10 free graphic design and animation courses you can take virtually from home:-
The visual appeal of anything that we consume online can have a lasting impact on us, especially with the use of motion as well as other unconventional design formats taking over the internet. In case you want to design packaging for consumer products, logos, restaurant interiors, book covers, magazines, and more, or are planning to build a portfolio that is as impactful as it is aesthetically pleasing, consider one or more of the free graphic design courses we’ve shortlisted below. And if you’re interested in trying your hand at the art of animation, or looking to grow your skillset in the subject, our edit of free online courses consists of lessons for beginners and advanced learners alike.
Graphic Design Specialisation offered by California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
With lessons in image-making, typography, composition, and colour and shape, the six-month online course takes an overarching approach to teach graphic design. Whether your interest lies in creating motion graphics, interface design or editorial design, the programme will take you through all the necessary details. Enrol here
Design and Make Infographics offered by Michigan State University
In this 17-hour course, you will be taken through the stages of planning, laying out and producing impactful and legible infographics. The specialisation takes a project-centric approach, where you can “choose to create a visual representation of data from the world of sports, entertainment, politics or science to explain a business trend or environmental issue, or even to present a theme or development from your personal life.” Enrol here
The Language of Design: Form and Meaning offered by California Institute of the Arts (CalArts)
Focusing on the importance of critique in the world of art and design, this free online course introduces you to a “Critique Framework.” This will help the learners “objectively describe how well a work of design functions, based on specific and clearly articulated criteria.” If enhancing your ability — and vocabulary — to better communicate about design is your goal, this is a good place to begin. Enrol here
Graphic Design Elements for Non-Designers Specialisation offered by University of Colorado
Learn about colour theory, image formats, fonts, typography, spacing, and branding for an impactful user experience, among other things. This free hands-on programme offers an insight into all the details you will need to make your next personal or professional graphic design project a success, even if you’re just starting out in the field. Enrol here
From Doodle to Logo offered on Udemy
If you’re keen on turning your hand-drawn doodles to professionally-produced graphic designs, here’s a free lesson for you. With a step-by-step guide to achieving the same using different features on Adobe Illustrator, the five-lecture course will equip you with the required knowledge. Enrol here
Animating Emotions: Using Movement to Convey a Feeling offered on Skillshare
The video-based crash course on Skillshare — taught by a Swedish artist, who has earlier animated for The New York Times and Google — zooms in on the importance of portraying emotion as accurately as possible, while animating a person. Learn multiple creative styles to do so during the virtual lesson. Enrol here
A Practical Introduction — Modelling and Animation in Blender offered on Udemy
If you’re looking to try your hand at 3D modelling and animation, the free online course will give you hands-on tips to use Blender, a 3D computer graphics software. You will be developing a strong understanding of the process, learning how to produce motion graphics, and much more. Enrol here
Introduction to Programming and Animation with Alice offered by Duke University
The eight-week online lesson intermingles programming and animation, taking your learning of the subject to a new level. Learn how to be a 3D-animated storyteller, get an insight into the functioning of Alice, an object-based computer programming language, and build your own interactive game, among other things. The programme is ideal for beginners, as well as more advanced individuals. Enrol here
Animation for Illustration: Adding Movement with Procreate & Photoshop offered on Skillshare
Build an attractive character, refine it, add layers, animate on Photoshop, and use creative elements to enhance its appeal. The video lesson on Skillshare will help you through all these stages, and provide an overall perspective on animation for beginners. Enrol here
3D Artist Specialisation offered by Unity
Video game engine Unity is providing an official certification course for animators who have been practising the skill and using the platform for a couple of years. It takes you inside asset creation and management; script integration to produce interactive work; character setup and animation, among other practical tools. The modules help you prepare for the Unity Certified 3D Artist exam, the professional certification for entry to mid-level Unity artists. Enrol here