Study Graphic Design Online Course and Start a Rewarding Career in Graphic Design

The Graphic Design Online Course requires no prior knowledge and will teach you everything you need to take active steps in this creative field. You will learn about the topic’s history, philosophies, practices, and concepts, as well as how to get paid freelance work or start your own company.

To appreciate where graphic design has come from, you must first appreciate where it has gone. You will be taken on a journey via the evolution of graphics and industrial design, focusing on significant figures and events that changed the entire defining framework.

Color theory, the role and use of grids, typography, and more are governed by specific theories and laws in good graphic design. These fundamentals and the essential parts that make up the practice are covered in the course. The course teaches the tools, abilities, and knowledge that competent graphic designers need to learn while putting theory into practice. Making rapid sketches and, subsequently, more finished drawings is a critical component of the early phases of the creative process.

You will discover why solid drawing abilities are essential, the contrast between sketching and drawing, and how to make drawing more accessible by breaking down things into simple forms that you can build on. One of the most important skills a web developer should have is the ability to recognize letterforms. This lesson explains the differences between typography, lettering, calligraphy, and how to create calligraphy and use typography to change letterings.

The Graphic Design Online Course focuses on each topic, explaining their distinct relevance after learning the fundamentals of each design aspect. You will be guided through the process of connecting these as a result of your comprehension. Composition, Gestalt Theory, and other design elements are all explained in detail with illustrations.

Graphic design is a historical profession that has seen significant transformations since the advent of low-cost computing. This course covers how computers work and how the digital revolution has affected traditional behaviors and processes. It also includes a list of industry-standard tools and web resources that any current graphic designer should have.

Our Graphic Design Online Course will teach you how to start a business or work as a freelancer and how these options compare to working for a salary. You will learn how to build a business identity, set up your workplace, locate your specialty, and create and implement an efficient marketing plan.

Who would benefit from the course?

This is a specialized course, designed for those who may have little or no knowledge of the subject but wish to pursue graphic design as a career.

If you play with graphic design but don’t understand the decisions you make during the creative process and would like to concretize your understanding of the subject and of particular elements of the design process, this course will get you there.

Existing graphic designers wishing to go it alone will learn how to set themselves up as a freelancer or start a business, including how to understand and set pricing and create a tailored portfolio that shows you can meet the needs of specific clients.

What you will learn with our Graphic Design Online Course

• History of Modern Graphics and Industrial Design
• Theory & Elements of Graphic Design
• Sketching & Drawing
• Calligraphy & Typography
• Basics of Design
• Introduction to the Computer/ Modern vs. Traditional Design Tools
• Problem Solving in Graphic Design, Image Editing and Conceptualization
• Freelance versus Paid Employment/ How to Start Your Graphic Design Business
• How to Create a Portfolio
• Pricing Your Work

Graphic Design Online Course - Requirements

The Graphic Design Course is delivered 100 percent online 24/7.

To successfully complete this course, a student must:

• Have access to the internet and the necessary technical skills to navigate the online learning resources
• Have access to any mobile device with internet connectivity (laptop, desktop, tablet)
• Be a self-directed learner
• Possess sound language and literacy skills

Quick Course Facts

1. Course content is structured for easy comprehension
2. Registered students gain unrestricted access to the Graphic Design Course
3. All course material is available online 24/7 and can be accessed using any device
4. Study online from anywhere in your own time at your own pace
5. All students who complete the course will be awarded with a certificate of completion

For any additional questions please see our comprehensive FAQS tab above.

Graphic Design Online Course Outline

Module 1: History of Modern Graphics and Industrial Design

Part 1: History of Graphic Design

Learning Objectives:

• Be acquainted with how Graphic Design has evolved over the years.
• Know the pioneers of modern graphic design.
• Know the key moments in Graphic Design history.

Introduction

Graphics are visual statements created on a surface such as a wall, canvas, pottery, computer screen, paper, stone, or landscape. Anything related to the development of signs, maps, logos, diagrams, paintings, line art, icons, and geometric patterns is included. The art or profession of mixing text, images, and ideas in advertising, publications, or websites is known as graphic design.

