Graphic design is the art of communicating ideas through visual concepts to educate, inform, or engage a consumer. Learn the essential graphic design applications - Photoshop, InDesign, & Illustrator - in project-based courses.
Rated the best Graphic Design classes in New York City
I just finished the 2-day Adobe Illustrator course. The course was one of the better computer software courses I have taken. The instructor, Eugenio, took the time to find out about us and tailor much of what we covered to our interests and needs. He gave welcome advice on where we should go next and what we should investigate to further our knowledge and our careers. Eugenio knew Adobe Illustrator inside and out so when I pressed the wrong keys, he knew exactly what I had done and got me on track again without numerous explanations. We were on the computer from the very first minute until the last; he walked us through each assignment. I particularly like that NYIM has the computers and the software on site for use (no need to bring your own). Loved the coffee available upon arrival on a Sunday morning!
K.M. attended Illustrator Essentials
Eugenio was an experienced hands on instructor. He taught us all the fundamentals of Photoshop in precise and organized lessons. The class was small and personal and it was a nice professional environment. Eugenio even gave us his contact information for any questions we may have in the future along with his YouTube channel where he uploads clear step-by-step videos. A very worthwhile opportunity.
Teri F. attended Photoshop Essentials
I enrolled in the 2 day InDesign training. Eugenio was my instructor, he is very knowledgeable of the Adobe suite. His teaching style is to have you learn through using the program, he is clear and thorough and takes time to answer questions outside of the curriculum. The class size was small so each person was given person attention. Eugenio taught us some fun tricks as well as professional skills to work smart and efficiently. I researched a number of other training centers before signing up with NYIM, I am very happy with my choice and will enroll in other courses. I would definitely recommend NYIM Training to anyone wanting to enroll.
Cara D. attended InDesign Essentials
I took a two-day Adobe Illustrator course here and found it well worth my time. Eugenio was the instructor and covered everything I was looking for, and more. The class was small, so he made extra effort to make sure our individual needs were met. His teaching style is mostly hands-on, and very quick, which I find to be helpful in courses like this, where there's a ton to learn and you really just need an overview. He had many examples to test out the tools in real time, printed takeaway material, and his contact information for questions later. If you're looking for a beginner to intermediate course on Illustrator, I'd definitely recommend NYIM, especially with Eugenio. Bring ideas and questions if you want more personalized help - there's time allotted for this.
John K. attended Illustrator Essentials
Eugenio was fabulous, he answered all of our questions and helped us get familiar with InDesign pretty quickly. We created tri-fold brochures, flyers, and even a 16-page magazine. Some of the sizing and spacing was a little tricky, but other than that the program is a breeze and fun to use. Great class!
Nicole D. attended InDesign Essentials
Just finished a Photoshop course taught by Eugenio. Wow. He is one of the best teachers I've ever had. Although clearly a world-class expert, he was so wonderful with the class of beginners. He was totally aware that most of us knew nothing about Photoshop, and therefore was extremely patient and helpful with any questions or problems we had. He explained everything slowly and completely, and then was very happy to go over any aspect we didn't comprehend until we got it. At the end of the class, he showed us several sites and tutorials to go over material, as well as giving each of us his personal contact information should we have future questions. Eugenio was an exceptional teacher, and I would take another class from him anytime.
Stacey B. attended Photoshop Essentials
Eugenio was great, extremely knowledgeable and a great teacher. I took this class for work and have already applied things I learned! So happy that I took this.
Grace M. attended InDesign Essentials
Took an InDesign class with Eugenio and he was great! We learned so much in only two days. He is very patient and clearly has experience. I definitely recommend him.
Mimi F. attended InDesign Essentials
The InDesign Essentials was definitely worth it. It went above and beyond what I need for my own work projects, and I was given a lot of skills I look forward to incorporating. The teacher was more Apple friendly, but was helpful with PC questions as well.
Aj R. attended InDesign Essentials
Took advanced indesign class with Eugenio and he was awesome! I highly recommend him as an instructor.
Ari B. attended InDesign Bootcamp
Just took my first InDesign class with NYIM and Eugenio is brilliant. Very nice guy and patient and helpful. We were 4 people in the class and he paid great attention to everybody. Made it so easy! Will definitely take more classes from his place. Also, you can RETAKE the class you've taken for free whenever in the future. Love the concept!
Brooks K. attended InDesign Essentials
Thank you so much to Karyn for arranging my private training.
Thank you to Garfield, Scott and Eugenio who have taught me new skills in Excel, Power point and In Design.
They were all patient and explained well the programs.
Looking forward to retake some of the class to learn more:)
Natacha F. attended InDesign Essentials
I am very satisfied with the quality of training and will continue taking classes at NYIM. Completely satisfied.
Elena V. attended InDesign Essentials
Great teacher, great course, a lot of helpful info I will use in my job!
