The graphic design fundamentals certificate provides a foundation in the skills of visual design, typography, and conceptual design skills. There is a focus on addressing the needs of the target audience through research and user testing to assess the effectiveness of a design solution.

This certificate is offered by BYU-Idaho, with support and resources from BYU-Pathway Worldwide.

Looking Ahead

Potential Employment

Junior Production Artist

Design Assistant
Junior Graphic Designer
Marketing Production Artist

Certificate of Graphic Design Fundamentals

Program Requirements

This certificate builds into the Professional Studies degree.

This is an introductory certificate. While not available during PathwayConnect, a student can switch to this certificate once they matriculate.

Certificate

12 CREDITS

Associate

60 CREDITS

Bachelor's

90–96 CREDITS

Certificate of Graphic Design Fundamentals

Course Code

Course Name

# of Credits

ART125

Adobe CC Basics

ART125 — 3 credits

Adobe CC Basics

This course is a practical introduction to the core features and concepts within Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign (also referred to as the core 3 CC apps). Each software program will be broken into 2 modules (beginner and intermediate features). Students will be tested on their ability to demonstrate how each of these features works or what the concepts mean etc.

ART130

Introduction to Graphic Design

ART130 — 3 credits

Introduction to Graphic Design

This course covers the exploration of contemporary visual communications within graphic design and related fields.

ART230

Typography I

ART230 — 3 credits

Typography I

This course is an introduction to typography as a fundamental element of graphic design. This course will also reinforce student knowledge of InDesign.

ART235

Graphic Design

ART235 — 3 credits

Graphic Design

This course involves graphic design projects with an emphasis on creative, conceptual, and practical solutions. Students will also reinforce their understanding of Photoshop.

For questions about this program, contact BYU-Pathway Support

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Why choose this certificate?

Graphic design training will infuse your portfolio with creative products and familiarity with web and online design, illustratration, photography, and typography tools and systems. These skills will assist you in your strategic and creative endeavors, and your experience with social media, Adobe design products, Photoshop, and other brands will add to your marketable experience.

BYU-Pathway has found that certain combinations of certificates lead to better job opportunities. Most degrees have a

recommended plan of certificates

that will help students increase their income and improve their employment possibilities.

Outcomes

Follow a design process that leads to consistent effective results.
Set typography with clear hierarchy that makes content more readable.
Make images that clearly communicate ideas and information to others.
Use industry-standard design software to efficiently complete design work.
Prepare design files that are production-ready.