Top 14 Graphic Design Courses In Austin

2 min read 21-12-2024

Austin, Texas, a vibrant hub for creativity and technology, offers a wealth of opportunities for aspiring and established graphic designers to hone their skills. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to specialize in a particular area, the city boasts a diverse range of courses to suit all levels and interests. This list highlights fourteen of the top graphic design courses available in Austin, categorized for easier navigation.

Beginner-Friendly Courses:

Austin Community College (ACC): ACC offers introductory graphic design courses focusing on foundational principles like typography, layout, and color theory. These courses provide a solid base for those new to the field.
University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin) Continuing Education: UT Austin's continuing education department frequently offers introductory graphic design workshops, ideal for exploring the field before committing to a longer program.
Skillshare (Online): While not exclusively Austin-based, Skillshare offers a vast library of online graphic design courses accessible from anywhere, including Austin. Their beginner-friendly options are numerous and often affordable.

Intermediate to Advanced Courses:

Texas State University – San Marcos (Online and In-Person): Though located in San Marcos, Texas State offers excellent online and in-person graphic design courses, some of which may be accessible to Austin residents. Check their course catalog for availability.
General Assembly (GA): GA's immersive bootcamps provide intensive training in various design disciplines, including graphic design. Their courses are targeted towards professionals looking to upskill or transition careers.
Thinkful (Online): Another strong contender in the online education space, Thinkful offers mentor-led courses that provide personalized guidance throughout the learning process. Their graphic design courses cater to a range of skill levels.

Specialized Courses:

Adobe Creative Suite Workshops: Several institutions and independent instructors in Austin offer workshops specifically focusing on mastering Adobe Creative Suite applications like Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. These specialized courses are valuable for boosting specific software skills.
Branding and Identity Design Courses: Many design schools and freelance instructors offer courses specifically on branding and identity design, a crucial aspect of graphic design.
Web Design and UI/UX Courses: The intersection of graphic design and web design is significant. Several Austin institutions offer courses incorporating UI/UX principles.

Workshops and Short Courses:

The Austin School of Film: While primarily focused on film, The Austin School of Film may offer occasional workshops with a graphic design component. Check their schedule for relevant offerings.
Local Art Centers and Studios: Numerous art centers and studios around Austin frequently host short graphic design workshops and classes, often featuring local artists and designers.

Online Platforms (Beyond Skillshare and Thinkful):

Udemy: Udemy provides a wide selection of online graphic design courses taught by various instructors. The quality and content vary, so it’s advisable to thoroughly review course descriptions and ratings.
Coursera: Coursera also offers online graphic design courses, many of which are affiliated with universities worldwide. These often feature structured curricula and recognized certificates.

Bootcamps:

Ironhack: Ironhack offers intensive bootcamps in various tech fields, including UX/UI design, which heavily incorporates graphic design principles.

Note: This list is not exhaustive, and course availability may change. It’s crucial to check the websites of the mentioned institutions and independent instructors for the most up-to-date information on course offerings, schedules, and pricing. Consider your skill level, learning style, and career goals when choosing a course to ensure the best learning experience.