Graphic design is a powerful creative process that blends art and technology to visually communicate ideas. It enhances communication by making information more appealing, memorable, and accessible. Through captivating visuals, it effectively conveys messages, strengthens branding, and fosters engagement. In today’s visually-driven world, graphic design is essential for successful communication across various mediums.
With that known, here is a compiled list of the 12 Best Graphic Design Online Training and Certification Courses for Beginners in 2023
12 Best Graphic Design Courses for Beginners in 2023
1. Free Graphic Design Courses (Udemy)
2. Learn Professional 2D Game Graphic Design in Photoshop (Udemy)
3. GIMP Beginner – Advanced: Free Photoshop like Graphic Design (Udemy)
4. Illustrator MasterClass (Udemy)
5. Photoshop for Entrepreneurs – Design 11 Practical Projects (Udemy)
6. Graphic Design Bootcamp Online (Udemy)
7. Learn Professional 2D Game Asset Design in Photoshop (Udemy)
8. Web Designing Certification by University of Michigan (Coursera)
9. Graphic Design Certification by Calarts (Coursera)
10. Canva Graphics Design for Entrepreneurs – Design 11 Projects (Udemy)
11. Adobe Illustrator: Mastering the Fundamentals (Udemy)
12. After Effects CC: Complete Course from Novice to Expert (Udemy)
1. Free Graphic Design Courses (Udemy)
The Free Graphic Design Courses and Tutorials on Udemy is a comprehensive and accessible resource for aspiring designers and enthusiasts alike. Offering a diverse range of free courses, this platform equips learners with fundamental design skills and industry insights.
The course curriculum covers essential graphic design principles, such as color theory, typography, layout, and composition. Students receive hands-on training in popular design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, allowing them to create stunning visuals and develop a solid portfolio.
What sets this course apart is its flexibility and self-paced structure. Participants can learn at their convenience, fitting the material into their busy schedules. Furthermore, the free nature of the course makes it a budget-friendly option for those seeking to explore graphic design without financial constraints.
In addition to technical skills, the course emphasizes creative thinking and problem-solving, fostering a well-rounded approach to design. Students can engage with a supportive online community, exchanging ideas and receiving feedback from instructors and peers.
Whether one aims to kickstart a career in graphic design or simply wants to enhance their artistic abilities, the Free Graphic Design Courses and Tutorials on Udemy is a valuable platform that empowers learners with the knowledge and expertise to bring their visual ideas to life. Click here to learn the Free Graphic Design Courses and Tutorials on Udemy
2. Learn Professional 2D Game Graphic Design in Photoshop (Udemy)
The Learn Professional 2D Game Graphic Design in Photoshop course is a must-take for anyone aspiring to create captivating visuals for the gaming industry. Geared towards both beginners and intermediate designers, this comprehensive course delves into the intricacies of designing graphics for 2D games using Adobe Photoshop.
Led by industry experts, the course offers a step-by-step approach to mastering game graphic design. Participants will gain an understanding of character design, background creation, asset development, and animation techniques specific to the gaming realm. By the end of the course, learners will possess the skills to craft immersive game worlds and compelling characters that breathe life into any gaming project.
The curriculum provides hands-on projects and real-world examples to ensure practical application and reinforce learning. Additionally, participants will learn how to optimize graphics for various platforms and resolutions, catering to the dynamic gaming landscape.
The course’s interactive format allows students to engage with instructors and fellow learners through discussions and feedback. This fosters a collaborative learning environment where ideas can be shared and honed collectively.
For those aspiring to break into the gaming industry or passionate about creating games as a hobby, the Learn Professional 2D Game Graphic Design course is a powerful resource that empowers designers to unleash their creativity and bring their gaming visions to fruition. Click here to Learn Professional 2D Game Graphic Design in Photoshop on Udemy.
3. GIMP Beginner – Advanced: Free Photoshop like Graphic Design (Udemy)
The GIMP Complete course on Udemy is a comprehensive and practical guide to mastering the popular open-source graphic design software, GIMP. Aimed at beginners and intermediate users, this course covers a wide range of graphic design techniques, including creating book covers and digital illustrations.
Led by experienced instructors, the course provides hands-on projects that allow students to apply their newfound skills in real-world scenarios. Participants will learn essential GIMP tools and features, enabling them to design stunning visuals, manipulate images, and unleash their creativity.
