An undergraduate certificate program at Penn Foster College is shorter compared to the associate and bachelor’s degree programs. This is ideal for people who want to enroll in a group of related classes.

The courses offered under this program can be taken from different disciplines. Some institutions may offer classes focusing on a specific field whether academic or technical. Depending on one’s preference, a student may be allowed to pursue an undergraduate certificate program while at the same time completing an undergraduate degree. Those who don’t have enough time to pursue two to four-year programs can also opt for this type of tertiary education. Being a short course, this can be completed online at home.

An undergraduate certificate in graphic design will teach students the appropriate knowledge and skills to be able to utilize commercial software packages such as Photoshop, Adobe Illustrator and InDesign meant for graphic design whether for print and web-based applications. Subjects include the basics in graphic design theory, theory application, typography and development of personal and corporate portfolio. Specific courses can include photo image editing, special effects and enhancements, transforming objects, working with layers and patterns, perception and dynamic balance, corporate design and brand strategy, web design, color, production tools and procedures.

The graphic design industry today continues to experience growth and graphic designers and artists are in high demand worldwide. As long as you have a background in graphic design regardless of the length of your education, you have the opportunity to work in this dynamic industry. Thousands of graphic design job openings will continue to be available in the coming years.