Applying your creativity to shape a career communicating ideas and concepts.
“The reason why I chose to take Graphic Design here at Algonquin is because of their hands-on approach to the program and the curriculum.”
- Ibrahim, Student Make a selectionCollege Approved Certificate
Ontario College Advanced Diploma (3 Years)Area of Interest
Arts and Design School of Media and DesignWork Integrated Learning
The three-year Graphic Design Ontario College Advanced Diploma program helps you apply your creativity to communicating ideas and concepts in both print and interactive media.
Using a combination of theoretical and hands-on learning, you gain skills in design, typography, image, colour, coding, motion graphics, interaction and production from industry-connected faculty. You learn to be a problem-solver who can manage and execute visual design projects. (read more)
Applying your creativity to shape a career communicating ideas and concepts.
The three-year Graphic Design Ontario College Advanced Diploma program helps you apply your creativity to communicating ideas and concepts in both print and interactive media.
Using a combination of theoretical and hands-on learning, you gain skills in design, typography, image, colour, coding, motion graphics, interaction and production from industry-connected faculty. You learn to be a problem-solver who can manage and execute visual design projects.
Whether learning design for the page or for the screen, you study industry-endorsed concepts and techniques. You also become an expert at communicating ideas to a client through:
There is a strong focus on hands-on training, using industry-standard software tools, which will ensure you are career-ready upon graduation. Field trips and actual client projects are offered to bring the workplace into the classroom.
From your second year on, you become a student-member of the Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario. In your final semester, you embark on a six-week fieldwork placement that transitions you to industry. You work side-by-side with experienced professionals and gain networking contacts.
Upon graduation, you will have developed a design portfolio that showcases your creativity and problem-solving skills. You will display your work at the annual Grad Show exhibition.
Graduates may find employment in a(n):
Graduates may also find work as an in-house designer for an organization or government, in the television, entertainment or game-development industry, or in freelance opportunities.
This program is well-suited for students who:
Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.
Course Name & DescriptionTypography, the study of lettering and writing, is an essential element of graphic design. Students study typographic history, terminology, . + Read More
Graphic Design 1
Graphic Design is the study of visual communication that combines images, words and ideas to convey information to an audience, especially t. + Read More
Computer Graphics 1
The field of computer graphics consists of page layout, illustration and photo manipulation. Page layout is the hub for illustrations and ph. + Read More
Concept Sketching 1
Drawing and sketching is fundamental to graphic design. Learning how to draw means learning how to see. Sketching allows a designer to quick. + Read More
Design projects should be motivated by the answer to the question "Why?". Designers who know the reason for the design create a more success. + Read More
Colour plays a huge part in determining the success or failure of any graphic endeavour in the consumer market place, be it print or web gen. + Read More
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-orient. + Read More
Course Name & DescriptionGraphic Design 2
Continuing with the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content. Students have an oppo. + Read More
Students implement the basic concepts of typography in their design layouts to visually communicate meaning. Students use proper typesetting. + Read More
Computer Graphics 2
Documents created in the studio environment need to comply with industry standards. Emphasis is placed on the importance of file management . + Read More
Concept Sketching 2
Drawing and mark making is at the root of all visual communication. In this course, students will build on skills they learned in Concept Sk. + Read More
Web design is the production of functional, interactive websites accomplished through the use of the HTML and CSS coding languages. Using vi. + Read More
Communications for Graphic Design
Students develop persuasive professional writing and speaking skills required of a graphic designer. Well-designed briefs and project ration. + Read More
Choose one from equivalenciesGeneral Education Elective
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S. + Read More
Course Name & DescriptionGraphic Design 3
Focus is placed on concepts and design for print and digital, using up to date software and design knowledge. Students develop creative solu. + Read More
"Type exists to honour content." Proficient typesetting allows a student to compose and structure complex passages of content that are visua. + Read More
Computer Graphics 3
Automating processes in the design studio teaches students how they can save time and avoid costly errors. Students use Adobe Photoshop to c. + Read More
Motion Graphics 1
The use of type and motion is explored to create a unique and creative visual message. Students learn basic animation principles to create e. + Read More
Business of Design
Business acumen plays as much of a role in the success of a graphic designer as do mastery of colour, layout and typography. Students intera. + Read More
The web is accessible to all human beings on the planet; websites should be universally designed to meet everyone's needs. Using automation . + Read More
User experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) is a design process that focuses on enhancing and positively impacting the user's e. + Read More
Course Name & DescriptionGraphic Design 4
Acquired software programs, skills and visual problem-solving techniques apply to real-world design projects. Students design a corporate id. + Read More
Building on the basics of typography, students explore type as craft by experimenting with handmade letters, designing glyphs, and using typ. + Read More
Computer Graphics 4
The software titles used in the studio environment are powerful tools that can render compelling promotional or informational graphics. Arme. + Read More
Motion Graphics 2
Motion graphics can bring a design to life. Students learn advanced animation and timing techniques as well as visual effects basics such as. + Read More
The truly open web allows not only designers and developers to edit websites- but everybody. With access to online videos and written docume. + Read More
The user experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) process is applied to digital products by exploring potential solutions for fun. + Read More
Choose one from equivalenciesGeneral Education Elective
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S. + Read More
Course Name & DescriptionGraphic Design 5
An understanding of design consistency, promotion and presentation in addition to creating several bold portfolio pieces will be explored. E. + Read More
Computer Graphics 5
Skillfully crafted graphics combined with meaningful data can tell a story in a captivating way. In an effort to further broaden our softwar. + Read More
Motion Graphics 3
The product of a motion graphics professional's work can be used in an ever-broader range of media. Students explore different uses for moti. + Read More
Graphic designers are hired for their creativity and their work quality. The first interaction potential employers have is through the desig. + Read More
The user experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) process and design principles are broadened by integrating digital products and. + Read More
Graphic designers today are tasked with creating visual identities that need to be consistent, whether viewed on screen, as printed media, o. + Read More
Choose one from equivalenciesGeneral Education Elective
Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in S. + Read More
Course Name & DescriptionGraphic Design 6
The opportunity presents itself to tailor individual portfolios showcasing skills and strengths learned in previous semesters. Personal cons. + Read More
Computer Graphics 6
When students present their work at portfolio reviews, it needs to be impeccable. Students build digital files designed to impress even the . + Read More
Using projects created in previous Motion Graphics classes, students work to create a Final Motion Reel showcasing their strengths and creat. + Read More
Fieldwork and Professional Practice
Joining and integrating into a working graphic design team is crucial to transitioning from the classroom to the design industry. Students a. + Read More
User experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) process and universal design principles evolve as the students apply them by design. + Read More
Innovative thinking is the study and practice of creative problem-solving. It is integral to developing new design concepts and generally se. + Read More
Focus is placed on concepts and design for print and digital, using up to date software and design knowledge. Students develop creative solutions to design problems involving real-world design projects incorporating various mediums and media vehicles (print, web, social media) and learn the knowledge of sustainable (recycle, reuse, reduce) and functional design. Students experience a four-stage process similar to that used in most professional firms: research, creative development, execution and presentation. The main focus is on concepts and the creative process leading to a final unique, dynamic design.
"Type exists to honour content." Proficient typesetting allows a student to compose and structure complex passages of content that are visually appealing in order to allow the information to be easily followed. Using industry standard software along with personal photography and artwork, students combine text and imagery to craft professional layouts and informational documents.
Automating processes in the design studio teaches students how they can save time and avoid costly errors. Students use Adobe Photoshop to create artistic paintings. Adobe Illustrator is our go-to application for drawing photo-realistic and perspective illustrations. Students build a multi-part document destined for book design and production.
Acquired software programs, skills and visual problem-solving techniques apply to real-world design projects. Students design a corporate identity package including a chief graphic identifier, identity manifestations and a corporate identity standards manual. Students continue to work in a four-stage process similar to that used in most professional firms: research, creative development, execution and presentation. The main focus is on concepts and the creative process.
The software titles used in the studio environment are powerful tools that can render compelling promotional or informational graphics. Armed with a solid foundation using Adobe software, students explore a broad and varied selection of new technical skills: painting original art in Adobe Illustrator, manipulating large amounts of data in InDesign and drawing three-dimensional vector graphics.
An understanding of design consistency, promotion and presentation in addition to creating several bold portfolio pieces will be explored. Emphasis is placed on matching design to subject matter and using appropriate formats while developing different grid structures and using layout software as both a production tool and a creative tool. Examples of final, large projects include multiple-page publication design, exhibit design, environmental design and way finding, as well as proper presentation techniques.
The use of type and motion is explored to create a unique and creative visual message. Students learn basic animation principles to create emotion with motion and explore timing, pacing and dynamic storytelling. Projects can range from experimental type animation, advertising to film title design using Adobe After Effects. Students have a clear understanding of career opportunities in the motion design industry.
