Graphic Design Certificate

Communicate inspiring ideas

Create visual concepts

Gain professional front-end design and marketing experience with this Certificate in Graphic Design. Then, if you want to learn more, choose from other advanced learning opportunities with related associate degrees in digital media.

Your coursework prepares you for immediate work in industries such as digital media, print, publishing, advertising and manufacturing.

Get experience:

Producing website layouts
Assembling final layouts for print vendors
Developing packaging design and marketing

Creating wide-format graphics, signage and custom vinyl decals
Assembling final layouts for print vendors
Researching new design concepts

We provide you with access to Mac and PC computer labs, so you can become familiar with both platforms. You build work-ready industry skills as you learn the ins and outs of digital marketing and design tools:
- Adobe® Acrobat, After Effects, Animate, Audition, Dreamweaver, InDesign, Illustrator, Media Encoder, Photoshop and Premiere
- Apple® Logic Pro X and Final Cut Pro
- 3D Software: Maxon® Cinema 4D
- WordPress with Apache server
- Figma for UI/UX design
- Waves Mercury hardware and plugins, Steinberg Cubase, Celemony Melodyne 4 Studio Software and Avid Pro Tools
- digital video cameras, recording equipment and audio mixers
- green screen, broadcast monitors, condenser microphones, analog and digital video capture stations

What can you do with a certificate in Graphic Design?

This certificate prepares you to start work or continue your education in graphic design, communications, digital media or related fields.

Highlights

Stackable Credentials

Earn and learn as you go with stackable credentials.
Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.
Career Certificate

Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.
Program Length: 1 Year

Full-time students finish in 1 year.

Career Outlook

Formulate design concepts and presentation approaches for visual productions and media, such as print, broadcasting, video, and film. Direct workers engaged in artwork or layout design.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $52,450
  
  Median
  
  $89,388
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $171,648
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $25.21
  
  Median
  
  $42.97
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $82.52
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  9.69%
  
  Some college
  
  5.7%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  5.37%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  71.54%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  7.69%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Format typescript and graphic elements using computer software to produce publication-ready material.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $44,028
  
  Median
  
  $57,509
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $105,659
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.16
  
  Median
  
  $27.64
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $50.80
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  44.3%
  
  Certificate
  
  4.86%
  
  Some college
  
  1%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  11.14%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  38.7%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Design or create graphics to meet specific commercial or promotional needs, such as packaging, displays, or logos. May use a variety of mediums to achieve artistic or decorative effects.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $38,645
  
  Median
  
  $63,590
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $111,583
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $18.58
  
  Median
  
  $30.56
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $53.64
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  15%
  
  Some college
  
  5%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  5%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  65%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  10%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Create special effects or animations using film, video, computers, or other electronic tools and media for use in products, such as computer games, movies, music videos, and commercials.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $44,976
  
  Median
  
  $63,920
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $128,951
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $21.62
  
  Median
  
  $30.73
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $61.99
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  5.53%
  
  Some college
  
  39.68%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  1.7%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  52.75%
  
  Master's Degree
  
  0.34%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Design digital user interfaces or websites. Develop and test layouts, interfaces, functionality, and navigation menus to ensure compatibility and usability across browsers or devices. May use web framework applications as well as client-side code and processes. May evaluate web design following web and accessibility standards, and may analyze web use metrics and optimize websites for marketability and search engine ranking. May design and test interfaces that facilitate the human-computer interaction and maximize the usability of digital devices, websites, and software with a focus on aesthetics and design. May create graphics used in websites and manage website content and links.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $37,605
  
  Median
  
  $79,989
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $144,114
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $18.07
  
  Median
  
  $38.45
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $69.28
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  12.5%
  
  Certificate
  
  16.67%
  
  Some college
  
  4.17%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  16.67%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  50%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).
Develop and implement websites, web applications, application databases, and interactive web interfaces. Evaluate code to ensure that it is properly structured, meets industry standards, and is compatible with browsers and devices. Optimize website performance, scalability, and server-side code and processes. May develop website infrastructure and integrate websites with other computer applications.
- Salary Levels
  
  Take a look at the average annual or hourly earnings for this career in Lake and Cook Counties.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $52,563
  
  Median
  
  $85,935
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $139,145
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
  
  Entry-Level
  
  $25.26
  
  Median
  
  $41.31
  
  Senior-Level
  
  $66.89
  
  Lightcast earnings figures are based on OES (Occupational Employment Statistics) data from the BLS (Bureau of Labor Statistics) and include base rate, cost of living allowances, guaranteed pay, hazardous-duty pay, incentive pay (including commissions and bonuses), on-call pay, and tips.
- Top entry-level education
  
  Here’s a quick look at the most common degree levels people have in this career.
  
  High school diploma or less
  
  12.5%
  
  Certificate
  
  16.67%
  
  Some college
  
  4.17%
  
  Associate Degree
  
  16.67%
  
  Bachelor's Degree
  
  50%
  
  Lightcast educational attainment levels are the educational attainment percentage breakdown for a career (e.g. the percentage of people in the career who hold a bachelor degree vs. an associate degree).

