*the kind of [education] a graphic designer will need

It's probably the smartest idea to get formal training after finishing high school. Generally, you'll need a bachelor's degree in fine arts to be able to get a job. You also normally need some on-the-job experience for certain jobs.

If you're interested in pursuing graphic design as a career, you should start expanding your experience and knowledge by taking art and computer classes in high school. Some examples of good high school classes to take are Introduction to Arts, Audio/Visual Technology, Information Technology Applications, Introduction to Visual Arts and Related Careers, Multimedia Applications in Art, Photographic Art, 3-D Art, 2-D Art, and any other relevant art classes. You can also take art classes outside of school.

In college, most four-year university programs usually cover art, art history, computer design, and basic engineering.