Advanced Graphic Design Certificate

Advanced Graphic Design Certificate

Ready to launch a new career? In our Advanced Graphic Design Certificate you can become job-ready in as little as 24 weeks.

Length & Frequency

6 Months (approx) |  2 sessions per week

Delivery

Online with 100% live instruction

Tuition

$5,995

Scholarships

Available! Avg: $2,000

Why Digital Workshop Center?

Certificate Programs - Avg Salary Increase

average increase in salary of
certificate program students *

Certificate Programs - Average Months to Employment

average months to find
employment after graduation ^

Certificate Programs - Graduation Rate

graduation
rate *

Certificate Programs - Career Coaching and Mentoring

career coaching and
mentoring included

*Profile report data based on 2020-2023 Employment and Wage survey submissions
^Based on 2021-2023 data only | *Based on 2021-2023 data & does not include Blueprint, WP/PS/ILL/ID/ bootcamps or B.Admin data

Advanced Graphic Design Certificate Curriculum

Module 1 - Design Fundamentals

In Module 1, students will learn the principles and elements of graphic design in order to understand how we create beautiful compositions.  Examining graphic design begins with exploring the theories behind successful designs.  Our program dives deep into these visual frameworks and essential concepts.  By the end of this module, students will have a foundation of design language to be able to build upon throughout the rest of their program.

 

  • Introduction & overview of program
  • Fundamentals, vocabulary, tools 101
  • Discussion of Project One.  The homework for each week will allow students to generate elements of their final project.
  • Discussion of Final Project and our Portfolios (Due at end of course).
  • Art vs Design
  • Why we “need” design
  • Principles and Elements of Design
  • Proportion & Golden Mean
  • Layout structures
  • Designing on a Grid
  • Color theory
  • Creating a color scheme
  • Typography
  • Gestalt Principles, Color, and Composition
  • Low-Fidelity vs. High-Fidelity
  • Imagery, iconography, and proper ways to source
  • Effective techniques for collaboration and project management
  • Accessibility

Module 2 - Adobe Photoshop

In Module 2, students will explore the industry-leading Adobe Photoshop software and Creative Cloud suite.  Photoshop remains as the gold standard for employers seeking to hire for design skills.  By the end of this module, students will have created complex visual compositions that could be used for marketing, design, and more.

 

  • Overview and Introduction to the PS environment
  • Determining Graphic Type and Resolution
  • Discussing raster vs vector graphics
  • Using the PS workspace
  • Navigating & managing documents
  • Working with selections
  • Exporting files for web vs print
  • Advanced selections
  • Layer Basics
  • Layer Effects
  • Using visual aids such as guides, grid, rulers
  • Blending mode, opacity, and adjustments
  • Photo Corrections
  • Quick Fixes
  • Masks
  • Channels
  • Working with advanced type
  • Using Generative AI
  • PS Project (e.g. composition for professional ad, poster, or related)

Module 3 - Adobe Illustrator

In Module 3, students explore vector graphics with Adobe Illustrator.  An industry-leader for professional designers, Illustrator is essential for any serious designer trying to advance in their career field.  From logos to branding, students will have the opportunity to create their own designs by the end of this module.

  • Getting to know the work Illustrator area
  • Uses of Illustrator vs Photoshop
  • Best practices of vector artwork, logos, and branding
  • Working with multiple artboards
  • Techniques for selecting artwork
  • Creating basic shapes
  • Exporting files for web vs print
  • Using complex shapes
  • Grouping
  • Isolation Mode
  • Transforming artwork
  • Basic logo and branding design concepts
  • Using the drawing tools
  • Drawing with the Pen tool
  • Blending colors and shapes
  • Exploring effects and graphic styles
  • Using visual aids such as guides, grid, rulers
  • Working with type
  • Creating Point Type
  • Organizing work with layers
  • Using Symbols
  • Using AI tools in Illustrator
  • Illustrator project (e.g. Logos, branding assets, tri-fold brochure)

Module 4 - Adobe InDesign

In Module 4, students examine the role of InDesign for design of complex documents.  Our program helps to create well rounded designers, and InDesign is a skill that is valued across countless job opportunities. By the end of this module, students will know why InDesign is a proven leader in creating longer documents, as well as the differences from other design tools.

