Graphic Design
Software

As long as you’re very comfortable using a computer, you’re good. Beyond that, we’ll teach you the design programs from the ground, up.

Graphic Design Programs covers Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign. It’s a great option for someone who just wants to learn the programs well.

Graphic Design Masterclass includes Graphic Design Programs PLUS a  deep dive into design (think: around 12 lessons per design topic). You’ll also get a thorough grounding in business setup, management and marketing. (Because this course isn’t just about making pretty designs – it’s about using those skills to make more money!)

Basically, in the Masterclass you learn all what you need to know to get started as a professional and confident Graphic Designer. Programs just teaches you the software-without design. I mean you cannot create masterpieces without design training, right?

The Masterclass training will give you the training you need to enter the field on a solid footing.

We have students that just want to learn the software for specific reasons. They will not be creating their own designs, or just performing technical work that does not need design skills. Another reason is that some students just need to learn One of the 3 software programs because they will be going into a related design field such as motion graphics, Illustration, Web Design or others where they will be taking design courses as part of the program!

However, most design jobs-in an agency or freelance will require you to have solid design skills, which is why we recommend taking our Graphic Design Masterclass

You’ll need the Adobe CC student subscription (available here). This subscription includes all the programs you’ll learn during the course.

Each lesson is delivered in a video recording where you’ll hear the instructor talk while you view what she’s doing on her screen. You can pause, rewind and rewatch. (You can even watch at double speed in the online version, though we don’t recommend that. 😊)


The lessons come with files (also included on the USB drive) so you can try out the skills on your own.


Most lessons have homework assignments. These are projects similar to those a graphic designer might create as part of her job. These projects help you practice what you’ve learned, to make sure you’ve mastered the skills.


If you have any questions during the course you can always reach us via phone or email during our tech support hours.


You’ll have access to the course videos for one year.

Definitely.

We have two packages so you can choose the one that works best for you.

Online Package: You’ll receive your course login information by email within 24-48 business hours of registering. Your student portal will contain:

• all course outline booklets
• instructions and videos
• lesson files 

• A course outline booklet describing what we’ll cover in each lesson along, with that lesson’s homework assignment.
• A QuickStart guide which walks you through the process of getting started with the course. (Of course if you have any questions you can contact us!)
• Your USB drive, which contains all of the course videos, design videos, and all files discussed during the lessons so that you can follow along on your own computer. You’ll also find a bonus section with lots of free downloaded images you can use in your projects, plus many beautiful free fonts.

You need a computer with (at least):

• I5 processor

• 8 GB RAM
• USB drive
• Mouse (not just a trackpad)
• 15-inch screen

• The ability to play audio and videos

We also recommend email or internet access if you plan to send in your projects for comments


For the USB package you will need a Windows computer, since the video files we send aren’t compatible with other models. (Sorry! You can still watch the videos online and get all other files by USB.)

It depends.

No – really. It depends on how intensely you schedule yourself. The course could take you anywhere from 5 months to a year. It can even be done faster, depending on how intensely you pace yourself. Most students complete 1-2 lessons with projects per week.

When you sign up we’ll work with you to create a personalized schedule that will fit your life and needs.

Glad you asked. 🙂 Support is one of the hallmarks of The Bold Edge courses. We believe in being there for any questions you have. GD Programs includes a FULL year of support and project feedback. (OK, that’s not really accurate. We actually answer our graduates’ questions way after they finish the course, too!)

Many jobs involve technical knowledge of the programs, without requiring design skills. GD Programs graduates are proficient in the Creative Suite programs and are well positioned to develop their design skills further, whether through on-the-job training or by continuing on in our GD Masterclass program. 

We also support you during the course–and are there for your questions you have on the job, so you feel fully confident all the time!

You’ll have thorough knowledge of Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, plus a course certificate from The Bold Edge.

Yes! We have a number of students who want to learn just one or two of the software programs. You can totally do that!