The cost of learning graphic design varies from single day courses to four-year degrees, with costs ranging from under $500 to tens of thousands of dollars, depending upon the school and the program. Fortunately, American Graphics Institute offers many affordable ways to learn graphic design, with individual courses and certificate programs. While graphic design is a compelling and fulfilling career choice, it is important to be aware of the costs associated with a graphic design career, including certifications, software, classes, and other necessary tools such as software apps and computer equipment.
Graphic Design Courses Cost
The introductory graphic design principles course from AGI provides foundational skills for understanding graphic design. This introductory graphic design course costs under $500, and the fees can be fully applied to the in-depth graphic design certificate program. This six-hour course can be completed online or in-person, and is available to be completed in a single day.
Graphic Design Certificate Cost
A graphic design certificate program has a total cost of $3,600. This 112-hour certificate program can be completed online or in-person, and is available both part- and full-time. With a full-time enrollment, students can obtain their certificates in as little as four weeks. All materials and costs from the school are included in this fee. If completing remotely, a computer and subscription to the Adobe Creative Cloud is required along with the course. If attending in the classroom, the computer and apps are provided for in-class use. Payment plans are also available to make the cost to learn graphic design more manageable.
Cost to learn graphic design through self-studying
There are also plenty of free resources and inexpensive books that make it possible to teach yourself some graphic design principles without the need for a formal education. While this option may be the most affordable, enrolling in a class or program taught by experienced graphic design instructors is always your best bet for honing your skills and acquiring the most knowledge in the shortest possible time. Likewise, it looks best on your resumes and future job applications if you have some sort of formal graphic design education under your belt.
Other Costs for Graphic Designers
In addition to the cost of education, graphic designers also need to purchase tools and software that are necessary to complete their work. One of the most common software packages used in the graphic design industry is the Adobe Creative Cloud, which includes Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. A subscription for these programs can cost anywhere from $20 to $80 per month, depending on the plan selected.
Other tools and equipment necessary for graphic design include a high-quality computer or a graphics tablet. The cost of a computer can vary widely depending on the specifications and brand, but a high-end machine capable of running graphic design software can cost upwards of $2,000. A graphics tablet, which allows designers to create digital drawings and illustrations, can cost anywhere from $100 to $500 or more.
In addition to these costs, there are also other expenses that graphic designers should keep in mind. For example, graphic designers who want to build their own business or keep track of current industry trends may financially invest in their career by attending conferences, joining professional organizations, and purchasing books or online courses. While these expenses are not be mandatory, they can valuable to a graphic designer's professional development.
The overall cost of becoming a graphic designer can be substantial, but the potential rewards of a successful career are well worth the investment. By obtaining the necessary education and tools, designers can develop a robust set of skills and portfolio of work that will help them stand out in a competitive job market.