A
certificate in art and design program focuses on developing students' basic knowledge, skills, and their appreciation in art and design. Students acquire basic design skills in order to engage in design exploration and experimentation of design tools, media, and different techniques of art and design. They acquire knowledge and practice their creative skills in various areas such as color studies, drawing, painting, basic photography, design elements, and digital application. The certificate program also focuses on problem solving abilities that prepare them for higher level of studies.
Coursework
A certificate program usually takes six months to a year to complete. The duration of the program varies from one institute to another. The curriculum also differs depending on which students the program is targeted. Most certificate programs include courses to sharpen professional skills and cover major aspects of art and design. Students acquire skills by taking courses related to graphic design, drawing, painting, photography, and printmaking. The following are some major courses offered in an art and design certificate program.
-
Life Drawing
-
Color Studies
-
Design Elements
-
Digital Application Design
-
History of Art
-
Design Principles
-
Painting
-
Presentation Skills
-
Basic 3D Design
-
Printmaking
-
Desktop Publishing
-
Final Project
Accreditation
Students looking to enroll in an art and design certificate program must be aware of accreditation. Accreditation is a status given to educational institutions that meet or exceed the criteria of educational quality of an accrediting agency. Accreditation is quite important for art and design programs as students need to make sure that their credits are transferable, and that the education is up-to-date and meets best practices and industry standards. Accreditation helps ensure that students have:
-
Qualified teachers working to improve teaching methods and enhancing students' performance
-
Access to a sound curriculum
-
Transferability of credits from one school to another
-
Access to scholarships, federal loans, and higher education
-
Recognition of the degree by employers and better employment opportunities
Online Certificate in Art and Design
Online certificate programs are for those students who are too busy to attend a campus based art and design program. They may have professional and personal responsibilities or may live away from regional school campuses. An online certificate program provides a virtual class environment for anyone looking to expand their creative skills. Students learn at their pace and have a study schedule of their own. Online classes may be cost effective as students do not need to pay for various costs associated with on-campus education: traveling, textbooks, and dorm room accommodation.
Careers
Students who have a certificate in art and design may look for opportunities in a number of creative industries. Major sectors where art and design certificate holders could find employment are:
-
Arts Administration
-
Media
-
Advertising, Marketing and PR
-
Education
-
Health
If students wish to pursue a degree in art and design, they may be eligible for various roles after completing a degree program as a:
-
Fine artist
-
Textile designer
-
Graphic designer
-
Illustrator
-
Printmaker
-
Advertising account executive
-
Secondary school teacher
-
Fashion designer
Self-employment is also an option for those art and design graduates who have built contacts in the industry with the help of networking and participate in art events and exhibitions.