Desktop publishing programs offer specific courses for certifications in graphic design, web design, multimedia, and business marketing design.
The world of desktop publishing encompasses several areas, including graphic design, web design, multimedia, and business marketing design. The course of study for each varies, but all have a basic and master certification, which can stand alone or compliment an Associates or Bachelor’s degree in the particular field of study.
Graphic Design
This certificate program focuses on visual communication skills. A student acquires a strong basis for graphic design in learning techniques, thinking visually, concept development, composition, typography, and color. Accomplished through hands-on exercises, students gain proficiency in digital imaging, the use of vector drawing tools, and learning professional applications for use in Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator and equivalent desktop publishing programs.
These courses include illustration, critique, photo composition, retouching, magazine layout, product packaging, poster and book design, identity design, business publications, and typography design.
Web Design
This certificate program develops visual graphics and design skills needed to create websites that are unique and compelling. Students master professional applications for use in Adobe Photoshop, Macromedia, Flash, and Dreamweaver, and other software used in desktop publishing.
Projects included are critique, digital imaging, composition, typography, and color. Delving into the design of web pages, students use HTML, tables, frames, site maps, gateway and ecommerce pages, wireframes. Web page design explores various styles and the use of Flash animation.
Multimedia
Multimedia programs focus on conceptual, technical, and visual design skills necessary for creating multimedia applications and environments. A foundation in this field includes design principles, digital imaging, basic Action Scripting, Flash animation, interaction design, and video and sound editing.
These courses include projects that teach critique, storyboarding, compositing, retouching, interface design, and motion graphics production.
Business Marketing
This certificate develops the student’s abilities for visual identity, advertising, and marketing design, geared toward the corporate and small business environments.
Projects within the courses include the use of Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator in professional environments. Additional training in digital imaging and knowledge of the vector drawing tools is also provided. Marketing concept development, print and Web advertising, direct mail, marketing communication, business startup scenarios, and identity design are key concepts students learn.
Career Paths
Careers in each area of desktop publishing are broad in scope, but include Creative/Art Director, Brand Identity Design, Layout Artist, Illustrator, Logo Designer, Flash Designer, Technical Illustrator, Photo Editor/Artist, Multimedia Designer, Pre-Press Technician, Photographer, and Web Designer.