jobs that aren’t as aligned with their original goals, suggesting that finding a fulfilling career in graphic design can be a bit of a mixed bag. Overall, there’s a spectrum of outcomes ranging from solid positions in design to roles that are less relevant.
Honestly, a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design can be pretty challenging, and James Madison University is no exception. You’ll be diving into a mix of creative projects, technical skills, and design principles, which can be tough if you’re not used to juggling deadlines and feedback. The workload can be intense, especially when you're trying to develop a strong portfolio. That said, if you love being creative and are passionate about design, it can be super rewarding! Overall, it's not necessarily harder or easier than average; it really depends on your dedication and how much effort you put into it. Just be ready to put in the time and bring your A-game!
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 graphic design graduates from James Madison University, it seems like they've carved out a pretty decent career path, but the money might be a mixed bag depending on their specific roles and companies. For instance, some early grads have moved into solid positions in marketing and design, showing potential for good salaries, especially those who landed roles at companies like Accenture or in established workplaces that often pay well. Others, like those who jumped between freelance gigs or lower-level administrative positions, might be on the struggle bus trying to make ends meet early on. It looks like recent grads are starting to find their footing, transitioning from junior roles to more senior positions, which typically come with better pay. Overall, while there's potential for decent money, especially as they gain experience, it seems like it might take a few years post-graduation for many of them to really start seeing those higher paychecks.
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 James Madison University). 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:
