Top 5 Graphic design courses online

Graphic design is one of the most in-demand skills in the modern workplace. And with good reason! A well-designed image, website, or document can communicate so much more than just words on a page. If you’re looking to get started in graphic design, or even take your skills to the next level, there are some great online courses out there that can give you the foundation you need. In this blog post, we will explore the top 5 graphic design courses online, so you can decide which one is right for you.

What is Graphic Design?

Graphic design is the process of visual communication and problem-solving through the use of typography, space, image and color. The field of graphic design is vast and ever-evolving, yet it can be broadly divided into five main categories:

- Advertising design
- Branding
- Print design
- Publication design
- Packaging design

A career in Graphic Design

A career in graphic design is a great way to use your creativity to make a living. Graphic designers are responsible for creating visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. They develop the overall layout and production design for various applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and corporate reports.

Most entry-level positions in the field require at least an associate’s degree in graphic design or a related field, but some companies may require a bachelor’s degree. Many graphic designers have a portfolio of their work to show when applying for jobs. Competition for jobs is strong because the demand for designers is high and the number of graduates from graphic design programs continues to increase. However, those with talent and a strong portfolio should have little trouble finding employment. The median annual wage for graphic designers was $50,370 in May 2019. Employment of graphic designers is projected to grow 4% from 2019 to 2029, about as fast as the average for all occupations.

Income of Graphic Designer

There are many different types of graphic design courses available online, and each one offers its own unique benefits. However, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a graphic design course is the income potential of the field.

Graphic designers have a wide range of incomes, depending on their experience, education, and location. In general, though, graphic designers earn a comfortable living. The median annual salary for graphic designers was $50,370 in 2017, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

However, earnings can vary greatly depending on experience and location. For example, entry-level designers in small towns may only make $30,000 per year while experienced designers in major cities can easily make six figures.

So if you're looking to get into graphic design to earn a good income, know that it is possible. Just be aware that your earnings will depend on your skillset and where you choose to work.

Top 5 Graphic design courses online

Introduction

Finding the best graphic design courses online can be a challenge. There are many different programs and schools that offer graphic design courses, and it can be tough to determine which ones are the best fit for you.

To help you narrow down your options, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 graphic design courses online. These courses come from respected institutions and offer a comprehensive education in graphic design principles.

Yale University: Graphic Design Online Course

If you want to study graphic design at an Ivy League school, Yale University offers an online course called “Introduction to Graphic Design.” This course is taught by Yale professor Jock Reynolds, and it covers a wide range of topics related to graphic design theory and practice.

The course is offered through Yale’s Open Campus Initiative, which means that it is available to anyone with an internet connection. It is also self-paced, so you can complete the course at your own pace.

California Institute of the Arts: Graphic Design Bootcamp

The California Institute of the Arts (CalArts) offers a graphic design bootcamp called “Graphic Design Bootcamp.” This course is taught by CalArts professor Lola Brooks, and it covers the basics of graphic design principles and software.

The course is offered as an intensive, two-week bootcamp. It is open to anyone with an interest in graphic design, but space is limited so you will need to apply to participate.

School of Visual Arts: Graphic Design Certificate Program

The School of Visual Arts (SVA) offers a graphic design certificate program called “Graphic Design Certificate Program.” This program is taught by SVA professors Eliza Gregory and Justin Gignac, and it covers the basics of graphic design principles and software.

The program is offered as an intensive, six-week course. It is open to anyone with an interest in graphic design, but space is limited so you will need to apply to participate.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology: Graphic Design Basics MOOC

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a free online course called “Graphic Design Basics.” This course is taught by MIT professor Anne Wheaton, and it covers the fundamentals of graphic design principles.

The course is offered as a massive open online course (MOOC), which means that it is open to anyone with an internet connection. It is also self-paced, so you can complete the course at your own pace.

Harvard University: Design thinking for greater creativity

Harvard University offers an online course called “Design Thinking for Greater Creativity.” This course is taught by Harvard professor Linda Naiman, and it covers the basics of design thinking and how to apply it to your own creative projects.

The course is offered through Harvard’s edX platform, which means that it is available to anyone with an internet connection. It is also self-paced, so you can complete the course at your own pace.