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Are you the techy type that loves dismantling and assembling computing gadgets for fun? Then you need to consider Computer Design or Computer Hardware Engineer as an ideal career path.
Our team of professionals has outlined and explained in detail what you need to get started as well as what you can do with a degree in Computer Design.
What is Computer Design?
Computer design can be referred to as the process of creating a computer system. This involves assembling the hardware (physical parts) and organizing the software (internal systems) to produce a completely functional computer system.
What Do Computer Designers Do?
They are responsible for creating and developing computer systems and security systems for customers. They also redesign security systems and firewalls and produce training manuals to direct the customers on how to use the systems appropriately.
Computer designers usually discuss with prospects to understand the type of computer system or software they need to create and what will suit their goals.
Computer designers test new systems and products in real-life situations to ensure that they are suitable for use. This helps them to find out what parts of the new product or system to be modified.
Educational Requirements to Become a Computer Designer.
First, you need to get a high school diploma or GED. Without this, you cannot obtain an associate degree which is necessary to become a computer designer. You need to obtain a bachelor’s degree in the fields of graphic design, software engineering, computer engineering, or any other similar field.
You will be taught courses such as computer programming and organization, microchips, hardware structuring, etc.
You can also proceed to earn a master’s and doctorate. Although these are not mandatory, they give you a better chance of gaining employment. When pursuing post-graduate degrees in computer design you will be taught courses such as algorithm and logic design, programming and multimedia languages, artificial intelligence, system development, etc.
In most cases, computer designers who obtain a master’s or doctorate usually go into in-depth analysis and research on specific aspects of computer design.
If you are pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in computer design, you will be taught courses that involve both arts and computer programming technology.
The courses you will be offering include two-dimension design, drawing and sketching, media writing, graphic designing, and communication, programming concepts, still imaging, multi-media animation, project management, etc. You may also be required to offer electives in areas such as animation, web design, and print and digital media.
Why Get a Computer Design Degree?
With a degree in computer design, you can pursue the following careers;
- Multimedia Animator.
- Desktop Publishing.
- Graphic Designer.
- Industrial Product Design.
- Database Management.
- Technical Writing.
Multimedia animator
A multi-media animator is a computer design professional that creates two and three-dimensional animations and visual effects that are realistic for movies, television, video games, illustrations, etc.
Creating visual effects involves the creation of animation from the images of characters performing, creating scenic backgrounds for locations, or creating the layout of the different levels of a video game.
In most cases, multimedia animators work with other animators as a team in which each animator works on a particular aspect that will eventually be put together with the work of the other team members to create one project.
A multimedia animator usually works in a movie or video game studio but some animators work from home. They hardly follow the usual 40 hours a week routine; they can work for a lesser or higher period depending on how much work they have to do and their deadlines.
The average salary of a multimedia animator is $44,921 a year. That is approximately $21.60 an hour, $864 per week, and $3,743 per month.
Desktop Publisher
Another career opportunity you can explore with a computer design degree is becoming a desktop publisher. A desktop publisher is a computer designer that creates documents such as books, newspapers, newsletters, business proposals, and business cards.
They make use of publishing such as Adobe PageMaker, Microsoft Publisher, and Adobe InDesign to combine texts, numerics, images, illustrations, photographs, charts, and other elements to publish documents.
Aside from having a degree in computer design, it is important that as a desktop publisher you possess qualities such as creativity good communication and interpretational skills, excellent IT and computer skills, and the ability to manage time well and meet deadlines.
Desktop publishers usually earn an average salary of over $55,000 per year.
Graphic Designer
A computer design degree also allows you to become a graphic designer. A graphic designer is responsible for combining the various elements of design such as space, color, shapes, etc to create visuals that are appealing to a user.
Graphic designers make use of Photoshop and Microsoft Excel to execute ideas that will attract, inform, and provide consumers with an excellent user experience. The layouts and interface designs for websites, posters, brochures, magazines, and book covers, etc are usually done by graphic designers.
There are different types of graphic designs and they include; marketing or advertising graphic design, publication graphic design, webpage graphic design, environmental graphic design, packaging graphic design, motion graphic design, etc.
