Harper College

Graphic Arts Design Certificate

Student creating art

Start your career in graphic arts/design

Program facts arts icon


  • Stackable to degree: Yes
  • Potential job outcomes: Desktop publisher, graphic designer, web designer

Learn the basics of graphic design for print/web production with this certificate program. You’ll develop a foundation of knowledge in the graphic arts and print industries, gaining hands-on experience working with the latest computer software and understanding current production techniques.

Classes focus on graphic arts technology, desktop publishing, digital imaging, press operations, digital illustration, web foundations, page layout, packaging/finishing/distribution and more.

Study with skilled instructors who are all working professionals in their respective fields. Get additional experience outside of the classroom by working in one of Harper College’s three state-of-the-art graphic arts labs. Each lab is equipped with Mac computers and the latest creative software.

Build on this certificate by earning an AAS degree in Graphic Arts Design and Technology (Graphic Arts Design specialization) through additional coursework.

Certificate program requirements

This 34 credit-hour certificate program is designed to provide students with the skills to gain creative understanding and design materials for print production. This program covers type and graphic design, page layout, computer graphics, and the production needs of good design.

Program Requirements

Related programs

Students interested in graphic arts technology may also be interested in:

For more information about graphic arts courses at Harper, contact Admission Outreach at 847.925.6700, or submit a request information form. You can also apply online.

Last Updated: 9/30/26