Applying your creativity to shape a career communicating ideas and concepts.

  • Actual client projects are offered to bring the workplace into the classroom
  • Students complete over 1,600 hours of design and production work in six semesters
  • Produce a comprehensive design portfolio profiling your skills and abilities

Program Availability and Schedule

Availability

Open

Closed

Waitlisted

Start Term

Availability

International
Availability

Competitive?

Fall 2024

No

Winter 2025

No

Schedule

Fall 2024
Level 01
Winter 2025
Level 02
Spring 2025
Break
Fall 2025
Level 03
Winter 2026
Level 04
Spring 2026
Break
Fall 2026
Level 05
Winter 2027
Level 06
Winter 2025
Level 01
Spring 2025
Level 02
Fall 2025
Break
Winter 2026
Level 03
Spring 2026
Level 04
Fall 2026
Level 05
Winter 2027
Level 06

Program Summary

Credential

Ontario College Advanced Diploma (3 Years)

Program Delivery

Program Code

Area of Interest

Arts and Design

School

School of Media and Design

Campus

Ottawa

Work Integrated Learning

The three-year Graphic Design Ontario College Advanced Diploma program helps you apply your creativity to communicating ideas and concepts in both print and interactive media.

Using a combination of theoretical and hands-on learning, you gain skills in design, typography, image, colour, coding, motion graphics, interaction and production from industry-connected faculty. You learn to be a problem-solver who can manage and execute visual design projects....(read more)

Overview

Applying your creativity to shape a career communicating ideas and concepts.

The three-year Graphic Design Ontario College Advanced Diploma program helps you apply your creativity to communicating ideas and concepts in both print and interactive media.

Using a combination of theoretical and hands-on learning, you gain skills in design, typography, image, colour, coding, motion graphics, interaction and production from industry-connected faculty. You learn to be a problem-solver who can manage and execute visual design projects.

Whether learning design for the page or for the screen, you study industry-endorsed concepts and techniques. You also become an expert at communicating ideas to a client through:

  • sketches
  • prototypes
  • storyboards
  • interactive mock-ups

There is a strong focus on hands-on training, using industry-standard software tools, which will ensure you are career-ready upon graduation. Field trips and actual client projects are offered to bring the workplace into the classroom.

From your second year on, you become a student-member of the Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario. In your final semester, you embark on a six-week fieldwork placement that transitions you to industry. You work side-by-side with experienced professionals and gain networking contacts.

Upon graduation, you will have developed a design portfolio that showcases your creativity and problem-solving skills. You will display your work at the annual Grad Show exhibition.

Graduates may find employment in a(n):

  • graphic design studio
  • advertising agency
  • motion graphics studio
  • interactive/web design studio

Graduates may also find work as an in-house designer for an organization or government, in the television, entertainment or game-development industry, or in freelance opportunities.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

  • Think visually and creatively and are conceptual thinkers.
  • Enjoy solving visual communication problems.
  • Enjoy sketching and drawing and using software tools.
  • Enjoy working with type and imagery to communicate ideas.
  • Are detail-oriented, organized and committed to coming up with the perfect design solution in their final products.
  • Have critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Courses

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with virtual learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

Careers & Pathways

Careers

Graduates may pursue careers as designers through a variety of entry-level positions in graphic design or advertising agencies, motion design or interactive design studios, television and the entertainment and game industry. Graduates may also pursue freelance opportunities.

Pathways

Please note: There may be more pathways available for this program than are listed here. Please use our Pathways search tool to see every option.

