Program Overview
The Graphic Design minor at the University of the Fraser Valley equips students with the skills and knowledge to become effective visual communicators. The program provides a solid foundation in communication design and interactive design, preparing students for entry-level positions in the creative industry or enhancing their skillset in their main area of study. The program emphasizes creativity, technical skills, communication, problem-solving, and critical thinking, preparing graduates for a variety of careers in the creative industry and beyond.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview:
The Graphic Design minor at the University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) equips students with the skills and knowledge to become effective visual communicators. The program provides a solid foundation in communication design and interactive design, preparing students for entry-level positions in the creative industry or enhancing their skillset in their main area of study.
Objectives:
- Develop visual communication skills
- Learn core graphic design principles
- Gain experience in interactive design
- Prepare for entry-level creative industry positions
- Enhance visual communication skills in any chosen field
Description:
The program begins with lower-level courses that introduce students to core graphic design principles. As students progress, they can choose upper-level electives that align with their interests and career goals. The program is designed to be completed within a student's chosen degree path while also fulfilling prerequisites for upper-level classes. To ensure a smooth progression, students are encouraged to consult with their program advisor to develop a personalized program plan.
Outline:
Content:
The Graphic Design minor curriculum covers a range of topics, including:
- Communication design principles
- Interactive design
- Typography
- Layout and composition
- Color theory
- Branding and identity
- User experience (UX) design
- Web design
- Photography
- Illustration
Structure:
The program consists of a combination of core courses and elective courses. Core courses provide a foundation in graphic design principles, while electives allow students to specialize in areas of interest. However, based on the program's content, it is likely that modules will cover specific topics such as typography, layout and composition, color theory, branding and identity, UX design, web design, photography, and illustration. However, it is likely that the program emphasizes the following:
- Creativity: Originality, innovation, and fresh perspectives
- Technical skills: Proficiency in design software and techniques
- Communication: Clear and effective visual communication
- Problem-solving: Ability to identify and solve design challenges
- Critical thinking: Ability to analyze and evaluate design solutions However, it is possible that the program incorporates innovative methods or technologies to enhance the learning experience.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths:
The Graphic Design minor prepares students for a variety of careers in the creative industry, including:
- Graphic designer
- Web designer
- UX designer
- Brand designer
- Marketing specialist
- Art director Graduates with graphic design training can leverage their skills to find employment in a diverse range of fields.
Outcomes:
The program aims to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to land entry-level positions in the creative industry. Additionally, graduates can apply their graphic design skills to enhance their career prospects in any chosen field.
Other:
Global Context:
The context mentions the UN report highlighting the creative economy as one of the fastest-growing sectors for income generation, job creation, and export earnings. This reinforces the program's relevance and potential career opportunities for graduates within the province.
Overview:
University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a public university located in British Columbia, Canada. It offers a wide range of academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates. UFV is known for its commitment to accessibility and its focus on providing a student-centered learning experience.
