Program Overview

Program Overview

The Plain Graphics and Design course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge to effectively use graphics and design in written communications. The course focuses on the principles of plain language communication, which aims to convey a message clearly and concisely.

Course Description

The accessibility of design and publishing software has brought layout tools to anyone with a computer. When done thoughtfully, graphics and design can add considerable impact and insight to written communications. However, the desire to decorate or create flashy designs can overshadow the main objective of plain language communication.

Course Objectives

After completing this course, students will be able to:

• Describe graphic design principles that affect readability and legibility
• Classify effective and ineffective examples of graphic design
• Describe the role of a design brief in a design project
• Specify criteria for choosing appropriate typography and imagery to support a clean, accessible design

Course Format

• Location: Online
• Format: Self-paced within deadlines set by instructor
• Duration: 5 weeks
• Tuition: $575
• Can be applied to: Plain Language Certificate

Upcoming Offerings

The course is offered at various times throughout the year. The upcoming offerings include:

• Start Date: Tue, Mar 17, 2026
  • Schedule: Tue, Mar 17 - Mon, Apr 20 (self-paced within deadlines)
  • Location: Online
  • Instructor: Flora Gordon
  • Cost: $575.00
  • Seats Available: 19
• Start Date: Tue, Sep 15, 2026
  • Schedule: Tue, Sep 15 - Mon, Oct 19 (self-paced within deadlines)
  • Location: Online
  • Instructor: -
  • Cost: $575.00
  • Seats Available: 25

Learning and Evaluation

Students will spend 6-10 hours per week on coursework, including:

• Readings
• Assignments
• Online discussions Students will be evaluated on:
• Assignments
• Participation in discussions

Learning Materials

No textbook is required. All course materials will be provided online. Recommended reading includes:

• Williams, R. The Non-designer’s Design Book, 4th Edition. Peachpit Press, 2014.

Technical Requirements

For online courses, students will need a computer with audio and microphone that is connected to the internet. Canvas is the online system that will be used for the course.

English Language Requirements

To succeed in this course, students will need an advanced level of written and spoken English. The recommended English language proficiency is:

• Overall band score minimum 6.5
• No band below 6.0
• Writing band score minimum 8.0 Students can take the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to assess their English language skills.