It is important to note that a graphic designer is different from a graphic artist. A graphic designer creates appealing visuals by combining various elements of design to communicate, pass information and solve problems while a graphic artist on the other hand creates original artworks.
A graphic combines various media and techniques to create artwork. They combine the techniques of writers, editors, art directors, marketers, etc to create designs.
READ ALSO: Computer Hardware Engineer Salary 2021.
Most graphic designers are self-employed and make an average salary of over $50,000 in a year.
Industrial Product Design
Industrial product design is another opportunity in computer design. An industrial product designer develops the blueprints and concepts for products, such as computer systems, home appliances, and even cars.
They use their knowledge of art and engineering to make products that are marketable, functional, durable, affordable, and safe for users.
Industrial product designers mostly work in manufacturing companies, testing facilities, design centers, exhibit sites, etc. They earn an average pay of about $70,000 per year.
Database Management.
You can also use a degree in computer design to practice database management. This involves storing, organizing, and retrieving data from a computer. As a computer designer, you will develop and manage the database of companies or organizations.
You will also be responsible for creating data storage, retrieving data, troubleshooting database systems when necessary, and implementing safety protocols. Database managers earn a salary of about $45.72 an hour which is $95,094 per year.
Technical Writing
Technical writing is another career you can explore with a computer design degree. It involves writing documents such as reports, memos, product analysis, descriptions and specifications, business proposals, datasheets, résumés, and job applications, etc.
There are 4 major types of technical writing which include
- Medical and scientific papers.
- User manuals.
- Assembly manuals.
- Technical reviews.
Medical and Scientific Papers.
Scientific papers are used by researchers to interpret and organize their research results to publish them in journals, magazines, newsletters, and online blogs.
User Manuals.
User manuals are writings that provide answers and explanations to users about products and the different components of the products and how they work.
Assembly Manuals.
Assembly manuals are also known as repair manuals. They are technical writings that guide users on how to couple, repair, and maintain products.
Technical Review.
Technical reviews are writings that explain the process and outcome of any research. They are more of reports written about research.
Finally, with a computer design degree, you can go further to earn a master’s and doctorate and become a college or university lecturer.
Qualities of a Good Computer Designer
A good computer designer needs to be creative and ready to learn new things. You also need to remain current about new trends in technology to ensure that customers are satisfied.
Communication and interpretational skills are also important to a computer designer’s job. Possessing such skills will enable the designer to execute the desires and ideas efficiently.
Getting a design done can be quite tiring and may not come together as quickly as anticipated. It is important to exercise patience and resilience when working as a computer designer.
A designer should be able to accept criticism. As difficult as it seems, criticism is one way to improve as a designer. It is important to listen to other people’s opinions and ideas to make yours better.
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Computer Design Degree.
No, earning a computer design degree is not difficult. It only requires determination and hard work.
When you study computer design you can practice as a graphic designer, technical writer, multimedia animator, lecturer, or industrial product designer.
To become a computer designer, it is necessary to acquire an undergraduate degree in graphic design, art, and visual communications, or any other related field.
Computer designing can be referred to as the process of creating a computer system. This involves assembling the hardware (physical parts) and organizing the software (internal systems) to produce a completely functional computer system.
A graphic designer creates appealing visuals by combining various elements of design to communicate, pass information and solve problems while a graphic artist on the other hand creates original artworks.
The best computers for graphic design:
- iMac (27-inch, 2020) This high-end choice is the best computer for graphic design right now. …
- iMac (24-inch, 2021) …
- Microsoft Surface Studio 2. …
- Apple Mac mini (M1, 2020) …
- HP Pavilion 590. …
- Apple Mac Pro (2019) …
- Alienware Aurora Ryzen Edition R10. …
- Apple iMac Pro.
Computer Organization and Design are concerned with the structure and behaviour of computer systems as seen by the user. It acts as the interface between hardware and software. It deals with the components of a connection in a system.
Conclusion
Being creative is easier when you love and have a passion for what you are doing. Working as a computer designer might be tough and challenging sometimes so it is your passion that keeps you going in times like that.
Before you begin the process of obtaining a degree in computer design, it is important to ensure that you are ready to do what it takes and also meet up all the requirements. Have a question? Kindly use the comment box below and don’t forget to share.
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