Learning Outcomes

The graduate has reliably demonstrated the ability to:

  1. Conceptualize and develop design solutions using principles of design to create visual communications that meet the needs of the project.
  2. Employ the design process to create design solutions that meet the project objectives and the needs of the client and/or user.
  3. Plan, create and use photography, illustration and typography in design layouts to meet the requirements of the creative brief.
  4. Design, develop and create a variety of media products using relevant, current and/or emerging technologies.
  5. Communicate ideas, design concepts and opinions clearly and persuasively to others.
  6. Use recognized industry practices throughout the design process and related business tasks.
  7. Plan, implement, and evaluate graphic design projects using project management skills to deliver quality work to clients according to schedule and within budget.
  8. Complete all work in a professional and ethical manner, and in accordance with all applicable legislation and regulations.
  9. Keep current with visual media design trends, technologies and industry practices using strategies that enhance work performance and guide professional development.
  10. Identify and apply discipline-specific practices that contribute to the local and global community through social responsibility, economic commitment and environmental stewardship.

Tuition & Fees

Get an idea of how much each semester will cost with our Tuition and Fee Estimator.

2023/2024 Academic Year

Tuition and related ancillary fees for this program can be viewed by using the Tuition and Fees Estimator tool at www.algonquincollege.com/fee-estimator.

Further information on fees can be found by visiting the Registrar`s Office website at www.algonquincollege.com/ro.

Fees are subject to change.

Additional program-related expenses include:

  • The Graphic Design program is part of the College`s BYOD program; as such, a Macintosh laptop is mandatory equipment. The base model 15 MacBook Pro is the minimum required model.
  • Students should also come equipped with a mouse and a mouse pad of their choice.
  • Apple`s AppleCare warranty is a good idea, though not mandatory.
  • Computers should be purchased either at an Apple Retail store or at Apple`s online education store.
  • A basic Wacom drawing tablet (or equivalent) is also a suggested purchase, but not required.
  • An external 2TB hard drive used for backups is also mandatory.
  • No printer or scanner is required.
  • Additionally, in each year of study, books, project materials and supplies cost approximately $500.

Admissions Requirements

All applicants must satisfy both College Eligibility and Program Eligibility requirements.

College Eligibility

  • Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent. Applicants with an OSSD showing senior English and/or Mathematics courses at the Basic Level, or with Workplace or Open courses, will be tested to determine their eligibility for admission; OR
  • Academic and Career Entrance (ACE) certificate; OR
  • General Educational Development (GED) certificate; OR
  • Mature Student status (19 years of age or older and without a high school diploma at the start of the program). Eligibility may be determined by academic achievement testing for which a fee of $50 (subject to change) will be charged.

Program Eligibility

  • English, Grade 12 (ENG4C or equivalent).
  • Submit a portfolio of 10-15 samples of your best work. Portfolio submission details can be found on the Algonquin College Additional Admission Requirements website: www.algonquincollege.com/admissionspackages.
  • Interested applicants are welcome to address any portfolio-related inquiries to the coordinators of the program.
  • Applicants with international transcripts must provide proof of the subject-specific requirements noted above and may be required to provide proof of language proficiency. Domestic applicants with international transcripts must be evaluated through the International Credential Assessment Service of Canada (ICAS) or World Education Services (WES).
  • IELTS-International English Language Testing Service (Academic) Overall band of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in each band; OR TOEFL-Internet-based (iBT) Overall 80, with a minimum of 20 in each component: Reading 20; Listening 20; Speaking 20; Writing 20; OR Duolingo English Test (DET) Overall 110, minimum of 110 in Literacy and no score below 95.

Not sure if you meet all of the requirements? Academic Upgrading may be able to help with that: https://www.algonquincollege.com/access/.

Should the number of qualified applicants exceed the number of available places, applicants will be selected on the basis of their proficiency in English.

Application Information

GRAPHIC DESIGN
Program Code 1400X01FWO

Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:

ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228

Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should notify their Guidance Office prior to their online application at www.ontariocolleges.ca.

Applications for Fall Term and Winter Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.

International applicants please visit this link for application process information: https://algonquincollege.force.com/myACint/.

