Graphic Design
Closed – Loyalist is no longer accepting applications for the 2015/2016 cycle
- Credential
Three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma
- Start Date
September entry
- Location
Belleville campus
- Contact
Find your career
Graduates are prepared for exciting and varied careers in branding and graphic design. You could work with:
- Motion graphics, including broadcast design, music videos, TV show and film titles
- Print material such as advertising, editorial (magazines, books and newspapers), brochures, newsletters and posters
- Websites and interactive media
- Packaging design for food, beverages, cosmetics, CDs and other media
- Branding in a variety of mediums
- Environmental graphics such as wayfinding systems, exhibits, point-of-purchase displays, billboards and transit signage
There are many career opportunities in advertising agencies, design studios and in-house creative departments. Professional graphic designers have strong earning potential:
- Entry-level salaries average $35,000
- Senior designers can expect to earn over $57,500
- Art directors make an average of $67,000
- Creative directors earn an average salary of $84,000 with many positions offering $100,000 or more
Is it for you?
People who thrive in graphic design are those who:
- Feel compelled to make things
- Are curious, perceptive and thoughtful
- Enjoy exploring the capabilities of software
- Want a career that uses their creativity
Experiential learning
Develop your graphic design potential in a fun, stimulating and challenging environment. At Loyalist you will:
- Create comprehensive campaigns using design theory and software skills
- Bring your concepts to life in comfortable labs and classrooms
- Create high-calibre designs for real-life clients in the second year
- Develop your ‘design thinking’ – learn to problem solve using your analytical and creative skills
- Receive an iPad with your art supplies and learning support from lynda.com
Learning at Loyalist goes beyond the classroom:
- Visit design studios and agencies to see graphic designers at work
- Learn from guest speakers who are experts in their field
- Enjoy student membership with the Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario
You’ll finish the program with essential business skills for the creative economy:
- Learn how to manage projects, meet deadlines and succeed as an entrepreneur
- Gain on-the-job experience before you graduate during a third-year field placement
- Develop a strong work ethic and learn to use your integrity in the workplace
- Learn how to communicate effectively and sell your designs
- Your studies at Loyalist are recognized towards professional designation as an R.G.D. by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario – a demonstration of quality education and professional competence (see rgd.ca)
Outstanding faculty make the difference
- Faculty members get to know each student and teach the whole person, not just the skill
- Experienced faculty offer one-on-one feedback on creative projects
- Professors are highly skilled in their areas of expertise and stay ahead of the curve with the newest advances in design and software
- Many professors continue to freelance in the industry, bringing client experience and emerging trends to the classroom
- The program is continually refined and kept up-to-date with the input of an advisory committee of local industry leaders