Premier Graphics
& Animation
Design & branding

Packaging Designer

Packaging designers design what products come in: the structure, the graphics and how a pack stands out on a crowded shelf.

What the work involves

  • Designing pack graphics and labels
  • Working with dielines and structural designers
  • Checking colour and finishes with printers

Where people work

  • FMCG companies
  • Packaging agencies
  • Printing and converting companies

Working independently. Freelance work for small brands is common.

How the career progresses

  1. Designer

    Adaptations and range extensions.

  2. Senior packaging designer

    New product design.

  3. Design manager

    Owns a brand’s packaging.

Skills
Layout · Typography · Print production · Structural thinking
Tools
Illustrator · Photoshop · Packaging mock-up tools

The PGA route in

Start at the level that suits you. Credits carry forward, so you can stop, work, and come back for the next step.

  1. Bachelor’s · 4 years BS AI Digital Arts & Creative Design
  2. Bachelor’s · 4 years Bachelor of Fine Arts

Courses that build this role