Digital Content Design and Production Certificate

Career Certificate
Cost
$4,550* (estimated)

Turn your passion for content into a digital media career

With a Certificate in Digital Content Design and Production at the College of Lake County, you can craft your creativity in social media, digital content and multimedia design into a rewarding digital media career.

Craft personal branding, social media campaigns and consumer-focused content. Capture audience attention. Build a creative portfolio showcasing your design, photography, video and multimedia skills—the kind of work employers want to see:

  • Design and writing for social media, web and mobile platforms
  • Social media strategies that spark engagement and build communities
  • Clear communication and collaboration skills to pitch ideas and work effectively

Design, produce and inspire engagement

This certificate prepares you for a dynamic world of digital careers. Whether you’re interested in social media content creation, digital marketing, technical communications or graphic design, you’ll graduate ready for entry-level roles in these fields.

In these roles, you’ll create graphics, videos, photography, web pages and social content for businesses, nonprofits and marketing teams. Every day, you’ll turn ideas into experiences that get noticed, spark engagement and drive results.

Highlights

  • Internships Available

    Gain real-world experience and build your portfolio with a hands-on internship.

  • Financial Aid / Scholarship Opportunities

    Explore ways to pay for college (based on need/achievement).

  • Career Certificate

    Gain in-demand technical and job-ready skills by earning a certificate in 1 year or less.

  • Program Length: 1 Year

    Finish in 1 year as a full-time student.

*Estimated cost is based on recommended pathway credit hours for full-time students for academic year 2025-2026. This includes in-district tuition and comprehensive fees, before financial aid, including grants, loans, and scholarships, is applied. Actual cost may vary to include additional fees, materials, and other cost of attendance factors such as living expenses, transportation, etc. Explore opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about the Cost of Attendance.

Career Outlook

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Need help getting started?

Ask us for help. Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) will help you:

  • complete the admission process
  • choose an academic program
  • enroll in first-semester classes
  • get access to helpful resources

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term.

Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more comprehensive list of course options and degree requirements, see the CLC college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    DMD 121

    DMD 121 Introduction to Graphic Design

    Class Description

    This is a foundation course that develops a student’s ability to understand graphic design with a focus on print media but applies to interactive media as well. The student is introduced to basic design terminology, principles, theory, tools, and techniques used in today’s digitally produced communications. An emphasis throughout is a solid foundation in organizational skills and research associated with design. This course lays the foundation for more advanced digital design courses. Note: Student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and sub folders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening websites; and using search engines
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    DMD 174

    DMD 174 Typography

    Class Description

    This course introduces students to the use of typography within the design process. Major topics to cover include anatomy of letterforms, type history, classification systems, methods of typographic communication, critical comparisons of type styles, contemporary trends and typography as image. Students will learn both technical and creative ways type can be used through lectures, discussion, critiques, and hands-on projects. The course explores 2D communication and design solutions using typography.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    DMD 233

    DMD 233 Digital Video Editing

    Class Description

    This course introduces students to the basics of postproduction non-linear digital video editing for multimedia, video and web capabilities. Students will produce, edit, and optimize video using industry relevant editing software. Upon completion of the course students will be able to create and produce digital videos and incorporated compressed and rendered projects into CD ROMs, DVD and Web technologies. In addition to learning the technical capabilities of the software, students will discuss digital video theory, concepts of video art and design, and the role digital video plays in the world of film, animation, animation and Web interactivity.
         		3
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    ART 149

    ART 149 Digital Photography I

    Class Description

    This course covers the capture, processing, and output of digital images. Digital camera and scanner input technology, as well as inkjet and electronic media output are explored. Technical instruction in Adobe Photoshop image processing software will also be covered. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
         		3
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code DMD 121
      Course Title

      DMD 121 Introduction to Graphic Design

      Class Description

      This is a foundation course that develops a student’s ability to understand graphic design with a focus on print media but applies to interactive media as well. The student is introduced to basic design terminology, principles, theory, tools, and techniques used in today’s digitally produced communications. An emphasis throughout is a solid foundation in organizational skills and research associated with design. This course lays the foundation for more advanced digital design courses. Note: Student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and sub folders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening websites; and using search engines
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code DMD 174
      Course Title

