| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
Graphic Design Program Overview
From branding to book layouts, advertising to animated graphics, and packaging to digital signage, graphic designers have the power to express emotions, influence decisions and bring ideas to life. In Durham College’s comprehensive graphic design program, you’ll develop the skills to craft visually compelling and functional designs that resonate across diverse media.
Our graphic design courses immerse students in the creative process. Students learn to create functional and impactful designs in a multitude of contexts including advertisements, logos, brochures, magazine layouts, annual reports, motion graphics and more. Whether you’re interested in the fine details of branding or the dynamic world of motion graphics, this graphic arts program will equip you with the tools to excel in the design industry.
Graduates of our graphic design program are well prepared to pursue careers that could involve creating advertising and branding campaigns, designing corporate identity systems, designing eye-catching packaging and coming up with integrated content for media networks and the web.
If you have been looking for graphics and design programs, the graphic design program at Durham College could be perfect for you.
Intakes and Availability
- September 2025: Open for domestic and international students
Program Highlights
- Success Stories
- Resources
Admission Requirements
To apply to take graphic design courses in our program you will need:
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or Mature Student Status
- Grade 12 English (C or U)
- Grade 11 mathematics (C, M or U)
- Senior-level visual or media arts credits or portfolio of work
Additional Requirements
In addition to the academic requirements, admission to this program MAY require the submission of a portfolio of artwork. The purpose of the portfolio is to allow students to demonstrate their creative ability.
Tuition
- Year one domestic: $3,188 (CAD)
- Year one international: $15,775 (CAD)
Semester 1 Courses
- Communication Foundations (COMM 1100)
- Design 1 (DESG 1104)
- Design Tools 1 (DESG 1105)
- New Media Design 1 (DESG 1106)
- Typography 1 (DESG 1107)
- Photography and Illustration (PHOT 1103)
Career Options
Graduates of the diploma in graphic design program are equipped with a diverse skill set and strong foundation in design principles, which can open doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities.
- Graphic designer
- Art director
- Creative director
- Freelance graphic designer
- Digital production designer
- Marketing coordinator
- Production artist
- Prepress technician
- Web designer
- Motion graphic designer
- Agency studio artist
- UX/UI designer
- Brand strategist
- Packaging designer
- Layout artist
- Exhibit designer
- Digital content creator
- Advertising designer
Experiential Learning
Your graphic design courses will be complemented by a 14-week field placement in the last semester of the graphic design program. The field placement provides you with the opportunity to integrate theory with practice at an agency or studio under the supervision of an industry professional.
Program Transfer, Degree Completion and Additional Credentials
If you would want to continue your education after completing your study in graphic design, Durham College also offers degree completion opportunities with a number of Canadian and international institutions.
- Bachelor of Commerce (Honours) bridge – Ontario Tech University (Ontario Tech)
- Bachelor of Arts (Honours) – Educational Studies and Digital Technology – Ontario Tech
- Bachelor of Professional Arts – Communication Studies – Athabasca University
- Bachelor of Business Administration – General Business - Davenport University
- Bachelor of Design - Griffith University
- Bachelor of Arts and Science (Honours) - Media Studies – Lakehead University
- Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Graphic Design Communications – Technological University of the Shannon
- Bachelor of Education - Technological Education - York University
Tech Requirements for Graphic Design
- Laptop requirements: A Mac notebook computer is recommended.
- Software requirements:
- Operating System (bundled with new notebook computer purchase)
- Membership in Adobe Creative Cloud™ is included in your Student Fees and will be made available during your first week.
- Microsoft Office (Available for free for students from Microsoft through your DC Mail account. Please do not buy it.)
Meet Your Faculty Experts
- Shaun Feldman
- Rhian Moore
- MaryRose Ouellette-Thaler
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.
