Graphic Design Certificate

Woman using digital drawing software

The Graphic Design Certificate is designed for students with an interest in exploring graphic design with an emphasis on print media. Participants employ analog and digital processes and may elect to work across disciplines as they develop a portfolio of work that represents their personal voice and demonstrates the technical, critical, and analytical skills required of the field.

Students enrolled in the Graphic Design Certificate should have access to a Mac or PC computer with Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, and Photoshop installed. Before starting this program, students should feel comfortable navigating the directory structure and creating, deleting, renaming, and moving files and directories without assistance.

Coursework requirements

  • Required Course (1): Introduction to Graphic Design
  • Studio Courses (4): Four 30-hour courses from those listed under the subject heading Graphic Design; you may also use Color Theory as one of your required studio courses
    To find current courses in this category 

    • Visit continuingstudies.saic.edu
    • Click Current Online Courses or Current In-Person Courses on the left panel
    • On the I would like to see: dropdown menu select CS Graphic Design
  • Electives (1): All 30-hour Adult Continuing Education courses are eligible electives for all certificates, including 1-week and 2-weekend intensives

Total required courses: 6

Keep track of your certificate requirements as you move through your individualized program using our Graphic Design Certificate Curriculum Guide.

Note: Required courses may not be offered every term. Scheduled courses may not  be offered in the student’s preferred instructional mode (online or in-person). 

Completion of the Graphic Design Certificate requires a portfolio review, fulfilled by participation in Portfolio Review Days offered in the fall and spring. Final portfolio reviews are taken during or after the student’s final coursework term. Students will also need to complete the certificate program completion form, submit high-quality digital images of their work, and take part in a brief exit interview to receive their digital certificate.

Start your noncredit certificate today – visit continuingstudies.saic.edu. Select Certificate Programs under the heading Adult Continuing Education in the left column and pay the nonrefundable $100 fee.