 

  • Getting to know the InDesign work area
  • Best practices for use of InDesign vs PS/ILL
  • Setting up a document
  • Working with pages
  • Work with color, objects and images
  • Flow and edit text
  • Working with type
  • Story editor and reviewing work
  • Using Styles
  • Complex Styles
  • Creating complex layouts for longer documents
  • Advanced character and paragraph formatting
  • Adding tables to display data effectively
  • Adding layer effects and transparency to graphic objects
  • Integrate with Adobe PS and Adobe ILL for easy image handling
  • Collaborate with coworkers and clients through Adobe Creative Cloud
  • Export work for professional printing, websites, social media, eBooks, interactive PDFs, and more
  • Incorporating AI tools for InDesign
  • InDesign project (e.g. multi-page print project, interactive PDF, etc)

Module 5 - Portfolios & Capstone Project

In Module 5, students have an opportunity to put their finishing touches on their portfolio.  In addition, as students begin to look after graduation and to the next step of their career path, our instructors will provide extensive mentorship on what the job market trends look like, and how to prepare to find work as a graphic designer and content creator.  At the end of this module, students will present their final Capstone project and receive critique from their peers. 

  • Planning Capstone projects
  • Finding work as a graphic designer
  • Design Interviews
  • Portfolio: further planning, review designer portfolios, critiques
  • Work sessions with other students, with instructor, and solo to work on portfolio & final project
  • Final Presentations and Critique
Digital Workshop Center
Excellent
4.8
Based on 106 reviews
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Gia A.
Ernest J.
Great experience on my way to my frist certificate program
Adrianne P.
I took the Introduction to UX Design course. I learned so much and gained proficiency in Adobe Illustrator a program that has plagued me throughout my career. I would definitely recommend DWC to anyone looking to break into UX design or even get a refresher in Adobe or figma.
Ken H.
I have not started any classes yet. I do like the manner of follow-up, support and assistance they have provided in the onboarding process to start classes. I look forward to learning more about Digital Marketing
Jessica R.
I did the UX Design course with Digital Workshop Center from Oct 2023 to Feb 2024. It was a fun and engaging experience. I learned a lot and I look forward to using the experience I’ve learned to future jobs. I took the course from Italy and even though the hours were night/early morning for me, it worked because I have small children. Also my instructor was understanding of the time difference for me. I enjoyed this class and would recommend it to anyone considering it. Especially military spouses or veterans using the VA Benefits.
Andi H.
I took part in the Digital Marketing, Graphic Design, and UX Design certificate programs. The programs are pass/fail weighted mostly in participation. Which takes a lot of pressure off students so they can focus on learning, creating, and fine-tuning their new skills. Or, that’s how I felt. The online class environment was also really helpful in that regard. The instructors were all supportive and seemed genuinely invested in our success. They also offer career coaching sessions which can be really helpful. It’s been my experience that these classes are mainly targeted for beginners. Regardless, there's always things to be learned as each instructor and student has their own approach to creativity and problem solving. Mainly these courses helped me to better conceptualize my ideas and professional goals which was the most beneficial. All in all - all good things!
Grace
Great experience learning data science. Live sessions were intense but meaningful. No second was wasted. Mentally you have to prepare for how challenging the Data Science cert is
Brian H.
I definitely recommend their Photoshop classes. Kevin H. Is a great instructor. Knowledgeable and takes whatever time he needs to according to every single students needs. Veterans should def take this if they plan to use Photoshop for anything at all that might make you some money.
Matthew F.
I just finished the Video Design course with DWC and feel safe to recommend any course they offer because each instructor I had was at the top of their field and very very professional. The assignments involved real-world working projects that could be used in your portfolio and the informaiton provided was exactly what was needed to learn or enhance your skills. Every staff member that I worked with were extremely professional, helpful, and friendly. DWC is highly recommended.
Luis C. Z.
Excellent resources, generous opportunity, and high quality instruction.
Dart L.
