| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
Foundations in Art and Design
Program Overview
Learn art and design-related media, tools and techniques necessary to create a portfolio that demonstrates your creative and technical skills. Many graduates use their portfolios to prepare for competitive programs in fine arts, graphic design, animation and game development. Students learn productive habits of conceptualization through visual problem solving and experimentation using a wide range of media. You also develop visual communication skills, empowering you to think and respond critically to opportunities and responsibilities as an artist and/or designer, regardless of your chosen discipline.
Intakes and Availability
- September 2025: Open (Domestic and International)
- January 2026: Open (Domestic), Closed (International)
Program Highlights
- Success Stories
- Resources
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
Recommended
- Experience/exposure to art and design processes and making
Tuition
- Year one domestic: $2,722 (CAD)
- Year one international: $15,309 (CAD)
Semester 1 Courses
- Communication Foundations (COMM 1100)
- Ideas and Images for Art and Design (DESF 1304)
- Digital Resources for Art and Design (DIGI 1300)
- Drawing I (DRAW 1310)
- Art Of Photography (PHOT 1320)
- Studio Practice I - Design Essentials (STPR 1301)
- Studio Practice I - Art Essentials (STPR 1302)
Semester 2 Courses
- Digital Drawing (DRAW 2304)
- Drawing II (DRAW 2310)
- Fundamentals Of Digital Audio and Video Production (FDAV 2300)
- General Education Elective (GNED 0000)
- Presentation and Portfolio Techniques (PRES 2303)
- Studio Practice II (3D Art and Design) (STPR 2300)
Career Options
As a graduate, you can choose to pursue further studies in art and design at Durham College in the School of Media, Art & Design.
Program Transfer, Degree Completion and Additional Credentials
Graduates can transition directly into the second year of Durham College’s Fine Arts - Advanced program. Two additional years of study are required to complete the program. Foundations in Art and Design graduates can also further their studies by applying to Durham College’s Graphic Design; Interactive Media Design; Contemporary Web Design; Advertising and Promotion; Game-Art or Animation – Digital Production programs.
Program Learning Outcomes
- Create two and three dimensional works of art and design using a wide range of materials, processes, techniques, and image making technologies.
- Use the creative process to develop and solve visual problems using various strategies for idea generation.
- Identify and apply the formal elements and principles of design to the creation of two and three dimensional works of art.
- Communicate effectively in visual, verbal and written forms appropriate to the presentation and promotion of one’s work.
- Implement strategies for personal and professional development in arts and design in order to maximize learning and career opportunities.
- Articulate past and present issues in art and design in society to provide a context for creative work.
- Critique their own work and that of others in a manner that illustrates artistic curiosity and expression, and the application of art and design principles.
Costs
- Year one domestic: $2,722 (CAD)
- Year one international: $15,309 (CAD)
Land Acknowledgement
Durham College is situated on the traditional lands of the First Peoples of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation. These lands are covered under the Williams Treaties and rest within the traditional territory of the Anishinaabeg. We offer our gratitude to the Indigenous Peoples who care for and, through the treaty process, share the lands on which we live, learn, teach and prosper today.
Durham College
Overview:
Durham College is a public college located in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It offers a wide range of full-time and part-time programs, including diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, and apprenticeships. The college is known for its focus on experiential learning and its commitment to providing students with the skills they need to succeed in their chosen careers.
Services Offered:
Durham College provides a comprehensive range of services to its students, including:
Academic Support:
Student Academic Learning Services (SALS) offers tutoring, workshops, and other resources to help students succeed academically.Career Development:
The Career Development Centre assists students with career planning, job searching, and resume writing.Co-operative Education:
Many programs offer co-op opportunities, allowing students to gain practical work experience in their field.Financial Aid:
Durham College offers a variety of scholarships, bursaries, and awards to help students finance their education.Health and Wellness:
The Campus Health and Wellness Centre provides a range of services, including counselling, health education, and fitness programs.Housing:
Durham College offers on-campus housing options for students.Library:
The college library provides access to a wide range of resources, including books, journals, and databases.Student Association:
The Durham College Student Association (DCSA) represents the interests of students and provides a variety of social and recreational activities.Campus Safety:
Durham College has a dedicated Campus Safety department that provides security services and emergency response.Student Life and Campus Experience:
Durham College offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience. Students can participate in a variety of clubs, organizations, and activities, including:
Athletics:
Durham College has a competitive varsity sports program, as well as intramural and extramural sports.Esports:
The college has an Esports Gaming Arena where students can compete in various video games.Student Events:
Durham College hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and guest speakers.Social Media Hub:
The college has a dedicated Social Media Hub where students can connect with each other and stay up-to-date on campus news.Key Reasons to Study There:
Experiential Learning:
Durham College emphasizes hands-on learning, providing students with real-world experience in their chosen field.Career-Focused Programs:
The college offers a wide range of programs that are designed to prepare students for specific careers.Strong Industry Connections:
Durham College has strong relationships with local businesses and organizations, providing students with opportunities for internships and job placements.Supportive Campus Environment:
The college provides a supportive and welcoming environment for students, with a variety of resources and services available to help them succeed.Academic Programs:
Durham College offers a wide range of academic programs, including:
Full-time Programs:
Diplomas, degrees, graduate certificates, and apprenticeships in a variety of fields, including business, technology, health care, and the arts.Part-time Programs:
Professional and part-time learning opportunities for individuals looking to upgrade their skills or pursue a new career.Online Learning:
A variety of online programs and courses available for students who prefer to learn remotely.Other:
- Durham College has two campuses: Oshawa and Whitby.
- The college is committed to diversity and inclusion, with a dedicated Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.
- Durham College is a smoke-free campus.
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The college has a strong commitment to sustainability, with a focus on reducing its environmental impact.
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Student Life and Campus Experience:
While the context mentions some aspects of student life, it does not provide a detailed description of the campus experience.
