Top 11 Graphic Web Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for graphic web designers in the job market because they demonstrate that a designer has the technical skills and knowledge needed to create and maintain a website. They also show potential employers that a designer is up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in web design, which can be extremely beneficial when it comes to landing jobs. Having certifications can also help set a designer apart from other applicants, as employers will know that they have taken the time to invest in their education and training. Finally, certifications can provide designers with additional credibility, as potential employers will recognize them as having achieved a certain level of competency in their field.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Graphic Web Designers and explains how they can help to enhance a Graphic Web Designer's career.

What are Graphic Web Designer Certifications?

Graphic web designer certification is a type of professional certification that can help individuals demonstrate their knowledge, skills, and abilities in graphic design for the web. This certification can be obtained by completing a program or course of study in which students gain experience in creating websites with an eye for aesthetics and user experience. Certifications typically require successful completion of exams that demonstrate proficiency in topics such as HTML/CSS, typography, color theory, and responsive design.

Having a graphic web designer certification can help individuals stand out from the competition when applying for jobs. It shows employers that the individual has taken the initiative to learn more about the profession and has acquired the necessary skills to create beautiful and functional websites. Additionally, having this certification can open up opportunities for higher-level positions or salary increases. Finally, having this type of certification demonstrates dedication to one's craft and can help build credibility with clients or customers.

Pro Tip: When considering a graphic web designer certification, make sure to research the course content and the instructor's qualifications. Look for certifications from well-respected industry organizations or institutions that offer comprehensive training in the latest design trends and technologies. Additionally, look for courses that provide hands-on experience with practical projects so you can apply what you learn directly to your work.

Related: What does a Graphic Web Designer do?

Top 11 Graphic Web Designer Certifications

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

1. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is a certification program offered by Adobe Systems Inc. that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the use of Adobe products. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills in using Adobe software to potential employers, colleagues, and clients.

The ACE certification requires applicants to pass one or more exams that test their knowledge of the relevant Adobe software. The exams are administered through Pearson VUE testing centers and can be taken online or at a physical location.

The amount of time it takes to become an ACE varies depending on the individual's experience with the specific Adobe product they are attempting to certify in. Generally speaking, it may take anywhere from two weeks to several months of study and practice before taking the exam(s).

To get started, interested individuals should visit the official ACE website at https://www.adobe.com/support/certification/ace.html where they can find information about available certifications, exam objectives, exam registration, and other related resources.

The cost for each ACE exam varies depending on which product you are certifying in but generally ranges from $99 - $180 USD per exam.

2. Apple Certified Associate (ACA)

Apple Certified Associate (ACA) is a certification program created by Apple to recognize individuals who have achieved a level of proficiency in the use of Apple products and technologies. This certification allows users to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the use of Mac, iPad, iPhone, Apple TV, and other Apple products.

The ACA certification requires candidates to pass a series of exams that cover topics such as Mac OS X fundamentals, iOS basics, iCloud services, iTunes setup and usage, troubleshooting techniques for Macs and iOS devices, and more. The exams are designed to test an individual’s ability to understand the basic concepts behind using Apple products.

It typically takes about three months for an individual to complete all of the required exams for ACA certification. Candidates must register with Pearson VUE in order to take the ACA exams. The cost of taking each exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $50-$150 per exam.

Once an individual has passed all of the required exams they will receive their official ACA certificate from Apple. This certificate is valid for two years after which time it must be renewed if the user wishes to remain certified.

3. Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP)

Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) is a certification program from Microsoft that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in one or more of their products. To become an MCP, you must take and pass one or more exams related to Microsoft products. The exams are designed to assess your knowledge of the product and its features.

The amount of time it takes to get an MCP certification depends on the number of exams you need to take, as well as how much time you spend studying for them. Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete all the necessary requirements.

To get an MCP certification, you must first register with Microsoft's Certification Program and pay the associated fees. Once registered, you will be given access to study materials and practice tests that will help prepare you for the exam(s). After passing the exam(s), you will receive your MCP certificate in the mail.

The cost of getting an MCP certification varies depending on which exam(s) you need to take and where you take them. The cost typically ranges from $100-$200 per exam, plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam at a testing center or online proctoring service.

