Creative Arts & Design
Graphic Designer
You design logos, posters, packaging and brands people remember.
- Starting salary
- R12 000 – R24 000
- Job demand
- Steady demand
- Key subjects
- Visual Arts, Design
What do they do?
You design logos, posters, packaging and brands people remember.
A day in the life
You take a brief, sketch concepts, design on computer, present to clients and refine.
Skills you need
- Visual eye
- Software skill
- Listening
- Time management
School subjects that help
- Visual Arts
- Design
- English
- Computer Applications Technology
How long does it take?
3 main steps after school, usually 3–6 years of study, plus practical experience.
Study path
- 1High school
- 2Design diploma or degree
- 3Junior designer
- 4Designer / art director
Ways in: University of Technology · Private college · Self-taught + portfolio · Entrepreneurship. University is not the only route.
Where can I study?
- University of Johannesburg
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Nelson Mandela University
- University of South Africa
Admission requirements differ by institution, always check the official website.
What can I earn?
Entry level
R12 000 – R24 000
per month (estimate)
Mid career
R28 000 – R48 000
per month (estimate)
Experienced / senior
R50 000 – R95 000+
per month (estimate)
Estimated salary ranges only. Salaries vary based on experience, qualification, industry, location and employer.
How to start preparing now
- • Design posters for school events
- • Learn Canva then Figma
- • Build a portfolio folder
Try this career
Design a logo and poster for an imaginary South African brand.
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This tool is designed to help you explore career possibilities. It does not replace professional career counselling, school guidance or official university admission requirements.