TRAINER: VICTOR ODHIAMBO
GRAPHIC DESIGN
COURSE OUTLINE
1. Introduction to Graphic Design
What is Graphic Design?
History and evolution of graphic design
Major fields of application (branding, UI/UX, advertising, editorial, etc.)
Role of a graphic designer
2. Design Principles
Balance (symmetry vs. asymmetry)
Contrast
Alignment
Repetition
Proximity
White space
Hierarchy
3. Elements of Design
Line
Shape
Color
Texture
Space
Form
Typography
4. Color Theory
Color wheel (primary, secondary, tertiary)
Color harmonies (complementary, analogous, etc.)
Psychology of color
Color models (RGB, CMYK, HEX)
5. Typography
Anatomy of type (serif vs. sans serif, ascenders, descenders)
Typeface classifications
Font pairing
Line spacing, kerning, and tracking
Readability and legibility
6. Tools and Software
Adobe Photoshop (raster graphics)
Adobe Illustrator (vector graphics)
Adobe InDesign (layout design)
Canvas, Figma, Sketch, Affinity Designer (alternatives and modern tools)
7. Branding and Identity Design
Logo design principles
Brand identity systems
Visual storytelling
Style guides and brand manuals
8. Layout and Composition
Grids and alignment
Rule of thirds
Margins and padding
Print vs. digital layout considerations
9. UI/UX Basics (User Interface & Experience Design)
Difference between UI and UX
Wire framing and prototyping
User-centered design
Responsive and mobile design considerations
10. Creative Process and Workflow
Research and inspiration
Sketching and ideation
Iteration and feedback
Final production and file preparation
11. File Formats and Output
Vector vs. raster graphics
Common file types (JPG, PNG, PDF, SVG, EPS, etc.)
Print production (DPI, bleed, color profiles)
Digital optimization (compression, web-safe fonts)
12. Portfolio and Career
Building a design portfolio
Freelancing vs. in-house vs. agency work
Personal branding
Networking and continuing education