Program Overview
Program Overview
UFV's two-year diploma in Graphic and Digital Design helps you develop a solid foundation in communication design, brand identity, interactive design, and dynamic media to enable you to become a skilled graphic designer, visual communicator, and creative strategist.
Program Details
- Course work emphasizes real-world projects, contexts, and issues.
- You get to design visual communications solutions by applying design thinking processes using industry-standard digital tools in UFV's networked studios and labs.
- You get to engage with the design industry through special events, guest lectures, field trips, study tours, design conferences, workshops, practica, and mentorship opportunities.
Career Outlook
With the emergence of digital and social media platforms, the need for skilled visual strategists is higher than ever. Every brand needs a designer to enhance the visual impact of its communications in order to engage, motivate, inform and inspire action.
- The demand for designed experiences that span all media is increasing.
- More and more businesses and organizations are hiring designers for in-house positions to manage their brands.
- Exponential growth in the digital media sector is creating openings for web designers, user experience or user interface designers, and other visual influencers.
Career Advancement
Mastering skills such as photography, motion graphics, interactive design, marketing, copywriting, and public speaking can open additional job prospects. With experience and more education, designers may progress to leadership positions such as senior designer, art director, or creative director.
Post-Graduation Opportunities
When you graduate from the Graphic and Digital Design diploma, you are ready to enter the workforce, freelance, or continue your studies at UFV to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a minor or extended minor in Graphic and Digital Design.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
- Program: Graphic and Digital Design Diploma
- Institution: University of the Fraser Valley (UFV)
- Duration: Two years
- Objectives:
- Develop a strong foundation in key design areas: communication design, brand identity, interactive design, and dynamic media.
- Become a skilled graphic designer, visual communicator, and creative strategist.
- Description:
- Emphasizes real-world projects, contexts, and issues.
- Utilizes industry-standard digital tools in UFV's networked studios and labs.
- Offers opportunities for engagement with the design industry through events, guest lectures, field trips, study tours, design conferences, workshops, practica, and mentorship.
Outline:
- Content:
- Communication design
- Brand identity
- Interactive design
- Dynamic Media
- Structure:
- Two-year diploma program
Teaching:
- Teaching methods:
- Design thinking processes
- Application of industry-standard digital tools
- Unique approaches:
- Emphasis on real-world projects and experience.
- Opportunities for engagement with the design industry.
Careers:
- Career paths:
- Graphic designer
- Visual communicator
- Creative strategist
- Web designer
- User experience or user interface designer
- Career opportunities:
- In-house designer positions
- Freelance designer
- Career outcomes:
- Increased job opportunities in digital and social media platforms
- Leadership positions in the design field such as senior designer, art director, or creative director.
Other:
- Events hosted by the department:
- Annual portfolio show
- Exhibitions
- Student fundraisers
- Open houses
- Industry nights
- Benefits of participation:
- Networking with industry players and the local creative community
- Continuing education opportunities:
- Bachelor of Fine Arts degree with a minor or extended minor in Graphic and Digital Design at UFV
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.
Entry Requirements:
Academic Requirements:
- High School Graduation Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must successfully complete a high school diploma or equivalent qualification recognized by the University of the Fraser Valley.
- English 12 or Equivalent: A minimum grade C+ in English 12 or an equivalent course is required.
- Mathematics 11 or Equivalent: A minimum grade C+ in Mathematics 11 or an equivalent course is required.
- Visual Arts 11 or 12 or Equivalent: A minimum grade C+ in Visual Arts 11 or 12 or an equivalent course is recommended.
- Portfolio Review: Applicants are required to submit a portfolio demonstrating their artistic skills and abilities. The portfolio should showcase a variety of creative work, including drawings, paintings, sculptures, photographs, graphic designs, and digital media projects.
Additional Requirements:
- Resume: Applicants must submit a resume outlining their education, work experience, and relevant skills.
- Personal Statement: Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their interest in the program, their career goals, and how the program will help them achieve their goals.
- Two References: Applicants must submit two references from individuals who can attest to their academic abilities and artistic potential.
- English Language Proficiency: International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements:
- IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in each band.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 88 with a minimum score of 20 in reading, 20 in listening, 20 in speaking, and 22 in writing.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 58 with a minimum score of 55 in each communication skill.
- CanTEST: Overall score of 4.5 with a minimum score of 4.0 in each band.
- CAEL: Overall score of 70 with a minimum score of 60 in each band.
- High School Equivalency: International students must have completed a high school diploma or equivalent qualification that is recognized by the University of the Fraser Valley.
- Visa Requirements: International students must obtain a study permit from the Canadian government before they can begin their studies in Canada.
Language Proficiency Requirements:
English Language Proficiency:
- International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency by meeting one of the following requirements:
- IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in each band.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 88 with a minimum score of 20 in reading, 20 in listening, 20 in speaking, and 22 in writing.
- PTE Academic: Overall score of 58 with a minimum score of 55 in each communication skill.
- CanTEST: Overall score of 4.5 with a minimum score of 4.0 in each band.
- CAEL: Overall score of 70 with a minimum score of 60 in each band. Specific entry requirements may vary depending on the program and campus location.