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Design, Creative & Media Careers
Design and creative careers combine art, communication, and technical skill.
Professionals in this field shape how people experience spaces, brands, and media, through digital graphics, interiors, jewelry, events, and more. Training paths range from short certificates to multi-year degrees.
Why Choose a Creative Career?
Design and media industries span many roles, from client services to product design. Careers blend creativity with business and technology, with day-to-day work that varies by specialty.
Key advantages:
- Demand for design, UX/UI, and content creation in many industries
- Freelance and remote work opportunities in some roles
- Paths that range from staff roles to independent work
- Transferable skills in marketing, technology, and communication
Creative careers suit those who value innovation, independence, and collaboration.
Popular Design & Creative Careers
Explore accredited training options, certifications, and professional development programs for in-demand creative roles:
- Graphic Designer – Create visual identities, digital ads, and brand materials
- Certified Interior Designer – Design functional, safe, and aesthetic interior spaces
- Floral Designer – Craft arrangements for events and retail environments
- Jewelry Designer – Produce fine or fashion jewelry through art and CAD design
- Wedding Planner – Coordinate events, vendors, and décor for seamless celebrations
- Event Coordinator – Manage corporate and public event logistics and design
Each career path offers specialized programs, from certificates to bachelor’s degrees, designed to build practical skills and professional portfolios.
Compare Careers in This Category
Certification and licensing requirements vary by state and employer. Training times reflect typical program or apprenticeship lengths and can differ by provider, prior experience, and local regulations. Always verify current requirements with your state licensing board or prospective program.
Building & Construction Trades
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carpenter | $59,310* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6 months – 4 years (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Construction Worker | $46,730* | Varies (OSHA 10/30; state contractor license for supervisors) | 3–12 months (apprenticeship or on-the-job) |
| Flooring Installer | $53,599* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Plumber | $62,970* | Yes (state licensing) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Welder | $51,000* | Optional (AWS certification preferred) | 6–18 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Tile Setter | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Pipefitter | $60,900* | Yes in many states (state licensing; apprenticeship) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Steamfitter | $60,900* | Yes in many states (state licensing; apprenticeship) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| Boilermaker | $73,340* | Varies (apprenticeship; state license in some areas) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Brick & Block Mason | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Cabinet Maker | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Ironworker | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Locksmith | $50,490* | Varies (state license in some areas) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Roofer | $50,592* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended; contractor license for business owners) | 6–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Sheet Metal Worker | N/A | Yes in many states (apprenticeship; trade license varies) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Insulation Worker | N/A | Optional (OSHA 10/30; apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Drywall Installer | N/A | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 3–12 months (on-the-job + coursework) |
| Woodworker | $43,886* | Optional (apprenticeship often recommended) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
Construction Management & Inspection
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction Manager | $106,980* | Varies (contractor license in many states) | 2–4 years (degree or field experience) |
| Home Inspector | $72,120* | Yes in many states (state license) | 2–6 months (state-approved course) |
| Mold Inspector | N/A | Varies (state license or industry certification) | 3–12 months (coursework + field hours) |
| Energy Auditor | N/A | Optional (BPI/HERS credentials often required) | 2–6 months (coursework + fieldwork) |
| Environmental Technician | N/A | Optional (HAZWOPER; industry certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate + fieldwork) |
| Water Damage Restoration Technician | N/A | Optional (IICRC WRT/ASD certifications) | 1–6 months (courses + on-the-job) |
Electrical & Energy Systems
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appliance Repair Technician | N/A | Optional (EPA 608 for sealed systems) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Electrician | $62,350* | Yes (state licensing) | 4–5 years (apprenticeship) |
| HVAC Technician | $59,810* | Yes (EPA 608 and state licensing) | 6 months – 2 years (certificate or associate) |
| Refrigeration Technician | N/A | Yes (EPA 608; state license in many areas) | 6–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Lineworker | $92,560* | Yes (apprenticeship + utility certifications) | 3–4 years (joint apprenticeship) |
| Solar Installer | $51,860* | Optional (NABCEP certification beneficial) | 3–12 months (bootcamp or apprenticeship) |
