Adobe Illustrator has become an industry-standard tool for creating vector graphics, used by graphic designers across the world for projects ranging from logos to illustrations. If you’re aiming to learn Adobe Illustrator and earn a certified Adobe Graphic Designer credential, choosing the right online course platform is essential for maximizing both learning and career potential. Below, we’ve compiled some of the best online course platforms that offer Adobe-approved or certification-preparation courses in Adobe Illustrator and graphic design.
Introduction to Adobe Illustrator and Graphic Design Certification
Adobe Illustrator is foundational in graphic design for producing high-quality vector-based illustrations. Certification by Adobe, such as the Adobe Certified Professional (ACP) in Illustrator, signals to employers that you possess a high level of competence with the software and understand its use in professional design settings. This certification can set you apart in a competitive industry and give you the skills to tackle a wide array of projects.
Why Choose Adobe-Certified Courses?
Choosing Adobe-certified courses offers several benefits:
- Industry Recognition: Adobe certification is globally recognized, helping to validate your skills.
- Skill Enhancement: These courses provide comprehensive knowledge and real-world application insights.
- Career Opportunities: Many employers value certification as proof of a candidate’s expertise and commitment to the field.
Key Features to Look for in Online Course Platforms
Selecting the right platform can significantly influence your learning experience. Here are some features to consider:
- Adobe Certification Preparation: Ensure the course is designed to help you prepare for Adobe exams.
- Experienced Instructors: Look for platforms where instructors are professionals or Adobe-certified themselves.
- Affordability and Flexibility: Cost, course duration, and flexible access are important, especially if you’re balancing learning with other commitments.
Top Online Platforms for Adobe Illustrator Courses
Here is a list of some of the best platforms for studying Adobe Illustrator online, each with unique benefits to offer.
1. Adobe Education Exchange
- Overview: Adobe’s own educational platform, Adobe Education Exchange, offers a range of free and paid courses covering all Adobe products, including Illustrator.
- Certification Options: Adobe offers certification directly on this platform, which ensures the course material aligns with the exam structure.
- Features: Courses feature expert content, hands-on projects, and valuable resources to aid in mastering Illustrator.
2. Coursera: Adobe Illustrator Certification Courses
- Overview: Coursera partners with universities and institutions to provide quality courses, including Adobe Illustrator.
- Certification: While Coursera offers certifications from partner institutions, it also has Adobe-specific courses that align with the Adobe Certified Professional program.
- Curriculum and Pricing: Courses are structured for beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners, with flexible subscription plans.
3. LinkedIn Learning: Adobe Illustrator and Graphic Design Paths
- Overview: LinkedIn Learning offers a broad selection of courses on Adobe Illustrator, covering everything from basics to advanced techniques.
- Certification: Courses come with LinkedIn Learning certificates upon completion and can be displayed on your LinkedIn profile.
- Learning Paths: LinkedIn Learning offers curated paths like “Becoming a Graphic Designer” that include Illustrator courses along with other essential design skills.
4. Udemy: Popular Illustrator Courses and Reviews
- Overview: Udemy is popular for its wide variety of courses, including beginner to advanced Adobe Illustrator courses.
- Certification: Many courses offer a certificate of completion, though not directly Adobe-certified.
- Affordability: Udemy often runs sales, making it one of the most budget-friendly platforms for learning Illustrator.
5. Skillshare: Adobe Illustrator for Beginners to Advanced
- Overview: Skillshare’s community-driven platform has an abundance of Illustrator courses, ranging from introductory to advanced techniques.
- Certification: Skillshare doesn’t provide Adobe certification but offers completion certificates and has interactive features.
- Learning Style: The platform’s community-oriented approach encourages peer feedback and sharing, which can enhance the learning experience.
6. Domestika: Specialized Graphic Design and Illustrator Courses
- Overview: Domestika offers specialized Illustrator courses with a strong emphasis on creative projects and industry application.
- Certification: Certificates of completion are available, though these are not Adobe-certified.
- Community Focus: The platform’s focus on community and specialized topics makes it a great option for niche skills and advanced techniques.
7. Pluralsight: Illustrator and Adobe Creative Suite Training
- Overview: Pluralsight provides comprehensive training paths in Adobe products, including Illustrator.
- Certification Options: Pluralsight offers skill assessments and completion certificates for its courses, though it’s not Adobe-certified.
- Advanced Learning Paths: Great for professionals who need advanced training in the entire Adobe Creative Suite.
8. EdX: University-Partnered Adobe Certification Courses
- Overview: EdX hosts Adobe courses in partnership with universities, making it a high-quality choice for certification preparation.
- Certification: Some courses provide certificates from partner universities, and EdX also offers Adobe-specific paths.
- Specialization Options: Courses are typically structured as specializations or micro-degrees, providing a deeper dive into graphic design.
9. FutureLearn: Illustrator and Graphic Design Certifications
- Overview: FutureLearn partners with institutions to offer structured courses, some of which are in Adobe software.
- Certification: Offers certificates from participating institutions, with Adobe-relevant courses that can aid certification preparation.
- Structured Curriculum: Courses have fixed start dates and are instructor-led, creating a more traditional classroom feel.
10. CreativeLive: Illustrator and Design Classes by Professionals
- Overview: CreativeLive offers courses taught by industry professionals, focusing on practical applications of Illustrator.
- Pros and Cons: While certification options are limited, it provides a wealth of real-world insight and portfolio-building projects.
Comparing Course Costs Across Platforms
| Platform | Certification | Cost Range | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adobe Education Exchange | Yes | Free to paid options | Adobe-official resources |
| Coursera | Partnered certificates | $29-$99 per month | University-backed content |
| LinkedIn Learning | Certificate of completion | $29.99 per month | Professional learning paths |
| Udemy | Certificate of completion | $10-$200 per course | Frequent discounts |
Certification Process and Exam Preparation Tips
To earn an Adobe Certified Professional credential in Illustrator:
- Complete Adobe-Approved Courses: Focus on the platforms above for well-structured courses that align with Adobe’s exam format.
- Practice Real-World Projects: Complete assignments and personal projects to reinforce the concepts.
- Utilize Adobe Resources: Adobe’s own study guides and practice exams are invaluable for final exam prep.
FAQs
- What is the best online platform for Adobe Illustrator certification?
- Adobe Education Exchange offers official certification courses, while Coursera and LinkedIn Learning also provide Adobe-aligned courses with certificates.
- Is Adobe certification worth it for graphic designers?
- Yes, Adobe certification demonstrates skill proficiency and can boost career opportunities.
- Can I become a graphic designer by taking online courses?
- Absolutely. Many professionals use online courses to gain the skills needed to become successful graphic designers.
- How long does it take to learn Adobe Illustrator?
- With consistent practice, beginners can learn Illustrator basics in 1-2 months, but mastering it may take 6 months or more.
- Are there free resources to learn Adobe Illustrator?
- Adobe Education Exchange, Skillshare (with a free trial), and LinkedIn Learning (with a trial) offer free or low-cost options for learning.
- How do I prepare for Adobe’s Illustrator certification exam?
- Complete Adobe-approved courses, practice consistently, and utilize Adobe’s official resources and study guides.
Conclusion
Earning an Adobe Illustrator certification is an excellent investment for aspiring graphic designers, and selecting the right online platform is essential for effective learning. Adobe Education Exchange, Coursera, and LinkedIn Learning stand out as top choices, each offering unique features for skill-building and career preparation. Choose a platform that suits your learning style, and start your journey to becoming an Adobe-certified graphic designer today!