4. W3C Web Design Standards Certification

The W3C Web Design Standards Certification is a certificate program offered by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) to recognize web designers and developers who have demonstrated proficiency in creating websites that meet the latest web standards. The certification is intended to help employers identify professionals with the technical skills necessary to develop and maintain websites that are compliant with the W3C's standards.

It typically takes about two months to complete the certification process, which consists of passing an online exam and completing a project. The exam covers topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, accessibility, usability, and browser compatibility. The project requires candidates to create a website from scratch that meets all of the W3C's web design standards.

To get certified, candidates must first register for the program on the W3C website. After registering, they will receive access to an online course with study materials and practice tests. Once they have completed their studies and passed the exam, they can submit their project for review. If it meets all of the requirements outlined by the W3C, they will be awarded their certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on where you live and what type of certification you are pursuing (e.g., basic or advanced). Generally speaking, however, it costs around $200 USD per person to get certified in either level of certification.

5. Adobe Creative Suite Certification

Adobe Creative Suite Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize creative professionals who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge required to effectively use Adobe Creative Suite software. The certification is offered by Adobe and covers the most popular Adobe Creative Suite applications, including Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, Flash, Acrobat Pro and Premiere Pro.

The certification process typically takes about one month to complete. To get certified, you must first pass an online assessment that tests your knowledge of the various Adobe Creative Suite applications. After passing this assessment, you will be required to complete a series of hands-on projects using the software in order to demonstrate your proficiency. Once these projects are completed and approved by an Adobe Certified Instructor (ACI), you will receive your official certification.

The cost of the Adobe Creative Suite Certification varies depending on which applications you choose to certify in. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 per application for the exam and project completion fees. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with travel or other related expenses if you need to attend an in-person training session or workshop in order to prepare for the exam.

6. HTML5 & CSS3 Certification

HTML5 & CSS3 Certification is a professional certification program that validates an individual’s skills and knowledge in the areas of HTML5 and CSS3. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in web development using HTML5 and CSS3. The certification requires passing an exam, which typically takes 1-2 hours to complete.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam with a testing provider such as Pearson VUE or Prometric. Once registered, you will be given access to study materials and practice tests to help prepare for the exam. After studying, you can schedule your exam at a convenient time and location.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the testing provider, but generally ranges from $100-$200 USD.

7. User Experience Design Certification

User Experience Design Certification is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to design effective user experiences. It is designed to help professionals understand the principles of UX design, develop their skills in creating user-centered designs, and create better user experiences for their clients.

The certification process typically takes 6-8 months to complete. The program consists of four modules: Introduction to User Experience Design, Design Thinking, User Research and Usability Testing, and Prototyping & Evaluation. Each module includes lectures, hands-on activities, case studies, and assessments. Participants must pass all four modules in order to be certified as a UX designer.

In order to get certified as a UX designer, you will need to take an exam administered by the UX Certification Institute (UXCI). The exam is offered online and costs $299 USD. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official certificate from the UXCI.

The cost of the User Experience Design Certification program varies depending on where it is taken. In most cases, it can range from $2,000 - $4,000 USD for the entire program.

8. Responsive Web Design Certification

Responsive Web Design Certification is a certification program offered by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C). It is designed to help web designers and developers create websites that are optimized for all types of devices, including desktops, tablets, and mobile phones. The certification includes topics such as HTML5, CSS3, JavaScript, and Responsive Web Design principles.

The program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The course covers the basics of Responsive Web Design and takes approximately 10 hours to complete. After completing the course, you will be eligible to take the exam. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes.

To get certified in Responsive Web Design, you must first register with the W3C website and pay a fee of $150 USD. Once registered, you can access the online course material and take the exam at any time. Upon successful completion of the exam, you will receive your certificate via email within 5 business days.

The cost for Responsive Web Design Certification is $150 USD. This fee covers both the online course material as well as the exam fees.

9. JavaScript and JQuery Certification

JavaScript and JQuery Certification is an online certification program that tests your knowledge of JavaScript and JQuery. It is designed to demonstrate a basic understanding of the two languages and how to use them for web development. The certification exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as HTML, CSS, JavaScript, JQuery, AJAX, JSON, DOM manipulation and more.

