Is graphic design a good field to study in the USA?

I'm really into art and technology, so I thought graphic design might be the right path for me in college. What are some top programs in the USA, and what should I expect from a graphic design degree?

Graphic Design is indeed a great field to study, particularly for students who enjoy combining creativity with technology-oriented tasks. It offers a much sought after convergence of art, communication, and technology and is a major component of today's media and marketing industries which can lead to a variety of career paths.

Top Graphic Design programs in the United States can be found at schools such as Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), Carnegie Mellon University (CMU), and Parsons School of Design.

When pursuing a degree in Graphic Design, you can expect to explore a variety of topics. From typography to color theory, from digital imaging to branding and logo design, you will be given a well-rounded education that encompasses many aspects of design. It is common to work on real-world projects, either alone or as part of a team, where you get the opportunity to showcase your creativity and problem-solving talents.

You'll also be trained to use industry-relevant software and tools such as the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign etc.). Additionally, you'll delve into user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, which have significant overlap with the tech and web development industry.

Keep in mind that while in school, it will be beneficial to build a portfolio of your best work. This will be crucial when applying for internships and jobs, as employers often use this as criteria when hiring.

But do remember, while the school you attend and the quality of their program matters, your personal drive, creativity, and the effort you put into gaining practical experience (internships, freelance projects, etc.) also significantly impact your success in this field.