
Graphics Design (ACA)
Course Overview
This course will provide you with robust instructions on how to use Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator and In-design as a tools to create engaging and effective visuals. By leveraging principles, theories, and time-tested practices of graphic design, you will discover strategies for producing images that convey desired messages, styles, and tones.
Practical Application
Real-World Examples:
You will practice with real-world examples that help bridge the gap between theory and practical application. These examples will guide you through the process of analyzing and understanding design requirements.
Challenges and Assignments:
The course includes thought-provoking assignments designed to challenge your creative thinking and technical skills. These tasks will encourage you to push your boundaries and explore new design possibilities.
Client Needs and Portfolio Development
Understanding Client Needs:
One key aspect of the course is learning how to determine a client’s needs effectively. You will be taught how to communicate with clients, gather requirements, and translate their ideas into visual concepts.
Creating Work to Meet Client Needs:
Once you understand the client's requirements, you will create work tailored to meet those needs. This practical approach ensures that you gain experience in delivering projects that align with client expectations.
Assembling an Online Portfolio:
As part of the course, you will also learn how to assemble your work into an online portfolio. This portfolio will serve as a vital tool for entering the industry and showcasing your skills to potential employers or clients.
Skill Development
Creative Skills:
The course emphasizes the development of your creative abilities, allowing you to think outside the box and generate innovative design solutions.
Technical Skills:
You will gain technical expertise in Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign, becoming proficient in the tools necessary for modern graphic design.
Soft Skills:
In addition to technical knowledge, the course also focuses on essential soft skills, such as communication, collaboration, and problem-solving, which are crucial for success in the design industry.
Conclusion
By the end of this course, you will have a well-rounded and challenging learning experience that combines creative, technical, and soft skills, preparing you for a successful career in graphic design. Through practical application and portfolio development, you will be equipped to convey effective visuals that resonate with clients and audiences alike.
Photoshop
Illustrator
Indesign
Certification:
Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)
- Self-Paced Online (W/Instructor/Certification exam support) $5000
- (On-Line, Self-Paced Access W/Certification exam support) $1500
- Jumping into Photoshop
- Understanding Graphic Design Fundamentals
- Basic Photo Editing
- Selections, Painting, and Using Brushes
- Typography
- Layers
- Tourism Project
- Masking and Advanced Compositing
- Using Your Skills Professionally
- Building a Portfolio
- Final Exam
To enroll in this program, you should have high school level education and basic knowledge of computer hardware and operating systems—for example, how to power up and log on to a machine, how to use a mouse and keyboard, and basic Microsoft Windows navigation skills.
Hardware Requirements:
- This course can be taken on either a PC or Mac. Mac users are encouraged to have access to a Windows environment on their device.
- A reliable Internet connection of at least 1 Mbps – to view video tutorials.
- Headphones or speakers connected to your computer – to listen to video tutorials.
- Any web cam with a minimum of 640×480 video pixel resolution – including both external and built-in web cams.
- A microphone connected to your computer.
Software Requirements:
- PC: Windows 10 or later.
- Mac: macOS 10.6 or later.
- Browser: The latest version of Google Chrome or Mozilla Firefox are preferred. Microsoft Edge and Safari are also compatible.
- Email capabilities and access to a personal email account.
Max Luna
Graphics Design Instructor
📍 Wilmington, Delaware | 📞 (302) 555-0123 | ✉️ max.luna@email.com | 🔗 Portfolio: maxlunadesign.com
Professional Summary
Creative and dedicated Graphics Design Instructor with over 5 years of experience in both professional design and education. Proven ability to develop engaging curricula that bridge the gap between design theory and real-world application. Passionate about mentoring students in digital tools, typography, and branding to prepare them for successful careers in the creative industry. Committed to fostering an inclusive and innovative classroom environment that encourages artistic growth.
