Creative arts & design graduate jobs & schemes 2025

There are diverse career paths within this sector, including:

• Graphic Design – Branding, marketing, UI/UX, and digital design.
• Advertising & Marketing – Creative strategy, copywriting, and campaign development.
• Media & Journalism – Broadcast, digital, print, and investigative journalism.
• Film & TV Production – Directing, scriptwriting, editing, VFX, and animation.
• Photography & Videography – Commercial, editorial, and content creation.
• Fine Art & Illustration – Gallery work, freelance commissions, and book illustration.
• Theatre & Performing Arts – Acting, directing, stage management, and production.
• Fashion & Textile Design – Clothing, accessories, and fabric innovation.
• Game Design & Animation – 3D modeling, character design, and concept art.
• Interior & Architecture Design – Residential, commercial, and event design.

Many roles combine creative and technical skills , often requiring software expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, Blender, Unity, or AutoCAD .

Unlike sectors like finance or consulting, graduate schemes in creative industries are less common , but some do exist:

• Advertising & Marketing – WPP, Ogilvy, Publicis, Saatchi & Saatchi, Dentsu, and Havas offer structured programs.
• Broadcast Media – BBC, ITV, Sky, and Channel 4 have graduate schemes in production, journalism, and digital content.
• Publishing & Journalism – Penguin Random House, The Guardian, and Reuters have graduate trainee programs.
• Gaming & Animation – Ubisoft, Rockstar Games, Framestore, and Industrial Light & Magic offer graduate programs.
• Fashion & Design – ASOS, Burberry, and Adidas offer design-focused schemes.
  

Most graduates start in entry-level jobs, internships, or freelance roles rather than through formal schemes.

It depends on the field:

• Essential for structured jobs – Graphic design, media production, architecture, or animation often require degrees.
• Helpful but not mandatory – Journalism, advertising, marketing, and copywriting value experience just as much as formal education.
• Not always necessary – Fine art, photography, theatre, and fashion design often prioritize portfolios over degrees.
  

Even without a degree, strong experience, a well-crafted portfolio, and networking can land you opportunities.

• Creativity & originality – Ability to generate fresh, compelling ideas.
• Software proficiency – Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Premiere Pro, After Effects, Blender, Maya, etc.
• Storytelling & communication – Particularly important in media, advertising, and film.
• Technical skills – Digital and traditional illustration, animation, photography, videography, or 3D modeling.
• Attention to detail – Precision in design, editing, and presentation.
• Networking & self-promotion – Many roles require strong industry connections or an online presence.
• Resilience & adaptability – The industry is highly competitive, with evolving trends and technology.

Salaries vary widely depending on the role and sector:

• Graphic Design: £22,000 – £30,000 starting salary.
• Advertising & Copywriting: £25,000 – £35,000 in agency roles.
• Media & Journalism: £22,000 – £28,000, with freelance work potentially paying more.
• Film & TV Production: £18,000 – £25,000, with salaries increasing based on experience.
• Photography & Videography: £20,000 – £30,000, though many start as freelancers.
• Game Design & Animation: £25,000 – £35,000 at entry level, rising significantly with experience.
• Fashion & Textile Design: £20,000 – £30,000, often with freelance opportunities.
  

Freelancers and self-employed creatives may earn significantly more or less , depending on experience and demand.

• Highly competitive , especially in fields like film, fashion, and advertising.
• Many entry-level jobs are freelance, internships, or unpaid work , so perseverance is key.
• Building a strong portfolio and personal brand helps differentiate you from other candidates.
• Networking and industry connections are often as important as qualifications.

• Showcase a variety of work – Include digital, print, motion, and experimental projects.
• Tailor it to your target industry – If applying for advertising, include branding work; if going into film, showcase video projects.
• Use online platforms – Behance, Dribbble, Instagram, and personal websites help showcase your work.
• Include process work – Show how you develop ideas from concept to execution.
• Keep it updated – Regularly add new projects, especially self-initiated work.

✔ Gain experience early – Internships, freelance gigs, and student projects help.
✔ Develop a strong online presence – Use LinkedIn, Behance, or Instagram to showcase your work.
✔ Network with industry professionals – Attend creative meetups, film festivals, or art exhibitions.
✔ Stay up to date with industry trends – Follow industry news, new design tools, and emerging media platforms.
✔ Learn relevant software – Employers expect proficiency in tools like Photoshop, Premiere Pro, or Blender.
✔ Consider side projects – Personal projects, collaborations, or competitions can boost your portfolio.