Program Details

In the SMU Graphic Design Certificate program, you’ll learn to:

• Follow best practices for producing print and digital design pieces in different media and for various platforms.
• Create professional vector graphics using Adobe® Illustrator®
• Use Adobe® InDesign® to create documents for print or export as PDFs.
• Edit and retouch digital photos using Adobe® Photoshop®
• Employ design elements and principles like color theory fundamentals, form and space
• Utilize typography and images effectively in your designs
• Develop and present your professional design portfolio to potential clients

Who Should Attend?

• Aspiring graphic design professionals seeking a strong foundation in the latest Adobe® software
• Seasoned professionals looking to transition from traditional hand-rendering to digital design
• Marketing or administrative professionals seeking to enhance their design skills and training
• Anyone who wants to strengthen their visual communication skills

The SMU Graphic Design Certificate program consists of over 100 hours of graphic design education through six courses completed over seven months.

Students complete the program as a cohort, structured so that you and your fellow students progress through the each class together, guided by expert instructors. Courses build upon one another with assignments and lessons, allowing you to hone your design skills with increasingly sophisticated projects. In the capstone course you’ll synthesize your knowledge by completing your portfolio to represent your skills and unique aesthetic perspective.

You may register for some Graphic Design Certificate courses individually and without an application. Apply and register for the full Graphic Design Certificate Program to receive 20% off the standard tuition of the individual courses.

Textbooks

Tuition does not include the cost of textbooks.

Required Textbooks:

Design Elements, Third Edition: Understanding the rules and knowing when to break them - A Visual Communication Manual
ISBN-13 : 978-1631598722

Instructor Spotlight

"I love sharing many of the industry secrets it took me decades to learn."

– Stacy Wewe, SMU Graphic Design Certificate instructor

Earn a Digital Badge

Complete your certificate and earn a digital badge to add to your resume and LinkedIn profile.

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