Topics to be discussed include:

• History of Graphic Design
• Pioneers of Modern Graphics and Industrial Design
• Graphic Design & Modern Architecture

Part 2: Key Moments in Modern Design History

This section will look at the turning points that have transformed the new world of design into what it is today.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Summary

Module 2: Theory & Elements of Graphic Design

Part 1: Rudiments & Theory of Graphic design

Learning Objectives:

• Be acquainted with the theory and laws that govern Graphic Design.
• Understand or be familiar with the colour theory.
• Know the function or role of the grid in Graphic Design.
• Know the elements of design.

Introduction

The widespread availability of digital media, both online and in print, has made it relatively simple to produce homemade graphic designs. Today, an increasing number of freelancers and non-professional artists are using visual resources to launch a career in graphic design. As a qualified Graphic Designer, there is still a lot to remember, a lot to do, and a lot to think about, not to mention that technology is continually changing, new software is being launched, and new trends are emerging at a rapid pace. To be honest, it may be a little daunting.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Rudiments & Theory of Graphic design

Module 3: Sketching & Drawing

Part 2: Drawing Basics: Simplifying Shape and Form

Before going on to the structure and detail, an individual can simplify the subject by using simple shapes and forms to get a better general sense of the subject. Understanding and locating the fundamental shapes can make drawing simpler.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Basic Shapes
• Basic Forms
• The Difference between Sketching and Drawing

Part 3: The Role of Sketching/ Drawing in the Design Process

Sketching plays a part in the design process as a technique or talent. This position can differ based on the final result, the size and complexity of the project, the particular designer's personality, expertise, and work flow, and the client's expectations.

Topics to be discussed include:

• 5 Uses for Sketching/ Drawing in Design
• Summary

Module 4: Calligraphy & Typography

Part 1: Calligraphy & Typography

Learning Objectives:

• Know what calligraphy is.
• Know what typography is.
• Know the difference between calligraphy, typography and hand lettering.
• Know how to draw calligraphy.

Introduction

Many people confuse typography and calligraphy, but as a Graphic Designer, understanding the difference is critical. Unlike in other sciences, such as biology, where each species is assigned to a greater genus, and chemistry, where elements are assigned to periodic tables, the interdependence of various types of letterforms means that their classification is at best fluid.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Calligraphy & Typography
• Calligraphy
• How to Draw Calligraphy Flourishes

Part 2: Typography

Typography, simply put, is the art and technique of organizing form. It's key to a designer's job and talents, and it's about so more than just making the terms legible. The typeface you use and how you integrate it into your style, grid, color scheme, graphic theme, and so on will make the difference between a mediocre, bad, and excellent design.

Topics to be discussed include:

• The Difference between Calligraphy and Typography
• Summary

Module 5: Basics of Design

Part 1: Basics of Design

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the basic elements of design.
• Know basic design principles.
• Know the basic composition of Graphic Design.
• Be familiar with the gestalt laws.

Introduction

The fundamental concepts about the practice of good graphic design are described by basic design elements and principles.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Basics of Design
• Design Elements

Part 2: Graphic Design Principles

It addressed the fundamentals of graphic design, such as curves, patterns, textures, and color, among other things. In this part, we'll go a little further and look at design concepts, which are crucial to understand because they're what distinguishes decent designers from great designers.

Part 3: Graphic Design Composition

Topics to be discussed include:

• Single Visual.
• The Golden Ratio.
• Focal Point.
• Grid design.
• Function of Grid in Design

Part 4: An In-depth Look at the Elements of Graphic Design

Topics to be discussed include:

• Scale
• Colour
• Repetition
• Symmetry
• Transparency
• Texture
• Balance
• Hierarchy
• Contrast
• Framing
• Randomness
• Direction
• Rules
• Movement
• Depth
• Typography
• Composition

Part 5: Why Graphic Design?

The tempo of life is quickening, and our fast-paced lifestyle is shaping our future as well as the way we read, study, and enjoy ourselves. People don't have time to learn, so skimming and scanning have become commonplace in many sectors. Consider the explosive rise of solely visual platforms such as Pinterest and Tumblr. Images are much easier to share and receive than plain text.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Most Common Visual Content Mistakes

Part 6: Difference between Print and Web Design

It is becoming more popular for modern-day graphic designers to serve many functions. Many designers would be familiar with both print design and web design, which does not seem to be a difficult challenge. However, don't be misled into believing they are exactly the same thing; the fact is that they are vastly different, and any designer who works on one will most likely struggle to adapt to the other.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Print Design
• Web Design
• Summary

Module 6: Introduction to the Computer/Modern vs. Traditional Design Tools

Part 1: What is a Computer?