Daniel C. attended InDesign Bootcamp
Advanced Indesign - Great Class! Great Teacher! Very personal and attentive to every question you may have no matter your skill set.
James M. attended InDesign Bootcamp
It was like a very condensed tin of soup - and thick in content, its full benefit is only revealed when you take time afterwards to dilute what you heard by practice, practice, practice. Like all food it has a use-by date, but I have never felt so inclined to put time aside as after this course. To continue the food analogy, it was a healthy and sustaining meal and chef Eugene deserves 5 stars and an accolade.
R.L. attended Photoshop Essentials
My instructor, Eugene was an excellent teacher. The pace was not too fast nor too slow. He was easy to understand and was extremely thorough. He always took the time to make sure our questions were answered and even covered extra topics with us. I would highly recommend Eugene to other students.
K.W. attended InDesign Essentials
Eugene was great! Knowledgeable, professional and concise. A great trainer who has a gift for relevant imparting techniques, tips and correlating personal experience to the learning material. Passionate about this class. Thank you.
E.G. attended Photoshop for Web Design and UI
Eugenio is such a patient teacher! He is so knowledgeable and always providing tips and tricks for the class. Very fun and very flexible with his teaching.
Rosanna C. attended Illustrator Essentials
Eugene is wonderful! The pace was perfect and he is very enthusiastic and patient. This is the perfect class for anyone who is a novice or wants to learn the basics.
pemari a. attended Photoshop Essentials
I enjoyed the Photoshop class with Scott. He was very helpful and full of tips for questions. I would definitely recommend the class!
Caitlin S. attended Photoshop Essentials
Eugene is a very good teacher and a genuinely nice guy. His enthusiasm to teach Photoshop made this class great. He took the time to discuss things with everyone and would recommend courses for everyone depending on their goals. This Web Design Class was by far the best class I have taken. Thank you to NYIM and Eugene.
A.R. attended Photoshop for Web Design and UI
I recently took Photoshop Essentials and the instructor Eugene was incredibly knowledgeable, patient and passionate about the program and enthused the students. I would definitely recommend this instructor and class to others.
M.M. attended Photoshop Essentials
Eugene was excellent, very informative, very helpful. I took the beginners class and this one surpassed everything i have learned before. Eugene is very knowledgeable and willing to sit down with everyone and show the best practices and methods for your industry.
K.S. attended Photoshop Bootcamp
Eugene presented material in a lively and interesting manner, to engage the students. He was always available for questions and took time out of his own to go over things. He clearly knows his stuff and made me more comfortable as a beginner to the class.
J.H. attended InDesign Essentials
I enjoyed the training very much. It was well planned and well paced. Since it was kept small, the instructor was able to focus the topics to each of our experience levels and our intended goals.
K.P. attended InDesign Essentials
Eugene was so good to me, that I am really interested in taking an Illustrator class too! Very educational and fun at the same time! Thanks!
A.H. attended InDesign Essentials
This experience was a great one. I learned everything I was hoping to and then some and this was the Advanced class! Eugene applies the class to our backgrounds and throws in extra tips for us. Great teacher! Very professional!
S.C. attended InDesign Bootcamp
I have never learned so much in a short amount of time. Eugene taught w/ the highest professionalism ever. I will sign up for his Advanced Photoshop courses through NYIM from now on!
J.P. attended Photoshop Essentials
Our instructor was the best I've had for a computer class. Eugene was extremely attentive to each individual and the class surpassed my expectations. I am now confident that we will be able to make the most out of Indesign.
M.M. attended InDesign Essentials
I thought the class was wonderful and extremely informative. I would definitely train at NYIM again. Eugene was great! Overall, excellent experience....great class...great professor...very successful! Thanks so much. I really did enjoy the day!
D.L. attended InDesign Bootcamp
I thought the class was very informative. Some people picked things up quicker than others, so we spend more time on some points than others.... The instructor was very knowledgeable and professional. The small classroom atmosphere was also good for sharing ideas and learning as a team.
T.H. attended InDesign Essentials
Eugene is top notch when it comes to instructors! I'm confident that I can operate and utilize InDesign with the core understanding that is needed beyond my job requirements.Thank you for your professionalism and patience!
Jill attended InDesign Essentials
Eugenio, just wanted to thank you for helping me out today with the InDesign, it went really well and I appreciate your patience. I feel much more comfortable going forward. Thanks so much!
C.J. attended InDesign Bootcamp
Eugene has to be one of the best and coolest instructors I've had in years. Very patient and moved at a great pace. He made this class a true learning experience.
M.E. attended Photoshop Essentials
Eugene was very helpful, stopped when anyone needed help, and checked to make sure we were all on the same page. He acknowledged when we did a good job. Very good instructor. Will definitely take additional classes with him again!!!
