Print Production

Course code VCDP 1251

Credit 3.0

Length 54.0 hours

Course outline View

Students will explore the life cycle of a print job while using industry-standard design software like InDesign and Acrobat Professional to setup print projects. Students will learn print terminology, classifications of paper, printing methods, and print management, with a focus on understanding how print concerns can affect layout and design strategies. Through practical assignments and a tour of a local print shop, students will learn to create, check, and export designs to PDF for output to a printer.

Prerequisites

Course type

This course is offered as part of a VCC program and cannot be taken individually.
International students: Eligibility is determined at the program level. Visit the program page for international student requirements and application information.

  • Print production and preflight process
  • Colour separations
  • Colour management and ICC profiles
  • Classifications of paper
  • Job estimates and specifications
  • Print file setup: colour mode, resolution, bleed, file type, format
  • Printing images
  • Overprint preview
  • Editorial design
  • Packaging design
  • Sustainability and environmental concerns related to printing and packaging, as well as ethical and sustainable practices, environmental and social impacts
  • AI-assisted file prep and layout optimization tools

1. Interview with department to discuss previous experience
2. A portfolio assessment of previously completed related work OR
3. The demonstration of skills via the successful completion of 1-4 related projects/assignments similar to those completed in the course, chosen at the discretion of the department

Course schedules

Select your program to see the available course schedules.

How to take this course

This course is offered as part of a VCC program only.

Contact us

If you have any questions, please email at [email protected].

† 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.

Indigenous Territory Acknowledgment

VCC is located on the traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) peoples who have been stewards of these lands since time immemorial.