Graphic Design Art Online Course

Tutored by Heather Rooney

Improve your creative skills and learn new design techniques with the Graphic Design Art Diploma course from London Art College. Whether you are a complete beginner, intermediate or have some experience in art and design, this engaging online course with tutor feedback on coursework will encourage you to develop your artistic potential in a commercial way.

The Graphic Design Art Diploma Course is a comprised of a fully illustrated course book, along with practical exercises that focus on the fundamental elements of art and design.

The course covers:

• A highly detailed guide to basic drawing techniques
• Composition and layout skills
• An introduction to graphic design, it's history and specialisms
• Lettering and typography
• Logo design
• Packaging
• Cartooning
• Poster design
• Book jacket and CD design
• Advertising
• Illustration

Students tackle realistic design briefs and are guided through the design process. There is a strong emphasis on generating a broad variety of ideas, before learning how to carefully refine them into successful design solutions. The course focuses on creating ideas using traditional drawing materials (pencil, pen and ink, paint, collage) and you will be encouraged to experiment with a range of media. Students will be guided towards progressing ideas on paper and can submit some finished design work completed on a computer if they wish. The course teaches the artistic side of graphic design and does not teach the use of computer software.

Work will be sent in at seven points in the course and between 2 and 5 pieces will be requested each time.  A tutor will give feedback on each assignment.

On completion of this Diploma course you will have a portfolio of coursework that demonstrates a wide range of skills and knowledge, which could then be applied to your personal art and design work, or perhaps to apply for further or higher education courses*.

Sign up today to start building your skills and expand your horizons with the Graphic Design Art Diploma course. Click on the link below to get started.

*Please note: Although we award our own London Art College Diploma, successful completion of this course does not carry academic credits. This is a vocational (skills improvement) course. To use the portfolio this course can help you to develop to apply for further or higher education courses please contact your preferred educational institutions to ask for minimum entry requirements.

Why do students choose the Graphic Design Art Course?

A graphic design course that does not use computers can have several advantages, although such courses are hard to find in this digital age. Here are some of the potential benefits:

• Foundational Skills: Learning graphic design without computers can help you build a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of design, such as composition, colour theory, typography, and visual hierarchy. These principles are essential for any designer, whether they work with digital tools or not.
• Creativity and Imagination: Working by hand encourages creativity and imagination. It allows you to experiment freely, sketch ideas quickly, and explore various design concepts without the constraints of software.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Designing without computers can challenge your problem-solving skills. You'll need to find creative ways to achieve your design goals using traditional tools, which can translate well into digital design as you learn to think outside the box. You will tackle realistic design briefs as you are guided through the design process. You will gain experience of creating and developing successful design solutions that can be applied to your own leaflets, posters, cards, and other personal work.
• Attention to Detail: Creating designs manually often requires a high level of precision and attention to detail, which can be a transferable skill in digital design where attention to pixel-perfect detail is crucial.
• Reduced Distractions: Working without computers can reduce distractions commonly associated with digital design, like social media, email, or software-related issues. This can help you focus more on your creative process.
• Greater Appreciation for Traditional Art: A non-computer-based graphic design course can foster an appreciation for traditional art forms and techniques. Understanding traditional art can influence and enhance your digital design work, providing a more well-rounded design perspective.
• Resourcefulness: Learning to design without computers can teach you to be resourceful and adapt to different tools and materials. This adaptability can be beneficial in a fast-paced design industry where new tools and technologies are constantly emerging.
• Versatility: Graphic designers who have a strong foundation in non-computer-based design may be more versatile, as they can apply their skills to various mediums, from print to digital, and adapt to different design challenges.
• Portfolio Diversity: If you later decide to use digital tools, your experience in non-computer-based design can help you create a more diverse and unique portfolio, which can set you apart from other designers. This portfolio can be used to apply for further or higher education courses, but we do advise checking with the institution about the consideration that will be given to your portfolio.

While these advantages are notable, it's essential to recognize that digital design is the industry standard in most contexts today, and computer-based design skills are highly valued. However, a strong foundation in design principles and creativity, as obtained through a non-computer-based course, can complement your digital design skills and make you a more well-rounded designer.

Please note that although we award our own London Art College Diploma with this course, it does not carry academic credits. This is a vocational (skills improvement) course.

On average, the course is typically completed within one year, yet we offer a generous two-year timeframe, ensuring a relaxed, pressure-free learning experience.

This course is suitable for students with previous experience in drawing and painting.