Graphic Design

Overview

Learn advanced design tools, theory, and processes used in graphic design for print and web while working directly with public clients in a mentored studio setting.

What to expect

• Mac-based computer labs with the latest software
• Access to drawing tablets, iPads, digital cameras, scanners, and colour printers
• Creative group exercises and discussions
• Field trips and guest lectures
• Critiques and discussions to develop an eye for design
• Enthusiastic and experienced faculty members
• 120-hour practicum with an industry partner
• Experience working on real client projects in our design studio, Studio Nuvo

What you will learn

• Use design-thinking strategies and the creative process to solve a wide variety of problems faced by designers
• Predict industry trends and create up-to-date designs for a variety of media using current technologies
• Develop an effective design concept and strategy using market research, client consultation, and creative thinking
• Develop and maintain a professional graphic design portfolio and a personal self-promotion or career plan to support professional growth or the pursuit of further studies
• Use self-directed learning strategies and reflective practice to continue the lifelong learning of design
• Use an understanding of ethics and business standards to make professional decisions in research and design
• Use high-level technical design skills to prepare properly constructed and formatted design files
• Incorporate knowledge of design history, colour theory, typography, composition, brand strategy, and UI/UX design into design decisions
• Use an understanding of business communication standards, client management strategies, and professional collaboration techniques to work effectively in teams
• Conceptualize, plan, and implement design solutions that meet client expectations and appeal to target audiences
• Critically analyze design solutions for the values they support and potential biases, as well as their impact on larger cultural, social, and economic systems
• Discuss how design can influence diversity, equity, and inclusion

Program Duration and Maximum Time for Completion

This full-time program is two years in length. The maximum time for completion is five years.

The Advanced Entry option (Year 2) is 10 months in length. The maximum time for completion is three years.

Admission Requirement

Program-specific

Applications are accepted on a continuous basis throughout the year, and students are admitted on a competitive selection basis. Applicants can apply to meet either the Standard Admission Requirements or the Advanced Entry Requirements for the program. Applicants who do not meet the Program Admission Requirements may be admitted based on the interview with the Selection Committee following the College’s Flexible Admissions policy. 

A) Standard Admission Requirements (Year 1)

• English 12 with a minimum ‘C’ grade, or equivalent

B) Advanced Entry Requirements (Year 2)

• Completion of a graphic design certificate program equivalent to the first year of the program, from a recognized institution as determined by the department. If necessary, additional first-year courses as determined by the department.

• Interview with Selection Committee

  • Prior to the interview students are required to provide:

    • Professional portfolio*

    • Resumé and letter of intent (250-500 words), clearly listing reasons for pursuing the diploma*

    • Three references from people who have worked with the applicant in a relevant professional or academic environment

*For more information on application submissions, please see the Submission Guidelines

Recommended Characteristics

• Ability to work well in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
• Ability to work effectively in a team and independently with confidence
• Customer service-oriented outlook and ability to work well with a wide variety of people
• Ability to give and receive feedback
• Motivation, curiosity, and research-orientation
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to spend full days doing computer-based work
• Basic understanding of Mac computers (strongly recommended)

Program Availability

Courses

International students

This information is intended as a guideline only. Program and course details are subject to change with the approval of VCC's Board of Governors.

Fees and Costs

How to Apply

TO APPLY FOR STANDARD ADMISSION:

STEP 1: Apply online at EducationPlanner BC

STEP 2: Check your email regularly

• If you meet the requirements and seats are available, you will receive an offer of admission
• Pay your fees

TO APPLY FOR ADVANCED ADMISSION:

STEP 1: Read the application Submission Guidelines

STEP 2: Start your application

• Apply online at EducationPlanner BC
• Remember to submit your transcripts 
• TIP: This is your basic information only. You will submit more application documents in the next steps.

STEP 3: Prepare your application documents

• Write your one-page letter of intent 
• Write your resume 
• Collect your reference letters
• TIP: Review the Submission Guidelines in Step 1

STEP 4: Check your email regularly and be ready to submit documents

• After your application has been processed, you will receive an email from the Admissions Office requesting your application documents.
• TIP: You can submit your documents as PDF or web link. Reply to the email you receive from Admissions with your documents.

STEP 5: Check your email regularly

• Your application documents will be reviewed by the selection committee.
• If you are selected, you will receive an email to schedule a 15-25 minute interview.
• If you are not selected, you will receive an email informing you of the decision and your application ends here.

STEP 6: Attend the admissions interview 

STEP 7: Check your email regularly

• After all interviews are complete, you will be notified of your standing by email (or phone).
• If you are accepted, the Admissions Office will contact you within two weeks with information about fees and deadlines.
• If you are not accepted, you may apply to another intake.

Ready to apply?

Online

You will be directed to EducationPlannerBC.

Mail

Fill out a PDF form and mail to:
VCC Registrar's Office
1155 East Broadway
Vancouver, B.C., V5T 4V5

Contact us

Advising services

Phone: 604.871.7000, option 2
Email: studentservice@vcc.ca

Advising services for International students

study@vcc.ca