Top 11 Graphic Artist Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for graphic artists. They demonstrate to employers that a designer has the skills required to produce high-quality work. Certifications can also give a designer an edge over other applicants when applying for jobs, as they show that the designer is knowledgeable and experienced in their field. Additionally, certifications provide recognition to designers and help them stand out from their peers. Finally, certifications can help designers stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in the graphic design industry.

This article aims to review the most beneficial certifications for Graphic Artists and explain how they can help to further a graphic artist's career.

What are Graphic Artist Certifications?

Graphic artist certification is a professional designation that recognizes an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of graphic design. It is typically awarded by an independent organization to those who have demonstrated mastery in the areas of typography, color theory, page layout, illustration, digital imaging, and other aspects of graphic design. Certification can help graphic artists gain recognition for their work and showcase their expertise to potential employers. It can also provide them with networking opportunities to develop connections with other professionals in the industry. Additionally, having a certification can give them more credibility when bidding on projects or negotiating fees. Finally, having a certification can open up more job opportunities since some companies may require it as part of the hiring process.

Pro Tip: Before pursuing a graphic artist certification, take the time to research the different certifications available and decide which one best suits your skillset. Additionally, make sure that the certification you choose is recognized by employers in your field.

Related: What does a Graphic Artist do?

Top 11 Graphic Artist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Graphic Artists today.

1. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is a certification program offered by Adobe to recognize individuals who demonstrate proficiency in Adobe products. The ACE program is designed to verify that an individual has the skills and knowledge required to use Adobe products effectively. To become an ACE, you must pass one or more exams that test your knowledge of Adobe products.

The length of time it takes to become an ACE depends on the number of exams you need to take and how quickly you can learn the material. Generally, it takes between two and four months to study for and pass all the necessary exams.

To get started, you will need to register for an exam at the Adobe website. Once registered, you will receive instructions on how to access the exam materials and prepare for your exam. You can also purchase practice tests from third-party vendors if desired. When ready, you can take the exam at a testing center or online using a secure browser.

The cost of becoming an ACE varies depending on which exams you take and where you take them. Each exam typically costs between $100-$150 USD per attempt, so it’s important to budget accordingly when preparing for multiple exams. Additionally, some third-party vendors offer discounts on practice tests and other resources that can help reduce overall costs.

2. Autodesk Certified Professional

Autodesk Certified Professional (ACP) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in Autodesk software. This certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to use Autodesk software to create and modify designs, manage projects, and collaborate with other professionals.

The ACP certification requires individuals to pass a series of exams that cover the fundamentals of Autodesk software as well as specific features and functions. The exams are offered online or in-person and typically take between 1-2 hours to complete.

To become an Autodesk Certified Professional, you must first purchase the exam voucher from Autodesk. Each exam costs $125 USD for non-Academic users and $50 USD for Academic users. Once you have purchased the voucher, you can register for the exam at the Autodesk Certification website and select your preferred date and time.

Once you have passed all of the required exams, you will receive an email confirmation from Autodesk with instructions on how to access your digital badge and certificate. You will also be listed on the official ACP registry page, which can be used by employers or clients to verify your credentials.

3. International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD)

The International Society of Typographic Designers (ISTD) is an international professional organization for typographers and type designers. The ISTD was founded in London in 1973, and has since grown to include members from over 40 countries.

The ISTD provides a platform for its members to share ideas, network with other professionals, and gain recognition for their work. Membership is open to all individuals who are actively engaged in typography or type design, regardless of experience or level of expertise.

In order to become a member of the ISTD, applicants must submit a portfolio of their work that demonstrates their skill and understanding of typography and type design. This portfolio will be reviewed by the ISTD’s panel of experts before acceptance into the society. Once accepted, members can access exclusive resources such as webinars, workshops, competitions, and discounts on products related to typography and type design.

Membership fees vary depending on the country where you live and your level of experience in typography or type design. For example, membership fees in the United Kingdom range from £60-£90 per year for students or those just starting out in the field; £120-£150 per year for experienced professionals; and £180-£200 per year for senior professionals with more than 10 years' experience in the field.

Overall, joining the ISTD is a great way for aspiring typographers and type designers to gain recognition for their work while networking with other professionals in the industry.

4. Certified Digital Media Artist (CDMA)

Certified Digital Media Artist (CDMA) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in digital media production. This certification is offered by the Academy of Digital Media Arts and Sciences (ADMAS). It is an industry-recognized credential that validates the skills and knowledge of digital media professionals.

