COURSE CURRICULUM

Conestoga’s three-year Graphic Design advanced diploma program offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to develop skilled and versatile designers. In the first year, students build foundational knowledge through courses such as Design History, Illustration, Typography, Design Tools and Practices, and Design Studio, alongside general education electives. The second year continues to expand skills with advanced Design History, Design Tools, Typography, Photography, and Design Studio courses, deepening creative and technical abilities. Level three introduces specialized courses like Illustration 2, Typography 2, Packaging 1, Design Technologies, Design Studio, and Photography 2, while students also complete general education requirements. The fourth year focuses on Professional Practices, Creative Imaging, Packaging, Design Technologies, and Design Studio, emphasizing both creative development and professional readiness. In the fifth year, students advance with courses in Creative Imaging, Typography, Packaging, Design Prototyping, Professional Practices, and Capstone projects, alongside workplace safety training. The final year includes portfolio development, a field placement to gain real-world industry experience, advanced Typography, Design Prototyping, Capstone projects, and Design Studio work. Throughout the program, students engage in hands-on projects that combine artistic creativity with technical skills, preparing them for junior-level roles in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, in-house communications, and technology companies. The program’s blend of practical and theoretical learning, coupled with industry connections and opportunities like field placements, equips graduates with the skills and experience needed to succeed in competitive design environments and effectively collaborate with clients and creative teams.