In today's market, education is critical. Art directors want to know that the artists in their staffs "have their chops." In other words, that they have the knowledge of composition, color theory, typography, psychology and current trends in advertising, as well as practical, hands on experience at producing quality work.
College education is how this knowledge and experience is gained, for most professional graphic artists. The colleges and universities will also be where the latest computer graphic design tools are taught. Today's designer needs to know where his/her work fits into the entire process of commercial art, from concept, through production, to print or video, to the consumer.
This field is highly competitive and a director will not waste time trying to find out what you can do. Your educational background offers a huge shortcut for the person hiring. He or she can save time by narrowing down and hireing the best of the best.
As an alternative, many freelancers can make a go of it without the prerequisite degrees. This is very hard work, and very few can actually make a living at it. If this is a route you wish to explore, I recommend the book, "Artists and Writers Market." Lots of very good information on how designer can market their work.
Answered by
Sudipta Deb
, an ibibo Specialist,
at
5:23 AM on May 22, 2008