Transitioning to a Creative Design Career with a Bachelors in Economics and Management

Many individuals find themselves in a unique situation where they have a background in a traditionally non-creative field, such as economics and management, but harbor a strong desire to pivot towards a career centered around artistic design and visual content. This article aims to guide such individuals through the steps needed to successfully make this transition.

Understanding the Gap and Potential Roles

Perhaps the most challenging aspect of making this shift is bridging the gap between a background in economics and management and a career in creative design. One promising avenue is to explore roles that combine both business acumen and artistic talent. For instance, positions in the government arena and local councils, particularly those in local Chambers of Commerce, often need business advisors who can also provide creative input. Additionally, roles guiding arts and crafts entrepreneurs who might have a creative bent but lack business knowledge can be a valuable stepping stone.

Utilizing Your Undergraduate Degree to Your Advantage

Your undergraduate degree in economics and management is an invaluable asset in the business world on your new career path. Should you decide to pursue a career in graphic design, your educational background will present you as a strong candidate for a management position due to your comprehensive understanding of business and economics principles. Moreover, the knowledge gained from your bachelor’s degree can be seamlessly applied to the design process, particularly when it comes to visualizing data and creating compelling presentations.

Pursuing Self Study

According to your interests, you might be looking to transition into graphic design rather than fine arts. In this case, pursuing self-study through online courses is an excellent option. Top platforms such as Udemy and Coursera offer comprehensive graphic design courses. Complete online courses and build a portfolio that showcases your skills. Building a strong portfolio is crucial in the graphic design industry, as it demonstrates your capabilities and creative vision to potential employers.

Further Academic Pursuits

Another route worth considering is obtaining a master’s degree in graphics design. This advanced degree can deepen your technical skills and provide a more specialized focus in the field, which can open up even more career opportunities.

Expanding Your Creative Horizons

While your background in economics and management may appear less artistic on the surface, it does not necessarily restrict you from exploring creative design careers. Community college classes can be a fantastic starting point for gaining hands-on skills in areas such as graphic design, architecture, and modern art. Furthermore, basic engineering courses can help you bridge the gap between technical and artistic disciplines, making you a well-rounded candidate for a variety of creative design roles.

Exploring the Intersection of Business and Creativity

Incorporating business expertise into your creative endeavors can create unique opportunities. For example, focusing on data visualization and creating visually appealing graphs can be an innovative approach. Many reporters and marketing agencies use dramatic graphical representations to convey complex data. By studying and emulating this technique, you can develop a distinctive style that bridges the gap between business and art.

Starting with a simple exploration of modern art can also open doors. Modern art, characterized by its experimental approach and departure from traditional styles, offers a wide range of creative possibilities. Additionally, creating a product or service from your knowledge of basic engineering can provide you with a unique edge in the market. This combination of technical and creative skills can make you a valuable asset to any employer seeking innovative solutions.

In conclusion, transitioning from a background in economics and management to a creative design career is both possible and rewarding. By leveraging your existing skills, engaging in self-study, and exploring further academic opportunities, you can successfully bridge the gap between your previous education and your new career aspirations.