Graphic design is the process of visual communication and problem solving through the use of typography, illustrations and photography. It is used across a range of disciplines from marketing to publishing and beyond. This course is ideal for those who are keen to launch their graphic design career, or work in a complementary profession, including advertising and marketing or construction, interior and even garden design!
The Introduction to Graphic Design is an online professional development program that will build your skills, awareness and understanding of graphic design and give you insights into how it is applied commercially.
In this graphic design course, you will explore the scope, nature and history of graphic design, and study fundamentals like choosing formats and images, typography, layout design, colour theory and illustration methods and techniques.
You will also learn about logo and collateral creation, design systems and the graphic design industry, and how to bid for relevant jobs and then take a design brief.
On completion of this course, you will have gained the technical skills to work as a graphic designer in a variety of roles and across a diverse range of exciting industries.
Course Structure
Unit - Graphic Design
Unit 1 – Scope and Nature of Graphic Design
- Scope of graphic design
- Where do designers work?
- Careers in graphic design
- Skills required
- General roles of a graphic designer
- Nature of the work
- Art director
- Graphic designer
- Brief history of graphic design
- The language (graphics terminology)
- Application software
- Examples of software
Unit 2 – Design Fundamentals – Line, Tone, Colour, etc.
- Design elements
- Design criteria
- Theories of composition
- Practical devices of composition
- Gestalt principles of perception
- Choosing images
- Choosing computer formats
Unit 3 – Colour Theory and Applications
- Colour formats
- Hex colours
- The difference between coloured and white light
- Differences in colour
- The meaning of colours – emotional response
Unit 4 – Typography
- How much of an impact?
- Typography (lettering) size
- Typography weight
- Typography colour
- Typography location
- Typography styles
- Choosing fonts
Unit 5 – Illustration – Methods and Techniques
- Traditional illustration
- Illustration today
- Illustration – methods & techniques
- Processing images
- Tonal zone system
- Sketching an initial design
- Digital illustration
- Raster graphics
- Vector graphics
Unit 6 – Logotype Design
- What is a logo?
- Creating logos
- Designing business cards
- Designing letterheads
- Designing banners
Unit 7 – Layout Design
- Getting the message across
- Effective organisation
- Attract attention
- General guidelines
- Key elements & principles of layout
- The design process
- What software does a graphic artist use?
Unit 8 – Design Systems and the Design Industry – Design Briefs, How to Bid for Jobs, etc.
- Significant design sectors
- Primary design areas
- Scope and nature of the graphic design industry today
- Design systems
- Designing to persuade
- Design to inform
- Design to educate
- Design to entertain
- What is a design brief?
- Example layout of a design brief
- Web page design
Unit 9 – Comparative Design – Lessons From Other Designers (Lots of Research)
- Important people in the history of graphic design
Unit 10 – Design Project – A Practical Project Applying Everything Prior to This
- Important people in the history of graphic design
- What is pbl?
- Problem definition
- People you work with and mode of interaction
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Testimonials
It has been amazing experience studying with Australian Online Courses. Course materials are sufficient and easy to understand. Examples are all relevant. I am very happy with course design. Thank you very much.
M. Bajracharya, Glenfield, NSW | Certificate of Graphic Design
Australian Online Courses is amazing, it is very helpful for your career or study, strong tutor team and smart way to learn something easier by courses.5 stars
J. Yu, Glebe, NSW | Certificate of Graphic Design
Was easy to follow the instructions and have an understanding of what was required of me
S. Hamilton, Armidale, NSW | Certificate of Graphic Design
Overall this was an enjoyable course. Easy to navigate the site and the feedback for each assignment was really quick.
Lee-Ann | WA | Introduction to Graphic Design
About Us
Graduation
A Certificate of Attainment and Statement of Results will be issued upon successful completion of this course.
How to Enrol
Enrol Online: Enrol Now
Enrol via Live Chat (Business Hours)
Enrol via Telephone 1300 76 2221 (Business Hours)
Enrol via Purchase Order/Tax Invoice
Enrolling Multiple Staff?
To enrol multiple staff, please complete the Employer Enrolment Form. We’ll be in touch within 60 minutes during business hours!
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and EFT/Direct Deposit. Please allow 1-2 Business days for processing for EFT and BPAY.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no course or subject pre-requisites for entry into our programs. However, our professional development programs are generally intended for people over the age of 18. In some circumstances, enrolments from younger people may be considered. Please complete the AOC Parent Guardian Consent Form prior to enrolling and submit here.
Are there any computer requirements?
To study online with Australian Online Courses you will need a computer (desktop PC/laptop) running a current/updated operating system with reliable high-speed internet access. You will need to use the Google Chrome browser to access your course.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
How is this course delivered?
This course is delivered online via our easy-to-navigate Learning Management System (LMS), where you will discover interactive online learning/written content, resources and assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our LMS and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email only during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional Development for:-
- Landscape Designers
- Interior Designers
- Builders
- Advertising and Marketing
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