Services Offered:
UFV provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Advising:
Guidance on program selection, course registration, and academic planning.Library:
Access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.Student Services:
Support for student life, including financial aid, career counseling, and health and wellness services.IT Service Desk:
Technical support for students and faculty.Bookstore:
Purchase textbooks, course materials, and UFV merchandise.Shuttle Bus:
Transportation between UFV campuses and surrounding areas.Student Life and Campus Experience:
UFV offers a vibrant campus life with opportunities for students to engage in a variety of activities, including:
Clubs and Organizations:
Join student groups based on interests, hobbies, and career aspirations.Athletics:
Participate in varsity sports or recreational activities.Events:
Attend campus events, concerts, and workshops.Community Engagement:
Get involved in volunteer opportunities and community initiatives.Key Reasons to Study There:
Accessible and Inclusive Environment:
UFV is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive learning environment for all students.Student-Centered Approach:
The university prioritizes student success and provides personalized support.Diverse Programs:
A wide range of academic programs cater to various interests and career goals.Strong Faculty:
Experienced and dedicated faculty members provide high-quality instruction.Vibrant Campus Life:
Opportunities for students to connect with peers, explore their passions, and build a sense of community.Academic Programs:
UFV offers a wide range of academic programs across various disciplines, including:
Agriculture:
Agricultural Science, Agriculture Management, Agriculture Technology, and various certificates.Aviation:
Aviation Diploma, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, and Integrated Studies with an Aviation theme.Business and Management:
Accounting, Applied Business Technology, Aviation Bachelor of Business Administration, Business Administration, Economics, Marketing and Sales, and various certificates.Computer Systems and Technology:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Automation and Robotics Technician, Computer Information Systems, Computing Science, Digital Manufacturing, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Library Information and Technology, Media Arts, and Data Analysis.Creative Arts and Design:
Creative Writing, Fine Arts, Graphic and Digital Design, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Theatre, Visual Arts, and various diplomas.Earth and Environmental Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Environmental Studies, Biology, Geography, Physical Geography, and Geographic Information Systems.Education:
Adult Education, Early Childhood Education, Education, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Integrated Learning Design, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, School and Community Support Worker, and Teaching English as a Second Language.Graduate Studies:
Criminal Justice, Educational Leadership and Mentorship, Migration and Citizenship, Mindfulness-Based Teaching and Learning, Program Evaluation, and Social Work.Health Sciences and Services:
Certified Dental Assistant, Child Life and Community Health, Health Care Assistant, Kinesiology, Nursing, and Practical Nursing.History and Culture:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Art History, Arts, Creative Writing, Diaspora Studies, English, French, History, Indigenous Studies, Language Proficiency, Latin American Studies, Liberal Arts, Philosophy, Stó:lō Studies, and Theatre.Indigenous Studies:
Indigenous Studies, Social Service Worker (Indigenous Focus), and Stó:lō Studies.Interdisciplinary Programs:
Diaspora Studies, Early Modern Studies, General Studies, Global Development Studies, Graphic Design, India-Canada Studies, Indigenous Studies, Integrated Learning Design, Integrated Studies, Latin American Studies, Peace and Conflict Studies, and various certificates.Media and Communications:
Arts, Communications, Creative Writing, English, Essentials of Journalism, French, Graphic and Digital Design, Language Proficiency, Liberal Arts, Media and Communication Studies, Media Arts, Media Literacy, and Professional Communications Essentials.Office Administration:
Applied Business Technology, Advanced Medical Office Assistant, Bookkeeping for Small Business, Dental Office Receptionist, Legal Administrative Assistant, Medical Office Assistant, Nursing Unit Clerk, Records Management, and Veterinary Administrative Assistant.Legal and Criminal Justice:
Criminal Justice, Political Science, Legal Administrative Assistant, Paralegal, and various diplomas.Sciences:
Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Computing Science, Engineering Common Core, Engineering Physics, Geographic Information Systems, Mathematics & Statistics, Physical Geography, Physics, Data Analysis, Science, and various diplomas.Social Work & Human Services:
Child and Youth Care, Diaspora Studies, Early Childhood Education, Psychology, School and Community Support Worker, Social Service Worker, Social Work, and various diplomas.Society, Politics, and Policy:
Applied Ethical and Political Philosophy, Arts, Criminal Justice, Economics, Geography, Global Development Studies, International and Development Studies, Liberal Arts, Peace and Conflict Studies, Political Science, Program Evaluation, Psychology, and Sociology.Trades:
Architectural Drafting Technician, Collision Repair and Refinish, Automation and Robotics Technician, Automotive Service, Cabinetmaking, Carpentry, Culinary Arts, Digital Manufacturing, Electrician, Electronics Technician, Heavy Mechanical Trades Foundation, Plumbing and Piping, Trades Management, and Welding.Upgrading:
Adult Basic Education, English Language Studies, and Workplace TASK.Other:
UFV is situated on the traditional territory of the Stó:lō peoples. The university acknowledges and respects the Stó:lō's historical and cultural connection to the land.