The best experience I have ever had leasing office space, hands down. Everything was quite efficient and all my questions were answered. Less than 24 hours elapsed from a personal tour to executed lease. Thank you! Now I can't wait to take a class or two to continue to grow some of my tech skills.
Kim B.
Betsy was a wonderful teacher capable of answering all my questions within the limits of Level 1 Access, I look forward to the next level class and would request this instructor again.
Robert H.
Easy to contact and enroll in courses. I found they have a course that I need to further my career, contacted them and enrolled in said course in less than two weeks.
Jamilah R.
I've had a positive experience with DWC so far. Liz has been very helpful in providing me all the of the necessary documents to get enrolled. I'm looking forward to learning a lot from my courses this semester.
Curt E.
Due to my wife's ongoing medical needs that keep growing, I had to go back to work to be able to pay the bills. I needed a skill I can do at home. I love flying drones, but I was not so good at making videos. I now believe I will go to the front of the class if I apply myself and learn how to create great eye-catching videos. I am very grateful for getting a veteran scholarship and I am eager to get started.
Alisha J.
I'm happy to say I just completed 2 certifications with DWC: Digital Marketing and Advanced Graphic Design. I needed to update my existing design skills to become more competitive in the job market. These classes certainly delivered!Shout out to Jake VanNewkirk and Alan Peters who were a couple of my favorite instructors. The staff at DWC, specifically Liz and Ally, were incredibly helpful in coordinating with my workforce center rep to get me through debt-free with a WIOA grant and the Women in Tech scholarship!So grateful for this incredibly valuable opportunity!
Juliette R.
I've taken a few courses with DWC, and I'm regularly checking the site to see what else piques my interest. The organization is well organized (shout out to Liz!) and the support for making sure students have the access to materials and tech support make this kind of study really inclusive.
Ashley S.
Easy to follow, personable instructor. Doesn't take too much time to complete. Intermediate wasn't as challenging as I had hoped for but then again maybe I don't know my skill level LOL
Rosemary R.
I am very excited to be involved with Digital Workshop Center!! I am excited and grateful to learn and grow and have it be with such nice people and professional, too!! Thank you to Liz and everyone else!!
toleshu K.
I personally like this digital workshop because it is affordable, arranges payment plan, and easily attending from home. I am a single mom watching after my kids at home. thus this workshop gives me the opportunity to be able to reach my dream by participating in this program. great for busy Moms!!
Yaffa
Impressed with the efficiency and responsiveness of the staff. After weeks of contemplating which school and program I should go with, I decided on this center because they made the process much easier and were able to answer all of the questions I had in a timely manner.
Lori H.
I am very impressed with the patience and experience of the teacher. She was very supportive and affirming of my final level of skill.
Ricardo T.
Digital Workshop Center and it's instructor's (Betsy L. Are/Were Amazing they make there range of courses very friendly and easy to follow along as well as the hands on experience. For those needing a refresher or are unsure or afraid to reach out to Digital Workshop Center for help I strongly recommend that you take that leap of faith I promise you will not regret it. I came in unsure, and confused. I left the courses I took feeling very confident, and with better understanding of all I had learned and was taught with working with Digital Workshop Center. another great life decision I made Rick T.
Joe
I am new to the school, and so far I am very impressed with the process. The staff has been very helpful. Great communication and professionalism. I am taking the Digital Marketing course and I will update my review later. Thank you.
Stacey K.
I just enrolled in Digital Workshop Center after a recommendation for a program and grant from my WIOA workforce specialist. The Center Manager, Liz, is amazing to work with and was able to get me into a program starting in as little as two weeks! Very impressed with the speed and efficiency of the entire school and look forward to starting my classes soon.
Audrey C.
Application process was a little different but, was able to get enrolled and approved for assistance. My academic advisor was very helpful and resourceful in my behalf to assist me with seeking higher education.
Andy M.
I have worked with Adobe Suite since 2008. Here I have learned BRAND NEW Techniques and became more verse with other programs in The Creative Cloud that I ABSOLUTELY LOVE and put me so much more ahead of the competition. I learned a WHOLE NEW set of skills I didn't have prior. Thank you guys!!! I proudly achieved my Certificate from DWC!!!! Thank you!
