7 Graphic Design Careers to Pursue (Without a University Degree)
Your portfolio matters more than your diploma.
Think you need a university degree to work in graphic design? Think again. The creative industry has changed. These days, your portfolio can speak louder than a diploma. Whether you’re self-taught, switching careers, or turning a hobby into a hustle, there’s a growing list of design-related jobs that value your skills, style, and software know-how more than your education credentials.
With the right tools, some training (formal or not), and a strong body of work, you can carve out a solid career in design—even without a traditional degree. Here are some of the best graphic design careers you can get into without a college degree.
1. Video Editor
Video editors play a key role in shaping visual storytelling. Using software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro, they assemble footage, add effects and sound, and refine projects for film, TV, or online content.
This role is highly collaborative and often involves working with directors, animators, and sound designers. A sharp eye for pacing and detail is crucial. According to Glassdoor, you can earn around $63,747 per year on average, and the more experience and high-profile projects you take on, the higher that number can go.
2. Typesetter
Typesetters are responsible for arranging text in a visually appealing and readable way for books, newspapers, advertisements, and more. It’s a job that requires attention to detail, precision, and a good sense of layout.
You’ll need to understand typography and often use software like Adobe InDesign. While it's a more traditional role, it still plays a critical part in publishing and print production. The average salary for a typesetter in the U.S. is around $49,000 annually (according to Indeed), making it a solid entry-level opportunity in the design world.
3. Web Designer
Web designers focus on creating the layout, visual structure, and interface of websites. They consider usability, aesthetics, and how users interact with content.
Familiarity with tools like Figma, Sketch, and some basic HTML/CSS knowledge can give you an edge. A great website is more than just pretty—it’s intuitive and effective. As per Glassdoor, web designers typically earn an average salary of $66,745 per year, with opportunities to grow as you specialise in UX or front-end development.
Gabriel Ojeh
4. Graphic Designer
The classic role in this field, graphic designers create visuals for everything from marketing materials and social media graphics to packaging and print ads. They combine typography, imagery, and colour to communicate a brand’s message effectively.
Many start out self-taught or after taking short courses online. According to Indeed, graphic designers earn an average of $50,000 per year, though freelancers and those with specialised skills (like motion graphics or branding) can often make more.
Emmanuel Umahi
5. Illustrator
Illustrators use hand-drawn or digital artwork to tell stories, explain concepts, or create unique visuals for books, magazines, games, or branding. Unlike a general graphic designer, illustrators focus more on art and drawing.
Tools like Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, and even traditional mediums all come into play. You can specialise in editorial, children’s books, technical diagrams, or commercial art. The average illustrator's salary is around $44,000 annually (according to Indeed), though top freelancers and niche specialists can make significantly more.
6. Photo Retoucher
Photo retouchers enhance and manipulate images to meet specific visual standards, often working with photographers, magazines, e-commerce brands, or advertising teams. This role involves correcting colours, adjusting lighting, removing imperfections, and sometimes completely transforming a photo’s mood or message.
It’s highly detail-oriented and requires skill with software like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom. The average annual salary for a photo retoucher in the U.S. is around $59,464 per year, according to Glassdoor. However, those working with high-end clients or in fashion and product photography can earn significantly more.
7. Visual Designer
Visual designers focus on the aesthetics of digital products, ensuring a polished, on-brand look across websites, apps, and digital campaigns. Think of them as the bridge between graphic design and UX/UI design.
They work with style guides, typography systems, and design libraries to create consistency across digital platforms. This job requires a sharp eye and strong communication skills. Visual designers in the U.S typically earn around $95,606 per year, according to Americans for the Arts.
Conclusion
Breaking into graphic design without a degree is not only possible—it’s becoming increasingly common. Employers and clients alike care more about your portfolio, creativity, and ability to deliver results than your formal education. With free and affordable tools, online courses, and communities to learn from, you can build the skills and experience needed to land real jobs and grow a lasting career in design.
The key is to stay curious, keep creating, and put your work out there. These ten careers prove that talent, hustle, and a strong visual eye can take you far, whether or not you have a degree.
