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GRAPHIC DESIGN EN

Graphic Design Course in English

Learn professional graphic design with Adobe, AI and visual strategy.

This English-taught course is designed for beginners, expats and career switchers who want to build real design skills from concept to execution. You work with Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, develop your visual style and build portfolio-ready projects.

  • Duration: 6 months
  • Format: fully online, live via Zoom
  • Language: English
  • Lessons: Thursday evenings, 7–9 PM
  • Course fee: €2975 excl VAT
  • Optional exam: €255
  • Next start: Thursday 29 October 2026 — places available

A practical design studio in course form: tools, feedback, rhythm and portfolio work.

This English-taught course is designed for beginners, expats and career switchers who want to build real design skills from concept to execution.

You learn online, from wherever you are, in a small group with live teaching every week. Everything you make feeds into one thing: a portfolio you can actually show.

Reviews & ervaringen

What students say about our Graphic Design Course

Students often choose Art and the City because they want to learn graphic design in a practical, personal and structured way. The course is suitable for beginners as well as creative professionals who want to build stronger skills in Illustrator, Photoshop, InDesign, typography, layout and visual thinking.

“The teachers were friendly, patient and very knowledgeable. The lessons were easy to follow, even for a complete beginner. The assignments were sometimes challenging, but the feedback made them very valuable.”

JaschaGraphic Design student

“I took the Full Graphic Design course without any previous experience. I learned a lot and the lessons were clear, practical and encouraging.”

JanaFull Graphic Design Course

“I took private Graphic Design classes and loved the courses. It inspired me a lot and the classes were tailored to my level.”

AlinePrivate Graphic Design classes

Maybe you’re here because…

  • I want to learn graphic design in a practical and creative way
  • I’m looking for a course where I can build a real portfolio
  • I want to become a designer, but I need structure and guidance

Then you’re in the right place.

Quick answers

Is this course suitable for beginners?

Yes. You start from the fundamentals and gradually build towards more professional work.

Will I create a real portfolio?

Yes. You work on visual assignments that help you build strong, presentable portfolio projects.

What you’ll learn

What you’ll learn

  • Work with Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign
  • Apply graphic design principles and typography
  • Create designs using AI tools and concept development
  • Develop a strong visual identity and style
  • Present and export your work professionally

After this course

  • Design professional visual content for digital and print
  • Create a consistent visual identity for brands or your own business
  • Build a strong portfolio
  • Understand how design works in real-world projects
  • Work independently or collaborate with clients

The optional exam

A practical final assignment

The exam is built around real design work rather than theory. You develop a complete brand book for a fashion label or a record label, and you design a poster under time pressure. There is also a written part with multiple-choice and a few open questions.

We don't publish the exact brief in advance, but the format has been the same for years and your teacher prepares you for it during the course.

Why it's worth doing

  • The brand book is a substantial, finished piece for your portfolio
  • You practise working to a brief and to a deadline, as you would for a client
  • You end up with proof of what you can do, not just a certificate
  • Optional: €255, taken at the end of the course

Without the exam you receive a certificate of participation.

Who is this for?

  • Beginners starting a creative career
  • Career switchers entering design or marketing
  • Freelancers building their own visual identity
  • Artists and makers wanting more control over their work
  • Expats in the Netherlands looking for creative education in English

Career opportunities

  • Graphic Designer
  • Content Creator
  • Marketing Professional
  • Freelancer / Entrepreneur

Choose your format

Complete course

Live online lessons, assignments and feedback

€2975

  • ex VAT, six months
  • Portfolio development
  • Small group
  • Practical assignments
Sign up

Personal consultation

Not sure about your level, planning or funding options?

€0

  • Short intake
  • Personal advice
  • Check your goals
Personal meeting

Payment plan

Payment in instalments is possible

Plan

  • Ask about the options
  • Your employer can also be invoiced
  • Practical and tailored
Discuss options

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this course taught in English?

Yes. The course is fully taught in English and is ideal for internationals, expats and Dutch creatives who want to study in English.

Where do the lessons take place?

The course is fully online. You join the live lessons via Zoom from anywhere in the Netherlands or Europe. There are no compulsory days on location.

Do I have to take the exam?

No, the exam is optional and costs €255. It consists of a practical final assignment — a complete brand book and a poster — plus a written part. Many students take it because the brand book makes a strong portfolio piece.

What software will I learn?

Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, plus AI tools for concept and visual development.

Do students get access to a creative community?

Yes. Students are welcome at the monthly Art Club in Amsterdam.

Sign up or ask advice

The next group starts on Thursday 29 October 2026 and there are places available. Sign up via the button or book a short personal meeting first. We'll help you choose the route that fits your goals, level and schedule.

Also included

You can combine this course with Art Club, portfolio feedback and other modules at Art and the City.

  • Live lessons with expert teachers
  • Feedback on your work
  • Portfolio building
  • Art Club community in Amsterdam (optional)