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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 inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

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

Course Code	Course Title	Credits
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
DMD 113	DMD 113 History of Graphic Design Class Description This course is a general survey of the history of graphic design from its origins to contemporary practice. The goals of this course are to provide the following: the visual vocabulary of the development of signs and symbols, insight into the continuity of design thinking, understanding the social/political context of the practice, foundation for pursuit of research in the field of design.	2
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
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
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

Course Highlights
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
Course Code	DMD 113
Course Title	DMD 113 History of Graphic Design Class Description This course is a general survey of the history of graphic design from its origins to contemporary practice. The goals of this course are to provide the following: the visual vocabulary of the development of signs and symbols, insight into the continuity of design thinking, understanding the social/political context of the practice, foundation for pursuit of research in the field of design.
Credits	2

Course Highlights
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
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
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 Code	Course Title	Credits
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
DMD 125	DMD 125 Printing Production Class Description Printing Production focuses on current procedures that prepare designers and creative thinkers for real world situations in the printing industry. Sending a job to the print vendor can be a mysterious and expensive process of trial and error. Understanding print processes is an essential part of design that can assure a predictable outcome of deliverables. To manage a print job effectively, you must understand how print shops work, how to communicate with them, and how to identify the best design solution for your budget. Topics include print media software, apps and specifications; and various types of presses, substrates, bindings, and/or finishings.	3
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
DMD 279	DMD 279 Packaging Design Class Description This course is designed as an overview of two dimensional design principles for creating three-dimensional packaging. The history of design packaging and strategies of consumer decision-making will be explored. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete package identity design system in support of a marketing strategy. 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 packaging.	3

Course Highlights
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
Course Code	DMD 125
Course Title	DMD 125 Printing Production Class Description Printing Production focuses on current procedures that prepare designers and creative thinkers for real world situations in the printing industry. Sending a job to the print vendor can be a mysterious and expensive process of trial and error. Understanding print processes is an essential part of design that can assure a predictable outcome of deliverables. To manage a print job effectively, you must understand how print shops work, how to communicate with them, and how to identify the best design solution for your budget. Topics include print media software, apps and specifications; and various types of presses, substrates, bindings, and/or finishings.
Credits	3

Course Highlights
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	DMD 279
Course Title	DMD 279 Packaging Design Class Description This course is designed as an overview of two dimensional design principles for creating three-dimensional packaging. The history of design packaging and strategies of consumer decision-making will be explored. The course will provide students the opportunity to develop a complete package identity design system in support of a marketing strategy. 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 packaging.
Credits	3

Total Credit Hours

26

*Cost is estimated based on recommended pathway credit hours. This includes in-district tuition and other fees, such as books and materials before financial aid is applied, as well as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

Digital Media and Design at CLC

Get the bigger picture

This certificate is just one possible way to study Digital Media and Design. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Digital Media and Design Program Overview

Frequently asked questions

Yes! Our Digital Media and Design program is a great fit for you. More than half of our students attend class part time.
The Certificate in Graphic Design is 26 total credit hours and takes an average of one year to complete when enrolled full time. Get hands-on experience in courses featuring a mix of lectures and labs. Simulated and real-world service-learning projects give you the opportunity to apply the knowledge and skills covered in class.
Practice using a Canon wide format printer, a Graphtec cutter and Xerox VersaLink C8000 printers in our two Mac labs or the Windows lab.
Your classes include:
- Typography
- Web Design and Development
- Digital Photography 1
- Printing Production
- Advanced Electronic Graphic Publishing
- Packaging Design
Yes—well, most of them. Every course in this program is offered in an online format, except for our field courses which must be taken in person.
Attend class in the way that works best for your goals:
- Virtual Live: Learn remotely in real time. Take classes taught live via Zoom.
- Online: Have the flexibility to complete coursework without scheduled meetings while staying actively engaged in a fully online environment.
- In-person: Keep your degree on track with classes that meet face-to-face, providing you with opportunities to interact in-person with faculty and peers.

What students say about CLC

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
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

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Communicate inspiring ideas

Create visual concepts

Access to must-have digital tools

What can you do with a certificate in Graphic Design?

Highlights

Stackable Credentials

Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

Career Certificate

Program Length: 1 Year

Career Outlook

Art Directors

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Desktop Publishers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Graphic Designers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Special Effects Artists and Animators

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Web and Digital Interface Designers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Web Developers

Salary Levels

Top entry-level education

Need help?

Recommended Pathway

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Semester 1 14 Credits

Semester 2 12 Credits

Total Credit Hours

Digital Media and Design at CLC

Get the bigger picture

Frequently asked questions

Can I enroll as a part-time student in this program?

How long is the program?

Can I take my classes online?

What students say about CLC

Thais O'Malley

Luzbeth Perez

Take the next step...

Be debt-free at CLC

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