Typography, the study of lettering and writing, is an essential element of graphic design. Students study typographic history, terminology, essential design and layout principles; match meaning with creative type-only information layouts and employ creative methods of typographic communication. Activities include interactive discussions, critiques and feedback of peer work.
Graphic Design is the study of visual communication that combines images, words and ideas to convey information to an audience, especially to produce a specific effect. Good graphic designers research, sketch and develop solutions to design problems. Students focus on research, creative thinking, sketches and process, which fosters an understanding of the core practice of applied design across a variety of media. The importance and value of creative thinking, concepts and thumbnail sketches is stressed and evaluated to ensure a successful final product. Students work with hands-on projects, and incorporate terms and techniques that are taught in other courses including typography, illustration and computer graphics.
Continuing with the art and practice of planning and projecting ideas and experiences with visual and textual content. Students have an opportunity to enhance a working knowledge of design essentials and principles through concept development, as well as the professional design process and methodology. Working with actual clients on projects brings an added dimension to the student's experience. A professional attitude, the importance of meeting deadlines, and creative content continue to be emphasized.
Students implement the basic concepts of typography in their design layouts to visually communicate meaning. Students use proper typesetting rules, grids, hierarchy, composition and expression in their layouts. Concentration is placed on how typographic form and visual arrangement create and support content in complex projects, using industry standard software.
Documents created in the studio environment need to comply with industry standards. Emphasis is placed on the importance of file management and job planning. With the support of detailed online lessons and video tutorials, students learn increasingly intricate software techniques for building electronic documents using Adobe InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobat. These documents will pass pre-flight at a commercial printer.
Motion graphics can bring a design to life. Students learn advanced animation and timing techniques as well as visual effects basics such as green screen removal and motion tracking. They explore design in a tactile handmade way in 3D, using After Effects and Cinema 4D. The specifics of rendering video to be delivered to a wide variety of target platforms such as Internet, broadcast/film and hand-held devices are also covered.
Skillfully crafted graphics combined with meaningful data can tell a story in a captivating way. In an effort to further broaden our software tool set, we delve into such advanced features as variable data in Illustrator and Photoshop; drawing isometric vector illustrations and building three dimensional objects in Adobe Photoshop.
The product of a motion graphics professional's work can be used in an ever-broader range of media. Students explore different uses for motion design, as in projected content, interactive content, web video, broadcast video, app design and large event visuals, exploring 3D modelling, lighting and animation.
Drawing and sketching is fundamental to graphic design. Learning how to draw means learning how to see. Sketching allows a designer to quickly get creative ideas on paper. Drawing every day increases the skills of logo designers, layout designers and motion designers. Students learn how to sketch fast using different mediums. They explore all possible solutions to specific design problems through their visual thoughts in a sketchbook.
Web design is the production of functional, interactive websites accomplished through the use of the HTML and CSS coding languages. Using video tutorials, step-by- step online lessons and automation, students explore processes such as semantics and mobile-first architecture, and tools like cloud platforms and version control, in tandem with precise organization principles and current best practices.
The web is accessible to all human beings on the planet; websites should be universally designed to meet everyone's needs. Using automation and online resources, students explore grid systems, type systems and visual design best practices to construct modular and flexible web architectures and rich interactions that support the many different screen dimensions, platforms and needs of people connected to the open web.
The truly open web allows not only designers and developers to edit websites- but everybody. With access to online videos and written documentation, students explore using themes from online content management systems, e-commerce tools and web design platforms to create functional, beautiful-and accessible- websites with content editable by everybody.
User experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) is a design process that focuses on enhancing and positively impacting the user's experience for both usability and visual dynamics. Students are introduced to the eight UX/UI process stages for website-based deliverables. Students learn to work in a collaborative environment where divergent thinking is encouraged, and solution-based design is promoted. Students measure and develop design solutions that accommodate the needs of all potential users referencing universal design principles, industry-standard guidelines and accessibility standards.
The user experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) process is applied to digital products by exploring potential solutions for functionality, usability issues and visual improvements. Students evolve their critical thinking skills beyond web-based products and explore mobile applications. Students analyze why and under what conditions the product is used. Students apply a consistent brand approach for an app-based product while staying within protocol guidelines. Consideration is placed on problem-solving, physical interactions, enhanced visual aesthetics and navigation of app-based products.
The user experience and user interface design (UX/UI Design) process and design principles are broadened by integrating digital products and interface solutions that consider the user's needs and the environment. Students go beyond traditional design solutions for web and app design and apply their gained knowledge to complex consumer digital products. Emphasis is placed on student exploration through the application of design materials, visual enhancements and interactivity.