D.V. attended Photoshop Bootcamp
Eugene was very willing to help answers all of our questions and stressed that he would be available beyond the class as well for any questions we would have. He is very knowledgeable and goes above and beyond to make sure we are comfortable with the program!
M.M. attended InDesign Essentials
Eugene was an excellent instructor. Very thorough, very clear, and very attentive to the students if they ran into any problems. I found him very easy to follow, and feel like I learned a lot of material.
J.J. attended InDesign Bootcamp
Thanks so much Eugene! The class was extremely helpful and well- worth the money! He made it relevant to our work and also fun to learn! I hope to be taking a class in Illustrator next. I can't wait!
J.D. attended InDesign Essentials
Eugene was very helpful and thorough. He took his time in explaining different parts in detail and answering all questions in a very comprehensible manner.
M.P. attended Photoshop Bootcamp
Eugene was great. He used the available class time wisely and taught at a reasonable pace. He was always attentive to our different class goals and kept the class lively. Any question we had, he answered and went above and beyond!
M.M. attended InDesign Essentials
Eugene was a really great teacher. He covered a lot of ground. He was very patient and thorough,especially with questions. He explained large, varied and complex material in an understandable way. Very nice guy.
J.H. attended Photoshop Essentials
Scott is a very good communicator on going over the items on Photoshop
Graphic design is the art of communicating ideas through visual concepts to educate, inform, or engage a consumer. Graphic designers create graphics using computer software or by hand. Examples of graphic design include print products, such as business cards, brochures, and product packaging. Examples of graphic design in digital format include websites, logos, and user interface mockups.
Is the graphic design industry growing?
The graphic design industry will grow by about four percent between 2016 and 2026 according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. In 2016, there were over 250,000 graphic design jobs in the nation. Graphic designers should have both training and a design portfolio to be a competitive candidate for a graphic design position.
What skills do graphic designers need?
Graphic designers use a variety of skills and tools to complete their work. Some graphic designers do sketches and hand drawings, but most rely on software programs to create their art. The most popular tools used by graphic designers include:
Additional requisite skills include creativity, an eye for good design, and the ability to translate ideas and concepts into visual representations that convey a brand’s message.
What do graphic designers do?
Graphic designers work in just about every industry, designing business cards, websites, and any other visual products manufactured by a company. While graphic design jobs used to require a steady hand and skill in drawing, today’s designers rely on computer programs, creativity, and digital savvy. Everyday graphic design tasks include the following:
Product packaging
Cartoons
Logos
Business cards
Websites and blogs
Stationery
Infographics
Presentations and reports
Newsletters
Flyers, posters, and advertisements
Digital ads, web banners, pop-ups
Social media posts
Mobile applications
What Jobs Can You Get as a Graphic Designer?
It’s important to note that at least 20% of graphic designers are self-employed according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. Upon earning a degree in graphic design, earning a certificate, or developing a portfolio, many graphic designers choose to work freelance or start an agency to do small graphic design jobs for companies that don’t need a full-time graphic designer.
Experienced designers may work as a Creative Director or Lead Designer. Some graphic designers pursue additional training and work as User Experience (UX) or User Interface (UI)Designers specializing in user-centric design. Other designers learn to code and also work as front-end developers that design websites.
Fremont College has outlined a few of the most common roles that graphic designers pursue:
Web Designer - Web designers use text, photos, and graphics to create a visually appealing website that entices prospective customers. A graphic designer may use web design tools or learn to code a site with HTML, CSS, and other languages.
Package Designer - A package designer may design labels, boxes, and containers for products that represent the brand, but also display relevant information about the product, such as nutrition information, or instructions.
Digital Designer - A digital designer designs materials for the web including social media posts, websites, blog posts, website ads and banners, reports and online newsletters.
Logo Designer - Logo designers create logos to represent a concept, product, or service. The logo design may also include a business card or stationery design with the logo.
Brand Identity Designer - The brand identity designer ensures all visual elements of a brand align with the brand’s target consumer and mission statement. The brand concept includes any visual representation of the brand, both digital and in print.
Layout Designer - A layout designer formats books, magazines, newsletters, reports, and other text documents with photos and graphics. The layout designer is responsible for presenting the information in a coherent and aesthetically-pleasing way.
Animation Designer - Some graphic designers use visual design, text, and audio to create videos, commercials, and other interactive designs. Designers may use a video creation tool or code if they have the ability.
What is the Future Outlook for a Graphic Designer?
An emerging trend in the graphic design industry is the focus on data and analytics. With tools like Google Analytics and Instagram Insights, it’s easy to see which designs are most popular among consumers. Graphic designers with a penchant for analyzing data and using this knowledge to create data-driven design will surely find an abundance of work in the industry.