      DMD 174 Typography

      Class Description

      This course introduces students to the use of typography within the design process. Major topics to cover include anatomy of letterforms, type history, classification systems, methods of typographic communication, critical comparisons of type styles, contemporary trends and typography as image. Students will learn both technical and creative ways type can be used through lectures, discussion, critiques, and hands-on projects. The course explores 2D communication and design solutions using typography.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code DMD 233
      Course Title

      DMD 233 Digital Video Editing

      Class Description

      This course introduces students to the basics of postproduction non-linear digital video editing for multimedia, video and web capabilities. Students will produce, edit, and optimize video using industry relevant editing software. Upon completion of the course students will be able to create and produce digital videos and incorporated compressed and rendered projects into CD ROMs, DVD and Web technologies. In addition to learning the technical capabilities of the software, students will discuss digital video theory, concepts of video art and design, and the role digital video plays in the world of film, animation, animation and Web interactivity.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code ART 149
      Course Title

      ART 149 Digital Photography I

      Class Description

      This course covers the capture, processing, and output of digital images. Digital camera and scanner input technology, as well as inkjet and electronic media output are explored. Technical instruction in Adobe Photoshop image processing software will also be covered. Note: Additional materials beyond those covered by course or lab fees will be required. See course syllabus for a list of materials and approximate costs.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    DMD 116

    DMD 116 Web Design and Development

    Class Description

    This course is an introduction to Web page design and creation using industry standard Web design software. Students will learn to use graphics, sound, video, animation, scripts, and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to enhance Web pages. The course will cover the basic concepts of Web design and color with an emphasis on designing for visual appeal and user-friendly navigation. Students will also gain a fundamental knowledge of HTML/XHTML and the skills to publish and maintain Web sites. NOTE: Recommended DMD 111 or DMD 115 or student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and subfolders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening Web sites; and using search engines.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    DMD 273

    DMD 273 Advanced Electronic Graphic Publishing

    Class Description

    This course is designed as an advanced study of two dimensional design principles for creating page layout. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete print identity design system in support of a marketing strategy including strategies of consumer decision-making. Students will develop all aspects including a fully functioning prototype for a variety of different client needs. The course will look into the mass production issues as well as specialty types of print packages.
         		3
    ENG 266

    ENG 266 Professional Communication

    Class Description

    Professional Communication is a sophomore-level course designed for students who are interested in furthering their professional and workplace communication skills. Students will develop a mock business related to a field of interest and create communication materials related to that business, such as blog posts, a newsletter, podcast, research-based article, and other workplace communication documents. Students will develop skills in digital media production and effective storytelling techniques for the benefit of businesses and organizations.
         		3
    • Online/Virtual options available
    EWE 120

    EWE 120 Job Readiness Skills

    Class Description

    This course focuses on job readiness skills to prepare students to apply for an internship/job, improve in a current internship/job, or successfully work towards a promotion. Topics covered include networking, resume writing, interviewing, social media tools, self-awareness, conflict resolution and time management.
         		1
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    EWE 220

    EWE 220 Internship I

    Class Description

    An internship offers an individualized learning experience through the linking of an academic program to a structured employment setting. The learning outcomes for the internship are coordinated and agreed upon by the student, faculty, and employer. Course assignments throughout the term support these learning outcomes, and assist in academic, career, and professional preparedness. This is a variable credit course (.5-3 credits), with 75 internship hours required per credit. Student could take this course up to 4 times and earn the maximum credit (3 credits) for each time for a total of 12 credit hours.
         		2
    • Dual credit options available
    • Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code DMD 116
      Course Title

