We continue writing about some of the key jobs in demand in the UK this year - specific professions that made the country's shortage occupation list in 2023.
The UK government every year provides a detailed list of roles that are in short supply in different areas of the country. Under the new points-based immigration system, most non-UK resident workers must apply for a visa to work in the UK, but these roles have more relaxed eligibility criteria for sponsored work visa applications. If your job is on the list, you can be paid 80% of the job’s typical salary to qualify for a Skilled Worker visa.
The list includes Graphic designers - these specialists are in demand in all parts of the country (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland). Graphic designers combine art and technology and use professional software to create inspiring, informative, and captivating visual content for a variety of activities, including social media, websites and print.
They skillfully work with colors, images, and typography, create visual elements such as logos, shapes, and illustrations and have to present their design concepts to clients or art directors. Graphic designers need to be well-versed in graphic design software and tools, branding guidelines, design principles, image editing as well as creativity, collaboration and communication skills, emotional intelligence and storytelling.
The best-paid jobs for Graphic designers are usually in London and other large cities. On average, such specialists in the UK earn between £25,000 and £55,000 a year, depending on their experience.
What do you study to become a Graphic Designer?
Graphic designers usually need a bachelor’s degree in graphic design or a related field. It's also important to continuously learn and evolve to keep up with industry demands, build a strong portfolio that showcases your design skills and be familiar with software programmes such as Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop.
Here are some of the best UK Universities to get relevant degrees and gain a solid foundation in design:
Loughborough University (BA (hons) graphic design)
University of Edinburgh (BA (hons) graphic design (optional year abroad))
Staffordshire University (BA (hons) graphic design)
Buckinghamshire New University (BA (hons) graphic design)
Glasgow School of Art (BA (hons) interaction design)
What are the entry requirements?
The course usually requires a minimum score of 6 in IELTS and A-Levels from ABB to BBC. Typically, art or a design-related subject will be useful for your application, but it's even more important to submit a digital portfolio that will be individually assessed by admissions tutors.
Want to learn about what it's like to study in the UK and how to get into the best universities in the country? LEO International Online School offers a diverse and intensive two–year A-Level programme designed to prepare students for university entry in the United Kingdom. Learn more about this programme and our other courses here, and don't hesitate to contact us at info@leo-school.uk.
Comments