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First, some facts. Of the Graphic Design graduates from San Jose State 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 17 LinkedIn profiles (see below).
The verdict? Slightly above average. Overall, with an average relevance score of 68%, Graphic Design graduates from San Jose State University 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 5% 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: 47% We think this person has gone into a career only somewhat relevant to their degree.
DEGREE INFOGraduated in 2017 from San Jose State University with a Bachelor of Arts - BA in Graphic Design. No other secondary education since. JOB HISTORY SINCE GRADUATIONPrint Sales Associate/ Cashier Office Depot May 2018 - Oct 2018 Print Quality Design Associate (Seasonal)  Minted Oct 2018 - Dec 2018 Photo Lab Technician  Mike's Camera Feb 2019 - Present ABOUTNo information provided. |
The top 10 most common jobs done by the graduates we've analyzed (ranked most common to least) are:
The most common types of jobs that graduates from San Jose State University's Graphic Design program have landed are positions like Graphic Designer, Senior Designer, and roles involving UX/UI design. These jobs definitely align with their degree because they actively apply the design concepts and skills learned during their studies. It looks like many graduates have stepped into creative roles where they can use their artistic abilities every day, which is super cool. For example, roles at companies like Axiado Corporation and KRAFTON Inc. show that many graduates are really diving into the world of digital design and motion graphics.
However, not all jobs are directly relevant to graphic design. Some graduates ended up in positions like Assistant Manager at Spirit Halloween or Library Assistant, which focus more on retail and operational tasks rather than creative applications. These experiences might have some crossover skills—like teamwork and communication—but they don’t really utilize the graphic design skills that they studied for years. Overall, while there's a solid number of graduates working in jobs directly connected to graphic design, others have taken paths that stray quite a bit from their education, which is a bit of a mixed bag.
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 San Jose State University):
From the profiles of graduates who earned their degrees in Graphic Design from San Jose State University, it looks like their career trajectories are quite varied but mostly land them in fields relevant to their studies. Generally, many of the first jobs after graduation tend to be in graphic design roles, such as graphic designers, junior graphic designers, or positions that incorporate design skills, which is a solid start. However, there are also cases where graduates took on jobs that are unrelated to graphic design, like working in retail or law enforcement, especially in the early years post-graduation. This mix indicates that while some found their way right into design roles, others are still finding their footing in different areas.
As for what these graduates are doing five to ten years later, many of them seem to have moved into more senior design roles or shifted toward specialized areas like UX/UI design or art direction, showcasing a clear progression in their careers. It's encouraging to see graduates from a few years back securing solid positions like senior graphic designers, motion graphics artists, and even art directors. However, there are still instances of graduates continuing in unrelated roles or positions that don't directly use their design skills, like library assistants or office assistants. Overall, it seems like while many have successfully built careers in graphic design, there are challenges that some have faced in finding roles that align with their degrees. So, if you're passionate about graphic design, there is a good chance you'll find success, but be prepared for the possibility of exploring different paths as well!
Getting a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design at San Jose State University can be pretty challenging, but it's also a rewarding experience if you’re passionate about design. The workload is often intense, with a mix of creative projects, critiques, and technical skills to master, like software programs and the principles of design. There’s a lot of emphasis on developing your portfolio, which means you’ll be putting in late nights and lots of revisions to get your work just right. While it might be tougher than some other degrees, if you love art and design, it can feel much more fulfilling than grueling. Just be ready to juggle deadlines and really push your creativity!
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 the career paths of these San Jose State graphic design grads, it seems like their financial outcomes are pretty mixed. Some have landed solid positions like Senior Graphic Designer and Art Director, which usually come with decent salaries, especially at tech or entertainment companies. Others have bounced around in roles that seem less lucrative, like assistant manager or office assistant, which likely don't pay as well. The earlier graduates may still be finding their footing, while the newer grads who have secured more permanent design roles seem to be on a better track towards making some decent money. Overall, it’s a bit of a mixed bag, but there’s definitely potential for a good income in the design field if they stick with it and gain more experience!
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 San Jose State 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:
