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Digital Graphic Design

The Digital Graphic Design Program prepares students for a career in the field of Graphic Design. Students explore the graphic design industry, role of the designer, design theory, industry standard tools and practical hands-on design techniques and challenges.

Print and web media are explored as students learn to develop concepts and solutions to graphic design problems through traditional design processes. Students produce a multitude of graphic design applications and work together to plan and deploy a public showing of their work completed throughout this nine-month program.

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Find out more about this program:

Program Description Career Prospects Admission Requirements Program Status

Apply to this Program Fees and Other Costs Additional Information Courses

Program Description

Hands-on computer-based graphic design projects, both real world and simulated account for approximately 80% of the program curriculum. Teamwork, research, critique and presentation are additional areas of focus intended to develop effective skills in concept design, communication and professionalism.
High standards of design and professional conduct is emphasized throughout the program. Activities consist of lectures, field trips, demonstrations, guest lectures, research, real world and simulated design projects that reflect industry production.
The Digital Graphic Design studio is equipped with the latest Mac hardware and OS and Apple Studio LCD display monitors and digital drawing tablets. The ratio of student to equipment is 1:1.

Start Length Credential Campus Part or Full‑time September 9 months Certificate Downtown Full-time

Career Prospects

Upon completion of this program graduates will be qualified for a number of positions depending on prior education and employment experience. Past graduates have gained employment in the following areas: design firms, advertising agencies, print houses and service bureaus, retail, architectural firms, communications industries, public and private companies as well as freelance contracting. Further, students may build a solid portfolio for the purpose of future competition and admission into degree-granting art institutes. Information about graduate outcomes

Admission Requirements

General

VCC welcomes applications from Canadian citizens, permanent residents and international students.

Exceptions
International students

As Vancouver Community College is a post-secondary institution committed to educating adult learners, applicants should be 18 years of age or older or a graduate of a secondary school.

Please note that you must submit official transcripts and educational documents to support your application; unfortunately, we cannot accept photocopies or fax versions.

Program Specific

Admission to the Digital Graphic Design Program is a competitive selection based on:

1) Grade 12 graduation*, GED or equivalent

2) Resume

3) Portfolio Review and Interview - The primary goal of the interview, resume and portfolio submission is a means to assess the likelihood of your success in the Digital Graphic Design Program. As a result of the interview, resume and portfolio review you may be offered a seat in the DGD Program, placed on stand-by until a seat becomes available or you may be asked to reapply next year.

Please review the Digital Graphic Design Portfolio Submission guidelines. The DGD program recognizes that some applicants may not possess a detailed artistic history and portfolio. The opportunity for a career change and life-long learning are acknowledged and seriously considered by the DGD department. These applicants will need to submit all documentation and participate in the interview.

*Applicants whose first language is other than English, who have not completed English 098/099 and are presenting foreign documents equivalent to Grade 12, must successfully complete an English Language Assessment http://www.vcc.ca/assessments which includes a Canadian Language Benchmark of Listening 8, Speaking 8, Reading 7, and Writing 7 or better.

Recommended characteristics

- A basic understanding of computers is strongly recommended
- Ability to work well in a structured environment and to work independently with confidence
- Excellent oral and written communication skills
- Accountable/responsible
- Enthusiastic/Positive attitude
- High performance Standards
- Demonstrates Initiative/Self Starter
- Flexible/Adaptable
- Diligent/Dedicated- Customer Service Oriented
- Demonstrates Common Sense
- Performs well under pressure

Program Status

Accepting applications Oct 1/2009 to May 6/2010

Apply to this Program

Applications are accepted from Oct. 1/2009 to May 6th 2010. Personal interviews are then scheduled in May 2010 where applicants present a portfolio demonstrating their artistic ability and interest (resumes are to be included with the portfolio). A major focus of the interview is on establishing the applicant's ability to succeed in the program with consideration given to ability and willingness to accept and grow in a learning environment; ability to interact with others; commitment to the total program; attention span and previous art/design related training and experience.

Online     Fax     In Person If you're ready and know the program you want, apply now. Download and complete the (PDF) application form and fax to 604.443.8450. Visit us at one of our campus locations.

After you apply, you can check your to see if all of the requirements have been met or to update contact information. Please use the temporary login ID and Personal Identification Number (PIN) that you used to complete your original online application.

Fees and Other Costs

Application Fee Tuition Fee $30.00 $2,745

International Tuition Fees

Application Fee Tuition Fee Ancillary Fee $125.00 $11,989.80 $540

Other Costs

Cost Type Details College initiative fee $79.20 Student union fee $47.38 Student union health plan fee $142.15 Student union dental plan fee $135.41 Other costs Books, supplies and printing: $600

Additional Information

Visit the Department website at: http://design.vcc.ca/digitalgraphicdesign . For more information please contact the Department by e-mail at dgd@vcc.ca or by phone 604.443.8535.

Courses