Program Overview

The Graphic Design Certificate program provides students with the opportunity to expand their creativity and style while creating computer-generated graphic designs for both electronic and print products. Students gain valuable experience utilizing several computer software programs to generate their designs. Development of oral, written, and presentation skills are key goals of the coursework. As part of the program, students produce a portfolio of their designs.

Embark on a creative journey that combines artistic expression with practical skills.

Program Highlights

  • Complete the certificate in as little as one year, with courses offered during day sessions at the Lynn campus.
  • Gain practical skills in industry-standard software and design principles through project-based learning.
  • Create a professional portfolio showcasing your design work, essential for job applications and further education. 
  • Credits earned can be applied toward NSCC’s associate degrees in Graphic Design: Print or Integrated Media.

Program Details

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View and print the required courses for the Graphic Design Certificate.

Guided Pathway

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

Courses offer accelerated, focused training for students seeking entry-level employment in various aspects of print-focused graphics, including print and electronic publishing or advancing their current career knowledge in various aspects of print and electronic media.

Courses include:

  • Introduction to Graphic Design
  • Electronic Imaging
  • Digital Page Layout
  • Digital Illustration
  • Typography
  • Designing for Web
  • Graphic Design Portfolio

For a full list of courses visit our Academic Catalog.

Graduates of the Graphic Design Certificate program are prepared for entry-level positions in various sectors, including advertising agencies, publishing houses, corporate marketing departments, and freelance opportunities, in roles such as:

  • Jr. Graphic Designer
  • Production Artist
  • Layout Designer
  • Marketing Assistant

Students interested in continuing their education can apply credits from the Graphic Design Certificate toward NSCC’s associate degrees in Graphic Design: Print or Integrated Media.

NSCC also maintains transfer agreements with various four-year institutions, expanding opportunities for students to pursue bachelor's degrees in their chosen fields. Students are encouraged to consult with academic advisors to explore transfer agreements and plan their academic pathways accordingly.

University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
A.S. Graphic Design Print to B.A. Fine Arts Degree, Graphic Design option [View Agreement]

Aron Fine
Graphic Design Associate
Fine Design

Barbara DesLauriers
Associate
Axis Promotions

Beth Mercaldi
Teacher
Lynn Vocational Technical HS

Brian Wolfenden
Marketing Communications Mgr
Marketing Consultant

Carol Brunaccini
Teacher
Essex Technical High School

Jerrie Hildebrand
Graphic Designer
KishGraphics, Inc.

Kristalyn Burns
Designer
Freelance

Leslie Marandola Dinanno
Principle
DreamPix Studio

Lynn Marcus
Career Placement Coordinator
NSCC

Mark Blanchette
Teacher
Essex Technical High School

Nicole Aucone-Stetson
Graphic Designer
Appleseeds

Samantha McGilloway
Executive Director of Marketing
NSCC

Sandra Fuhs
Faculty/Department Chair
NSCC

Stacy Peluso-Slaney
VP
Shamut Communications Group

Susan Dodge
Coordinator
Northeast ARC Art

Please note the data above reflects a degree in the listed program

Program Questions

graphicdesign@northshore.edu

General Assistance

Visit CentroHub, NSCC's virtual concierge.

Accreditation

North Shore Community College is an accredited public institute of higher education where all are welcome and each is challenged. NSCC is accredited by NECHE, the New England Commission of Higher Education.

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