With a focus on book cover design, the course caters to authors, self-publishers, and graphic designers interested in this niche. Additionally, it offers valuable insights into digital drawing, equipping learners with the ability to create their own digital illustrations.
The interactive nature of the course fosters an engaging learning experience, allowing students to interact with instructors and fellow learners, share ideas, and seek feedback. By the end of this course, participants will have the confidence and expertise to produce professional-level graphic designs and captivating book covers using GIMP. Click here to learn the GIMP Complete course on Udemy.
4. Illustrator MasterClass (Udemy)
The Illustrator 2022 MasterClass course on Udemy is a comprehensive and up-to-date resource for anyone looking to unlock the full potential of Adobe Illustrator, one of the industry’s leading vector graphic design software. With a focus on the latest version, Illustrator 2022, this course caters to beginners, intermediate users, and seasoned designers alike.
Led by expert instructors, the MasterClass covers the entire spectrum of Illustrator functionalities, from basic tools and techniques to advanced features. Participants will learn how to create vector illustrations, logos, icons, and complex artwork with precision and creativity.
The course structure emphasizes hands-on learning, providing practical projects and exercises that reinforce the concepts taught in each section. Learners will gain confidence and proficiency in using Illustrator’s powerful tools, allowing them to express their artistic vision and design visually stunning graphics.
Additionally, the Illustrator 2022 MasterClass offers insights into industry best practices, time-saving tips, and efficient workflows that help optimize the design process. Students will also learn about the integration of Illustrator with other Adobe Creative Cloud applications, enhancing their overall design capabilities.
With a supportive online community, learners can engage in discussions, seek feedback, and collaborate with peers, enriching the learning experience.
Overall, the Illustrator 2022 MasterClass on Udemy is an invaluable resource that equips designers with the skills and expertise needed to create professional-level vector graphics and illustrations using Adobe Illustrator 2022. Click here to learn the Illustrator 2022 MasterClass course on Udemy.
5. Photoshop for Entrepreneurs – Design 11 Practical Projects (Udemy)
The Photoshop for Entrepreneurs course is a game-changer for business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to elevate their visual branding and marketing strategies. Designed with practicality in mind, this course goes beyond traditional Photoshop tutorials, focusing on projects directly applicable to entrepreneurial endeavors.
Led by skilled instructors, the course covers essential design principles and Photoshop techniques required to create impactful visuals for businesses. Participants will learn how to design logos, social media graphics, business cards, website banners, and more – all tailored to meet the specific needs of entrepreneurs.
The real-world projects enable learners to gain hands-on experience, and by the course’s conclusion, participants will have developed a comprehensive portfolio of valuable assets for their business.
Moreover, the instructors provide valuable insights into brand consistency, audience targeting, and effective communication through visuals. This equips entrepreneurs with the tools to craft a cohesive and compelling brand identity that resonates with their target market.
The interactive nature of the course allows for instructor interaction, peer collaboration, and feedback, fostering a supportive learning environment.
For entrepreneurs looking to enhance their business’s visual presence and create professional-quality designs without outsourcing, the “Photoshop for Entrepreneurs – Design 11 Practical Projects” course offers the skills and confidence needed to succeed in the competitive digital landscape. Click here to learn the Photoshop for Entrepreneurs course on Udemy.
6. Graphic Design Bootcamp Online (Udemy)
The Graphic Design Bootcamp Online course on Udemy is a comprehensive and highly regarded program for individuals aspiring to become proficient graphic designers. Developed and led by industry expert Derrick Mitchell, this course covers everything from design fundamentals to advanced techniques, making it an ideal choice for beginners and intermediate learners alike.
The course commences with an in-depth exploration of design theory, color principles, typography, and composition, setting a strong foundation for aspiring designers. As the boot camp progresses, participants dive into hands-on projects that challenge their creativity and problem-solving skills. These practical exercises cover various design deliverables, including logos, brochures, social media graphics, and more.
With a focus on popular design tools like Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, learners gain proficiency in using industry-standard software. This empowers them to create visually stunning designs across multiple platforms.
One of the standout features of this course is the emphasis on design workflows, efficiency, and professional best practices. Participants gain insights into client communication, project management, and building a strong design portfolio.
