Top 10 Visual Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for a visual designer in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the designer has gained knowledge and experience in their field. Certifications can provide proof of expertise and help the designer stand out from other applicants. They also show employers that the designer is committed to learning more about their craft, which can be an attractive quality to have in a competitive job market. Additionally, certifications can help designers gain access to exclusive resources and networking opportunities that may not be available to those without certifications.

The purpose of this article is to review the best certifications for Visual Designers and explain how they can help to further their career.

What are Visual Designer Certifications?

Visual designer certification is a type of professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in visual design. Visual design encompasses the use of color, typography, imagery, and layout to create visually appealing designs. It is an important skill set for any aspiring graphic designer or web developer.

Visual designer certification can help individuals stand out among their peers in the competitive job market. By completing a certified program, individuals are able to demonstrate their knowledge of visual design principles and techniques. The certification also provides valuable industry contacts which can prove helpful when seeking employment. Furthermore, having a visual design certificate may give candidates an edge over other applicants with similar qualifications but without the credential.

Certified individuals often have access to exclusive resources such as industry events, webinars and job postings that are not available to non-certified professionals. They may also receive discounts on software and other services related to visual design. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire certified professionals because they know they have been thoroughly trained and tested on their skills in this field.

In short, obtaining a visual designer certification can provide many benefits to those looking to enter or advance in the field of graphic design or web development. It can help boost resumes, open up new job opportunities and increase earning potential.

Pro Tip: Pursuing a visual designer certification can help you stand out in the job market and increase your chances of success. Make sure to research the different types of certifications available, as well as any applicable requirements, before committing to a specific program. Additionally, look into any continuing education opportunities that may be available through the certification provider.

Related: What does a Visual Designer do?

Top 10 Visual Designer Certifications

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

1. Adobe Certified Expert in Visual Design

Adobe Certified Expert in Visual Design is a certification program offered by Adobe that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the use of Adobe Creative Suite applications for digital design. The program is designed to help professionals demonstrate their proficiency and increase their value in the marketplace.

To become an Adobe Certified Expert in Visual Design, you must pass two exams: Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Illustrator. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and covers topics such as color theory, typography, layout, and design principles. You must also demonstrate your ability to create digital artwork using the tools available in the Creative Suite.

The cost of becoming an Adobe Certified Expert in Visual Design varies depending on which version of the Creative Suite you are using. Generally speaking, it will cost between $100 and $200 per exam. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with purchasing the software or materials needed for the exams.

Once you have passed both exams, you will receive your official certification from Adobe. This certification will serve as proof of your expertise and can be used to demonstrate your skillset to potential employers or clients.

2. Apple Certified Pro in Visual Design

Apple Certified Pro in Visual Design is a certification program offered by Apple that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated mastery of the tools and techniques used to create professional-level visual designs. The certification is designed to validate an individual’s ability to use the latest design software and technologies from Apple, including Final Cut Pro X, Motion 5, Compressor 4, Logic Pro X, and Color 1.5.

In order to receive the Apple Certified Pro in Visual Design certification, individuals must pass a two-hour exam that tests their knowledge of design principles and concepts as well as their proficiency with the various Apple design tools. The exam consists of 50 multiple-choice questions and is administered at authorized testing centers around the world.

The cost for taking the exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. It usually takes about four weeks after passing the exam for individuals to receive their certificate from Apple.

3. Autodesk Certified Professional in Visual Design

Autodesk Certified Professional in Visual Design is a certification program from Autodesk, the leading provider of design and engineering software. This certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in using Autodesk software for creating visual designs. It covers topics such as 3D modeling, animation, rendering, lighting, rigging, and compositing.

The certification process typically takes about two months to complete. To get certified, you must first register for the exam online and then pass it with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that assess your knowledge of Autodesk software and its features.

The cost of the Autodesk Certified Professional in Visual Design exam varies depending on which version of the software you're using. For example, if you're using Maya 2021, the cost is $250 USD plus applicable taxes. If you're using a different version of Maya, the cost may be slightly different.

Once you've passed the exam, you'll receive an official certificate from Autodesk confirming your certification status. This certificate will serve as proof that you possess the skills necessary to create professional-level visual designs using Autodesk software.

4. Microsoft Certified Professional in Visual Design

Microsoft Certified Professional in Visual Design is a certification program that enables professionals to demonstrate their skills and knowledge in the field of visual design. The certification is designed for professionals who work with Microsoft Visual Studio, Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF), Silverlight, Expression Blend, and other related technologies.

The certification process consists of two exams: Exam 70-511: TS: Windows Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4 and Exam 70-515: Web Applications Development with Microsoft .NET Framework 4. Candidates must pass both exams to be certified. Each exam takes approximately 2 hours to complete and costs $125 USD each.

