Top 10 Web Graphic Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for web graphic designers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in specific areas. They show employers that the designer has the necessary skills to create quality work and is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies. Certifications can also give designers an edge over other candidates, as employers may be more likely to hire someone who has taken the time to invest in their professional development. Additionally, certifications can provide access to industry networks and resources, which can help a designer stay ahead of the competition.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of some of the top certifications for Web Graphic Designers and explain how they can help enhance a web graphic designer's career.

What are Web Graphic Designer Certifications?

Web graphic designer certification is a type of professional certification that shows employers that you have the skills and knowledge necessary to design effective, aesthetically pleasing graphics for websites. Certification programs typically cover topics such as graphic design fundamentals, color theory, typography, page layout, web usability, and website optimization. With this certification, employers know that you understand how to create visually appealing designs that are optimized for the web.

Having a web graphic designer certification can help you stand out in the job market and demonstrate your commitment to your profession. It also shows potential employers that you have taken the initiative to learn about web design principles and practices on your own time. Additionally, having a web graphic designer certification may give you an edge over other candidates who do not have this type of credential. Finally, it can open up opportunities for advancement within your current organization or make you more attractive to new employers.

Pro Tip: When considering a web graphic designer certification, make sure to research the type of program you are considering and the institution that is offering it. Ensure that the program is accredited and offers comprehensive training in all aspects of web graphic design. Additionally, look into job placement assistance as well as other resources available to help you find work after completing your certification.

Related: What does a Web Graphic Designer do?

Top 10 Web Graphic Designer Certifications

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

1. Adobe Certified Expert (ACE)

Adobe Certified Expert (ACE) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in Adobe products. The ACE program tests and verifies a candidate's knowledge of Adobe products, allowing them to demonstrate their proficiency with the software.

In order to become an ACE, you must pass one or more exams that are available through Pearson VUE, an independent testing center. Each exam consists of multiple-choice and scenario-based questions that test your knowledge of Adobe product features, functions, and best practices. Exams typically take two hours to complete and cost $180 USD per exam.

To get started on the path to becoming an ACE, you must first register for the program by creating an account on the Adobe website. Once registered, you can select which exams you would like to take from the list of available exams. You will then be able to purchase vouchers for each exam and schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center near you. After completing all required exams successfully, you will receive your official Adobe Certified Expert certificate from Adobe within 4-6 weeks after passing all exams.

The cost for becoming an ACE varies depending on how many exams are taken and where they are taken from; however, most people spend around $500-$600 USD in total for all required exams.

2. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)

Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s proficiency in Adobe digital media software. It is a globally recognized certification program that helps validate the skills of entry-level users, students, and professionals who use Adobe Creative Cloud applications.

The ACA exam tests your knowledge and understanding of the fundamental features of Adobe Creative Cloud applications such as Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Animate, Premiere Pro, Dreamweaver, and Acrobat Pro. The exam covers topics such as creating artwork with layers and effects; working with text; importing and exporting files; using color palettes; working with video; creating interactive documents; and other tasks related to the software.

It typically takes about 2 hours to complete the exam. You can take the exam online or at a testing center near you. The cost for the exam varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $95 to $180 USD. To get certified you must pass the ACA exam with a score of 70% or higher.

3. Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X

Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X is an official certification program offered by Apple that recognizes professionals who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the use of Final Cut Pro X, a professional video editing software. The certification is designed to help users gain the skills and knowledge necessary to create high-quality video projects.

To become an Apple Certified Pro - Final Cut Pro X, individuals must pass a performance-based exam administered by Apple. This exam tests the user’s ability to complete tasks using the software and covers topics such as media management, timeline editing, audio mixing, color correction and effects.

The exam typically takes between two and four hours to complete, depending on the individual's skill level. The cost of taking the exam is $299 USD (as of 2021). To take the exam, individuals must first register for an Apple ID and then sign up for an appointment at an Apple Authorized Training Center or through Pearson VUE.

4. Apple Certified Pro - Logic Pro X

Apple Certified Pro - Logic Pro X is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of professionals who have achieved mastery in the use of Apple’s professional music production software. The certification requires passing an exam that covers topics such as working with audio, MIDI and virtual instruments; mixing, mastering, and creating music; and using effects and automation.

The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and is available at Apple Authorized Training Centers located around the world. To become certified, you must pass the exam with a score of 80% or higher.

The cost for the Apple Certified Pro - Logic Pro X certification varies depending on your location, but typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. It is also important to note that you must have an active AppleCare+ agreement in order to take the exam.

5. W3C Web Design Professional Certificate

The W3C Web Design Professional Certificate is a certification program offered by the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C) that validates an individual's knowledge and skills in web design. The program consists of three courses: HTML, CSS and JavaScript. It takes approximately 6-9 months to complete the program, depending on each individual's learning pace.

To get the W3C Web Design Professional Certificate, one must first register for the program and then pass all three courses with a score of 70% or higher. After completing the coursework, individuals will receive a certificate from W3C that verifies their web design skills.

The cost of the W3C Web Design Professional Certificate varies depending on where you take the courses. Generally speaking, it can range from $500 to $2,000 USD for all three courses combined.

6. CIW Web Design Specialist Certification

The CIW Web Design Specialist certification is an industry-recognized credential that proves a person’s ability to design and develop websites. The certification is designed for web designers, developers, and other professionals who are looking to demonstrate their expertise in the field of web design.

To obtain the CIW Web Design Specialist certification, individuals must pass two exams: the CIW Site Development Associate exam and the CIW Web Design Professional exam. Both exams can be taken online or at a local testing center. It typically takes around four to six months to complete both exams depending on how much time an individual has available for studying.

