vcc.ca
VESD 1105: Vector Illustration
Effective date
September 2026
Department
Virtual Envi & Simulation Desg
School
Trades, Technology and Design
Description
This course explores the fundamentals of visual design elements and their practical application in digital illustration. Students will develop technical skills with vector-based illustration software while creating original artwork. Emphasis will be placed on comprehensive layer control, gradients, blends, and various illustration tools to prepare students for industry-standard production workflows.
Credits
3.0
Year of study
1st Year Post-secondary
Prerequisites
None
Corequisites
None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
- Apply the elements of visual design when creating digital illustrations for various media applications.
- Implement basic principles and methods of drawing in digital and graphic design projects using vector-based tools.
- Utilize basic principles, techniques, and media used in digital and traditional illustration styles when developing creative assets.
- Operate illustration software to create professional-quality artistic renderings for digital media projects.
- Demonstrate vector drawing and painting techniques by creating original digital artwork with appropriate tool selection.
- Implement the design/creative process when developing "real world" illustration projects from concept to completion.
- Use comprehensive layer management, gradient application, and blending techniques to create original illustrations using industry-standard tools.
- Distinguish between various file formats and export pipelines when preparing illustrations for different digital platforms.
Prior Learning Assessment & Recognition (PLAR)
Methods of assessment may include a challenge exam, submission of a product or portfolio for review, or a practical demonstration. Please contact the Department for details.
Hours
Lecture, Online, Seminar, Tutorial: 42
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 12
Total Hours: 54
Practicum, Self-Paced, Individual Learning: 12
Total Hours: 54
Instructional Strategies
A combination of lecture, demonstration, production simulations, problem solving, practical labs and reflective discussion will be used throughout this course.
Grading System
Letter Grade (A-F)
Passing grade
C
Evaluation Plan
|
Type |
Percentage |
Assessment activity |
|
Participation |
10 |
|
|
Lab Work |
30 |
May include in-class exercises, assignments, quizzes/tests, and work-in progress |
|
Project |
30 |
|
|
Assignments |
30 |
|
Course topics
- Fundamentals of Visual Design
- Introduction to Drawing Techniques for Digital and Graphic Design
- Traditional vs. Digital Illustration Styles
- Illustration Software Basics: Tools and Interface
- Vector Drawing and Artistic Rendering
- The Design Process: From Concept to Final Illustration
- Advanced Layer Management and Illustration Techniques
- File Formats and Export Pipelines for Illustrators
Notes:
- Course contents and descriptions, offerings and schedules are subject to change without notice.
- Students are required to follow all College policies including ones that govern their educational experience at VCC. Policies are available on the VCC website at:
https://www.vcc.ca/about/governance--policies/policies/. - To find out if there are existing transfer agreements for this course, visit the BC Transfer Guide at https://www.bctransferguide.ca.