To prepare for the exams, candidates should have hands-on experience working with WPF, Silverlight, Expression Blend, and other related technologies. They should also review the official study guide from Microsoft Press as well as any supplemental materials available online.

The cost for the certification depends on the number of exams taken and any additional materials purchased. The total cost can range from $250 USD up to several hundred dollars depending on the preparation materials chosen by the candidate.

5. National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certification

The National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ) Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an interior designer’s knowledge, experience and proficiency in the field. It is the only certification recognized by all U.S. jurisdictions that regulate the practice of interior design.

In order to obtain NCIDQ Certification, designers must meet certain educational and experience requirements, pass three exams administered by NCIDQ, and adhere to a code of ethics and professional conduct. The process typically takes between one and two years to complete.

The first step in obtaining NCIDQ Certification is to become eligible by meeting certain educational and experience requirements. To be eligible, applicants must have either a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited program in Interior Design or Architecture, or have completed at least six years of combined education and/or experience in interior design or architecture-related fields. Additionally, applicants must have completed at least two years of post-secondary education in interior design or architecture-related fields, with at least one year of full-time work experience as an interior designer within the past five years.

Once eligible, applicants must pass three exams administered by NCIDQ: the Interior Design Fundamentals Exam (IDFX), the Interior Design Professional Exam (IDPX), and the Practicum Exam (PRAC). The IDFX covers topics such as building codes, construction documents, materials & finishes, furniture & furnishings, lighting & electrical systems, acoustics & sound control systems; while the IDPX covers topics such as programming & analysis; space planning; design development; construction documentation; furniture selection & specification; lighting design; electrical systems design; acoustics & sound control systems design; sustainable design principles; universal access/design for aging in place principles; fire safety principles; project management principles; professional practice principles; business management principles. The PRAC exam requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply their knowledge through a series of practical exercises related to commercial interiors projects.

The cost for NCIDQ Certification varies depending on eligibility status and whether or not a candidate has taken any previous exams with NCIDQ. For those who are eligible but have not taken any previous exams with NCIDQ, the total cost will be approximately $1125 USD ($575 for IDFX + $400 for IDPX + $150 for PRAC). For those who are not yet eligible but have taken one or more exams with NCIDQ previously, there may be additional fees associated with retaking exams due to changes in eligibility criteria since taking them originally.

6. Society of Digital Agencies (SODA) Certification

The Society of Digital Agencies (SODA) Certification is an industry-recognized certification program for digital agencies. It is designed to recognize agencies that have achieved excellence in the areas of customer service, project management, and digital marketing.

The SODA Certification process consists of three steps: completing a self-assessment questionnaire, submitting a portfolio of work samples and references, and undergoing an evaluation by a panel of experts. The entire process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete.

To get certified, applicants must first register with the SODA website and pay the application fee. Applicants must then complete the self-assessment questionnaire which covers topics such as customer service, project management, digital marketing strategies, and technology capabilities. After completing the questionnaire, applicants must submit a portfolio of work samples and references to demonstrate their experience in these areas. Finally, applicants will be evaluated by a panel of experts who will review their portfolios and provide feedback on their performance.

The cost for SODA Certification varies depending on the size of your agency but typically ranges from $500 - $2,000 USD per year.

7. International Webmasters Association (IWA) Certification

The International Webmasters Association (IWA) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes web professionals who demonstrate the knowledge, skills and abilities necessary to create and manage effective websites. The IWA Certification Program is designed to provide web professionals with a comprehensive set of skills and knowledge in order to become successful in their field.

The IWA Certification Program consists of four levels: Associate, Professional, Expert, and Master. Each level requires different levels of experience and knowledge. To qualify for each level, applicants must pass a series of exams covering topics such as website design, development, content management systems, search engine optimization, project management, usability testing, coding standards, accessibility guidelines and more.

The amount of time it takes to get the IWA Certification varies depending on the individual’s experience level and how much time they are able to dedicate to studying for the exams. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several months to over a year to complete all four levels of certification.

To get IWA Certified an individual must first register for the program by submitting an application form online or through mail. After registering for the program applicants will be given access to study materials which can be used as preparation for taking the exams. Once all four levels have been successfully completed applicants will receive their official IWA Certificate in recognition of their achievement.

The cost of getting certified through IWA varies depending on which level you are applying for and whether or not you are a member of the organization. For non-members the cost ranges from $125 - $400 USD per exam depending on which level you are applying for while members pay discounted rates ranging from $50 - $200 USD per exam.

8. Graphic Design Certification from the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA)

AIGA Graphic Design Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of experienced graphic designers. This certification is awarded by the American Institute of Graphic Arts (AIGA), which is the professional association for design.

To be eligible for AIGA Graphic Design Certification, you must have at least five years of experience in graphic design, including two years of full-time work or equivalent part-time work in the field. You will also need to submit a portfolio that demonstrates your skills and knowledge in graphic design.