Bryan H.
I am new to the school, and so far I am very impressed. The staff are fantastic to work with, and are very knowledgeable . I am taking the Digital Marketing course, and the instructor is outstanding. The information is current, and useful. I will take more classes because you get exactly what you pay for, no fluff, and no unnecessary filler classes. You learn from very experienced instructors that have real time experience and use the most current information . Thank you.
Qadir B.
I found I needed to refresh several of my skills in applications that have evolved since I first learned them.
Andrea C.
Over the years, I've taken dozens of one-off classes, attended various Lunch-and-Learns, and sought out and completed two different certification programs at the Digital Workshop Center.In that time, I've watched the institution grow and florish, and continuously strive to provide quality education and professional development to those who've sought it. I've never been disappointed with my investment—each time I complete a class or certification, I depart feeling confident in my abilities to put my learnings to good use and eager to return for another course.I always look forward to seeing Liz's and Stu's friendly faces; their professionalism, guidance and communication is excellent. They are always eager to assist you, whatever your level or expertise and goals.
Lora W.
The instructors are professional and knowledgeable about the courses they are teaching. They are also very patient with those who have no prior knowledge of the subjects. I’m in the certificate program and new to web development and am surprised at how in-depth the classes are. There are no cutting corners or skimming the subjects. They dive well into the subjects and cover a lot of material.
Cody S.
Just finished up a great course on Microsoft Excel. The Instructor was incredibly knowledgeable and patient with all of his students. i walked away with a new appreciation and great insight for the time tested software that will help me "excel" in my career. Thanks Stu Crair and the Digital Workshop Center.
Steve M.
I built some modern custom planters and dividers for the DWC designed in house. The crew was easy to work for and the staff was super professional. I really enjoyed working in the space. The place is clean, modern, useful, and I met several new friends and increased my network of business contacts. Worth a drop in to see for yourself.
Lindsay N.
Digital Workshop led a great advanced excel course for my company. The instructor was knowledgable, and made class entertaining. Definitely worth the time spent!
Juan Lewis I.
What a productive class. Valuable knowledge taught in an engaging, easy to follow way. Fast or slow, what made it great was that whatever your pace, your skills were usable immediately. I always left with some new skill to improve my work, some alternate method to try, something tangible and demonstrable to show for the time. I have to assume that whatever the subject, they probably steer all their students this way.
Nina M.
Very happy with our customized social media marketing training. Would recommend them and would take more courses with them.
michael W.
Great intro class for graphic design. Instructor has a great amount of experience and very good at communicating his experience. Look forward to taking more classes with the Digital Workshop Center.
Amanda V.
Great class feel more confident in using quick books software. Excited to take more classes in the future
Chris N.
I took photoshop classes from Jake at Digital Workshop Center. Classes were great and I learned a lot. I will definitely continue to use them to learn more skills and have already booked my digital marketing classes. Great space for businesses to send employees to learn new skills.
Carmelo M.
I use Digital Workshop Center as a co-working space and I've taken a few classes here. I loved learning in person and felt comfortable in their space. Their classes are very personal and you get great instructors.The co-working space is nice and price can't be beat! Staff is very friendly and everyone is respectful.
Sue M.
I have taken six classes at Digital Workshop Center. Each class has been fun and interactive. The instructors are very knowledgeable and enjoy teaching computer skills to students. The classroom space is very comfortable and the staff is friendly and considerate.
Wayne B
The knowledge I gained form the Adwords course will help me earn more per click and even reduce my overall budget. Completely worth every penny. Hands on learning with expert assistance.
Alexis S.
The class I took at the Digital Workshop was helpful and affordable! They were very accommodating and offer so many wonderful resources for businesses. Highly recommend using them!
Rebekah W.
This center provides an amazing amount of information for every aspect of a business. Instructors/counselors are excellent.
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Upcoming Schedule

