The Graphic Design program focuses on the creative aspects of designing print-based graphic materials. Students will learn the principles, materials, and skills necessary to bring a design problem to a logical solution. The program concentrates on developing the students' understanding of design fundamentals. It also provides the opportunity to apply these principles to a variety of design problems. Students will design materials for print and the web, and will have the opportunity to participate in a field placement. Areas of study include visual design concepts, colour theory, drawing, typography, print production, advertising, corporate design, publications design and photography. Computer design skills are integrated into various subjects throughout the program.

Graduates create and produce effective visual communications within constraints set by employers, clients and the market. They work as team members or independently. They apply a sound grasp of all stages of the design process, the principles and history of visual communications and traditional and digital technologies. Graduates have a working knowledge of business practices and the basics of market research. The depth and breadth of instruction in design and technology and the increased business orientation provided by the third year of the program, enables graduates, though junior designers, to play more creative and independent roles in the workplace.

Common Job Titles:

- Webpage Designer;
- Corporate Designer;
- Desktop Publisher;
- Advertising Art Director;
- Multimedia Developer;
- Print Production Manager

Employment for this occupation is expected to grow about as fast as the average for all occupations through the year 2005. Replacement needs will create a large number of job openings yearly because of the large size of this occupation group. Computer-based workstations have long replaced drawing boards. More and more, people in these occupations rely on computers to present concepts to clients, produce final designs and manage projects. The increased range of media presents new opportunities for these workers as well as the need to keep up with the latest trends in technology. People in this occupation increasingly use computerized page layout and graphic design systems in their work. Multimedia presentations and animated graphics are two types of work made far easier by computers. Web-site design may offer good opportunities for graphic designers and illustrators, especially those with multimedia skills.

• Ontario Secondary School Diploma at or above the general level, or equivalent
• Grade 12 English
• Portfolio (should contain a maximum of 12 finished pieces of your best original work)
• Letter of intent

Immigration Prospects for Canada/USA

Latest information is available upon request.