The three-year advanced diploma Graphic Design program was established early in the college's development and prepares students for entry into the graphic design field as entry-level designers. Graphic designers develop images that persuade, inform and instruct, and students will learn the skills to solve specific visual problems through practical work that covers the broad spectrum of visual communication in corporate, editorial, packaging and advertising design. A unique feature of this program is its mobile computing component, which for the 2009-2010 academic year, provides all eligible students with a laptop that includes program- and industry-specific software. Students are taught the use of major industry-standard applications using the latest Macintosh laptop computers.
The program of studies includes the fundamentals of design, typography, design concepts and digital technology in the first year. In the second year, the process continues with an emphasis on individual and group development of design and communication skills/abilities. The second and third years also provide opportunities to apply these principles to a variety of design problems. Other areas of study include colour theory, drawing, photography, history of art and the history of graphic design.
During the course of studies, students also develop a professional portfolio showcasing their creative and technical skills. Graduating students have the opportunity to display design projects from their portfolio development course at the annual student spring exhibit held at the Design Exchange in Toronto.
The final semester is spent off-campus as an intern at either a design studio or an in-house studio. Often graduates are able to enter the design industry as a direct or indirect result of this internship semester.
Program co-ordinator:
Richard Brown
richard.brown@durhamcollege.ca
Ext. 2633
Room C226
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