Degrees and higher education courses are available in relevant topics like illustration, graphic design and fine art, although formal qualifications are not always required.

You will need to be able to show prospective clients and employers a portfolio of your work.

Relevant experience through speculative projects and volunteer work will contribute towards your portfolio.

Liaise with clients, writers and editors to discuss your brief.

Research and develop your creative solutions

Create a series of preliminary sketches for client approval.

Create final images and present them to the client.

Manage budgets and deadlines.

Use computer software packages for graphic design and client communication.