      DMD 116 Web Design and Development

      Class Description

      This course is an introduction to Web page design and creation using industry standard Web design software. Students will learn to use graphics, sound, video, animation, scripts, and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to enhance Web pages. The course will cover the basic concepts of Web design and color with an emphasis on designing for visual appeal and user-friendly navigation. Students will also gain a fundamental knowledge of HTML/XHTML and the skills to publish and maintain Web sites. NOTE: Recommended DMD 111 or DMD 115 or student must possess basic computer/Internet skills which include creating, saving, and editing files in the Windows or MAC operating systems; performing basic editing (copy/paste); copying files; using folders and subfolders to organize and manage files; downloading files off the Internet; opening Web sites; and using search engines.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code DMD 273
      Course Title

      DMD 273 Advanced Electronic Graphic Publishing

      Class Description

      This course is designed as an advanced study of two dimensional design principles for creating page layout. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete print identity design system in support of a marketing strategy including strategies of consumer decision-making. Students will develop all aspects including a fully functioning prototype for a variety of different client needs. The course will look into the mass production issues as well as specialty types of print packages.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code ENG 266
      Course Title

      ENG 266 Professional Communication

      Class Description

      Professional Communication is a sophomore-level course designed for students who are interested in furthering their professional and workplace communication skills. Students will develop a mock business related to a field of interest and create communication materials related to that business, such as blog posts, a newsletter, podcast, research-based article, and other workplace communication documents. Students will develop skills in digital media production and effective storytelling techniques for the benefit of businesses and organizations.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code EWE 120
      Course Title

      EWE 120 Job Readiness Skills

      Class Description

      This course focuses on job readiness skills to prepare students to apply for an internship/job, improve in a current internship/job, or successfully work towards a promotion. Topics covered include networking, resume writing, interviewing, social media tools, self-awareness, conflict resolution and time management.
      Credits 1
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available
    • Course Code EWE 220
      Course Title

      EWE 220 Internship I

      Class Description

      An internship offers an individualized learning experience through the linking of an academic program to a structured employment setting. The learning outcomes for the internship are coordinated and agreed upon by the student, faculty, and employer. Course assignments throughout the term support these learning outcomes, and assist in academic, career, and professional preparedness. This is a variable credit course (.5-3 credits), with 75 internship hours required per credit. Student could take this course up to 4 times and earn the maximum credit (3 credits) for each time for a total of 12 credit hours.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
      Dual credit options available
      Online/Virtual options available

    Course options: Students can choose ENG 140 instead of ENG 266.

Total Credit Hours

26

Build in-demand skills on industry-standard digital tools

In your classes, you’ll work on both Mac and PC systems and use the same digital marketing design tools professionals rely on. It’s a hands-on way to build confidence and develop real, work-ready skills, with access to a wide range of digital tools and applications.


Female student taking notes in class

Meet your instructors

More than 1,000 full-time and part-time faculty teach at CLC. Nearly all of them have a master's degree or more.

CLC faculty teach the same materials you’d learn at a big school. They bring real-world experience into the classroom so you can gain job-ready skills and help you become the very best version of yourself.


Apply now: It's easy and free

Complete the application form to begin your program.

After you apply, a Career and College Navigator (CCN) will reach out to answer your questions, guide your next steps and help you get enrolled. Explore steps to apply at CLC.

Frequently asked questions

What students say about CLC


  • Thais O'Malley

    Thais O'Malley

    Graduate

    “The quality of the program helped prepare me for the real world. I got my job right after graduation. I thanked my teachers because they prepared me so well.”

    Thais studied Digital Media and Design at CLC. She now works as a graphic designer and social media specialist for the City of Lake Forest.

    Read Thais' story

    Thais O'Malley
  • Photo of Luzbeth Perez

    Luzbeth Perez

    Graduate

    “I accomplished goals I never thought I could in my time at CLC. I earned straight As and became part of the honor society. I started drawing art! CLC is a place where you can succeed in your education.”

    Luzbeth studied Digital Media and Design at CLC. At first she struggled in class but with support from CLC faculty, she graduated magna cum laude.

    Read Luzbeth's story

    Photo of Luzbeth Perez
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Related programs

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