The Graphic Design Bootcamp offers lifetime access to its resources, allowing students to revisit and refresh their knowledge at their convenience. Moreover, a supportive community and instructor engagement enhance the learning experience, fostering a collaborative and motivating environment.
Overall, the Graphic Design Bootcamp course on Udemy provides an all-encompassing learning journey, equipping aspiring designers with the skills, confidence, and industry insights needed to succeed in the competitive world of graphic design. Click here to learn the Graphic Design Bootcamp Online course on Udemy.
7. Learn Professional 2D Game Asset Design in Photoshop (Udemy)
The Learn Professional 2D Game Asset Design in Photoshop course is a must-have resource for game developers and aspiring game artists seeking to create captivating visuals for their projects. Led by industry professionals, this comprehensive course focuses on the intricacies of designing 2D game assets using Adobe Photoshop.
The curriculum encompasses a wide range of topics, including character design, environment art, animation, and asset optimization. Students will gain hands-on experience by creating assets like characters, backgrounds, objects, and user interface elements.
Throughout the course, participants will learn industry-standard techniques, such as creating sprite sheets, using layer effects, and employing non-destructive workflows, ensuring their designs are scalable and adaptable.
What sets this course apart is its emphasis on practicality and real-world applications. Learners are exposed to actual game development scenarios and requirements, enabling them to tailor their designs to suit specific game genres and styles.
Moreover, the interactive nature of the course encourages students to engage with instructors and fellow learners, fostering a collaborative learning environment. This allows for valuable feedback, discussions, and networking opportunities within the game development community.
Upon completion, participants will be equipped with the skills and confidence to create professional-quality 2D game assets that enhance gameplay and immerse players in captivating game worlds. Whether aiming for a career in the gaming industry or pursuing personal game development projects, this course is a valuable asset for aspiring game designers and artists. Click here to learn the Learn Professional 2D Game Asset Design in Photoshop course on Udemy.
8. Web Designing Certification by University of Michigan (Coursera)
The Web Designing Certification by University of Michigan course is a prestigious and comprehensive program that equips learners with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in modern web design. Developed by the University of Michigan, a reputable institution known for its academic excellence, this certification course offers an in-depth exploration of web design principles, tools, and best practices.
The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, responsive design, user experience (UX), and web accessibility. Participants receive hands-on training, engaging in real-world projects that allow them to apply their knowledge and build a strong portfolio of web designs.
The course structure encourages self-paced learning, making it suitable for both beginners and experienced designers seeking to upgrade their skill set. Learners benefit from the expertise of experienced instructors and receive personalized feedback to enhance their learning experience.
By earning the Web Designing Certification from the University of Michigan, participants gain a competitive edge in the job market and demonstrate their proficiency in web design to potential employers. Additionally, this certification is a valuable asset for freelancers and entrepreneurs looking to offer professional web design services.
Overall, the Web Designing Certification by University of Michigan is a reputable and valuable program that prepares individuals for a successful career in web design, delivering the skills and credentials necessary to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape. Click here to learn the Web Designing Certification by University of Michigan course on Coursera.
9. Graphic Design Certification by Calarts (Coursera)
The Graphic Design Certification by Calarts course on Coursera is a highly regarded and prestigious program that offers a comprehensive and rigorous curriculum in graphic design. Developed by the California Institute of the Arts (Calarts), renowned for its excellence in arts education, this certification course provides learners with a world-class education in the field of graphic design.
The course covers essential design principles, typography, color theory, layout, and visual communication techniques. Participants will engage in hands-on projects that challenge their creativity and problem-solving skills, allowing them to develop a diverse and impactful portfolio of design work.
Led by accomplished instructors with extensive industry experience, the course fosters a collaborative and supportive learning environment. Participants receive constructive feedback and guidance throughout their journey, ensuring they master the necessary skills to excel in graphic design.
The Graphic Design Certification by Calarts is ideal for aspiring designers, professionals seeking to enhance their design abilities, and individuals considering a career transition into the creative field. Upon completion, learners earn a recognized certification from Calarts, boosting their credibility and employability in the design industry.
Overall, this Coursera program combines the excellence of Calarts’ design education with the accessibility of online learning, making it an invaluable opportunity for anyone looking to embark on a successful and rewarding career in graphic design. Click here to learn the Graphic Design Certification by Calarts course on Coursera.
