Graphic Design Internships

What does a graphic design intern do?

As a graphic design intern, you’ll spend between one and six months at a company working on visual assets for projects and growing your skills in design software. 

Summer internships usually take place between your second and final year at university, or after university. You’ll also be paid for the duration of your internship.

You’ll usually sit within a team that’ll show you the ropes. Graphic design is huge, and you’ll get involved in a wide range of bits. 

One day, you could be working on designs for social media posts and a website, or designing logos for a new brand. Some of your other responsibilities can include:

• Using design software like Adobe Suite to create and edit images

• Working with team members and clients to develop concepts

• Prepping drafts according to project briefs

• Taking on feedback and editing work

• Attending and contributing to idea generation sessions 

• Researching trends and competitors

• Organising and managing design files and assets

• Shadowing senior designers.

Here’s what one graphic design intern got up to at The Walt Disney Company:

I have become a stronger Designer and feel more confident using software that is specific to my field. I have also learned to use new software and feel comfortable creating wireframes and even prototypes in Figma, as well as learning to do basic animations in Adobe After Effects. I have also developed skills outside of design, including presenting as well as working well within a team. Graphic Design Intern, The Walt Disney Company

Is a graphic design internship worth it?

Absolutely! Working hard during your internship can open up a whole host of opportunities or a full-time job post-uni.

Graphic design is super competitive, and employers can receive hundreds of applications, so getting work experience before you graduate can put you miles ahead.

As well as in-house experience, there are tons of benefits you get from doing a graphic design internship, including;

• Building a network of industry contacts

• Learning new skills (for example: technical, digital, collaboration, communication)

• Enhancing your confidence

• Increasing your employability

• Kick-starting your portfolio.

What skills are needed for graphic design internships?

If you think you need years of experience before you start an internship, think again. Internships are specifically designed for people who are new to the working world and give you a way in to professionally develop your skills.

That said, you will need to have a good understanding of programmes such as Adobe Creative Suite and Canva. As well as a solid foundation in colour theory, layout design and typography.

Soft skills are also amazing to have, and the best part is, you have loads of those. Here are some examples:

• Creativity

• Teamwork and collaboration

• Problem solving

• Attention to detail

• Time management.

How much does a graphic design intern earn?

As a graphic design intern, you could earn between £18,000 to £27,000 pro rata. How much you earn depends on the employer and where you’ll be based (for example, if you’re in London, you’ll learn a lot more than someone outside the city).

Once you get started after university, starting salaries can be anywhere between £25,000 and £30,000 per year. Becoming a senior could see you earning anywhere up to £55,000 per year.

What is the career path for a graphic designer?

In a world where content is everywhere, the demand for graphic designers is pretty huge. So with an internship slapped on your CV (plus a portfolio full of fresh projects), you’ll be in a strong position to progress in your career. 

The good news is that you can move up in graphic design pretty quickly and reach a senior position in a few years. Here’s where your career could take you:

Art Director

It’s an art director's job to develop a creative vision that speaks to people. You’ll manage a team of designers and work on projects that include film and television advertising, graphic design, and marketing campaigns.

Creative Director

As a creative director, you’ll plan advertising campaigns, head and monitor campaigns and create assets to help build a brand identity.

Brand Manager

Brand managers make sure brands are recognisable, relevant and exciting. You’ll come up with strategies to promote brands by keeping tabs on marketing trends and the competition.

There are plenty more paths to choose from, too. If you’ve ever dreamed of setting up your own agency or working freelance all over the world, you can!

How do you get a graphic design internship?

The most important part of your application is your portfolio. Don't worry if you haven't got loads of professional work. Passion projects, your favourite uni assignments or personal designs are 100% enough.

A strong portfolio will usually include four to six pieces that show off your range and creative process. Think logos, flyers, web design or branding projects. Not sure where to host? Behance, Dribbble, and Canva all offer free, easy-to-use portfolio builders.

Once your portfolio is ready and you’ve found the perfect internship, you’ll need to have your CV and cover letter ready (make sure they’re tailored for each job you apply to).

If you get through the first round, you’ll move on to the assessment centre, where you’ll get involved in group tasks and a one-to-one interview.

Need a little help putting your application together? We’ve got you. Download our FREE application toolkit.