In order to help you, we have put together a list of answers to some of the questions people often ask. If you still have any further questions, please don't hesitate to contact us and we will do our best to assist you.
Can you tell me more about how the courses are run?
The course uses web conferencing facilities via the internet. Simply log-in to class and you will be able to see and hear the instructor live as she is speaking to the class. She will share her computer so that each student can see what is being displayed on her screen. You will be able to ask questions during class, hear other participant comments, join the class discussion and view other student’s work. See our video link on the home page of this site to see (from a simple viewpoint) how this works. back to top
How do your courses compare to other courses being offered?
Firstly Design Alive has a proven track record of top quality courses producing successfully trained graduates. Design Alive is now entering its 4th year and hundreds of students can attest to the quality of our courses. One should always judge a course by looking at what graduate students have produced. Design Alive has proven that it can train students to a high level of expertise and students produce professional portfolios and can and do get jobs in the field. You can see for yourselves by looking at the portfolios produced. We encourage you to speak to our graduates to hear first-hand what they have to say.
One should also consider the amount of teaching hours for each course. It is possible to learn Graphics and Web Design on many different levels. Our Computer Graphics course for example involves 70-80 hours of teaching and the Web Design course, almost 100 hrs of teaching Web Design.
Design Alive was designed to create a live classroom atmosphere. Unlike other self-paced online courses, which rely on student's self-motivation, our students will benefit from the structure and discipline of scheduled classes, and complete their training within a specified timeframe. Students will also gain a lot from the interchange of feedback from teacher and other students during class. Furthermore, the teachers are available for out-of-class feedback via email or phone.
The course is given by highly-trained frum designers who are sensitive to the suitability of the course material. In addition, the course is structured around the Jewish calendar, relieving pressure at the busy times of the year.
Does Design Alive help graduates find jobs at the end of the course?
Design Alive puts alot of effort into referring jobs to our students after they have completed the course and we have an excellent track record in this area. Design Alive and its staff are well-known in the design field and people are constantly in touch with us to offer our student's work. We advertise our student's services and have an online alumni forum that allows students to be aware of jobs as they become available and we have employed a dedicated secretary who does regular job searches to post to our forum. back to top
Do I have to be a computer wizard to join Design Alive?
No. You will be expected to have a basic degree of computer proficiency, and an understanding of how to use the internet. There will be clear guidance to help set up any technical aspects. back to top
Can I enrol on more than one course?
Yes, Computer Graphics is run in parallel to Graphic Design to enable students to enroll in both courses. You can, however, only join the Graphic Design Course if you are joining Computer Graphics or if you have previously learned the Graphic programs before joining the course. Students have the option of learning any of the programs individually. We do not advise learning both Graphic and Web Design simultaneously, although we have had some very capable students who have done so. Prior knowledge of Photoshop or better still, a design background is necessary for entry to the Web Design course. back to top
I am not a total beginner as I have done graphics jobs before, will this course be on my level?
Each student will produce a portfolio on their level based on their experience and creativity. Even students with a background in art and design will find themselves benefiting, as their knowledge and skills are developed to a higher level. back to top
Do I have to be creative or know how to draw to do this course?
No, but it helps. Some students are more technical and others more creative, We aim to bring out the best in all students according to their individual skills. back to top
How many students will be able to participate in the course?
Our course will accommodate between 5-20 students. back to top
Can I have a full-time job while doing the course?
All courses involve a considerable amount of out-of-class time to be spent on homework assignments and projects and will probably be a strain for the serious student with a full-time job. The staff at Design Alive will be happy to advise you, based on your choice of course and your personal schedule and life situation. back to top
Will I need to buy any software for the course?
You will need to have the software relevant to the course you are doing. Students enrolled in DesignAlive courses will be able to purchase student editions of the Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Indesign, Illustrator, Acrobat) for $300 and Premium Suite (Photoshop, Indesign, Illustrator, Acrobat, Dreamweaver, Fireworks and Flash) for $450. Students can alternatively purchase the Middle East version of the Design Premium for $500. PLease be in touch with the office for details. back to top
What happens if I miss a class?
In general, students will be expected to participate in all lessons. There is however, a facility to view the recording of a missed classes in your own time. back to top
Will I receive a qualification?
Yes, upon successful completion of all projects and program tests (including regular attendance), students will be presented with a certificate of completion from Design Alive. We are currently on the way to gaining validation by a recognized qualifying body and hope to offer credits for our courses very soon. back to top
Do your vacations follow a regular school calendar?
The course is built around the Jewish year with a winter (Chanukah) vacation and vacation during the month of Nissan. A course calendar will be emailed to all students after registration. back to top
What are the payment plans?
Payments must be made in full before the start of the course or in installments (maximum 10 payments) by prior arrangement. Postdated checks must be submitted at the start of the course. Students can pay by credit card, check or bank transfer. back to top
Frequently Asked Questions
Feel free to contact Design Alive by phone or email and a representative will be happy to answer your questions.
Any further questions?