| Controls Technician | N/A | Optional (ISA/PLC certifications) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Home Security Technician | N/A | Varies (state low-voltage license in many areas) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Tower Technician | $70,500* | Yes (OSHA/NRF safety + CPR certifications) | 3–9 months (tower climbing school + field training) |
| Wind Turbine Technician | $62,580* | Yes (industry safety certifications) | 1–2 years (associate or technical diploma) |
Mechanical, Automotive & Transportation
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Auto Body Repair Technician | N/A | Optional (I-CAR/ASE certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Aircraft Mechanic (A&P) | $78,680* | Yes (FAA A&P license) | 18–30 months (Part 147 school or apprenticeship) |
| Auto Mechanic | $49,670* | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) | 6–12 months (trade school or apprenticeship) |
| Automotive Technician | $49,670* | Optional (ASE certifications preferred) | 9–18 months (advanced diploma or apprenticeship) |
| CNC Machinist | $56,150* | Optional (NIMS certification beneficial) | 9–24 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Diesel Technician | $60,640* | Optional (ASE or OEM certifications) | 1–2 years (associate or apprenticeship) |
| Gunsmith | $48,640* | Optional (NRA/NSTC credentials beneficial) | 6–18 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Heavy Equipment Operator | $58,710* | Optional (CDL required for many roles) | 6–12 months (trade school or union program) |
| Maintenance Technician | $48,620* | Optional (CMRT or OEM certifications) | 6–12 months (trade school or on-the-job) |
| Millwright | $65,170* | Optional (apprenticeship; NCCER beneficial) | 3–4 years (apprenticeship) |
| Pilot | $170,956* | Yes (FAA Commercial Pilot License) | 12–24 months (flight school + hours) |
| Robotics Technician | N/A | Optional (FANUC/ABB OEM certifications) | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Truck Driver (CDL) | $57,440* | Yes (CDL Class A or B) | 3–6 months (CDL program) |
| Freight Broker | $80,880* | Varies (FMCSA authority for business owners) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
| Motorcycle Mechanic | N/A | Optional (OEM/ASE certifications) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
| Marine Technician | N/A | Optional (ABYC certification beneficial) | 6–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
Healthcare: Nursing & Patient Care
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) | $39,530* | Yes (state CNA exam) | 4–12 weeks (state-approved program) |
| Patient Care Technician | $39,530* | Yes (CNA license + PCT certification in many hospitals) | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Hemodialysis Technician | $48,790* | Yes (state certification or BONENT/CCHT credential) | 4–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Home Health Aide | $34,900* | Yes in many states (state-approved HHA program) | 3–6 months (training + competency exam) |
| Medical Assistant | $44,200* | Optional (CMA, RMA, or CCMA) | 9–12 months (certificate or diploma) |
| Mental Health Technician | $42,590* | Varies (state registration + employer training) | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical experience) |
| Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) | $62,340* | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) | 12–18 months (state-approved program) |
| Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN) | $62,340* | Yes (state license via NCLEX-PN) | 12–18 months (state-approved program) |
Healthcare: Allied Health & Diagnostics
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dental Assistant | $47,300* | Varies (CDA, RDA, or state license) | 9–18 months (diploma or associate program) |
| EKG Technician | $67,260* | Optional (CET, CCT, or AMCA) | 3–9 months (certificate program) |
| Pharmacy Technician | $43,460* | Varies (state license or PTCB/ExCPT) | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) |
| Phlebotomy Technician | $43,660* | Yes in many states (national certification preferred) | 4–6 months (certificate + clinical practice) |
| Radiologic Technologist | $77,660* | Yes (ARRT registration + state license) | 2 years (associate degree) |
| Diagnostic Medical Sonographer | $89,340* | Yes (ARDMS/CCI credential; state license in some areas) | 18–24 months (accredited associate or certificate) |
| Sterile Processing Technician | $46,490* | Yes in many states (CRCST or CBSPD certification) | 6–12 months (certificate + clinical hours) |
| Surgical Technologist | $62,830* | Yes in many states (NBSTSA or NCCT certification) | 12–24 months (accredited surgical tech program) |
| Optician | $46,560* | Yes in many states (state license or ABO-NCLE) | 9–24 months (apprenticeship or associate) |
Emergency Services & Public Safety
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| EMT | N/A | Yes (state certification; NREMT) | 3–6 months (state-approved program) |
| Paramedic | $58,410* | Yes (state license; NREMT-P) | 12–24 months (advanced program + clinicals) |
| Firefighter | $59,530* | Yes (fire academy; EMT often required) | 6–12 months (academy + EMT) |
Healthcare: Administration & Office Support
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medical Billing & Coding Specialist | $50,250* | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CBCS) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Medical Office Administrator | $44,640* | Optional (CMAA or CEHRS certification) | 9–18 months (certificate or associate) |
| Medical Biller | $50,250* | Optional (CPB, CBCS, or CHBME) | 9–18 months (certificate or diploma) |
| Medical Coder | $50,250* | Optional (CPC, CCA, or CCS) | 9–24 months (certificate or associate) |
