The Certificate Program in Graphic Design is intended for students with limited experience in art and design.You will begin by taking fundamental courses in design and illustration; by the end of the program, you will have developed the practical and theoretical skills of a design professional.
The Certificate consists of at least eight credit-bearing courses, all of which are available through Continuing Education. By taking one or two courses each semester, you may complete the program in one-and-one-half to two years.
You may also participate in the SMFA's Internship program. Through an internship with an arts organization, design firm, or other local business, you'll gain practical experience and skills.
Program of Study
The Certificate Program in Graphic Design consists of at least eight courses: four required courses and four studio electives. The required courses provide a foundation of techniques, skills, and an understanding of graphic design as a discipline. In order for a course to count toward the Certificate it must be taken for credit.
Elective courses allow you to build additional general skills or to focus on a particular area. Typically, students take the required courses prior to the electives (all of which are offered through Continuing Education). Electives can vary each semester. Applicants to post-secondary certificate programs at the SMFA must have at least a high school diploma or its recognized equivalent.
Required Courses
Beginning Graphic Design
Intermediate Graphic Design
Introduction to Typography
Fundamentals of 2-D Design
Suggested Elective Courses
Color Photography and the Digital Darkroom
Color Theory for Artists, Designers and the Color Curious
Digital Photography I
Drawing for Illustrators and Narrative Realists
Going into the World: a Portfolio Prep Course
Intermediate Web Design
Introduction to Adobe Illustrator
Introduction to Adobe Photoshop
Introduction to Filmmaking
Introduction to Web Design
Screenprinting: The Whole Story
Stop Motion Animation
Internships
Certificate students may participate in SMFA's Internship Program. Administered by the Artists' Resource Center, the program offers opportunities with arts organizations, design firms, and other local businesses, allowing design students to gain practical experience and skills. The internships have a value of two credits.
To apply for an internship, you must be enrolled in the Certificate Program in Graphic Design and you should have completed the four required courses.
To be selected, you must meet the requirements of the intern sponsor and have a faculty advisor to supervise the internship.
If you are selected for an internship position, you must enroll with the Continuing Education office and pay the appropriate tuition and fees.
A unit of two credits earned in the internship program will count as a one-course elective in the Certificate Program in Graphic Design.
