DESIGN WITH PURPOSE, 

CREATE WITH CONFIDENCE.

In this Graphic Design Certificate, students will explore the essential principles of design, learning how to combine text and imagery to create impactful, cohesive messages. They will gain hands-on and digital experience with professional tools and techniques, progressing from sketches to fully realized prototypes, applicable in both print and digital formats. By the end of the course, the students will be equipped to produce well-crafted design solutions, from polished layouts to distinctive branding elements, while maintaining consistency across various media. Ideal for beginners, this certificate provides the foundation to launch a career in graphic design or expand your creative skill set with a professional approach to visual communication.

DESIGNED FOR

Aspiring designers, career changers, and creative professionals looking to develop a strong foundation in visual communication. Whether you're a marketing professional seeking to enhance branding and layout skills, a freelancer expanding service offerings, or an entrepreneur creating professional-quality designs, this program provides hands-on experience with industry-standard tools. It’s also ideal for students, recent graduates, and artists looking to strengthen their portfolios or transition into a design-focused career. With expert faculty guidance, real-world projects, and a flexible online format, this certificate equips learners with the skills to confidently produce polished, impactful designs for both digital and print media.

SEE REQUIREMENTS 

LEARNING FORMAT - GUIDED ASYNCHRONOUS

Experience the best of both worlds with asynchronous learning—enjoy the flexibility of setting your own schedule while following a structured course. You’ll have weekly deadlines to keep you on track, but no live class meetings, allowing you to complete assignments and interact with instructors and classmates at your convenience.

WHAT STUDENTS WILL LEARN

• Develop a professional approach to visual communication through design principles, composition, and image-making.
• Understand how images and typography work together to convey meaning, structure information, and enhance communication.
• Gain proficiency in graphic design software (Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign & Figma) for creating digital and print assets.
• Learn to design complex layouts and multi-asset projects that integrate text, images, and branding across different media.
• Build a portfolio of projects, including editorial layouts, branding materials, information design, and interactive prototypes.

GET HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE

Students will complete a portfolio showcasing diverse design skills, including logos, digital illustrations, editorial layouts, brochures, and branding systems. 

EARN DIGITAL BADGES

Earn a digital achievement badge for successfully completing this certificate program, as well as a separate badge for each course. These verifiable badges can be shared on LinkedIn, resumes, and portfolios, helping you showcase your skills to employers and clients. Digital badges demonstrate your commitment to learning and enhance your career opportunities in today’s competitive job market. 

LEARN MORE OR SET UP A VIRTUAL MEETING

If you'd like to schedule a 1:1 session, please click here to schedule now.

For immediate questions, email plus@cornish.edu.