Advanced Graphic Design Q1/2025 | Start Date: 01/06/2025

Advanced Graphic Design Q2/2025 | Start Date: 04/08/2025

Advanced Graphic Design Q3/2025 | Start Date: 07/14/2025

Advanced Graphic Design Q4/2025 | Start Date: 10/07/2025

Advanced Graphic Design Certificate

Yes you can.
Become a Graphic Designer today.

For students of all levels, our Advanced Graphic Design Certificate will teach you the high demand skills of visual design.  Every step of the way you will have a mentor in your instructor and career coaching to help you thrive.

Our programs focus on real-world skills taught by industry experts.  You will learn how the latest technologies design tools, essential design principles, how to develop creative problem-solving strategies, and most importantly, how to design, learn, and adapt.

Possible Career Paths

Graphic design skills remain in high demand with over 22,000 job openings on average for every year over the decade.

Content Manager

Using graphic design skills and software like Adobe Illustrator and InDesign, content designers sketch and create visually compelling materials for marketing strategies.

User Interface Designer

User interface designers are focused on the look and feel of how a digital product works for its users and are concerned with how accessible the visual aesthetics are.

Graphic Designer

Graphic designers can be found in a variety of industries as they are experts at planning and projecting ideas and experiences through the creation of visual and textual content.

Web Designer

Web designers contribute to the development of websites through the creation of individual web pages, page layouts, navigation menus, and the overall website structure.

Over $750k Awarded in Scholarship Funds

Average award of DWC scholarships is $2,000 for those who qualify.  Apply today for tuition assistance.

Tech Skills Scholarship

For those who are unemployed and looking to get into a career in tech

Women & Tech Scholarship

For women looking to
enter or advance in a technology career

Veterans Skills Scholarship

For active or retired military service members seeking a tech career

Student Success Stories

Support every step of the way

Guidance from pre-enrollment to graduation

Admissions Advisors

From pre-enrollment through your first day, talk to our advisors to learn all the important details about your program

Mentoring

Instructors are here to be your mentor before, during & after class.  Working with an expert as a mentor will help you become industry-ready.

Student Support

Our dedicated student affairs manager will be there to help you get your accounts setup, assess your technology, download the proper files and more.

Career Coaching

Meet with a career coach to review your updated resume, portfolio & LinkedIn profile, as well as job search and interview techniques.

Tech Support

While in your program, if you are stuck and need help you can reach out to our tech support for guidance.  Whether through Slack, email or phone.

Internships & Alumni

Sign up for our micro-internship network and explore new opportunities. Our alumni network is also available to all students.

Tuition

Advanced Graphic Design Certificate Program

We want you to focus on your education and career path.  We offer several options help ease the burden of your tuition costs.  Additional scholarships may be available for those who qualify.

Tuition Net Cost Example

Program Tuition¹: $5,995

Average Scholarship Amount²: $2,000

Amount Financed³: $3,995, as low as $155/month

3 Easy Ways To Pay

  1. Pay up front & in full
  2. Pay with a traditional loanˆ
  3. Pay with a payment planˆˆ

¹Actual price of program varies.    ²Average award shown as an example only.  Scholarships are reviewed and awarded individually.  Scholarship award amount may vary. No amount of scholarship funding is guaranteed.    ³Subject to lender terms and loan approval. This is not an offer for a loan. These loans are not offered or made by Digital Workshop Center but are made by the loan provider. These terms are representative and may not be the exact terms of your loan.     ˆAvailable to those who qualify and subject to lender terms and loan approval.      ˆˆPayment Plans available to those who qualify and subject to lender terms and payment plan approval.

Pay Up Front & In Full - $5,995

Pay for your full tuition and get started today.  Begin the process by completing an enrollment form and attending a required info session.

Pay With A Traditional Loan - $155/month*

Traditional Loan: Make full monthly payments during the course and after graduation.

  • $100 Deposit (due at start & applied towards loan total)
  • Loan period: 31 months
  • Monthly payments: As low as $155/month

Interest Only Loan: Make interest-only payments while a student, then transition to full payments after graduation.

  • $100 Deposit (due at start & applied towards loan total)
  • Loan period: 31 months
  • Monthly payments: As low as $35 for the first 8 months, $203 for the next 23 months.

Deferred Payment Plan (32 months): Make no payments for the first 8 months (interest will still accrue during this time).

  • $100 Deposit (due at start & applied towards loan total)
  • Loan period: 32 months
  • Monthly payments: $0 during the first 8 months, as low as $216 for the next 24 months.

*Provided by Climb Credit.  Example tuition provided is an estimate only based on a $5,995 base tuition less a $2,000 scholarship.  Scholarships are not guaranteed and subject to application approval.  Subject to lender terms and loan approval. This is not an offer for a loan. These loans and payment plans are not offered or made by Digital Workshop Center School but are made by the loan provider. These terms are representative and may not be the exact terms of your loan.
Loans and payment plans are available only to those who qualify, you can apply for an educational loan through our financing partners. Students who qualify can get a loan for the tuition amount, minus deposit and scholarships.