The cost of the CIW Web Design Specialist certification varies depending on where an individual takes the exam. In general, it costs around $250 for each exam plus any additional fees associated with taking the test at a local testing center.

7. IC3 Digital Literacy Certification

The IC3 Digital Literacy Certification is an industry-recognized certification program designed to assess and validate the digital literacy skills of individuals. It is a comprehensive assessment of digital literacy, covering topics such as computer hardware, software, operating systems, networks, the internet, security, and productivity applications. The certification consists of three exams: Computing Fundamentals (CF), Key Applications (KA), and Living Online (LO).

The CF exam covers basic computing concepts such as hardware components and peripherals, operating system basics, file management, and application installation. The KA exam covers topics such as word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentation software, emailing and web browsing. The LO exam covers topics such as online safety and security, social media use and privacy settings.

It typically takes around four hours to complete all three exams. To get certified you must pass all three exams with a score of 70% or higher on each one.

The cost for the IC3 Digital Literacy Certification varies depending on where you take the exam. Generally it costs between $100-$200 USD per exam or $300-$600 USD for all three exams.

8. Autodesk Certified User – Graphic Design & Illustration Using Autodesk Sketchbook Pro

Autodesk Certified User – Graphic Design & Illustration Using Autodesk Sketchbook Pro is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the skills and knowledge needed to use Autodesk Sketchbook Pro software. This certification is intended for graphic designers, illustrators, and other creative professionals who want to demonstrate their proficiency in using this powerful digital drawing application.

The Autodesk Certified User – Graphic Design & Illustration Using Autodesk Sketchbook Pro exam consists of 60 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To become certified, an individual must score at least 70% on the exam. The exam can be taken online or at an authorized testing center.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where it is taken. Online exams typically cost around $100 USD, while tests taken at an authorized testing center may cost more. A voucher may be required to take the exam at a testing center.

To prepare for the exam, individuals should review the official Autodesk Sketchbook Pro documentation and practice with the software as much as possible before taking the test. Additionally, there are many online resources available to help individuals study for the exam and become familiar with Autodesk Sketchbook Pro features and functions.

9. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS): PowerPoint 2016

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) PowerPoint 2016 is a certification that demonstrates your proficiency in using Microsoft PowerPoint 2016. It is an internationally recognized certification and proves to employers that you have the skills necessary to create professional presentations.

The MOS PowerPoint 2016 exam consists of tasks related to creating, formatting, and delivering presentations with Microsoft PowerPoint 2016. The exam takes approximately 75 minutes to complete and includes topics such as creating slides, working with objects, inserting media, applying transitions and animations, and delivering presentations.

To get certified in MOS PowerPoint 2016, you must pass the MOS Exam 77-729: Microsoft Office Specialist – PowerPoint 2016. This exam can be taken at any Certiport testing center or online through the Certiport website.

The cost of the MOS Exam 77-729: Microsoft Office Specialist – PowerPoint 2016 varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $150 USD for the exam.

10. CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals

CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals is a certification program designed to provide entry-level IT professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. It is an introductory-level credential that covers basic IT topics such as computer hardware, software, networking, security, and troubleshooting. The certification is designed to help individuals develop a foundational understanding of IT concepts and practices.

The CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a score of at least 700 out of 900 points.

To get the CompTIA Strata IT Fundamentals certification, individuals must first take and pass the corresponding exam. The cost of the exam varies by country but generally ranges from $119-$219 USD.

In addition to passing the exam, individuals must also meet certain eligibility requirements such as having at least six months of hands-on experience working in an IT environment or completing an approved training course.

Do You Really Need a Web Graphic Designer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need a web graphic designer certificate in order to be successful in the field. However, having a certification can certainly make it easier for potential employers to recognize your skills and abilities as a web graphic designer. Additionally, having a certification can provide you with greater confidence in your work and make it easier for you to compete for higher-paying positions.

A web graphic designer certificate can be obtained through online courses or even at an accredited college or university. These courses typically include topics such as design principles, typography, digital imaging, and other areas of web design. By obtaining a certificate, you will have the opportunity to demonstrate that you have acquired the necessary skills and knowledge to create effective visual communication solutions for websites and other media outlets.

In addition to providing employers with proof of your expertise, having a web graphic designer certificate will also give you an edge over other applicants who may not have any formal training in the field. Employers are often looking for candidates who possess specific qualifications that set them apart from the competition. Having a certificate shows that you are well-versed in the latest techniques and technologies related to web design and can provide employers with assurance that you are capable of producing quality results.

Overall, while having a web graphic designer certificate is not essential for success in the field, it can be beneficial in helping you stand out among other applicants and prove your capabilities as an experienced professional.

Related: Web Graphic Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Web Graphic Designer Certifications

1. What are the prerequisites for web graphic designer certifications?

Answer: Generally, web graphic designers should possess a degree in graphic design or equivalent experience and knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Adobe Creative Suite programs (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), and other relevant software.

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

Answer: The length of time to become certified varies depending on the type of certification you are pursuing and your prior experience. Generally speaking, most certifications require anywhere from 6 months to a year of study and practice before taking the final exam.

3. Do I need to take an exam to become a web graphic designer?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require that you pass an exam in order to be officially certified as a web graphic designer.

4. What is the cost associated with becoming certified as a web graphic designer?

Answer: The cost associated with becoming certified as a web graphic designer can vary depending on the type of certification you pursue and where you choose to take the exam. Generally speaking, most exams range from $50 - $400 USD.

5. Are there any online courses available for those interested in becoming certified as a web graphic designer?

Answer: Yes! There are many reputable online courses available for those interested in pursuing certification as a web graphic designer. These courses typically cover topics such as HTML/CSS fundamentals, Adobe Creative Suite programs (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign), user experience design principles, and more!