The process of obtaining AIGA Graphic Design Certification involves submitting an application, providing proof of your experience and expertise, and passing a written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that evaluate your knowledge of design principles, software applications, typography, color theory, and other topics related to graphic design.

Once you have successfully completed the application process and passed the exam, you will receive an official AIGA Graphic Design Certification certificate from AIGA. This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed by taking additional courses or attending workshops related to graphic design.

The cost for AIGA Graphic Design Certification varies depending on whether you are an AIGA member or not. For non-members, it costs $250 USD to apply for certification; for members it costs $150 USD.

9. User Experience (UX) Certification from the Nielsen Norman Group

The User Experience (UX) Certification from the Nielsen Norman Group is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s expertise in the field of user experience design. The certification is based on the principles and methods outlined in the book “Designing for Interaction: Creating Innovative Applications and Devices” by Don Norman and Jakob Nielsen, two of the most influential figures in UX research and design.

The certification program consists of two parts: an online course and an assessment. The online course covers topics such as user experience fundamentals, user research, usability testing, information architecture, interaction design, visual design, prototyping and more. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete the course.

Once you have completed the course, you can take the assessment which consists of multiple-choice questions about UX concepts and principles. You must score at least 80% on this assessment to receive your certificate.

The cost of the certification program is $499 USD. This includes access to all course materials as well as a one-year membership to the Nielsen Norman Group community where you can connect with other UX professionals and gain access to exclusive resources.

10. UX/UI Designer Certification from the Interaction Design Foundation

The UX/UI Designer Certification from the Interaction Design Foundation (IDF) is a comprehensive online certification program designed to help aspiring UX/UI designers gain the skills and knowledge they need to become successful in their field. The program covers topics such as user research, interface design, usability testing, prototyping, and more.

The certification takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete and consists of 10 courses. Each course is self-paced and can be taken at any time. The courses cover topics such as user experience design principles, user interface design fundamentals, typography basics, color theory, wireframing techniques, prototyping tools and techniques, usability testing methods, and more.

To get the certification you must complete all 10 courses with a passing grade of 80% or higher. Upon completion of the program you will receive a digital certificate that can be used for professional development purposes or shared on your personal portfolio or website.

The cost of the certification is $999 USD which includes access to all 10 courses plus additional resources such as monthly webinars and exclusive discounts on IDF products and services.

Do You Really Need a Visual Designer Certificate?

When it comes to getting a job in the visual design field, having a Visual Designer Certificate can be helpful. It can demonstrate your commitment to the field as well as your knowledge of the industry standards and best practices. However, depending on your experience level and the type of job you’re applying for, it may not be necessary to have such a certificate.

If you are just starting out in the field and have limited experience, then obtaining a Visual Designer Certificate could be beneficial. This certificate will show potential employers that you have taken the initiative to learn more about design principles, techniques, and software programs related to visual design. Additionally, having this certification could help you stand out from other candidates who don’t possess such credentials.

On the other hand, if you already have some professional experience in visual design and a portfolio of work to show potential employers, then pursuing a Visual Designer Certificate may not be necessary. Many employers understand that experience is often more valuable than paper credentials – so having several years of successful work under your belt could be enough to land you an interview or job offer.

In short, whether or not you need a Visual Designer Certificate depends largely on your current level of experience and skill-set. If you are new to the field or need something extra to set yourself apart from other applicants, then obtaining this certification may be worth considering – otherwise there may be no need for it. Ultimately it’s up to you to decide what’s best for your situation!

Related: Visual Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Visual Designer Certifications

Q1: What is a Visual Designer Certification?

A1: A Visual Designer Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in the field of visual design. The certification validates knowledge and skills related to creating aesthetically pleasing digital designs, such as websites, apps, logos, and other visuals.

Q2: What are the benefits of becoming certified as a Visual Designer?

A2: Becoming certified as a Visual Designer provides numerous benefits, including increased job opportunities and higher salaries. Additionally, certification can help demonstrate expertise and increase credibility with employers and clients.

Q3: What types of certifications are available for Visual Designers?

A3: Several organizations offer certifications for visual designers, such as Adobe Certified Associate (ACA), Apple Certified Pro (ACP), and Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS). Each certification has its own set of requirements and tests that must be completed in order to earn the credential.

Q4: How much does it cost to become certified as a Visual Designer?

A4: Costs vary depending on the type of certification you pursue, but generally range from $100-$400 USD. This cost typically covers the exam fees and any materials needed to complete the certification process.

Q5: How long does it take to become certified as a Visual Designer?

A5: The amount of time required to become certified varies depending on the type of certification you pursue. Generally speaking, certifications can take anywhere from one week to several months to complete depending on your level of experience and commitment.