10. Canva Graphics Design for Entrepreneurs – Design 11 Projects (Udemy)
The Canva Graphic Design for Entrepreneurs course on Udemy is a game-changing resource for business owners and entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their visual branding and marketing efforts using the popular online design platform, Canva. Led by experienced instructors, this course is designed to cater to beginners with no prior design experience, making it accessible and practical for those focused on growing their businesses.
The curriculum focuses on equipping learners with essential design skills and techniques to create stunning visuals for social media, marketing materials, presentations, and more. Participants will explore Canva’s extensive library of templates, graphics, and fonts, learning how to customize and optimize designs for their specific needs.
The course emphasizes hands-on learning through real-world projects, allowing entrepreneurs to apply their newfound skills to their own businesses immediately. By the end of the course, participants will have developed a comprehensive collection of high-quality visual assets that elevate their brand presence.
One of the standout features of this course is its emphasis on efficiency and time-saving tips within Canva’s platform. This empowers entrepreneurs to create professional-level designs without the need for external designers or expensive software.
With a supportive community and instructor engagement, learners can seek feedback, discuss ideas, and collaborate with peers, enhancing their overall learning experience.
In conclusion, the Canva Graphic Design for Entrepreneurs course on Udemy is a valuable investment for entrepreneurs looking to take their visual branding and marketing efforts to the next level using Canva’s user-friendly platform and design tools. Click here to learn the Canva Graphic Design for Entrepreneurs course on Udemy.
11. Adobe Illustrator: Mastering the Fundamentals (Udemy)
The Adobe Illustrator: Mastering the Fundamentals course is a comprehensive and essential program for anyone looking to develop a strong foundation in Adobe Illustrator, the industry-leading vector graphic design software. Created for beginners and intermediate users, this course covers the essential tools and techniques needed to create professional-level illustrations, logos, and designs.
Led by experienced instructors, the curriculum starts with a detailed exploration of Illustrator’s interface and essential features, gradually progressing to more advanced topics such as paths, shapes, and gradients. Participants will learn about typography, color theory, and effective design composition, enabling them to create visually captivating artworks.
The course’s hands-on approach ensures practical application, with engaging projects that challenge learners to apply the concepts learned in real-world scenarios. By the course’s conclusion, students will have developed a diverse portfolio of impressive designs that showcase their newly acquired skills.
One of the key advantages of this course is its accessibility and self-paced structure, allowing participants to learn at their convenience and revisit the material whenever needed.
The Adobe Illustrator course on Udemy provides an interactive learning experience, offering opportunities for instructor interaction, peer collaboration, and constructive feedback.
Overall, this course is an indispensable resource for aspiring graphic designers, illustrators, and anyone seeking to unleash their creative potential and master Adobe Illustrator’s fundamental tools and techniques. Click here to learn the Adobe Illustrator course on Udemy.
12. After Effects CC: Complete Course from Novice to Expert (Udemy)
The Adobe After Effects course is a comprehensive and transformative learning journey for individuals looking to become proficient in this powerful motion graphics and visual effects software. Suitable for beginners and intermediate users, this course covers everything from the basics to advanced techniques, elevating learners from novices to experts.
Led by seasoned instructors with extensive industry experience, the course delves into After Effects’ interface, tools, and features, providing a solid foundation for participants to explore the world of motion graphics. Learners will discover key animation principles, special effects, and compositing techniques used in professional video productions.
The hands-on projects challenge participants to apply their knowledge, enabling them to create stunning motion graphics, kinetic typography, and captivating visual effects. By working on real-world projects, students gain practical experience and develop a diverse portfolio showcasing their newfound skills.
What sets this course apart is its comprehensive approach, addressing not only the technical aspects but also creative strategies for storytelling and engaging visual communication. The course also covers time-saving tips and efficient workflows to streamline the animation process.
Additionally, the course fosters an interactive learning environment through instructor engagement, peer collaboration, and personalized feedback.
In conclusion, the Adobe After Effects course on Udemy is an indispensable resource for aspiring motion graphics artists and video editors seeking to master After Effects and unleash their creativity in the world of visual storytelling. Click here to learn the Adobe After Effects course on Udemy.