The exam takes around 90 minutes to complete and can be taken from any computer with an internet connection. You will need to register for the exam before you can take it. The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $50-$100 USD.

In order to pass the exam, you must score at least 70%. After completing the exam you will receive a certificate that is valid for one year. This certificate can be used as proof of your knowledge in JavaScript and JQuery when applying for jobs or other opportunities.

10. Adobe Photoshop Certification

Adobe Photoshop Certification is a professional certification program that validates your expertise in Adobe Photoshop. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates your proficiency in the use of Adobe Photoshop software.

The certification exam covers topics such as image editing, photo retouching, color correction, and other advanced features of the software. To get certified, you must pass a comprehensive exam which tests your knowledge and skills with the Adobe Photoshop software. The exam typically takes 2-3 hours to complete and consists of multiple choice questions.

To get certified, you must first register for the exam at Adobe's website. You will need to provide proof of identity and payment information before you can take the exam. The cost of the certification exam varies depending on the version of Photoshop you are using, but typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

Once you have successfully passed the certification exam, you will receive an official certificate from Adobe which will be sent to your registered address within 4-6 weeks after completion of the exam. This certificate will serve as proof of your official Adobe Photoshop Certification and can be used to demonstrate your expertise in this powerful software application to potential employers or clients.

11. UX/UI Design Certification

UX/UI Design Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and proficiency in the areas of user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their expertise in creating digital products that are both user-friendly and aesthetically pleasing.

The certification typically requires a combination of coursework, practical experience, and an examination. It usually takes 6-12 months to complete the program depending on the complexity of the coursework and the amount of time dedicated to studying.

To get certified, individuals must complete courses in UX/UI design fundamentals, usability testing, visual design principles, prototyping tools, project management techniques, and more. These courses can be completed online or through a local college or university. Additionally, some certifying organizations may require applicants to submit a portfolio showcasing their work before they can be officially certified.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the certifying organization and the type of program chosen. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$2,000 USD for online courses or $3,000-$10,000 USD for in-person programs.

Do You Really Need a Graphic Web Designer Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a graphic web designer certificate in order to become a successful web designer. However, having such a certification can be beneficial in certain situations.

For starters, having a graphic web designer certificate shows employers that you have taken the time to learn about the field and that you are dedicated to your craft. It also serves as proof of your knowledge and skillset. In addition, it can open up opportunities for further training and development in the field, giving you an edge over other applicants who may not have such credentials.

At the same time, many employers are more concerned with experience than they are with certifications. If you have years of experience under your belt and have built up a portfolio that demonstrates your abilities, then a certification is likely unnecessary. The same goes if you already have some college-level coursework related to web design or if you’ve completed an apprenticeship program or similar type of training.

Ultimately, it depends on your individual situation and goals. If obtaining a graphic web designer certificate will help open doors for you or give you an advantage in the job market then it may be worth considering. But if you already possess the necessary skills and experience then it’s probably best to focus on building your portfolio and gaining more real-world experience before investing any more time or money into obtaining formal certification.

Related: Graphic Web Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Graphic Web Designer Certifications

1. What types of certifications are available for graphic web designers?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available for graphic web designers, including Adobe Certified Expert (ACE), Adobe Certified Associate (ACA), and Apple Certified Pro (ACP).

2. How do I become certified as a graphic web designer?

Answer: To become certified as a graphic web designer, you will need to complete the necessary courses and exams associated with the certification you choose. This may include online courses, in-person classes or workshops, and passing an exam.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a graphic web designer?

Answer: It typically takes between 6 months and 2 years to complete the training and exams necessary to become certified as a graphic web designer depending on the certification you pursue.

4. Are there any prerequisites for becoming a certified graphic web designer?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require applicants to have some experience in design or related fields before they can be eligible to sit for an exam or complete the necessary coursework. Additionally, some certifications may require applicants to have specific software skills or knowledge of coding languages such as HTML and CSS.

5. Is there any cost associated with becoming a certified graphic web designer?

Answer: Yes, there is usually an associated cost with taking courses or exams necessary for becoming certified in this field. Costs vary depending on the type of certification you pursue but can range from $150-$1000+.