This course provides a thorough understanding of what graphic design is, starting with the belief that powerful design begins with an idea, a sketch, and a personal story. You'll explore the core principles of design through hands-on exercises before translating your concepts into professional-grade projects. At the start of the course, you'll choose a single software pathway to follow: the industry-standard Adobe Creative Cloud or the modern, accessible Affinity V2 Suite. All lessons and projects will be demonstrated in both ecosystems, but you will master one, building a cohesive workflow from start to finish. This focused approach ensures you gain a deep understanding of your chosen tools. Upon completion, you will have a better understanding of graphic design and a number of portfolio-ready graphic design projects.
Registering at least three weeks prior to the course start date is highly recommended.

This course is delivered in an online, self-paced (asynchronous) format. The instructor interacts with students and facilitates group discussions within NYU’s online learning platform. There are weekly deadlines for lesson and assignment completion.
This course may be used to fulfill the requirements of the Certificate in Storytelling. It may be taken to pursue the certificate, or as a standalone course. Questions? Contact us at The Center for Publishing, Writing, and Media: Email sps.pwm.ce@nyu.edu or call 212-998-7289.
Continuing Education Units (CEU) : 1.5

You'll walk away with

• Experience applying visual design principles to concept development and design analysis.
• Utilize and apply digital image editing techniques utilizing Adobe Creative Suite or the Affinity Suite.
• Translate haptic sketches and personal concepts into polished digital formats.
• Understand the difference among the three core programs (photo editing, vector illustration, and layout) within their chosen suite.
• Create small, beginner-level projects in each program of their chosen suite.

Ideal for

• Beginners who want to be introduced to graphic design principles and their applications using Adobe Creative Cloud
• Intermediate graphic designers who want to improve and learn even more