Graduate Diploma in Project Management
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Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design
Nanaimo
INTAKE: September
Program Overview
The Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program at Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers students a comprehensive education in visual communication, creative problem-solving, and design thinking. This program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, preparing students for careers in graphic design, advertising, branding, digital media, and related fields. Through hands-on projects, design critiques, and industry collaborations, students develop a portfolio of work that reflects their creative abilities, technical proficiency, and professional readiness for the design industry.
Curriculum: The curriculum of the Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program at VIU is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in design principles, typography, visual communication, and digital media technologies. Core courses cover topics such as graphic design history, design theory, user experience (UX) design, and interactive media design. Elective courses allow students to explore specialized areas such as motion graphics, web design, packaging design, or illustration. The curriculum emphasizes creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills development, preparing students to work effectively in diverse design contexts and adapt to evolving industry trends.
Research Focus: Vancouver Island University encourages students in the Graphic Design program to engage in design research and critical inquiry, fostering a culture of innovation and experimentation within the field of graphic design. Faculty members mentor students in conducting design research, exploring conceptual ideas, and pushing the boundaries of visual communication. Students have the opportunity to investigate design trends, study user behaviors, and experiment with new technologies and techniques to inform their design practice. The university also promotes interdisciplinary research collaborations and partnerships with industry stakeholders to address design challenges, drive innovation, and create impactful design solutions.
Industry Engagement: The Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program at VIU actively engages with industry partners, design agencies, and creative professionals to provide students with real-world learning experiences and professional networking opportunities. Through internships, design projects, and guest lectures, students have the opportunity to gain insights into industry practices, collaborate with industry professionals, and build connections within the design community. The university also hosts design competitions, portfolio reviews, and industry showcases to help students showcase their work, receive feedback, and transition into the workforce upon graduation.
Global Perspective: Vancouver Island University promotes a global perspective within its Graphic Design program, recognizing the influence of global design trends, cultural diversity, and cross-cultural communication in the design industry. The curriculum explores international design movements, multicultural aesthetics, and global design markets, allowing students to gain insights into design practices from around the world. Students have the opportunity to study design case studies, engage with international design projects, and participate in study abroad programs or international design exchanges. Additionally, the university invites guest speakers, designers, and scholars from diverse cultural backgrounds to enrich students' understanding of global design issues and perspectives.
Location
Nanaimo
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
CAD 21742
Application Fees: CAD $ 150
Academic Qualifications: A minimum overall percentage of 70% in your high school or secondary school studies is typically required. Please note that specific programs may have additional requirements or higher admission standards.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: A minimum overall score of 6.5, with no band score less than 6.
- TOEFL: A minimum score of 85 on the internet-based test (iBT).
- PTE Academic: A minimum score of 60.
Vancouver Island University (VIU) provides a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in pursuing their studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and contributions to the community.
International Undergraduate Regional Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undergraduate international students from specific regions. The scholarship amount varies and is awarded based on academic achievement and financial need.
International Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to exceptional international undergraduate students entering VIU for the first time. The scholarship amount varies and is based on academic merit.
International Baccalaureate (IB) Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to international students who have completed the International Baccalaureate (IB) program with outstanding academic performance. The scholarship amount varies and is awarded based on IB scores.
VIU World-Wide Entrance Scholarship: This scholarship is available to international students entering a bachelor's degree program at VIU. The scholarship amount varies and is awarded based on academic achievement.
VIU International Undergraduate Student Award: This award is available to international undergraduate students who have completed at least one year of study at VIU. The award amount varies and is awarded based on academic achievement and contributions to the VIU community.
It's important to note that the availability and specific details of scholarships may vary each year.
Graduates of Vancouver Island University's Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program possess a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of visual communication, creative problem-solving, and design principles, making them well-suited for a variety of careers in the design industry.
Graphic Designer: Graduates can work as graphic designers for design agencies, advertising firms, or in-house design departments. They create visual concepts, develop branding materials, and design layouts for print and digital media such as advertisements, websites, brochures, and packaging.
Art Director: Graduates can pursue roles as art directors for creative agencies, marketing departments, or publishing companies. They oversee the visual aspects of a project, manage design teams, and ensure that creative concepts align with the client's objectives and brand identity.
UI/UX Designer: Graduates can specialize in user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design for software companies, app developers, or digital agencies. They design intuitive and visually appealing interfaces for websites, mobile apps, and other digital products, focusing on enhancing user interaction and satisfaction.
Web Designer/Developer: Graduates can work as web designers or developers for web design firms, e-commerce companies, or freelance projects. They design and build websites, optimize user experience, and ensure compatibility across different devices and browsers.
Motion Graphics Designer: Graduates with an interest in animation and motion graphics can pursue careers in animation studios, film production companies, or multimedia agencies. They create animated graphics, visual effects, and motion graphics for film, television, advertising, and interactive media.
Brand Identity Specialist: Graduates can specialize in brand identity design for branding agencies, corporate branding departments, or consulting firms. They develop visual identities, logos, and brand guidelines that communicate a brand's values, personality, and unique selling propositions.
Packaging Designer: Graduates can work as packaging designers for consumer product companies, food and beverage brands, or packaging design firms. They design packaging solutions that attract consumers, communicate product benefits, and differentiate brands on the retail shelf.
Illustrator/Storyboard Artist: Graduates with strong drawing and illustration skills can pursue careers as illustrators or storyboard artists for animation studios, advertising agencies, or publishing houses. They create visual narratives, storyboards, and illustrations for books, magazines, advertisements, and digital media.
Print Production Manager: Graduates can work in print production management for printing companies, marketing agencies, or publishing houses. They oversee the printing process, manage production schedules, and ensure print materials meet quality standards and specifications.
Freelance Designer/Entrepreneur: Graduates can establish their own freelance design business or start-up ventures, offering design services such as branding, web design, illustration, or consultancy. They have the flexibility to work on a variety of projects, collaborate with diverse clients, and pursue their creative vision.
