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Fundamentals of Graphic Design

CalArts' popular introduction to graphic design: imagemaking, typography, shape and colour, and composition.

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About this course

Taught by faculty from California Institute of the Arts, this course covers the core building blocks of graphic design through short lectures and studio-style exercises. It moves from making images and visual communication to letterforms and typography, shape and colour theory, and composition and hierarchy.

Best for: Beginners who want a respected art-school introduction to graphic design.

What you will be able to do

  • Create images that communicate an idea
  • Choose and set type with an understanding of letterforms
  • Apply shape and colour theory
  • Compose layouts with clear visual hierarchy

Syllabus and your progress

Tick modules off as you finish them on Coursera.

0 of 4 modules done

Plan your pace

At 4 hours a week you would finish in about 4 weeks, using the course time estimate above.

Progress is saved in this browser only. No account needed.

Cost and certificate

Paid certificate

On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.

Coursera sets the terms and can change them. Check the course page before you commit serious time, and tell us if something changed.

Quick answers

Is Fundamentals of Graphic Design really free?
Yes, the course material is free on Coursera. On Coursera's enrol screen many courses offer a free 'Full Course, No Certificate' option; the certificate is paid (financial aid can be requested). Check the options before you start.
How long does Fundamentals of Graphic Design take?
Plan for about 15 hrs in total (Provider FAQ: about 15 hours (the course header lists 8 hours)). It is self-paced, so you can go faster or slower.
Do I need experience before Fundamentals of Graphic Design?
No. It is a beginner course with no prerequisites listed.

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Fundamentals of Graphic Design

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