Therapy, Rehab & Fitness
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy Assistant | $68,340* | Yes (state license via NBCOT exam) | 2 years (accredited associate degree) |
| Physical Therapy Aide | $34,520* | Optional (on-the-job + certificate programs) | 3–12 months (certificate or employer training) |
| Massage Therapist | $57,950* | Yes (state license) | 9–18 months (state-approved school) |
| Personal Trainer | $46,180* | Yes (national certification required by many employers) | 3–6 months (exam prep + practicum) |
| Life Coach | $49,830* | Optional (ICF/CCE/NBHWC certification preferred) | 6–18 months (certificate) |
| Recovery Coach | $45,120* | Varies (state peer/recovery certification often required) | 6–12 months (certificate + supervised hours) |
Animal Care & Training
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dog Trainer | $38,750* | Optional (industry certifications preferred) | 6–12 months (mentorship or certificate) |
| Veterinary Assistant | $37,320* | Optional (AVMA-approved assistant credential) | 6–12 months (certificate + hands-on experience) |
| Veterinary Technician | $45,980* | Yes (VTNE and state license) | 2 years (associate degree) |
Beauty & Personal Care
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beauty Professional | $35,250* | Yes (state cosmetology license) | 9–15 months (state-approved school) |
| Cosmetologist | $35,250* | Yes (state cosmetology license) | 9–18 months (state-approved school) |
| Esthetician | $41,560* | Yes (state esthetics license) | 4–9 months (state-approved program) |
Culinary & Hospitality Careers
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Culinary Chef | $39,168* | Optional (ServSafe + local food handler permit) | 1–2 years (culinary school or apprenticeship) |
| Pastry Chef | $39,168* | Optional (ServSafe; ACF certification boosts prospects) | 9–18 months (baking & pastry diploma or apprenticeship) |
| Travel Agent | $48,450* | Optional (IATA/CLIA or vendor certifications) | 3–12 months (certificate + on-the-job) |
Design & Creative Careers
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Designer | $61,300* | Optional (portfolio; degree helpful) | 1–4 years (certificate or degree) |
| Interior Designer | N/A | Optional (NCIDQ; licensure varies by state) | 2–4 years (degree in Interior Design or related) |
| Jewelry Designer | N/A | Optional (GIA/JA credentials) | 6–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Floral Designer | $36,120* | Optional (on-the-job or certificate) | 3–12 months (certificate or apprenticeship) |
Business & Legal Support
| Trade | Median Salary (U.S.) | Certification / Licensing | Typical Training Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bookkeeper | $49,210* | Optional (CB or CPB certification beneficial) | 6–12 months (certificate or on-the-job) |
| Digital Court Reporter | $67,310* | Optional (AAERT certification preferred) | 6–12 months (certificate program) |
| Paralegal | $61,010* | Optional (ABA-approved certificate beneficial) | 12–24 months (certificate or associate) |
| Legal Secretary | N/A | Optional (NALS ALP/CLP certification) | 6–24 months (certificate or associate) |
*Source: Data Date: May, 2024 BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS) May 2024 National
Common Skills Across Creative Fields
While each creative discipline is unique, top professionals share similar skill sets:
- Design Thinking: Translating concepts into functional, visual outcomes
- Communication: Working with clients, collaborators, and teams
- Project Management: Organizing deadlines, vendors, and budgets
- Digital Literacy: Mastering creative software and tools
- Entrepreneurial Mindset: Building a personal brand or freelance business
These cross-disciplinary skills open opportunities in both traditional design and digital media careers.
Education & Training Options
Creative careers are accessible through a variety of educational paths depending on your goals and interests.
Popular program types:
- Certificates (6–12 months): Focused, hands-on training in tools and techniques
- Associate Degrees (2 years): Foundation programs covering design principles and applications
- Bachelor’s Degrees (4 years): Comprehensive study in art, design, or media
- Online Courses & Bootcamps: Flexible programs for working professionals or freelancers
Most design programs emphasize portfolio development, internships, and real-world projects to prepare for employment or self-employment.
Professional Certifications & Associations
Certifications can validate expertise and may help when applying for certain roles.
Examples:
- Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) – Graphic design and digital media
- NCIDQ (Interior Design Licensing) – Interior design practice eligibility
- AIFD / CFD (Floral Design) – Professional floral artistry credentials
- CWP / CWEP (Wedding & Event Planning) – Event design and coordination certifications
- GIA Jewelry Design Credentials – Jewelry fabrication and gemology training
Joining professional associations like AIGA, ASID, IIDA, or The Bridal Society provides networking, mentorship, and continuing education opportunities.
Career Outlook
High-growth areas include:
- Digital design and UX/UI
- Sustainable and biophilic interior design
- Visual content and social media branding
- Experiential event design and planning
- 3D modeling, CAD, and digital fabrication
Some roles are freelance-heavy, while others are structured within agencies or in-house teams.
Related Resources
Compare design and creative programs.
Costs, admissions requirements, and outcomes vary by school. Contact programs directly to confirm details.
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