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.
Environmental citizenship is based on the principles of national citizenship, yet it goes beyond political borders to emphasize global environmental rights and responsibilities. An environmental citizen is committed to learning more about the environment and to taking responsible environmental action. Through a combination of interactive activities, assignments and discussions, students learn how they are personally connected with current environmental issues. Students are also encouraged to adopt attitudes and behaviours that foster global environmental responsibility.
Establishing and maintaining healthy personal financial affairs are important steps towards overall success in life. Through self-study of text material, review questions, self-test quizzes, assignments and a final examination, students acquire knowledge and skills concerning credit and debt, home ownership and mortgages, the savings challenge, government programs to encourage saving, fixed-income and equity investments, mutual funds, budgeting and financial planning, retirement strategies, public and private pensions, business ownership and insurance.
An increased awareness of the ripple effect of crime has given rise to victimology as a significant field of study. Students investigate victims of crime and the impact that crime has on their lives, their families and society. Students raise personal awareness through the study of history of victimology and the victims' movement, the nature and extent of victimization, its emerging theories and resulting legislation. In addition, victims' services, accessibility to services, rights of the victim and the victim in the criminal justice system are examined. Students also explore crime in the workplace, schools, and campuses and the importance of recognizing those at risk.
Toys and games, key components of play, have evolved from homemade trinkets to highly engineered items in a multi-billion-dollar industry. Students explore the connections between technology and play, specifically the benefits, drawbacks and ethical implications of toy and game design. Case studies allow students to consider familial, cultural, sociological, and other influences upon toy and game design over the last century. Through discussion, analysis and workshops, students move towards designing their own toy or game, or modifying an existing one.
The need to lead healthy, environmentally conscious lives is increasingly important. Students acquire the practical knowledge and skills required to explore current environmental challenges and identify personal plans for living in an environmentally responsible manner. Through a combination of assignments, discussion boards, and quiz work, students investigate the history and development of current environmental concerns, the environmental impact of our choices and behaviours, and strategies involved in living green.
Students explore intriguing characters, important places and famous myths of Classical Greece. By examining a variety of popular myths, students discover how the Ancient Greeks crafted narratives of gods, goddesses, monsters, and heroic figures to make sense of their lives and the world around them. Using examples from art, science, and industry, students examine how these epic stories from oral tradition have endured and continue to influence contemporary society.
In Canada, society embraces people from many cultures of the world. By exploring different religious beliefs about the world, the individual, the meaning of life and death, and how individuals are encouraged to conduct themselves, students begin to appreciate the underlying forces that shape followers' lives. Students explore the history and basic teachings of six of the major religions of the world: Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, and the Baha'i Faith. Each religion's distinctive features are highlighted, while their similarities and shared values are examined. Students have the opportunity to broaden their worldview through an exposure to divergent religious traditions.
Students gain an awareness of learning differences in various contexts including social, educational, and work settings. The field of learning differences is presented through various lenses including an historical overview, legislative policies, and perspectives on etiology. Evidenced-based support services and strategies are also analyzed. Course learning activities include assignments, discussion forums, and quizzes.
The mysteries of science surround us constantly and play a significant role in everyone's daily life regardless of their level of awareness. Familiarity with the basic concepts of science in disciplines such as biology, physics, and chemistry, helps students better understand the world in which they live, the attitudes and opinions of those with whom they interact, and the reasons why many things happen. By examining everyday occurrences, students are introduced to scientific ways of thought and to problem-solving methods used by scientists. A background in science and math is not required.
Humour is a universal tool of communication and social influence. Students survey the development, use, and value of humour in Canadian visual and creative arts. Varieties of humour, such as irony, satire and farce are positioned in the context of Canadian culture to enhance the student's appreciation of humour and self-awareness.
In today's society there is increasingly more attention focused on questions of right or wrong, good or evil. Ethical issues relating to a wide variety of concerns are examined. Students clarify their own moral values and explore how these values impact the course of their lives. Students practise using tools and decision-making models to deal with personal and professional dilemmas.
Science fiction is both a major genre of popular entertainment and an effective mode of social commentary. Students explore the formal conventions and the history of the genre, analyze a representative range of science fiction, and develop their critical appreciation of the role and place of science fiction in society. In addition to writing reflective and analytical assignments, students have an opportunity to create their own piece of science fiction.
