Specs Howard School:
Graphic Design Program Job Placement

PLACEMENT IS A PRIORITY

With a current placement rate of 81.8%*, it's obvious that our placement assistance department is devoted to helping students and recent grads obtain entry-level jobs in the broadcast industry.

However, while placement is a priority, it is by no means a guarantee. Students are expected to take an active role in their search for employment.

The most important factors in finding your first job after graduating from Specs are perseverance and an open mind. It may take pouring coffee or moving to a remote location to get your foot in the door, but students that are determined to work in the industry eventually find a way.

*The statistic reflects the status of available graduates from 14 Radio & Television classes that graduated from January 1, 2007 to December 31, 2007.

PLACEMENT BEGINS IN CLASSROOM
Career Perspectives is a course that students take during the first 16 weeks of the program. Led by members of the placement department, the class focuses on what students can expect upon entering the job market. Entry-level positions, job search techniques, relocation, interviewing skills, salary information and budget preparation are the topics covered through class discussion, activities and assignments.

INTERNSHIPS
Although participating in an internship is not a program requirement, interning for a company within the industry is highly encouraged.

Some internships are paid but most are not. However, the networking potential and work experience they provide is invaluable. Many internships have led directly to employment with an employer hiring the most exceptional interns upon graduation. Others have been known to "put a good word" in for someone at a company that's hiring in a smaller market.

COVER LETTERS, RESUMES & MOCK INTERVIEWS
Satisfactory completion of a sample cover letter, resume and a list of references is required for graduation. Students experience various interview techniques and practice their skills through classroom exercises and mock interviews.

PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT
Fourth marking period students in graphic design learn the importance of providing employers with samples of their work. Graphic design students are taught how and why showing their range of skills and media is so important to landing their first job. Students leave the program with a professional portfolio.

Click here to read about the graphic design online learning >>