For further information on the admissions process, contact:

Registrar`s Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Contact: https://www.algonquincollege.com/ro

Contact

David Bromley

Program Coordinator

bromled@algonquincollege.com

613-727-4723, ext. 5267

View Bio

David Bromley

Program Coordinator

bromled@algonquincollege.com

613-727-4723, ext. 5267

David is originally from Perth, Ontario and studied graphic design at Sheridan College. He has worked extensively in the graphic design industry for over 45 years, covering all aspects of design but his focus is on logos. He has designed many popular logos for clients such as OC Transpo, Chez106, Ottawa Rough Riders Football, Lake 88.1FM Perth, Canada Pork International, CHEZ FM, Lanark County Tourism, the 200th Anniversary of Perth Ontario and many more. David’s freelance design includes working on various posters and promotional material for local theatres, businesses and non-for-profit organizations. As one of two coordinators in the Graphic Design program, David has worked to update curriculum and has overseen the delivery of this curriculum in India, where he travelled four times, to Algonquin’s former sister school in Faridabad, New Delhi.

When he is not strumming a tune on his banjo or playing a jig on his accordion, David likes to expand his artistic talents in pastel and acrylic painting, cord painting, and wood and lino-block hand pulled prints. David has exhibited and sold his artwork both locally and internationally and donates his professional time and expertise when he can, to charitable organizations. David has been teaching Graphic Design at Algonquin College for the last 28 years (5 years part time and 23 years full time). In 2014 David received The Laurent Isabelle Teaching Excellence Award which recognizes a faculty member who has consistently demonstrated excellence and innovation in teaching, has contributed to student success, and has fostered the professional growth of their colleagues but his best reward is seeing the success in his current and former students.

Alain Paradis

Program Coordinator

paradia@algonquincollege.com

613-727-4723, ext. 5878

View Bio

Alain Paradis

Program Coordinator

paradia@algonquincollege.com

613-727-4723, ext. 5878

Alain is an accomplished graphic designer and educator hailing from Ottawa. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Ottawa and a Graphic Design diploma from Collège La Cité. Alain is a member in good standing of the Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario, demonstrating his commitment to professional excellence. Ever the dedicated learner, Alain is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in the administration of higher education, further expanding his expertise. His passion for design and education has driven his career.

With over 25 years of experience in the design industry, Alain has operated a successful freelance business, serving a diverse range of small and medium-sized clients. Alain’s teaching career began in 1999 when he was recruited by Algonquin College’s Graphic Design program. Since then, he has shared his wealth of knowledge and experience with countless students, teaching a variety of courses, including Computer Graphics, Business of Graphic Design, and Typography. Alain brings his extensive academic and professional background to the classroom, along with a dedication to his craft and a commitment to student success.

Andrea Emery

Professor

emerya@algonquincollege.com

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Andrea Emery

Professor

emerya@algonquincollege.com

Andrea is a seasoned graphic designer and illustrator with over 35 years of dedication to her field. She was born and raised in Montreal, earning her DEC in Illustration & Design from Dawson College. Her career began at McGill University where she started out as a junior designer and typesetter before moving to Ottawa. Over 15 years, Andrea worked for The Bytown Group, Banfield-Seguin, the Canadian Sports and Fitness Administration Center, the National Capital Commission, Calian eLearning and the Canadian Medical Protection Agency — ascending the ranks from junior designer to art director.

Driven by her passion for nurturing the next generation of designers, Andrea transitioned to academia, accepting a position as professor at Algonquin College. For over 20 years she has shared her wealth of industry experience and knowledge. Andrea is a member of the Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario and continues to freelance, working with local businesses and non profits whose vision and mission align with her own values. In 2024 she won the Algonquin Students’ Association Faculty Recognition Award, inspiring countless students to reach new heights. Andrea is currently exploring and studying Data Visualization and visual storytelling, on the long track to completing her Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree. She teaches in both the Graphic Design and Interdisciplinary Studies in Human-Centred Design program.

When not in the classroom, Andrea paints and runs various workshops such as hand lettering and Ukrainian egg decorating. All of her left over time is devoted to cycling.

