Graphic & Interactive Design

Academic Department
Digital Media & Design
Editorial Section
School of Business & Media
Program Levels
Advanced diploma
Program Location
Mercer Street Campus
Program Types
Full-time
Sort Name
Graphic & Interactive Design
Summary

You will learn how to design for screens and print, using industry-standard software to solve visual communication problems. The program covers everything from initial concept sketches to final portfolio pieces, preparing you for a career in the creative industry.

Career outcomes

  • Graphic designer
  • Visual designer
  • Digital media specialist
  • Brand identity designer
  • User interface designer
  • Multimedia artist

Admission requirements

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, or mature student status (19 or older by the start of classes).
  • Grade 12 English (C or U), minimum 60%.
  • Portfolio review or admission interview may be required.

Tuition

2024–25 tuition: $3,990 per year (domestic).

Courses

What you will learn

You will spend three years learning how to turn ideas into clear, compelling visuals. You will practice designing for the web, mobile apps, and print media, while building a professional portfolio to show employers. Our teachers in the Market Square Studios will guide you through research, sketching, digital illustration, and user experience principles. You will also take courses in communication and mathematics to give your designs a strong foundation. You will learn how to create brand identities, design interactive prototypes, and use typography and layout to communicate complex messages simply. By the time you finish, you will know how to manage a design project from the first concept to the final file.

How the program runs

This full-time program runs on the Mercer Street Campus, just steps from the Downtown Transit Terminal. Classes start in September, and you will study for six terms over three years. You will work in the Digital Media & Design studios, where you will have access to the latest hardware and software for creating digital content. You will also take general education courses in visual literacy, scientific method, and creative problem solving to round out your education. The program is designed to give you a mix of creative freedom and technical skill, so you can adapt to different design roles. You will work on group projects and solo assignments that mimic real-world client work, and you will receive regular feedback from industry professionals.

Admission

We review every application fairly. You need an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, or you must be a mature student (19 or older before classes start). You will also need to meet the English requirement with a grade of at least 60% in Grade 12 English. We may ask for a portfolio or an interview as part of your application. All domestic applicants apply through the provincial college application service.

Tuition and fees

2024–25 tuition: $3,990 per year (domestic). Ancillary fees of $1,125 per year are separate from your tuition. You can ask about payment plans and financial aid when you apply.

After you graduate

You will leave with a strong portfolio and the practical skills employers look for. Graduates often find work as graphic designers, visual designers, digital media specialists, or brand identity designers. You will be ready to contribute to creative teams in agencies, in-house marketing departments, or as a freelance designer. The program also prepares you for further study if you decide to pursue a graduate certificate in digital media or a related field.

How to apply

Ready to start? Apply now through our future students portal. If you have questions about the program, contact the School of Business & Media or visit the Admissions page for more details.