Learn the foundational principles and practices of graphic design, including color theory, typography, design history and contemporary applications within the design field. Course DescriptionThrough hands-on projects, apply core design principles and elements to solve visual communication challenges in both print and digital media, building a vocabulary to create aesthetically effective and conceptually sound designs. Complete assignments using Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop and gain proficiency with essential tools, techniques, shortcut commands and effective file management. / Students will have access to Adobe Creative Cloud software throughout the course. / This is the first course that can be taken towards the Graphic Design Certificate.Open to students ages 18 and above. Review complete policies, including class cancellation policies, before completing your registration.Class meeting detailsThis online course is asynchronous. There are no set class meeting times. Instead, the course is project-based, with 2 to 3 deadlines per week, and students can choose a time and place that works best for them to complete the work. Course activities may include readings, video demonstrations and tutorials, online discussions, projects, and critiques. PrerequisitesPrevious experience with Adobe Creative Cloud (Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustration) helpful, but not required.Required materialsSuppliespen or pencilnotebook or sketchbookUSB drive or cloud storage option for saving workSoftwareAdobe Creative Cloud (provided by MCAD).HardwareA computer capable of running Adobe Creative Cloud software, with internet access, a camera or scanner to capture and upload work.Recommended textbooksHistory:Graphic Design: A New History, Stephen J. Eskilson, (ISBN: 0300172605)The History of Graphic Design,Jens Müller and Jens Mller, (ISBN: 3836588064)Contemporary:Extra Bold: A Feminist, Inclusive, Anti-racist, Nonbinary Field Guide for Graphic Designers, Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Tobias, (ISBN-10: 1616899182)Principles:Graphic Design School, David Dabner and Sandra Stewart, (ISBN: 1118134419)Graphic Design: The New Basics, Ellen Lupton, (ISBN: 1568987021)Fun & Beginner:Oh Sh*t... What Now?, by Craig Oldham, (ISBN-10: 1780679637)Logos that Last: How to Create Iconic Visual Branding, Allan Peters, (ISBN: 9780760383179)Graphic Design Rules: 365 Essential Design Dos and Don'ts, Tony Seddon, Sean Adams, Peter Dawson, (ISBN: 1616898763)The Graphic Design Idea Book: Inspiration from 50 Masters, Steven Heller, Gail Anderson, (ISBN: 1780678495)Class resourcesThis class uses Adobe Creative Cloud and Canvas, MCAD’s learning management system. Please see the link for more information. Class savingsRegister on or before August 11 and save $25.Register for more than one class at a time and receive $25 off each additional class (same-day registrations only).Additional savings. Are you eligible?QuestionsContact MCAD Continuing Education at continuing_education@mcad.edu or call 612.874.3765. Register Title Non-credit Tuition $600.00 Tuition Type Non-credit TuitionOne Credit Tuition Not Yet Open for Registration Registration opens July 28. Date: Mon, Sep 15, 2025 - Sun, Oct 26, 2025 Time: Asynchronous Day(s) of the week: Asynchronous Ages: Open to students ages 18 and above. Term: Fall 2025 Instructor: Julie Benda Location: Online SKU: VC 9411 20 FA25 Prerequisites: Previous experience with Adobe Creative Cloud helpful, but not required.