Here we signpost some of the best Graphic Design courses online to study in the UK via e-learning. We also suggest why this is a good type of skill to develop, who it might suit, and what you can expect to learn in an online Graphic Design course.
Graphic design plays an essential role in modern communication and branding, spanning industries from advertising to web design. If you are passionate about visual storytelling and digital creativity, pursuing an online graphic design course can offer a flexible and comprehensive route to build your skills.
In this guide, we will explore the reasons to study graphic design, the ideal candidate for these courses, common modules, and five leading online graphic design courses available in the UK.
Why Study Graphic Design?
- High Demand for Visual Content
With the rise of digital media, there is an ever-growing demand for visual content across websites, social media, and branding. Graphic designers are crucial for creating the visuals that engage audiences and convey messages effectively. - Creative and Artistic Expression
Graphic design allows individuals to combine artistic skills with technology to create visually striking images, logos, and designs. If you are a creative person with a passion for visual arts, this is an ideal career path. - Flexibility and Freelance Opportunities
A qualification in graphic design opens up freelance opportunities, allowing you to work for yourself or on a contract basis for various companies. It’s a flexible career path, especially suited for those who enjoy working on diverse projects. - Diverse Career Prospects
Graphic design can lead to numerous career paths, including web design, advertising, branding, digital marketing, UX/UI design, and multimedia production.
Who Should Study Graphic Design?
- Creative Thinkers
If you have a natural inclination toward artistic and visual creativity, graphic design will allow you to transform your ideas into real-world projects. - Detail-Oriented Individuals
Graphic designers need to focus on fine details and precision to create visually appealing work that meets client or project specifications. - Tech-Savvy Individuals
Graphic design is a blend of art and technology. Those comfortable with digital tools such as Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) will find this field rewarding. - Entrepreneurs or Business Owners
For individuals looking to manage their own business or work freelance, graphic design offers a flexible path to grow your own brand or agency.
Common Modules Covered in a Graphic Design Course
- Introduction to Graphic Design
This module introduces the foundational principles of graphic design, including colour theory, typography, and layout design. - Typography
Learn about the art of selecting and arranging type to make written language legible, readable, and visually appealing. - Digital Illustration
This module covers tools and techniques for creating digital illustrations using software such as Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop. - Branding and Identity Design
Focus on creating visual identities for brands, including logo design, brand guidelines, and consistent visual messaging. - User Experience (UX) and User Interface (UI) Design
Many graphic design courses now include modules on UX and UI design, where you will learn how to design websites and apps with a user-centric approach. - Motion Graphics
Learn how to create animated graphics and videos that can be used in digital media, advertising, and online platforms. - Portfolio Development
Graphic design courses often focus on helping students build a professional portfolio to showcase their skills to potential employers or clients.
Leading Online Graphic Design Courses in the UK
BA (Hons) Graphic Design – University of Hertfordshire (Online)
Overview: This fully online programme provides a comprehensive grounding in graphic design, from traditional design techniques to modern digital tools. It is ideal for students aiming for a professional career in graphic design.
Duration: 3-6 years, depending on full-time or part-time study.
Course Highlights: Accredited by UK universities, includes portfolio-building, flexible study options.
Link: www.herts.ac.uk/courses/undergraduate/graphic-design
Graphic Design Masterclass – Udemy
Overview: This course is designed for beginners and professionals looking to refine their skills. It covers essential design tools like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign.
Duration: Self-paced, with 15 hours of on-demand video content.
Course Highlights: Affordable, focuses on real-world projects, certificate upon completion.
Link: www.udemy.com/course/graphic-design-masterclass-everything-you-need-to-know
Professional Diploma in Graphic Design – Upskillist
Overview: This course provides an extensive grounding in graphic design, from fundamental design principles to practical skills using industry-standard software. Students develop a versatile skill set in areas such as typography, colour theory, and layout design, with hands-on projects to build a professional portfolio.
Duration: 16 weeks (flexible, self-paced).
Course Highlights: Design principles, Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, typography, colour theory, real-world projects, and portfolio development.
Link: www.upskillist.com/courses/design/online-graphic-design-course/
Graphic Design Specialisation – Coursera (offered by California Institute of the Arts)
Overview: While not UK-based, this globally recognised course is available online and focuses on core graphic design skills, including visual communication, typography, and creating a portfolio.
Duration: 6 months (part-time).
Course Highlights: Flexible learning, highly rated, offers portfolio creation.
Link: www.coursera.org/specializations/graphic-design
BA (Hons) Graphic Design – Arden University (Online)
Overview: Arden University offers a fully online BA in Graphic Design that blends creative theory with practical skills. Students learn how to develop creative solutions for branding, advertising, and digital media. Duration: 3-6 years (depending on part-time or full-time study).
Course Highlights: UK-accredited, flexible learning, focuses on real-world projects.
Link: https://arden.ac.uk/our-courses/undergraduate/graphic-design-degrees/ba-hons-graphic-design
Graphic design is one of the most popular e-learning courses to study in the UK, as it continues to be one of the most in-demand skills for business, both here and worldwide.
