Graphic Design Inspiration

Which is the better option...going to art school for four years to learn graphic design or teaching yourself with tutorials and book? school is always better. School

I've practise art and design for many years and taught myself graphic design.

However, it's a hard industry to break into, and I've found that most companies won't give you a chance unless you are qualified in the subject! It pays to study Graphic Design as that piece of paper you get at the end will be what gets you in the doorway of Design companies. Being a self taught designer limits you considerably. People prefer to hire Graphic Designers that have studied rather then try out a self taught designer. art schools are expensive. i'm finishing up right now, and honestly... the first and last year are a waste of time, and money. first year you're doing electives, while last year, you're just doing repetitive work from second and third.

if you can learn stuff on your own, and are a sociable person who has no problem networking (meaning making new friends / business acquaintances), have a very good imagination, and like to read books on anything informative, have a good eye for what's considered good design vs bad design, then you can probably teach the stuff on your own.

anyone can learn how to use photoshop, illustrator, indesign, quark, dreamweaver, etc., but not everyone can differentiate bad design vs good design, and come up with original and creative ideas.

only thing that a degree will help you with is getting your first few jobs. in which case you can bypass all that by taking up internships at places. you would need a good portfolio for this, though, which eventually you'd have to polish really well in order to be able to get the better jobs, because in the end, it's your portfolio and experience (minimum of three to four years these days) that will land you the better paying jobs.