Chase Your Career Dreams: Resources for Learning Graphic Design (for Autistic Adults)

Starting a new skill is always intimidating. For example, graphic design—which has so many theories, foundations, and tools—can be hard to figure out where to begin. That’s why NeuroNav is here to help sharpen your creative muscles. In this guide, we will delve into resources for learning graphic design and even career resources for autistic adults who want to pursue graphic design.

Whether you’re a beginner or looking to improve your design skills, we will provide easily accessible platforms and tools to support you on your journey.

Learn Graphic Design Basics

Choosing to learn graphic design is exciting. By building a strong foundation, you can get started on bringing your creative visions to life. We have resources for learning graphic design here:

1. Online Courses

Living in a digital world gives us access to endless skills, including graphic design for autistic adults. Structured online courses provide the foundation you need in graphic design principles. Below are free options:

• Coursera has access to how to become a graphic designer, including learning the fundamentals and any specializations in the field.
• Canva Design School also has courses on how to use their platform to learn graphic design.

2. Books

Delving into literature can also aid your understanding of design concepts. These books are popular in the field and are beginner-friendly:

• Graphic Design For Everyone by Cath Caldwell
• Graphic Design Fundamentals by Kris Taft Miller
• How to by Michael Bierut

3. Learning on YouTube

Visual learners should take advantage of the courses available on YouTube. Here are beginner-friendly channels that delve into graphic design resources and tutorials:

1. Envato Tuts+ covers a wide range of topics but has many videos for learning graphic design.
2. Flux Academy focuses more on web design and development.
3. Michael Lubrin (dayswithmike) offers tutorials and tips on becoming a freelance graphic designer.

Brush Up on Your Skills & Practice, Practice, Practice

Consistency is key when it comes to building a skill. We’ve included resources for learning graphic design and practicing it:

1. Design Tools

Various platforms have free versions to help you build your design skills.

• Canva allows you to create a wide range of visual content, from posters to logos and more.
• Adobe Illustrator allows users to create vector graphics. They have tutorials for navigating the platform and designing for your aesthetic.

2. Finding Your Community

Having a group to share your interests with can be an engaging way to learn and connect with others.

• Graphic Design USA (GDUSA) hosts competitions and showcases for emerging designers. By joining, you get the opportunity to show your work and build new connections.
• Social media platforms like Facebook or Reddit also allow people to join or create groups based on their interests.

Discover How to Become a Graphic Designer

Are you wondering how to become a graphic designer? NeuroNav is here to provide career resources for autistic adults.

1. Professional Certification

Coursera offers an Adobe Graphic Designer certificate. It’s perfect for those who want to gain formal training in graphic design.

2. Self-Determination Program (SDP) for Employment Support

For California residents, SDP provides resources for autistic adults to help them gain opportunities that promote independence. Reach out here to learn how we can help you navigate your graphic design career.

3. Research, Research, Research

It’s important to learn how you can get your foot in the door of graphic design. The Bureau of Labor Statistics gives a detailed breakdown of how to become a graphic designer and shares potential salaries and job prospects.

Discover More Career Resources for Autistic Adults

With the right support, you can transform your passion for graphic design into a rewarding profession. NeuroNav is committed to supporting autistic adults in their graphic design journey. Our services offer personalized guidance and resources for autistic adults or those with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs).

If you are in California, the Self-Determination Program (SDP) provides adults with IDDs the support to reach their goals. Our independent facilitation services ensure you have access to resources that align with what you want to do. Get in touch with our team today and receive a free consultation.