Program Overview

Graphic Design Certificate Program

The Graphic Design Certificate Program is designed to provide students with proficiency in the core design software tools used in the commercial printing and graphic design industry.

Program Features

• Starts: Fall, Spring, Summer
• Duration: 5-12 months
• Time: Evenings
• Location: UNLV MAB2
• Mode: In Person, Online
• Cost: $3,198

About the Program

Graphic Design students build proficiency in the core design software tools used in the commercial printing and graphic design industry. New skills are practiced and perfected in a project-based learning environment where students build a portfolio of work as they learn. Instructors bring years of professional experience to the classroom, providing valuable insight into project management, client relations, and the graphic design industry.

This Program is Perfect For

This program is ideal for those seeking a first introduction to Adobe's industry-leading graphic design software, including hands-on experience in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator for print or digital design projects.

What You Will Learn

By the end of the Graphic Design Certificate, students will be able to:

• Design a multi-layered photo composition with text elements, masking, and adjustment layers.
• Edit photos, including tonal and color adjustments, removal of unwanted areas, and merging multiple photos.
• Create digital illustrations in both vector and raster formats.
• Determine correct file specifications to be sent to commercial printers.
• Develop a unique and unified brand for a real or fictitious company.
• Communicate ideas with clarity and graphic uniformity across multiple media types.

Program Details

Prerequisites and Admissions Requirements

• High School Diploma or equivalent.

Program Requirements

To earn the Graphic Design Certificate, students must successfully complete the 10 required courses for a total of 137.0 contact hours (13.7 CEUs).

Required Courses

• Principles of Graphic Design (WM8178)
• Adobe Illustrator I (WM8121)
• Adobe InDesign I (WM8106)
• Adobe Photoshop I (WM8122)
• Adobe Illustrator II (WM8100)
• Adobe Photoshop II (WM8123)
• Introduction to Print on Demand (Clothing, Wall Art & Goods) (WM8180)
• Large Format Printing & Design for Tradeshows & Conventions (WM8182)
• Graphic Design Portfolio Project (WM8177)
• Print Design Portfolio Project (WM8156)

Academic Plan

The Graphic Design Certificate Academic Plan is available, outlining the requirements for completing the program. Once all certificate program requirements are fulfilled as outlined in the Academic Plan, students may request their certificate.