Resources for Students
There are many resources available to VCU students to learn how to begin using Adobe software, help you level-up your skills, and earn badges to demonstrate your knowledge! Students who are just starting out with learning Adobe software should start with the Adobe's intro courses which also provide badges you can include in your LinkedIn profile.
Also available to all students at VCU is the LinkedIn Learning platform which also provides many beginner-friendly courses as well as tutorials and how-to videos for users at all skill-levels. We've compiled some of our favorites into a list below. Check out these courses to level-up your Adobe software skills quickly!
Earn Digital Badges with Adobe's Intro Courses
To begin learning about Adobe software and start earning digital badges for completing courses, visit https://go.vcu.edu/adobe/badges to get started!
This learning platform offered by Adobe is exclusive to VCU students and provides 12 different courses to choose from that all utilize Adobe Express. See a list of the courses offered below.
- Podcasting Essentials
- Intro to Generative AI
- Social Media Content Creation
- Job Application Essentials
- Presentation Design
- Health and Science Communication
- Data Storytelling
- Product Pitch with Generative AI
- Storytelling Through Short-Form Video
- Sports Media and Marketing Design
- Small Business Social Marketing
- Community Event Marketing
Get Started with LinkedIn Learning
Ready to take your Adobe software skills to the next level? Whether you're a beginner or an expert with Adobe software, LinkedIn Learning has courses for students at every skill-level. See a curated list of courses we recommend below.
For beginners we recommend starting with the Creative Cloud Crash Course.
Recommended Creative Cloud Application Training
Ordered by the Most Commonly Used Adobe Applications
- Designing in Adobe Express - Learn the basics of this easy-to-use graphic design software. Create layouts, design stunning graphics, and work with content and colors to deliver visual content to your target audience.
- Illustrator Essentials - Learn the core concepts and techniques including workspaces, layers, shapes and 3D effects. This course will also cover vector graphics (paths, strokes, and fills) and show you how to use the essential drawing tools.
- Photoshop Essentials - Journey through the fundamentals of digital imaging, from working with multiple images to customizing the Photoshop interface. This course explains how to choose the right tools to crop, tone, and retouch photos, and demonstrates the most efficient ways to perform common tasks, such as working with layers, selections, and masking.
The Workshop at Cabell Library
In addition to the self-directed learning resources mentioned above, students can get more hands-on support from specialists in The Workshop at Cabell Library. For more information about The Workshop, visit their website at https://www.library.vcu.edu/spaces-tech/the-workshop.
Adobe Digital Edge Awards
The Adobe Digital Edge Awards offer an opportunity for students to submit their projects and show off their skills to compete for awards! To learn more about the Adobe Digital Edge Awards please visit https://www.adobe.com/creativecloud/buy/students/explore/digital-edge.html.