Pay With A 0% Interest Payment Plan - $333/month*

0% Interest Payment Plan (12 months): Make payments at the start of your program and throughout your enrollment.

  • $100 Deposit (due at start & applied towards loan total)
  • Loan period: 12 months
  • Monthly payments: $333 for 12 months.

*Provided by Climb Credit.  Example tuition provided is an estimate only based on a $6,995 base tuition less a $2,000 scholarship.  Scholarships are not guaranteed and subject to application approval.   Subject to lender terms and loan approval. This is not an offer for a loan. These loans are not offered or made by Digital Workshop Center School but are made by the loan provider. These terms are representative and may not be the exact terms of your loan.
Loans and payment plans are available only to those who qualify, you can apply for an educational loan through our financing partners. Students who qualify can get a loan for the tuition amount, minus deposit and scholarships.

Employer Tuition Assistance

Many employers offer employer tuition assistance programs.  Contact your employer to find out if they can help you with the cost of your tuition to advance your career to the next level.

Over $750k Awarded in Scholarship Funds

At Digital Workshop Center, we offer three accessible scholarships to help you take the next step of your career.

Frequently Asked Questions

When can I start?

Program cohorts begin quartlery (Jan, Apr, July, Oct). All programs follow a specific schedule of dates/times.  Classes are 100% synchronous with a live instructor and attendance is mandatory.

Pre-requisites

Basic Digital Literacy knowledge is required.  You must be able to organize files and perform basic literacy functions.

Review the basic digital literacy checklist to understand more about what is expected before enrollment.

If you are not comfortable with these tasks, speak to our Admissions Team to discuss options.

It is also required that you have purchased and installed the Adobe Creative Cloud suite before the start of your first class.  Refer to the System Requirements page for more details.

How long is this program?

The average length to complete the Advanced Graphic Design Certificate program is 6 months.

This program is comprised of course work and a Capstone project.  Once you have completed all the necessary course work, you will earn your certificate.

What's included?

Each Certificate Program is comprised of course work and a comprehensive Capstone Project.

Support and mentoring a huge part of all of our full length programs.  Your instructor will be there as your mentor every step of the way through the program.

All materials including textbooks are included in your tuition cost.

All data files will be provided as needed.

Enrollment includes access to tech support via Slack, phone or email.  Additionally, each student has access to career coaching and more.

Attend an upcoming info session to speak to a student advisor and learn more details of this program.

Payment & financial aid options

DWC offers several flexible financial aid options including payment plans and traditional loans to help you finance your education.

We partner with Climb Credit to offer several flexible payment plan options that fit your monthly budget.

If you are interested in scholarship or financial aid opportunities, attend an upcoming info session to speak to a student advisor and learn more.

Homework expectations

Homework varies from class to class, instructor to instructor.  It is recommended that you set aside 1-2x the class duration for homework/assignments (e.g. if in class 7 hours per week, expect 7-14 hours needed to complete homework/assignments).  

What career services or internships do you offer?

For full length programs, support and mentoring is included and you will be eligible to work one-on-one with a career coach.

Workshops for job search and resume writing are included in the cost of your program.  Our expert career coaches will help you prepare for the next steps of your career path.  Your success is our success.

Click here to learn more about career coaching

DWC also partners with Parker-Dewey to offer micro-internships to our students.  These project-based internships are a great way for students to build real-world experience.  Learn more

Attend an upcoming info session to speak to a student advisor and discuss career coaching & internship options today.

Terms & conditions

Enrollment in all programs requires each student to read and agree to our Terms and Conditions before you register.

Still curious?

If you have more questions, view the full FAQ page or contact us today.

Transform Your Career in Just 3 Simple Steps

1. Easy Enrollment

Begin your journey effortlessly with our straightforward online application. It’s fast, easy, and your first step towards a brighter future.

2. Discover the Digital Workshop Center Difference

Experience our unique approach before you commit. Attend our mandatory program orientation to get a feel for our hands-on, practical teaching style.

3. Adapt Learning to Your Life

We offer accommodating class schedules and a variety of financial options to ensure our courses fit into your life, not the other way around.

Get Started Today!

Fill out the online application today.

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