 

Angie Fahlman

Professor

fahlmaa@algonquincollege.com

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Angie Fahlman

Professor

fahlmaa@algonquincollege.com

Angie is a professional with over twenty-four years of experience in the design industry for international corporations, national sports and entertainment organizations, and professional associations. For thirteen years, Angie designed and directed creative for such organizations as (NHL) Ottawa Senator and Washington Capitals, (NBA) Washington Wizards, (WNBA) Washington Mystics, Verizon Center, Patriot Center, Canadian Tire Place, George Town Hoyas and TicketMaster. Additionally, for over twenty-four years, Angie ran a design company specializing in branding, user experience, interior spaces and creative materials for print and digital initiatives for organizations in Canada and the USA.

Angie completed a Master of Design (MDes) with Carleton University, where Angie contributed to several global design challenges with the World Design Organization (WDO). The design challenges included global community participants for solution-based directives for United Nations Women (UNW) and the International Space Station National Laboratories (ISSNL).

Angie is a professor with thirteen years of post-secondary pedagogical practice in creative disciplines. Angie enjoys inspiring creative minds to transcend their design skills and maximize their problem-solving abilities. Hence, students design purposefully, accelerating the user experience, enhancing the creative process and improving the human condition.

Wendy Warren

Professor

warrenw@algonquincollege.com

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Wendy Warren

Professor

warrenw@algonquincollege.com

Wendy is a seasoned professional with over 13 years of experience in web development. With a passion for teaching, Wendy specializes in guiding talented graphic design artists through the intricacies of the web. Wendy’s career has been dedicated to staying ahead of the curve, constantly researching emerging trends and technologies to ensure her students receive the most up-to-date education available.

Wendy believes that by blending design principles with coding expertise, students can create truly impactful and visually stunning websites. One of the most rewarding aspects of Wendy’s job is witnessing that “aha” moment when a student grasps a complex concept and begins to apply it confidently in their projects. Wendy takes immense joy in nurturing this growth and fostering a genuine enthusiasm for web development in each of her students.

Beyond the classroom, Wendy remains actively engaged in the industry, participating in conferences, workshops, and collaborative projects to ensure that her knowledge remains current and relevant. Her dedication to both teaching and professional development underscores her commitment to preparing the next generation of web developers for success in an ever-evolving digital landscape.

Andrew Miller

Part-time Professor

millera1@algonquincollege.com

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Andrew Miller

Part-time Professor

millera1@algonquincollege.com

A graduate from Algonquin College’s Graphic Design program, Andrew brings over 10 years of experience in Motion Design to the table. His expertise is marked by collaborations with local studios on numerous campaigns for clients such as the NAC, Government of Canada, the CFL and the University of Toronto, as well as international brands including the Smithsonian, Dell, and Koodo. Andrew’s portfolio encompasses a diverse range of projects, from projection-based exhibits to large-scale multi-screen conferences and broadcast television title sequences. His passion for motion design is evident in his dedication to storytelling that resonates with audiences across various platforms. Fuelled by his passion and infectious enthusiasm, he has naturally transitioned into the realm of education. Since 2016, he has been teaching diverse Motion Design courses at Algonquin College, an experience that brings him satisfaction and constant inspiration.

When Andrew isn’t busy crafting one of his thoughtful motion-based puns, he enjoys ‘easing in’ to a graphic novel, taking a ‘loop’ through town on his bicycle with his son, and ‘masking’ his excitement when someone recognizes one of his puns.

Travis Gobeil

Part-time Professor

gobeilt@algonquincollege.com

View Bio

Travis Gobeil

Part-time Professor

gobeilt@algonquincollege.com

Travis is an Ottawa native who has been working as a professional Graphic Designer since 2002. One of the first graduates of Algonquin College’s expanded 3-year Graphic Design Program, Travis aspired to be equal parts creative and technical. In the last two decades, he has worked for start-ups, agencies, non-profits and has been freelancing independently since 2009. Previous job titles include Prepress Operator, In-House Designer, Front-end Designer/Developer, Creative Director, Illustrator, and UX Researcher. He has worked for every type of client and done almost every type of work. Travis has been teaching at Algonquin part-time since 2006, as aspires to be a full-time professor. Travis has several creative side-projects including bands, writing, and an online webcomic.

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