Certificate in Graphic Designing DTP with AI

Month 1: Introduction to Desktop Publishing & Visual Design

Module 1: Introduction to Desktop Publishing and Visual Design Fundamentals

Module Description:
Lays the foundation in DTP, design principles, and the relationship between layout and communication.

• What is DTP? Evolution and scope in publishing
• Understanding publication types: brochures, books, flyers, catalogs
• Design principles: alignment, balance, white space, contrast
• Color theory in print (CMYK vs RGB), typography basics
• File types: raster vs vector, DPI, resolution for print
• Understanding layout grids, margins, and columns

Module 2: Adobe InDesign – Layout and Multi-Page Document Design
Module Description:
Comprehensive training in the primary software used for professional publishing and page layout.

• Workspace, document setup, and master pages
• Working with columns, grids, and paragraph styles
• Text wrapping, image placement, and linking
• Magazine, newsletter, and catalog layout projects
• Table formatting, TOC and index creation
• Exporting for print and interactive PDFs

Practical:
Basic DTP project: brochure and newsletter design using Adobe InDesign

Month 2: Creative Layout & Vector Illustration

Module 3: CorelDRAW – Print Design and Vector Illustration

Module Description:
Focuses on creating scalable design elements and layouts commonly used in printing and packaging.

• Creating brochures, labels, visiting cards, and posters
• Mastering vector shapes, text on path, and curve editing
• Page layout for banners, invitation cards, and certificates
• Managing color palettes, print bleeds, and spot colors
• Preparing files for offset printing
• Working with dielines and cutter guides

Module 4: Adobe Illustrator – Vector Graphics for Publishing and Branding

Module Description:
Equips learners to create brand assets, illustrations, and infographics for integration into DTP projects.

• Pen tool, shape builder, and pathfinder operations
• Designing logos, icons, infographics, and charts
• Typographic illustration for magazine covers
• Brand asset creation for product packaging
• Exporting vector art for print and digital layouts

Practical:
Logo, visiting card, and brand identity creation project using CorelDRAW & Illustrator

Month 3: Image Editing & Typography in Publishing

Module 5: Adobe Photoshop – Image Editing and Print Enhancement

Module Description:
Prepares learners to handle image manipulation, enhancement, and creative retouching for print integration.

• Image resizing, resolution adjustment, and DPI for print
• Color correction and CMYK conversion
• Background removal, masking, and selection techniques
• Creating print-ready posters, photo layouts, and covers
• Preparing images for newspapers, catalogs, and magazines

Module 6: Typography and Composition in Publishing

Module Description:
Delves into the detailed use of fonts, layout balance, and readable formatting for effective publication.

• Font pairing and typographic hierarchy
• Leading, kerning, tracking, and line length
• Text alignment and justification in multi-column layouts
• Display typography for covers and headlines
• Typography do’s and don’ts in print media

Practical:
Magazine cover & poster composition using Photoshop and advanced typography

Month 4: Designing for Print Media & Pre-Press Production

Module 7: Designing for Various Print Media

Module Description:
Hands-on projects for different types of print design requirements across industries.

• Designing newspaper ads, leaflets, and product catalogs
• Resume and certificate layout
• Menu cards, ID cards, and packaging inserts
• Wall calendars, diaries, and booklets
• Understanding print vendor requirements

Module 8: Pre-Press, Printing Techniques, and File Export Standards

Module Description:
Focuses on preparing files for final print delivery and understanding the production process.

• Pre-press checklist and proofing
• Color models: CMYK, spot color, and Pantone
• Understanding bleed, trim, slug, and crop marks
• Exporting print-ready PDFs, packaging files with fonts/links
• Offset, digital, and screen printing basics
• Working with printers and resolving print issues

Practical:
End-to-end pre-press project: brochure to print-ready export and vendor proofing

Month 5: Portfolio Development & Employability Skills

Module 9: Project Work and Portfolio Development

Module Description:
Combines acquired skills into real-world print projects for professional presentation.

• Designing a brand’s complete print collateral (cards, letterhead, brochure)
• Layout design of a short magazine or multi-page report
• Independent poster and product label projects
• Compiling a professional PDF and printed portfolio
• Preparing digital mockups for Behance or client pitch

Module 10: Employability Skills and Career Development

Module Description:
Prepares learners to seek employment or freelancing work with practical readiness.

• Resume and portfolio tailored for DTP roles
• Cover letter writing and job platform readiness
• Working with clients and managing feedback
• Freelancing and agency work: project timelines, quoting, deliverables
• Interview skills for desktop publishers and print designers
• Career paths: publishing houses, media studios, and advertising agencies

Practical:
Portfolio presentation and mock client project submission

Assessment:

• Practical examination (software-based)
• Print-ready project submission
• Viva and design presentation

Outcome:

After completing the DTP course, learners will be able to:

• Design professional print materials using Adobe & Corel tools
• Apply layout, color, and typography principles effectively
• Manage complete publishing workflow from design to pre-press
• Build a professional portfolio and approach print or digital media jobs

Career Opportunities:

• Desktop Publishing Operator / Print Designer
• Layout Artist / Graphic Designer
• Creative Executive / Brand Collateral Designer
• Pre-press Technician / Print Production Assistant
• Freelance Designer / Studio Assistant