Advertising and Art Direction

Course code VCDP 2320

Credit 3.0

Length 54.0 hours

Course outline View

Concept is key in advertising design, and in this course, students will use creative thinking and visual communication principles to develop an ad campaign concept that can be adapted across various media. They will create designs that effectively communicate a desired message to a target audience, applying their idea through multiple advertisements with visuals customized for different media. Students will also learn to communicate their artistic direction to other creatives working on a team, such as photographers, illustrators, or writers.

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.

  • Advertising history and contemporary issues, including ethics
  • Branding, brand messaging, and narratives
  • Semiotics
  • Ad campaign design
  • Design considerations for different media
  • Creative direction and communication

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.

CRN# Duration Delivery Location
70817 November 30, 2026
to December 17, 2026
Lecture
Lab
Online
Varies See full schedule

Online courses listed without scheduled meeting times can be completed on your own schedule. All self-paced courses have on-campus tests. Off-site certified invigilation centres may be used at the student's expense.

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.