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All careers

Creative

Graphic / UX Designer

Shape brands, products and digital experiences people love to use.

Key skills

Visual creativityEmpathySoftware toolsFeedback

Ways in

UniversityApprenticeshipSelf-employedStraight into work

Typical prerequisites

  • A strong portfolio matters more than grades

Alternative routes

  • Creative digital apprenticeship
  • Illustrator
  • Motion designer

Route milestones

  1. 1

    Course / self-study + portfolio

    Around year 0–3

  2. 2

    Junior designer

    Around year 2–4

  3. 3

    Designer

    Around year 4–7

  4. 4

    Lead / studio owner

    Around year 7+

Progression: Junior → mid → senior / lead / freelance.

Indicative pay bands

Starting out£22,000 – £28,000
Experienced£35,000 – £55,000
Senior / top end£60,000 – £90,000

Indicative example estimates compiled October 2026 for planning conversations only. Pay varies by region, employer, sector and hours. Always verify with official sources such as the National Careers Service.

Verify on National Careers Service

Contribution & impact

Makes ideas clear, accessible and memorable.