The ability of graphic design software to create, edit, format, and layout textand graphic elements into camera ready art has revolutionized the publishing, advertising, and printing industries. Design software offers a wide variety of tools that enable you to combine the efficiency of computers with the creative elements of producing publishable materials. The use of desktop publishing is not limited to the field of graphic arts, as more and more companies and organizations are hiring or training in-house staff to perform many desktop publishing tasks. Whether you want to prepare a newsletter, create a brochure, or develop a lengthy publication, this certificate program will give you the
training you need in page layout software, as well as a basic understanding of computers and desktop design concepts.

The courses in this certification program can also be used to take the first step towards building a career in
the graphic design field. After completing the program students will receive the skills necessary to begin to prepare
portfolios for employment. Ten courses are required to receive the Graphic Design Certificate, but you may also take courses on an individual basis. The certificate program is designed to be completed within two semester terms.

Required coursesinclude: Introduction to Adobe Illustrator, Advanced Illustrator, Introduction to Adobe Photoshop, Advanced Photoshop, Introduction to QuarkXpress, Advanced QuarkXpress, Designing Visual Identities, VisualDesign Fundamentals, Introduction to InDesign, and Advanced InDesign. All courses in this program are taught on PC computers and may be taken separately. Upon completion of all 10 courses, the students will receive a certificate of completion from Eastern Connecticut State University.