Learning Objectives:

• Know what a computer is.
• Be familiar with how a computer works.
• Understand the relationship between modern and traditional design tools.

Introduction

A computer machine is made up of three major parts: hardware, software, and humans. Hardware refers to the components of a computer system. A collection of instructions that tells the hardware what to do is referred to as software. Humans, on the other hand, are the most critical part of a computer machine since they use the computer's power for some reason.

Topics to be discussed include:

• What is a Computer?

Part 2: Classification of Computers

Computers range in appearance and strength from small to monstrous. The size of a machine required by an individual or organization is determined by the computational specifications. Clearly, the National Weather Service, which monitors weather fronts across many continents, has different standards than a car dealership's service department, which is attempting to keep track of its parts inventory.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Internet and Networking

Part 3: Software: Telling the Machine What to Do

Previously, when people think about computers, they thought of robots. The scratching of a keyboard, the ticking of printers, the rumble of whirling disk drives, and the shifting bursts of color on a display screen are the attention-getters. However, it is the software; the pre-planned, step-by-step instructions needed to convert data into information that allows a machine to be used.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Categories of Software
• Basic Computer Operations
• Basic Typing Rules

Part 4: Traditional VS Modern Graphic Design Tools

The New Media Company has developed a cool infographic that contrasts conventional graphic design tools with today's cutting-edge technology. It's incredible to see how much technology has progressed over the last few decades.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Traditional Graphic Design versus Digital Graphic Design

Part 5: 14 Modern Graphic Designing Tools That Every Designer Must Know

It is not an exaggeration to conclude that today's content is incomplete without visual graphics. Graphic designers now create visually appealing promotional material for marketing collateral such as home sites, brochures, newsletters, and banners. They often create immersive and topical digital artwork and animations to supplement educational material in e-books, online, and business presentations.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Summary

Module 7: Problem Solving In Graphic Design, Image Editing and Conceptualization

Part 1: 10 Steps to Problem Solving

Learning Objectives:

• Know how to problem solve.
• Know what Image Editing is.
• Be acquainted with the types of image editing.
• Understand the process of Conceptualization in Graphic Design.

Introduction

Designers are problem solvers by birth. Any project is a dilemma or a task that entails assisting others in comprehending something. To create a solution, designers must see through the fog and debris. Part of this imaginative problem solving comes easily, but some of the actions must be taught.

Topics to be discussed include:

• 10 Steps to Problem Solving

Part 2: Image Editing

Picture editing refers to the methods of modifying images, whether digital photos, conventional photochemical photographs, or diagrams. Digital analogue picture processing is known as photo retouching, and it involves modifying images using tools such as an airbrush or editing drawings with some digital art media.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Basics of Image Editing
• Image Editor Features

Part 3: Conceptualisation

What is a Design Concept?

A design philosophy is the thought that inspires a design. It is the strategy for resolving the interface challenge in front of them. It's the basic logic, thought, and rationale that will guide how they build a website. Their idea will direct their color and type selections. It will decide their style as well as their grid.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Summary

Module8: Freelance versus Paid Employment/ How to Start Your Graphic Design Business

Part 1: Understanding the Basics of the Graphic Design Business

Learning Objectives:

• Understand the basics of the Graphic Design industry.
• Know the different Graphic Design specialities.
• Know the pros and cons of freelance versus paid employment.
• Be able to decide on which works best for you: freelance or paid employment.

Introduction

Starting a Graphic Design company does not rely solely on design and innovation. Being innovative is vital for your business, but it is only one component of your service offering. It is not as easy as making artwork and receiving payment for it. In reality, if all they want to do is create art all day, a design company might not be for them.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Understanding the Basics of the Graphic Design Business
• Understanding the Three Forms of Media
• Who Buys Graphic Design Services?
• Graphic Design Specialities
• Can You Make a Living in the Graphic Design Business?
• What Can You Expect To Earn?
• Understanding What It Means to Be a Design Entrepreneur

Part 2: Freelancing Vs. Paid Employment

Topics to be discussed include:

• Which is better: freelancing or working in-house?
• Office Politics.
• Security and Stability.

