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Wait your professor may recommend something different .

Most graphic design programs require you to use Adobe photoshop, illustrator, and indesign. You might also go into dreamweaver if your program includes web design. If you are only using a few, then you should only buy the specific programs you are using, However if your program teaches wit a variety of programs then you might want to invest in the creative suite.

You should use Adobe Creative Suit 3.3. Photoshop, Illustrator and Indesign are industry standard for design and layout tools.

HI, I am also a web applications and design student. Use Dreamweaver to create your website, but before you do take a course in it or buy Dreamweaver 8 Revealed or Dreamweaver CS3 Revealed. Working thru this book will help you tremendously understand the Dreamweaver workspace and will enlighten you to things you would not know without learning the workspace first. I know nothing of illustrator, but I am certain your professor knows what they are talking about. good luck, mavin

Try Adobe InDesign. See if you can get the trial version from Adobe for download. Otherwise, be prepared to pay a nice piece of change for the software

It is most likely that you will work in Illustrator. Although, my professor had us using over half of the Creative Suite. If you can afford it, get the bundle with Illustrator, Photoshop, and Indesign.

I suggest that you wait to find out what your professor/teacher uses in the classes he/she teaches. There are several graphic design programs, and they may have a preference as to what she/he would like your work to be done in.

Once you know, your college book store should sell copies of the software, but if they dont you can purchase educational versions (cheaply) at various websites:

http://www.academicsuperstore.com/

http://www.journeyed.com/