Adobe Photoshop
Created to edit photos, Adobe Photoshop has become the go-to program for many graphic design tasks. As the world has shifted from print to digital, many people have begun to use Photoshop for tasks beyond editing photos. Photoshop is the most popular of Adobe’s programs and a must-have that every graphic designer should learn how to use.
What Does Photoshop Do?
Before learning Photoshop, it’s helpful to know a few essential details about what the program can do. First, Photoshop was designed to edit photos. If you want to remove a blemish, change colors, or alter a photo in any way, Photoshop is your best choice. Photoshop is a raster program, meaning that the images are represented by millions of dots of color called pixels. Television and computers also use raster graphics, which is why Photoshop works well for images with special effects.
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe first released Illustrator in 1987, three years before the release of its most popular program, Photoshop. Illustrator’s main strength is the creation of vector graphics, an easy-to-resize format for digital artwork. Illustrator can be used to create ads, draw or digitize graphics, develop logos, and design business cards. In recent iterations, Adobe has improved Illustrator’s ability to typeset text, resulting in some designers’ preference for Illustrator to Adobe’s text-layout program, InDesign.
What Is the Main Purpose of Adobe Illustrator?
The primary purpose of Adobe Illustrator is to draw, design, and edit vector graphics. A vector graphic could be an illustration of a concept, a logo, or a graphic representation of text for a business card. The critical thing to note about vector graphics is that resizing is easy to do without stretching or comprising the quality of an image. For example, if you create an abstract design for your business card, the design can be enlarged to use on a t-shirt, and also reduced to use on a pen or stationery without sacrificing image quality.
Adobe InDesign
Released much later than its counterparts Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator, Adobe InDesign was created to manage document layout. Publishers, newspapers, and magazines needed a way to design text-heavy documents and preserve the layout for multiple issues of the same style at a later date. InDesign was created and released at a time when print books, newsletters, and magazines dominated the world of knowledge. Fortunately, InDesign is a valuable tool that still has retained much value in the modern world of digital publishing, as it can be used to design the layout of eBooks, digital magazines, PDF presentations or brochures, and other multi-page documents.
What Adobe InDesign Is Used For
InDesign is used to create and manage text layout. The program is often used in conjunction with Adobe Illustrator and Adobe Photoshop to develop visually-appealing texts. For example, if you are designing a PDF presentation in InDesign, you might use Illustrator to create the logo that appears on the first page of the presentation and Photoshop to create and crop company headshots in the biography section of the presentation. For documents that are mostly text and exceed one page, Adobe InDesign is likely your best choice.
Get Started in Graphic Design or Earn a Certificate
Start learning the key graphic design tools and applications, or earn a graphic design certificate while building an impressive portfolio to show prospective employers. Discover more graphic design courses at our affiliate, Noble Desktop, NYC's best graphic design school.
Get started in Photoshop in our 1-day course: learn to retouch photos, improve contrast and color, save files for print or web, and more. Review the use of layers and the essential tools for photo editing and retouching. You'll practice with step-by-step exercises which include how to color correct and improve contrast, add text, swap backgrounds, and composite different photos.
Learn the fundamentals of Adobe InDesign in this one-day course: text, pictures and pages. Learn how to layout pages with text and graphics. In no time at all you’ll be able to control typography, add photos, create/use colors, and more!
This one-day class will quickly get you up and running with the fundamentals of Illustrator: the Pen tool, shapes, and basic drawing. Learn to create and draw vector graphics, and more.
In this Photoshop Essentials two-day training course, you will learn to create graphics for use in websites, retouch damaged photography, and use Text, Layers and Drawing Tools to create images.
In this two-day course, you learn to lay out a multi-page document, insert photos, create text styles, master documents and pages, flow in copy from Microsoft Word, and print documents
In this class you will learn to create vector art for designs and websites, create perspective drawings, and control your brushes to create a more natural brush stroke. This class is perfect to Graphic Designers, Amateur and Professional Graphic Artists, and Advertising Designers.
This 3-day Photoshop Bootcamp covers retouching, color correction, photo editing, and other essential techniques used by graphic designers. By the end of this course, you will feel confident using masks, tools, and channels more effectively, creating vector drawings, automating hundreds of repetitious image tasks, producing consistent color for print, creating artistic interpretations of pictures using filters, and applying advanced corrections of digital photos.
In this class you'll learn how to use Photoshop to create and optimize graphics for web and user interface design, without wasting time on functionality that focuses on photo retouching or print design.
The InDesign Bootcamp class concentrates on the most common topics that we see in NYC businesses using on a daily basis. By the end of this training course, you will feel confident in using tables and columns effectively, creating a long document like books and magazines, creating advanced text styles, such as drop caps, using XML with InDesign, and managing color profiles and print in 4-color. This class is perfect to those wanting to take their InDesign knowledge to the next level, those looking to interview for positions that require an advanced level of InDesign, and those going into the Print, Advertising, Graphic Design or Business Industry.
