Graphic Design

Undergrad. Cert. 9 months

Online Graphic Design Certificate

Q: How can I learn graphic design at home?

In Penn Foster's Graphic Design Program, you can study online, from anywhere, at any time- as long as you have access to the internet.

If you're looking for a creative career working in design and technology, Penn Foster's online Graphic Design Certificate can help you take the first steps. With flexible online classes, you can build industry knowledge at your own pace, from homes.

Study web graphic arts, electronic publishing, corporate design, typography, photo editing, color theory, and more essential graphic design skills.
Learn digital arts basics- from layout design to production- using Adobe® software.
Graphic designers are paid a competitive salary. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for a graphic design professional is currently $50,710 per year.
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

Cost of program

$2,399

$2,899 Save $500

$89/month, Start for as low as $129

Enroll Now Request Info

1-800-471-3232 (9AM - 9PM EST)

graphic designer illustrating image on tablet.

What You Will Learn

How to identify different career options available to digital artists.
How to understand the correct use of color and its effectiveness in creating designs.
How to describe the formal elements of design; including line, shape, form, direction, texture, value, color, and composition.
How to use Adobe Illustrator® to create graphics illustrations for print, multimedia, and the web.

Full Program Goal & Outcomes

Graphic Design Career Outcomes

Our online Graphic Design Certificate Program is designed with career readiness in mind. Through interactive lessons, simulations, and how-to videos, you'll build the foundational knowledge and skills that can help you prepare for an entry-level career as a professional graphic designer.

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 state licensing/regulatory boards and certain industry licensing information.

Should I Become A Graphic Designer?

Online Graphic Design Certificate Course Outline

11 Courses
1 Proctored Exam

Estimated completion time:

Fast track = 9 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.

In Penn Foster's online Graphic Design Certificate course curriculum, you'll learn the skills and knowledge needed to prepare for an entry-level job through interactive animations, simulations, and videos. The program is self-paced, meaning you can learn on your own schedule from home. Your online courses include:

Color Theory
Introduction to Graphic Design
Graphic Design and Production
Photo Image Editing 1+2
Corporate Design and Web Design
Portfolio Development

Show Full Curriculum

Graphic Design Student Success Stories

Graduates from our online courses, including the Graphic Design Undergraduate Certificate Program, have started new careers or advanced in their current roles. Learn more from their experiences.

View Student Success Stories

Severina J.

Penn Foster Graduate, 2021

“Trying to work full time to support a family and follow your dreams is hard but with having the option to do it online is a lifesaver.”

Looking for training for your workers?

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

Guild, Adecco, MOD & LifeBridge Health logos.

Learn More

Graphic Design Certificate Tuition

Our online Graphic Design Undergraduate Program tuition is designed to fit your budget. With affordable payment plan options, you can get started today!

Option 1: Pay in full

Cost of Program

$2,399

$2,899 Save $500

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

Enroll Now

Option 2: Monthly Auto Pay Plan

Cost of Program

$2,799

$2,899 Save $100

Pay $89 per month
Start for $129 down
Credit card, PayPal, or ACH from bank account

Enroll Now

Option 3: Monthly Mail Pay Plan

cost of program

$2,899

Pay $89 per month
Start for $129 down
Mail your payment using coupon book

Enroll Now

Our Proven Art and Design Learning Model

Empowering students to reach their professional goals

Flexible

Start anytime
No exam due dates
Self-paced

Interactive

Digital study guides
Presentations and animations
Simulations and videos

Connected

24/7 access to online resources
Online student community

Supportive

Expert faculty
Dedicated student services
Robust learning resources

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Graphic Design Program FAQs

What qualifications do you need to be a graphic designer?

To become a graphic designer, you’ll typically be required to complete at least entry-level education and produce a beginner's portfolio of your work. Many graphic design professionals learn the foundational knowledge needed for the field through a combination of post-secondary education and hands-on training.

Can I earn a Graphic Design Certificate online?

In Penn Foster's Graphic Design Certificate Program, you can study online, from anywhere, at any time- as long as you have access to the internet. Upon Graduation, you may be able to transfer credits into Penn Fosters Accredited Graphic Design Associate Degree and continue your studies.

What are the top qualities of a Graphic Designer?

A good graphic designer is someone who is able to combine creative qualities with the ability to use technology proficiently. The top qualities of a graphic designer include creativity, computer skills with graphic design software, experience with digital design projects, and time management skills.

What are the most popular graphic design career opportunities?

Graphic designers can work as self-employed freelancers, in marketing and advertising agencies, or as employees in a wide array of industries. Graphic designers frequently work in logo and visual identity design, web design, marketing and advertising design, photo-editing, publishing, and layout design, and can serve as creative or art directors.

Disclaimers:

The completion of a certificate-level program does not typically qualify a student for employment. Completion of this program may assist students who have previous academic or work-related experience improve their chances for promotion or entry-level employment.

Sources:

Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor. "Graphic Designers." Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2021. Accessed September 23, 2022.

Statements found in the United States Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook are not a guarantee of any post-graduation salary, in part because the data used to create the Occupational Outlook Handbook includes workers from differing educational backgrounds, levels of experience, and geographic areas of the country.