The CDMA certification program consists of three levels: Associate, Professional, and Expert. To become certified at any level, applicants must pass an online exam that covers topics such as video editing, motion graphics, audio engineering, web design, and more. The exams are administered by ADMAS and can be taken from anywhere in the world.

The amount of time required to complete the certification process varies depending on the individual's prior experience and skill level. Generally speaking, it takes approximately 6-12 months to complete all three levels of the program.

In order to become certified as a CDMA, applicants must first register for the exam through ADMAS' website. Once registered, they will receive instructions on how to access the exam materials and take the exam. The cost for taking each exam varies depending on which level you are applying for; however, most exams range from $100 - $300 USD per level.

5. CorelDRAW Certification Program

The CorelDRAW Certification Program is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of designers using CorelDRAW. The program consists of two levels: CorelDRAW Certified Associate (CDA) and CorelDRAW Certified Professional (CDP).

To become a CDA, you must pass an online exam that tests your understanding of the main features and functions of the software. This exam typically takes about an hour to complete. To become a CDP, you must pass both the CDA exam and a more advanced online exam that tests your ability to create complex designs with CorelDRAW. This exam typically takes about two hours to complete.

You can take the exams at any authorized testing center or through Pearson VUE's online proctoring service. The cost of each exam varies depending on where you take it, but generally ranges from $50-$150 USD per exam.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive an official certificate from Corel which serves as proof that you are certified in CorelDRAW.

6. National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP)

The National Association of Photoshop Professionals (NAPP) is a professional organization dedicated to providing education, resources, and support to Photoshop users. Founded in 2003, NAPP has become the world’s largest community of Photoshop professionals.

NAPP offers memberships at various levels, from basic membership to premium membership. Basic membership is free and grants access to exclusive content such as tutorials, webinars, and discounts on Adobe products. Premium membership costs $99/year and provides access to additional benefits such as priority support, discounts on training courses and events, and access to the NAPP forum.

To join NAPP you must be at least 18 years old and have a valid email address. You can sign up for a basic or premium membership by visiting the NAPP website and completing the online registration form. Once your registration is complete, you will receive an email with instructions on how to activate your account.

NAPP memberships are renewed annually; however, you can cancel your membership at any time without penalty or cost.

7. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)

Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is a certification program offered by Adobe that validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in Adobe products. With an ACA certification, individuals demonstrate proficiency in using Adobe software to create digital media projects.

The ACA certification is available for the following Adobe products: Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Animate, Premiere Pro and Dreamweaver. The exams are designed to test an individual's knowledge of the features and functions of the specific software.

It typically takes between two to three hours to complete each exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on the product being tested but usually ranges from $95 to $180 USD per exam.

To get certified as an ACA, you must take and pass one or more of the available exams. You can register for an exam online at www.adobe.com/go/certification or through a local Pearson VUE testing center. Once you have passed your exam(s), you will receive your official certificate from Adobe via email within 7-10 business days after passing your test(s).

8. Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X

Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X is a professional certification program for editors, producers, and video professionals who use Apple’s Final Cut Pro X software. The certification demonstrates a mastery of the software and its tools, as well as an understanding of the principles of editing.

The certification process includes both a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as media management, timeline editing, effects creation, audio mixing, color correction, and more. The practical exam requires applicants to complete several tasks in Final Cut Pro X related to editing and post-production.

It typically takes around two weeks to prepare for the exams and obtain the certification. To get started on the path to becoming an Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X Professional, you must first sign up with an Apple Authorized Training Center (AATC). AATCs offer courses that will help you prepare for the exams and provide guidance throughout the process.

The cost of becoming an Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X Professional varies depending on your location and training center but can range from $500-$1,000 USD.

9. International Webmasters Association (IWA)

The International Webmasters Association (IWA) is a professional organization that promotes the development of web professionals and provides educational resources for those in the field. It was founded in 1995 and has grown to become one of the largest organizations of its kind.

IWA offers three levels of certification: Certified Web Professional (CWP), Certified Webmaster (CWM), and Advanced Certified Webmaster (ACW). Each level requires different qualifications and certifications. The CWP is the most basic level and can be obtained by completing an online course or attending a workshop. The CWM requires more experience, such as having at least two years of professional experience in web design or development, while the ACW requires extensive knowledge in multiple areas of web technology.

It typically takes between 2-6 months to complete all requirements for each level of certification depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must pass an exam administered by IWA. The cost for each exam varies depending on the type of certification being sought, but generally ranges from $50-$200 USD per exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with attending workshops or purchasing study materials.

