Real progress, not guesswork

Starting in graphic design shouldn’t feel like guesswork. On our Beginners Level 1 Diploma, you’re paired with your own one-to-one tutor/design coach who works with you personally from day one, with focused 45-minute live online tutorials each week or every two weeks to suit your time.

You’ll work through structured modules that build confidence step by step, from the absolute basics to creating solid, portfolio-ready work. Most students complete Level 1 in 6–12 months (with flexibility to go faster or slower), and we’ll help you plan realistic study time around work and life.

What you’ll need and learn

You’ll have access to all study materials via your online student account, and your coach will guide you through each stage. For software, Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop are ideal (Affinity Designer is fine at this level too). If you don’t want to use video, you can still get full support via campus messaging.

Getting started

Apply and, once accepted, complete your course payment. We’ll then activate your student account (usually within up to five working days), email your login, and your one-to-one tutor will arrange your first Skype consultation to map out your pace and goals.

Real progress, not guesswork — Level 3 (Advanced)

If you’re ready to operate at a fully professional standard, Advanced Level 3 is where you sharpen your craft with real-world projects and targeted coaching. You’ll work one-to-one with a professional design coach, with 45-minute tutorials weekly or fortnightly to keep momentum and unblock issues quickly.

Projects mirror professional briefs across branding, layout and production, building a portfolio that proves you can deliver. To enrol on Level 3, you should already be comfortable in Adobe Illustrator, InDesign and Photoshop; your coach will push your technique and process to a higher level. On successful completion, you’ll receive a CDS Diploma Certificate — and one year’s free registration with the PGDA (The Professional Graphic Designers Association).

How the rhythm works
Each module runs in a tight loop: review, feedback, next steps. Materials and assignments live in your student account; you submit work digitally and meet your coach live online to refine it. If you prefer not to use video, support continues through the campus messaging tools.

Enrolment in brief
Apply, complete payment once accepted, and we’ll set up your access (up to five working days). Your coach will then book your first planning session and agree on your weekly/fortnightly cadence.