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Graphic design learning hub

Shape your career in graphic design. With online courses and certificate programs, you may gain creative communication and problem-solving skills and learn how to use design technology for diverse industries.

What is graphic design?

Graphic design is the fusion of art, form, and function. It's everywhere — from the signs guiding us through forest trails to the end credits in a movie, the websites we browse through on our smartphones, and even the seasonal patterns of our clothes.

Graphic designers combine text, imagery, typography, and color to create visuals that communicate messages, guide behavior, or solve problems. These professionals have a keen eye for aesthetics, strong attention to detail, a knack for straightforward storytelling, and a solid technological proficiency.

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Choosing the right graphic design program for you

Once you decide on your specialty and industry, you may choose a graphic design program that aligns with your skills, professional and academic background, and preferred learning style.

Here are some options to learn graphic design that span from introductory courses to advanced degrees:

Courses

Courses are short, flexible, self-paced programs that focus on specific topics. You can gain insights into the latest trends in graphic design or develop skills with industry-specific tools. edX offers free graphic design courses, with an optional certificate upgrade upon completion.

Executive education

Executive education programs are for working professionals who want to advance their careers without pausing them. These edX programs, led by subject matter experts, typically have a strategic and managerial focus and allow you to explore industry case studies alongside fellow professionals. edX's Executive Education programs are longer and more expansive than introductory courses.

Degrees

A bachelor's degree provides foundational skills in design principles and creative problem-solving for aspiring graphic designers while helping them build a professional portfolio. Employers tend to prefer professionals with a bachelor's degree. According to CareerOneStop, 60% of graphic design professionals hold a bachelor of arts (BA) or a bachelor of fine arts (BFA) degree.

If you want advanced knowledge or wish to pursue senior-level roles, earning a master of fine arts (MFA) degree program may be a good option. You may earn a BA, BFA, or MFA degree online.

Jobs in graphic design

Graphic designers create brand identities, enhance customer experience, and communicate ideas visually in the technology, education, fashion, healthcare, publishing, retail, and entertainment industries.

As a graphic designer, you could specialize or work in:

  • Branding
  • Game design
  • Illustration
  • UI and UX design
  • Experiential design (exhibitions and wayfinding)
  • Motion graphics and animation
  • Packaging design
  • Publication and typographic design
  • Web design

Consider some of the professional paths you may pursue with a degree in graphic design, with data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS):

Graphic designer

Graphic designers develop text or images to convey messaging for marketing, publishing, and digital platforms. Experienced graphic designers may advance to senior or art director roles. Certifications in graphic design software may help you qualify for new career opportunities.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree in graphic design or fine arts
  • BLS median annual salary (2023): $58,910

Art director

Art directors shape the visual style of media projects, packaging, and publications by working with teams to achieve cohesive designs. In addition to traditional media, art directors may coordinate graphics for websites, mobile platforms, and digital content design.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree in art or design subjects
  • BLS median annual salary (2023):$106,500

Digital designer

Digital designers create visuals for digital media, apps, and websites. They are in demand in tech and e-commerce, with opportunities to advance into UI/UX roles with certifications.

  • Required education: Bachelor's degree in digital design, graphic arts or web design
  • BLS median annual salary (2023):$92,750

Desktop publisher

Desktop publishers design print and digital media page layouts, often collaborating with other teams. Additional certifications in design-related areas may improve job opportunities.

  • Required education: Associate's degree in graphic design or graphic communications
  • BLS median annual salary (2023):$51,290

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