Best Online Courses For Students To Learn Graphic Design
Graphic design is a sought-after and diverse skill that can be beneficial for those who wish to pursue careers in marketing, social media, branding, web design, or even animation. Those interested in such fields could start with learning the principles of graphic design and build a valuable skill set.
Benefits of Online Courses in Graphic Design
The main benefit of online courses is that there is no need to visit an educational institution or attend classes. Moreover, it is possible to practice what was learned during classwork, complete assignments and projects, earn certificates, and create a portfolio to prove skills to future schools or employers.
Best Online Courses for Graphic Design in 2023
Course 1: Graphic Design Specialization
Platform:
Coursera
Course link: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/graphic-design
This specialization involves learning how to design using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. Also, students learn about typography, color theory, composition, design principles, and more. Students will complete projects in which they have to create various designs including posters, logos, and other branding materials.
Tip: Complete every project and place it in your portfolio.
Course 2: UI / UX Design Specialization
Platform:
Coursera
Course link: https://www.coursera.org/specializations/ui-ux-design
This specialization is focused on understanding how to create a visually appealing and user-friendly product. The course teaches basics of user interface and user experience design. Wireframing, prototyping, and designing interactive products are included in the curriculum of this course.
Tip: Try out some UX design by creating a mockup of a simple app idea.
Course 3: The Complete Graphic Design Bootcamp
Platform:
Udemy
Course link: https://www.udemy.com/course/graphic-design-masterclass/
Suitable for beginners and advanced designers. The course focuses on learning Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign along with practicing graphic design tasks. The course offers several assignment options for students to practice designing various objects.
Tip: Redesign the logo and the poster for any brand you find appropriate.
Course 4: Adobe Photoshop for Beginners
Platform:
Udemy
Course link: https://www.udemy.com/course/adobe-photoshop-course/
Photoshop is one of the most common software used in graphic design. The course will teach students everything from layers and masks to filters and retouching. This is great experience for someone to use in real life.
Tip: Design a poster for the school event using Photoshop.
Course 5: Canva Graphic Design for Beginners
Platform:
Skillshare
Course link: https://www.skillshare.com/classes/Canva-Graphic-Design-for-Beginners/
The course is designed for those who do not have experience using special software. The goal of the course is teaching students how to design layouts, how to choose fonts for posters and other types of graphics, and how to tell stories using visuals.
Tip: Create new designs every week for social media usage.
Benefit for the Student When Using These Courses
Students gain:
- Practical experience with graphic design tools
- Understanding and applying design principles
- Portfolio projects and pieces
- Design skills and creativity
- Self-confidence to do graphic design work
Interactive Elements of the Online Courses
While attending the classes and completing the courses:
- Do all the projects and practice exercises
- Make notes of all important principles and ideas
- Analyze other peoples’ works to get ideas and compare yours
- Reflect on the process and revise your work
Application of What Was Learnt in Daily Routine
Work for 1-2 hours a day designing anything using graphic design skills:
- Experiment with color schemes and styles
- Develop a portfolio of graphic design works
- Build your own website where your works are presented
- Redesign already existing digital or printed content
Impact of the Real-life Experience on the Student
Students participating in the classes will notice that their graphic design skills and overall creativity have improved. Furthermore, it will give them confidence and experience to start working with various tools and creating their own unique projects.
Conclusion
Online courses in graphic design provide students with hands-on experience and useful information about graphic design tools, principles, and techniques. Students may start with one course and keep improving their skills through assignments.
Using the gained skills, students will be able to create many graphic design projects and even develop their portfolio.