Are you eating healthy foods? Do you exercise regularly? Do you know how to prevent injuries and disease? These are some of the skills necessary to live a healthy lifestyle. Through self-evaluation, weekly journals, and hands-on exercises students assess their personal lifestyles and learn how to improve them.
Volunteerism not only benefits a community; it can broaden the worldview of the volunteer. Students who give their time and energy to an approved community partner gain an opportunity to reflect on the value of the volunteer in contemporary society. Through research and discussion, students consider different types of volunteer settings, trace the history of volunteer organizations, examine the various roles volunteers play within society and reflect on ethical issues.
When the mighty Roman Empire began to collapse, it was attacked from all directions by Barbarian armies. The resulting turmoil caused Europe to sink into a period of social and political upheaval known as The Dark Ages. However, during these troubled times, extraordinary warriors and missionaries emerged whose profound influence has played a vital role in shaping what has become our modern world. Students examine the social, political, intellectual, and economic history of this era and explore its enduring impact on modern Western society.
An understanding of culture can be discovered by exploring eating and drinking customs. Students experience a virtual global tour, exploring culture, history and traditions through the lens of wine and food. Students acquire a sense of the customs of their culture and those of others. Through comparison, observation, discussion, and reflection, students discover something found in all cultures: the importance of food and drink.
Table manners are as unique to a culture as the foods they eat - how people eat varies widely from country to country. Participants in this course explore the culture and customs of international dining practices. Through investigation, discussion and reflection, participants have the opportunity to raise their own and each other's awareness and sensitivity to different cultural behaviours and customs. Over scheduled lunches and dinners, participants consider the influence of culture, society, religion, geography and history on dining practices around the world.
Reading gives us knowledge and new ideas to draw from in the future. It tones the mind in ways similar to the way exercise tones the body. As a result, time spent in reading for recreation has benefits beyond the immediate appreciation of the text. Students examine appeal factors of various genres of fiction and non-fiction by reviewing the history and classics of each genre, considering the therapeutic values of reading, and examining recent trends in online reading and publishing.
In today's culture of work, every employee needs to be knowledgeable about current trends and issues in the workplace. Students explore emerging issues facing employees in today's technology-driven workplace and investigate the realities of social networking, diversity in the workplace, and work mobility.
Students explore the social, economic, political, and environmental impact of the automobile on North American lives. Through a combination of assignments, discussion boards, and quiz work, students study the history of the automobile, from its introduction to the present day. Doing so allows students to track the changes the car has introduced to manufacturing, lifestyles, design principles, transportation systems, the environment, labour-management negotiation, and economic organization.
The rapid growth of the global economy raises fundamental questions: How do trade and politics affect development and the environment? What are the effects of free trade and the rise of multi-national corporations on local cultures? What are the effects of the "clash of cultures" produced by international travel, migration, and new social, collaborative technologies that send film, books, television, music and other "proprietary" content spinning around the world instantly? Is globalization environmentally sustainable? Students examine these and other questions and analyze the day-to-day choices raised by globalization in an increasingly interconnected world.
One dictionary definition of popular culture is the "totality of socially transmitted behaviour patterns, arts, beliefs, institutions, and all other products of human work and thought." This definition allows us great freedom and scope. Students examine recent North American popular culture including trends, fads, styles, theories and the cult of the new. By exploring our perceptions of culture and the trivialization of society, students begin to appreciate how the media has relentlessly helped to shape today's values. Through online research, assigned readings, and participation in self-directed learning, students critique popular culture's place in North American society, concentrating on their decade of choice.
Students study human sexuality through an interdisciplinary approach. Students gain a basic understanding of human sexuality through an investigation of history, culture, physiology, sexual development, sexual behaviours, sexually transmitted diseases, attitudes, sex, deviance and sexual relationships.
Graduates may pursue careers as designers through a variety of entry-level positions in graphic design or advertising agencies, motion design or interactive design studios, television and the entertainment and game industry. Graduates may also pursue freelance opportunities.
Description Graduates with a minimum GPA of 2.7/4.0 (70%, B-), who have completed ENL1813 - Communications 1 with a minimum grade of 70%, who have attended an information session, and a successful portfolio review, may be granted advanced standing of 83/198 credits. Students will be admitted into the 3rd year of their degree and will be asked to complete 3 bridging courses as part of their regular semesters. Students can expect to complete their degree in an additional 2 years of full-time study. This degree is available as an in-class delivery.
Student Implications Attend an information session, successful portfolio review, minimum of 70% in ENL1813 Communications 1. Complete 3 bridge courses added to regular semesters.
