Creating stunning and complex graphics with Adobe Illustrator, used in various industries, is easy. The vector graphics tool allows images to resize without losing detail or being pixelated. Following your decision to learn Illustrator, deciding how you plan to learn it is important. As most students find that guided training is the best way to learn, several options are available for them to get assistance with Illustrator training. Read on to find out about Illustrator training options and what benefits and drawbacks each one offers. 

What is Illustrator?

Adobe Illustrator is a vector design tool used in industries, including graphic and web design. Illustrator allows users to build graphics and illustrations from vectors (lines, shapes, and points). Graphics created in Illustrator receive minimal decay in quality when resized. This feature lets you use Illustrator designs on anything from billboards to business cards. 

Illustrator is a key part of the Adobe Creative Cloud. It works with Adobe programs such as Photoshop, After Effects, and Premiere Pro. Adobe created these programs to allow for optimized crossover.

Read more about what Illustrator is and why you should learn it. 

What Can You Do with Illustrator Skills?

Illustrator, a vector graphics design tool, lets users create illustrations. Creatives use Illustrator to build recognizable logos and iconography to define a brand identity. While most commonly used in the graphic design industry, several Fashion designers utilize the program. In professional settings, users create illustrations to quickly and effectively convey meaning and recognition among customers. A majority of product packaging uses vector graphics.

For non-professionals or aspiring entrepreneurs, Illustrator can help build an online identity. These individuals use Illustrator to create logos, signage, and decals for the growing business, making it a valuable skill to know. 

Why Training Format Matters

Learning a complex creative tool like Illustrator has no singular method. There are various training methods when learning any new tool or skill. While no method is better, prospective students must consider which format is right for them to get the most out of their training. An individual's schedule, learning styles, and training goals will determine the suitable format.

Types of Training Formats

The three training formats are live online, in-person, and on-demand. There are advantages and disadvantages to each training format. In general, live online and on-demand classes are more accessible than others, but in-person classes are generally more personable and interactive.

Live In-Person Classes

Live, in-person instruction is one of the most traditional ways to learn a new skill. A drawback of these courses is that they are often limited to where a student lives. They may be ideal for students who prefer to be surrounded by others when learning or who feel that online learning may demotivate them. Several major training providers offer training in or around technology-related cities. Many large companies and businesses are located in these cities, so employees train for positions they hope to receive.

Live Online Classes

The live online course option is a good option for students who do not live near a major city or do not wish to commute to learn Illustrator in person. Students can ask questions and receive real-time feedback on their exercises and projects as professional instructors teach these courses. By taking these courses, students can learn Illustrator in the comfort of their homes and on the devices they are likely to use the program most often. Keeping up with technology and Illustrator access will be the students' responsibility, which can be difficult for some.

On-Demand Classes

Illustrator classes can be on-demand if students prefer a more flexible learning environment. However, students must be more self-motivated than other learning options to take these courses. Some students may not fit their schedule into a live instruction course or simply prefer the flexibility of self-paced learning. Students with less open schedules may find it difficult to avoid falling behind by putting off work and training since there is no curriculum or schedule to follow. Aside from that, without an instructor, students won't be able to ask questions directly and will have to seek help from other sources on the internet, which can be difficult.

Free Courses

Students interested in learning Illustrator but are still deciding whether to enroll in a paid training course can take advantage of a few free options to learn the basics. Enrolling in available free courses can be beneficial to learning the basics of Illustrator, from learning basic tools to essential tasks. Those seeking free options can find Illustrator courses through skill-sharing websites like Youtube, Coursera, or Udemy. One main issue with these courses or free resources is that you may encounter outdated information, making it hard to learn on current software.

Depth of Training Formats

You must decide which type of training you will pursue based on your training goals and interests. If you wish to pursue instructor-led training, a variety of classes are available, including certificate programs, bootcamps, and introductory courses. A certificate program prepares you for a job, a bootcamp trains you in a specific skill, and an introductory course teaches you the basics.

Certificate Programs

The duration of a certificate program usually ranges from a few weeks to a month. Courses are open to beginners and advanced students and prepare students for entry-level positions. Classes provide instruction on industry concepts and tools. Career preparation includes mentorships and portfolio workshops. The cost of certificate programs varies based on their depth. Generally, one can expect to pay a few thousand dollars for a course.

Noble Desktop offers several certificate programs related to careers requiring Illustrator training. Students learn basic design concepts, such as Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, in courses like the Graphic Design Certificate and Digital Design Certificate. These programs prepare students for careers in design. In the UI Design Certificate, students can learn Adobe programs and industry concepts relevant to a career as a User Interface Designer.

For students interested in a career in marketing, the Social Marketing Certificate teaches strategies for Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and TikTok marketing platforms. In addition, they may want to take the Digital Marketing Certificate, which combines social media marketing strategies with other digital marketing techniques like email marketing, paid advertisements, and SEO. Although Illustrator and other Adobe software aren't taught in these two certificates; however, students can apply the skills gained in these programs to marketing strategies.

Training Bootcamps

Training bootcamps usually last a few days and weeks, depending on the topic's complexity. Courses are open to beginners and guide them from beginner concepts to advanced skills. In general, bootcamps cost less than certificate programs, and training in singular topics usually costs around $1,000. 

The Adobe Illustrator Bootcamp at Noble Desktop guides students from beginner levels to advanced ones. Students will spend time learning to create different types of graphics. They will master using the pen tool to create various vector drawings. In the end, students can create any graphic they desire using Illustrator.

Introductory Courses

Introductory courses usually last a day or a few more days, depending on a topic's complexity. They introduce students to a topic or application in a straightforward way. The courses are ideal for students who want to get a feel for a topic before pursuing additional training or need to learn the basics. In general, introductory courses cost around a few hundred dollars, depending on the institution and the curriculum offered.

The Illustrator in a Day course from Noble Desktop teaches students how to draw shapes and vector graphics using the pen tool.

Learn Illustrator Skills with Noble Desktop

Noble Desktop offers various Illustrator classes and bootcamps for students hoping to receive Illustrator training through a live online course.

• Illustrator in a Day: An introductory course covering the program's basic functionalities. 
• Adobe Illustrator Bootcamp: A more advanced class that teaches students to create complex and vibrant vector illustrations. Students finish the course with a professional portfolio. 
• Graphic Design Certificate: Students will master Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, and Indesign. They will work towards building various sample designs to include in their portfolio. 
• Digital Design Certificate: Students will learn the essential Adobe applications and UI and web design for digital publications. 

Key Insights

• One can learn Illustrator in various ways and methods.
• In-person training is highly interactive but comes at the cost of commutes and fixed schedules. 
• Live online training offers flexible scheduling without the commute of in-person training but lacks the full social aspect. Students are also responsible for their equipment. 
• On-demand training offers complete flexibility but lacks an instructor or peer for additional guidance. 
• Free courses offer great resources for beginners but may provide outdated information. 
• Certificate programs are lengthy and costly, but they prepare students for a new career with multiple new skills. They often include career assistance. 
• Bootcamps provide comprehensive training on one topic, from beginner to advanced techniques. 
• Introductory courses are short and cheaper programs that introduce students to the fundamental concepts of a topic. 
• You can receive comprehensive Illustrator training at Noble Desktop, with in-person or online options available.