Desktop Publishing Program Requirements

Many jobs in the computer industry require much training and educational requirements most of the time. Desktop publishing training doesn't require as much and can be taught through on hand experience as well as on the job training. Most skills can be learned on your own; however, a lot of places like to see degrees. It's true that most employers do find a degree rather professional and more attractive, especially in graphic arts or printing. It's not necessarily a requirement for desktop publishing. Depending on the duties of the job, graphic design jobs will most likely require certificate training and in some cases a degree. If you are going to be self-employed, you will need to demonstrate the ability to have knowledge and creativity is extremely important to potential clients and more important than any certificate or degree.

Desktop Publishing Skills

Even with a degree not required, certain skills need to be learned and are necessary for successful completion of jobs even if you choose to work as a freelancer. There are software requirements that will vary depending on the employer but some basic skills and a knowledge of PC or MAC computer skills, design knowledge from basic to the more advanced, and prepress skills are required. You will also need to understand printing technologies. A lot of this can be learned by reading books, courses and on the job training. You may find that some employers require certification or may have you demonstrate your knowledge in software during a pre-employment evaluation.

Critical Skills

The Bureau of Labor's Occupational Handbook is a great resource and lists that creativity is an important skill for design occupations and includes graphic design jobs. Desktop Publishing is more of mechanics of making business cards, books, packaging and newsletter. Computer skills are known as being critical for desktop publishing. Another important part for desktop publishing is web design. For some employers, a bachelor's degree is a benefit and will most likely get you the job rather than the guy who has no degree but more experience. To get a job as a desktop publisher though, many employers are happy with some on the job training and vocational training.

For the majority, desktop publishers are seen as replacements for typesetters that are taking over prepress work. The Occupational Handbook projects careers for desktop publishing to decrease because more and more people are beginning to learn basic desktop publishing skills. More and more people are starting to put information on the internet to help save costs where they can. Desktop publishers can work for newspaper companies, book companies, and periodicals as well.

Publishing and printing are the two most dispersed industries out there today. There are desktop publishing jobs all over the country. Most of them are mainly found in big cities but nowadays communication networks as well as the internet are allowing desktop publishers to work in other locations. Those who have completed a desktop publishing course will have the advantage and many more doors opened in their profession. The salaries can range quite handsomely and today it is an industry that is gaining much recognition.