Computer Graphic Artist

Computer Graphic Artist

If you're creative, organized, and have strong computer skills, our online Computer Graphic Artist Career Diploma can help you prepare to take to the first steps toward the job you want! Through flexible, self-paced courses, you'll learn the fundamentals of design on your schedule, from home. 

  • Can prepare students for entry-level jobs as graphic designers, or to start a freelance career in design.
  • Online Computer Graphic Artist classes cover topics such as color theory, the elements of design, and graphic design and production. You’ll use Adobe® Illustrator® to create images, art, web interfaces, posters, and more.
  • Students enrolled in the program will receive access to Adobe® Illustrator® for one year at no additional cost.
  • Our online programs are flexible enough for you to finish them at a pace that works for you, based on how much time you can dedicate to your coursework each week.
Accredited
Online
Self Paced

Save up to $240 Ends 12/17/2024

Cost of Program

$849

$1,089 Save $240

or

$59/month, Start for as low as $20

1-800-275-4410 (10AM - 6:30PM ET)

computer graphic artist working on computer.

What You Will Learn

  1. How to understand computer graphics and the difference between raster graphics and vector graphics along with the components and steps involved in publication design.
  2. How to understand and apply basic color theory concepts and software techniques, the relationship between light and color, the organization of colors using color wheels and color spheres effectively, and the differences between additive and subtractive color and how it affects art on a computer.
  3. How to identify the different types of illustrations commonly used in graphic design and computer graphic formats used by most page layout software.
  4. How to use color, type, and an understanding of four basic principles of design to create effective, visually appealing graphics.
Full Program Goal & Outcomes

Computer Graphic Artist Career Outcomes

Our online Computer Graphic Artist Career Diploma Program can help students prepare for an entry-level career as a computer graphic artist in a variety of settings like advertising agencies, design and television studios, publishing houses, and corporate communication departments.

State Licensing Requirements

Licensing and/or certification requirements for jobs in certain fields are not the same in every state and may include educational, testing, and/or experiential requirements beyond those offered by your Penn Foster Program. You should contact the state professional licensing board or similar regulatory body in the state(s) where you plan to work to determine their requirements before enrolling in your program. See the State Licensing page for contact information for state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

Online Computer Graphic Artist Curriculum

  • 6 courses
  • 33.0 continuing education units (CEUs)
  • 18 exams
  • 2 submitted projects


Estimated completion time:

  • Fast track = 10 months
  • Average time = 12 months

With Penn Foster, you can learn at whatever pace works best for you. Some learners will be more comfortable moving faster, and dedicating more time, and the fast track estimate will apply to them. The average track will apply to most learners who can dedicate a few hours per week to completing their coursework. The estimated completion times are based on completion times for learners enrolled in this program from May 2021 - April 2022, excluding withdrawals.

As part of our online Computer Graphic Artist curriculum, you'll build the fundamental skills and knowledge to start a career as a graphic


  • Introduction to Digital Art
  • Color Theory
  • Elements of Design
  • Graphic Design and Production

Show Full Curriculum

Computer Graphic Artist Success Stories

Penn Foster’s Computer Graphic Artist Career Diploma Program can help prepare you for the first step in your creative career. This program has helped recent graduates find new jobs or start their own businesses while learning at their own pace. Learn more about Penn Foster graduates' experiences and how Penn Foster worked for them.
View Student Success Stories
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Tracy M.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2023

“Penn foster was a wonderful and pleasant experience for me it worked well and around my hectic schedule.”

Need to provide training for your workers?

Penn Foster currently works with hundreds of leading employers to meet their unique organizational needs.
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Learn More

Computer Graphic Artist Tuition

Take the first steps toward a new career with our online Computer Graphic Artist Career Diploma Program. Simply choose from one of our low-cost customized payment plans below and get started today!

Option 1: Pay in full

Save up to $240 Ends 12/17/2024

Cost of Program1

$849

$1,089 Save $240

  • Best price. Best value.
  • Pay the full cost today
  • No monthly payments
Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Save up to $40 Ends 12/17/2024

Cost of Program1

$1,049

$1,089 Save $40

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $20 down
  • All major credit and debit cards accepted
Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program1

$1,089

  • Pay $59 per month
  • Start for $49 down
  • Mail your payments
Enroll Now

California residents please click here for Required California Disclosures.

Need more info or ready to enroll?

Looking for more information on transfer credits, military benefits, or our refund policy? Find this information and more about tuition and enrollment here.

Tuition & Payment Options

We're here to help. Call 1-800-275-4410 (10AM - 6:30PM ET)

Request Info

Our Proven Computer Graphic Artist Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

  • Start anytime 
  • No exam due dates 
  • Self-paced

Interactive

  • Digital study guides 
  • Self-check quizzes 
  • Simulations and videos 

Connected

  • 24/7 access to online resources 
  • Online student community 
  • Dedicated Learner Center

Supportive

  • Expert faculty 
  • Dedicated student services 
  • Robust learning resources

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Computer Graphic Artist Program FAQs

What does a graphic artist do?

A graphic artist creates visually appealing digital designs that can be used in ads, documents, and more. Graphic artists use computers and industry software like Adobe Illustrator to create designs based on specifications from clients.

How do I become a graphic artist?

In order to become a computer graphic artist, you need at least basic computer skills and artistic ability. From there, you'll need to pursue some post-secondary education. Many employers look for those with an associate degree in design, but more and more employers are paying more attention to demonstrable skills over degrees, meaning earning a diploma can be helpful to pursuing entry-level jobs in the field. It also helps to build a portfolio of your previous artwork in order to demonstrate your art and design skills to potential employers

What is the career outlook and average salary for a graphic artist?

According to data from PayScale, the average salary for a computer graphic artist was $47,447 per year, or $17.31 per hour, in 2020.* Salary can vary based on your work experience, education, certifications, employer, and even the state in which you live. As more companies transition to focusing their advertising efforts on social media and digital ads, computer graphic artists could find a variety of job opportunities in advertising agencies, in-house marketing departments, and more.

What are the top skills of a graphic artist?

Computer graphic artists should have strong computer skills, artistic ability, and an eye for detail. Additionally, strong interpersonal and communication skills can be helpful when working with employers and clients to create designs.

What is the difference between a graphic designer and a graphic artist?

Graphic designers and graphic artists both create images based on client requests or company needs. The difference between a designer and a graphic artist is generally the level of education you need to work in the field and what kind of designs you're tasked to do.