Core Competencies & Skills
Design & Software: Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), Figma, Canva, Procreate
Design Principles: Typography, Color Theory, Layout Design, Branding, UX/UI Fundamentals
Instructional Skills: Curriculum Development, Project-Based Learning, Portfolio Coaching, Peer Critique
Professional: Bilingual (English/Spanish), Classroom Management, Workshop Facilitation
Work Experience
Graphics Design Instructor | Delaware College of Art and Design (DCAD), Wilmington, DE
August 2021 – Present
Developed and delivered a comprehensive graphic design curriculum, resulting in a 25% increase in student portfolio readiness.
Integrated industry-standard software and project-based learning methods to enhance student engagement and practical skills.
Mentored over 50 students, providing personalized guidance that led to multiple regional design competition awards.
Organized guest lectures with local design agencies, offering students real-world insights and networking opportunities.
Junior Graphic Designer | Luna Creative Agency, Newark, DE
June 2019 – July 2021
Collaborated with senior designers to create branding materials for 15+ local small businesses.
Managed social media graphics and web assets, increasing client engagement by 30% across campaigns.
Transitioned into a training role, leading weekly workshops for new hires on Adobe software best practices.
Education
Master of Arts in Design Education | University of Delaware, Newark, DE
Graduated: May 2021
Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design | Wilmington University, New Castle, DE
Graduated: May 2018
Certifications & Awards
Adobe Certified Professional in Graphic Design (2023)
Excellence in Teaching Award – Delaware College of Art and Design (2024)
Certified Graphic Arts Instructor (CGAI) – In Progress
Selected Accomplishments
Curriculum Revamp: Introduced a new "Design for Social Media" module, leading to a 40% increase in student enrollment for advanced electives.
Student Success: 90% of graduating students under my mentorship secured internships or job placements within six months of graduation.
Community Partnership: Established a collaboration with a local non-profit, allowing students to design real-world marketing materials for a community campaign.
Professional Development
Member, National Art Education Association (NAEA)
Attended "Adobe MAX 2024" – Focused on AI in Creative Education
- Tuition Refunds
Refunds will be issued within 30 days of the earliest of the following:
The date the student is notified of the refund determination;
The date the school determines the student has been withdrawn (e.g., due to absences or other criteria outlined in the school catalog); or
For a student who does not return from an authorized Leave of Absence, the date the student was scheduled to return but did not.
- Refund Schedule
Before the start of classes – 100% refund of tuition.
After classes begin – Refund amount is based on the percentage of clock hours attempted:
Percentage of clock hours attempted | Tuition refund |
10% or less | 90% |
More than 10% and ≤ 20% | 80% |
More than 20% and ≤ 30% | 70% |
More than 30% and ≤ 40% | 60% |
More than 40% and ≤ 50% | 50% |
More than 50% | No refund |
Books and supplies – No refund for used equipment, books, or supplies received by the student. The school will refund the cost of issued items if they are unused and unopened.
Exam fees – Exam voucher fees are paid in advance and are non-refundable, even if the exam is not taken.
Special cases – In the event of prolonged illness or accident, death in the family, or other circumstances that make it impractical for the student to complete the program, the school may provide a reasonable and fair settlement.
A student who feels that he or she has been unfairly or unjustly treated have the right to appeal according to the approved procedures below
Steps for students to follow:
- Discuss the issue with the faculty or staff members involved. The student should request this conference within 3 working days from the time the student knew or reasonably should have known about the unfair or unjust treatment.
- If, within three working days of the request for the conference with the faculty member, the problem is not resolved, or the faculty/Staff member has been unable to meet with the Students may continue the process by filing a written complaint with the Training Director.
- Upon receipt of a written complaint, the Training Director or appropriate center administrative officer will work with the parties in an attempt to resolve the conflict within 3 working days. Every attempt will be made to maintain confidentiality during this process.
If the complaint cannot be resolved after procedure the student may file a complaint with the State Board for Private Postsecondary Education
Click on links below to apply for an entry level open positions after you graduate from this course:
Graphic Designer Jobs, Employment in Phoenix, AZ | Indeed.com
Upload your resume – Let employers find you