Part 3: The First Step to Becoming a Design Entrepreneur

Making the transition from employee to self-employed can be challenging. Freelancing before leaving the day job will help relieve tension, particularly because they've become accustomed to receiving the nice little paycheck every two weeks. They would have no way of saying that they will have the customers and workload enough to pay you for what they are already paying while they are on their own.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Your Start-up Costs
• The Need to Make Money and be Profitable
• Dealing with Insecurity
• Are You Cut out to Be Your Own Boss?
• Setting up Your Business Structure

Part 4: Creating an Identity

The brand logo distinguishes the company from other companies. The corporate identity is significant because it is a significant component of the company. In the industry, having a good brand reputation will be the difference between success and failure.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Your Company’s Name.
• Your Company’s Unique Marketing Message.
• Your Company’s Professional Standards.
• Your Company’s Visual Image.

Part 5: Office Location

Topics to be discussed include:

• Your Work Space
• Finding Your Niche in Graphic Design

Part 6: Marketing Your Company

Targeting Your Market

One of the most critical aspects of running a graphic design company is marketing. Marketing is critical to the success of any company, whether it is an existing one or one that is just getting started. Marketing is nothing more than a methodical approach to creating and expanding a market.

Part 7: Creating Your Marketing Plan

A marketing strategy is a basic guide that is used to keep a company centered and on track while it promotes and grows. The strategy describes the present business situation. It discusses business prospects and problems, as well as competition.

Part 8: Online Marketing

After developing a marketing strategy for the company, it is time to consider the marketing strategies that would be used to enter the consumer. This chapter goes into internet marketing techniques such as website and email marketing.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Summary

Module 9: How to Create a Portfolio

Part 1: Your Portfolio

Learning Objectives:

• Know how to create a portfolio.
• Know how to create a project synopsis outline.
• Know what to include in your portfolio.
• Know how to create a capabilities toolkit.

Introduction

A portfolio is merely a tool for selling your services. It is a selection of a person's best examples of architecture. It shows their work's diversity, consistency, style, and skills. It's a chance for them to demonstrate to prospects that they can assist them. As the director of a design firm, this is one of the most valuable assets they have. It's commonly referred to as their book in the graphic design industry.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Your Portfolio

Part 2: Your Capabilities Kit

If the portfolio presentation serves as a demonstration of the company's capability, the capabilities package serves as a description and comparison to what was discussed. After the portfolio presentation or the initial meetings with prospects, this is the primary "leave behind" paper. It is a series of papers that detail a company's offerings and breadth of capability.

Topics to be discussed include:

• What to Include in Your Capabilities Kit
• Designing Your Kit
• Summary

Module 10: Pricing Your Work

Part 1: Pricing

Learning Objectives:

• Know the various types of pricing strategies.
• Know how to charge/ select your fees.
• Know how to calculate your hourly rate.

Introduction

When it comes to pricing resources, it can look to the industry or other designers for guidance. Unfortunately, it would not find any assistance out there. The cost of construction services varies greatly. Designers make huge amounts of money on the job they do in some markets, whilst others literally give their services away.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Pricing
• Pricing Strategies

Part 2: Quick Methods for Selecting Your Fees

There are several methods for determining a fee for one's services. When it comes to pricing, it is important to understand that there is no correct or wrong response. The strategies mentioned below include some realistic approaches to pricing services.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Base your fees on pricing guidelines.
• Base your fees on professional rates.
• Base your fee on your pricing matrix.
• Find out what your competitor charged.
• Calculating Your Hourly Rate.

Part 3: Value Factor

Not all programs have a monetary impact. Some construction programs are more task-oriented, whilst others have a large number of rivals able to do the work at a cheaper cost. Since the project will have a low priority in the client's eyes, an individual may be unable to charge more than their final hourly rate.

Topics to be discussed include:

• Rush projects.
• Projects that give clients more control and future cost savings.
• High profile projects.
• Projects that produce a traceable result.
• Projects that produce an ROI (return on investment).
• Projects that have a high production count.
• Putting it all together
• Finding Your Client’s Budget Number
• What’s the big budget number?
• What did the client pay the last time?
• Who did the client hire to do this type of work in the past?
• If all else fails, triangulate
• Basic Components of Base a Quote
• Presenting Your Quote
• After You Have Submitted the Quote
• Negotiating Your Fee
• Invoicing
• Summary

Recognition & Accreditation

Upon completion of your course assessment, you will receive 3 certificates. An accredited certificate from the awarding body relating to your course, a CPD certificate displaying the number of CPD points earned from the course and a certificate of completion.