Graphic Design

Graphic design is a creative art form, a technology and a business. Graphic Designers work in a design milieu where media, technology, impact, clarity of communication and aesthetics interact as one. The Graphic Design diploma program at VanArts creates a vital learning environment where all these elements come together to create your gateway to the profession.

At VanArts you will be studying in a creative multi-disciplinary learning environment with exposure to and interaction with a variety of media and applied arts educational streams.

Graphic design is a challenging a rewarding profession. Among the career possibilities open to you upon graduation with your diploma are working within graphic design firms, working as consultants for marketing, merchandising and image makers, communications, publishing and a variety of other media and visual related fields along with self employment as a consultant.

The Graphic Design program encourages and develops both linear analytical thinking as well as the development of individual creativity. The diploma program is divided into two 9 month terms. During the first term students learn the foundations and elements of design and their applications to marketing and a variety of design exercises and projects. Students will begin with foundation studies of computer drawing, drawing, media art and design and will progress to increasingly more complex digital arts, animation and computer applications throughout their learning experience.

For more information on Graphic Design visit the Society of Graphic Designers of Canada (GDC) web site at www.gdc.net . Click the "Chapters" tab for further information on GDC chapters located in British Columbia.

Design studios in the first term will focus on learning the fundamentals of design including colour, form, and typography. Studio design projects will begin with layout and communication elements and progress to desktop publishing and packaging design.

In the second term design studios built on first term foundations and deal with more complex applications such marketing and merchandising, image and branding. Design studies will also include increasing expertise with animation and use of a variety of digital art and design techniques.

Student will study the histories of Graphic Design, Animation along with the History of Art and Architecture. These courses will develop important resource in the foundations and understanding of social impacts of visual art and design vocabularies that will be invaluable for communication with the client and as sources for imagery and impact.

The professional practice stream at VanArts develops the student's knowledge of office and business practice, creates a foundation for self confidence and job hunting skills along with the creation of a professional resume and design portfolio and an E-Portfolio.

You graduate with:

• a diploma
• a professional portfolio
• an e-portfolio
• demonstrated proficiency in all aspects of Graphic Design
• a professional resume, professional contacts and job search strategies