10. Adobe Creative Suite Master Collection Certification

Adobe Creative Suite Master Collection Certification is a certification program from Adobe that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the use of their Creative Suite software. The certification program is designed to validate an individual's knowledge and skills in the use of Adobe Creative Suite tools, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Flash, Acrobat Pro, and After Effects.

The certification process consists of two parts: passing an exam and completing a project. The exam tests your knowledge of the Creative Suite tools and how they can be used to create professional-quality designs. The project requires you to demonstrate your ability to create a design using multiple tools within the Creative Suite.

The certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete. During this time you will need to study for the exam and complete the project. You can find resources online or through Adobe's website to help you prepare for both parts of the certification process.

The cost for obtaining Adobe Creative Suite Master Collection Certification varies depending on which version of the software you are using. Generally speaking, it will cost around $400-$500 USD for the entire program.

11. Microsoft Office Specialist Certification

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) certification is a globally recognized credential that validates the skills and knowledge required to use Microsoft Office applications. It is designed to help individuals demonstrate their proficiency in using the Microsoft Office suite of products, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access, and OneNote.

The MOS certification process typically takes about two months to complete. To get certified, you must pass one or more exams for each of the Microsoft Office applications you wish to become certified in. Each exam consists of multiple-choice questions and hands-on tasks related to the application being tested.

You can take MOS exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online through OnVUE testing. The cost for each exam varies depending on which country you are taking it in but typically ranges from $80-$150 USD per exam.

To prepare for the exams, Microsoft offers a range of free online courses and practice tests as well as paid instructor-led training courses. Additionally, there are a variety of third-party study materials available that can help you prepare for the exams.

Do You Really Need a Graphic Artist Certificate?

Graphic artist certificates are not a requirement for becoming a successful graphic designer. However, having a certificate can be beneficial in various ways. It can open doors to career opportunities, help you stand out from the competition, and give you the skills necessary to excel as a designer.

The benefits of having a graphic artist certificate include access to job opportunities that may not be available to those without certification. Some employers prefer to hire someone who has taken courses and earned certifications in the field of graphic design because they know they have received training and have the necessary skills. A certificate also shows potential clients that you are serious about your profession and that you have put in the time and effort required to become an expert in your field.

Having a graphic artist certificate can also help you stand out from other designers who might not have one. In today’s competitive job market, having something extra on your resume that sets you apart from other candidates is invaluable. Employers often look for applicants with certifications when evaluating potential hires because it shows dedication and hard work on the part of the applicant.

Finally, earning a graphic artist certificate can give you the skills necessary to succeed as a designer. Courses related to graphic design will teach you how to effectively use software programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator, create logos and designs using vector graphics, understand color theory, create effective typography layouts, and more. Having these skills can make all the difference when it comes to creating top-notch designs for clients or employers.

In conclusion, while having a graphic artist certificate is not essential for becoming successful as a designer, it does offer many benefits that could be helpful in furthering your career goals. With access to job opportunities that may otherwise not be available, standing out from other applicants, and gaining valuable skills needed for success in this field; earning a certificate could be well worth considering if becoming an expert designer is something important to you.

Related: Graphic Artist Resume Examples

FAQs About Graphic Artist Certifications

Q1. What is a Graphic Artist Certification?

A1. A Graphic Artist Certification is a professional certification that confirms an individual’s ability to design and create digital artwork, illustrations, logos, and other visual elements for use in advertising, marketing, and other forms of media.

Q2. How do I get a Graphic Artist Certification?

A2. To obtain a Graphic Artist Certification, you must demonstrate mastery of the fundamental principles of graphic design through coursework or work experience. You may also need to pass an industry-specific exam in order to earn your certification.

Q3. What are the benefits of having a Graphic Artist Certification?

A3. Having a Graphic Artist Certification can help you stand out from other job applicants and show potential employers that you have the skills necessary to succeed in the field of graphic artistry. It can also open up opportunities for career advancement or specialization within your chosen field.

Q4. Are there any prerequisites for obtaining a Graphic Artist Certification?

A4. Most certifying organizations will require you to have basic knowledge of design principles and software applications before taking their exams or completing coursework requirements for certification. Some organizations may also require prior work experience in the field of graphic artistry before granting certification status.

Q5. How long does it take to complete a Graphic Artist Certification program?

A5. The amount of time required to complete a Graphic Artist Certification program varies depending on the certifying organization and the type of program being completed (e.g., online vs in-person). Generally speaking, most programs can be completed within six months to one year with full-time study or two years with part-time study.