Program Overview

Program Overview

The Graphic and Print Technician program prepares students for a dynamic career in the printing and graphic design industry. Students will learn how to design and create print materials using various software and production techniques. The curriculum includes training on software tools such as Adobe Creative Cloud, Wacom tablets, and printing techniques used in the production of marketing materials, packaging, and other print products. The program also integrates work experience to ensure students are ready for the fast-paced, hands-on environment of the industry.

Core Information

• Area of Interest: Design & Manufacturing Technologies
• Credential: Certificate
• Program Length: 1 Year | Full time (10 months of study)
• Delivery: In-Classroom
• Practicum: Yes, 4 weeks
• Campus: Fultz
• Tuition: $5,766.00*

Program Highlights

• Hands-On Learning: Work with industry-standard tools, including Adobe Creative Cloud and Wacom tablets.
• Industry-Relevant Training: Gain practical skills in graphic design, print production, and digital media.
• Work Practicum: Apply learning in a real-world work setting with opportunities for career-building experience.
• Career-Ready Focus: Graduates are equipped for roles in various print shops, design studios, and creative agencies.
• Expert Instruction: Learn from industry professionals with extensive experience in both the technical and creative aspects of the graphic and print industry.

Career Outcomes

• Graphic Designer
• Print Technician
• Print Production Assistant
• Pre-Press Technician
• Layout Designer
• Digital Media Specialist
• Production Coordinator

Entry Requirements

• Manitoba high school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent.
• Grade 12 Math (40S) with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• Grade 12 English Language Arts (40S) with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.

International Students

• High school diploma (or expected completion within 45 days of the program start date), or equivalent.
• International applicants must meet the general entrance requirements based on country/curriculum of study.
• Senior level Math with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• Senior level First Language Literature with a grade of 50 per cent or higher, or equivalent.
• All high school grades will be converted to an equivalent Manitoba grade scale.

Additional Requirements

• Demonstrated English language proficiency (if educated outside Canada).

Tuition and Fees

• Estimated Program Costs (International)
  • Tuition: $5,766
  • Fees: $615
  • Estimated Textbook Costs: $250
  • Total Estimated Program Costs: $6,631.00

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this program include a work placement opportunity?

Yes. The program includes a four-week unpaid work placement with a local employer after the final course. This helps students apply their skills in a real-world setting.

What tools and supplies will I need for this program?

• Textbooks and Supplies: A completely supply list and textbook information can be found on the Program information page.
• Laptop Requirements: Students must bring a Tier 3 laptop for this program. More information and technical specifications are available on the Laptop and Technical Needs page.

Do you offer campus tours for this program?

Yes, we offer campus tours. Explore our Campus Tour options.

Are there financial aid options available for this program?

Yes, financial aid may be available to those who qualify. Explore financial aid options.

Course List

• Introduction to Graphic Design and Print (GPT-010) — 49 hours: Gain a broad understanding of major printing processes, from graphic design and pre-press to printing and finishing.
• Digital Drawing (GPT-020) — 42 hours: Explore the role of technology in graphic design. Students will learn and practice basic drawing techniques with pencil and paper, progressing to creating digital artwork using industry-standard software.
• Digital Printing (GPT-030) — 84 hours: Prepare for more complex digital print projects by focusing on colour quality and consistency, digital work station calibration, selecting paper profiles, and operating print server software.
• Bindery and Finishing (GPT-040) — 84 hours: Gain hands-on experience in choosing and operating bindery and finishing equipment. Learn essential techniques such as folding, cutting, stitching, shrink wrapping, and paper drilling to complete printed materials.
• Digital Design I (GPT-050) — 126 hours: Study visual communication through graphic design techniques, focusing on colour palettes, typography, and layout.
• Introduction to Specialty Printing Applications (GPT-060) — 84 hours: Explore state-of-the-art printing processes, working with various substrates. Learn how alternative media and specialty printing techniques influence the design process and keep up with trends in the industry.
• Digital Design II (GPT-070) — 98 hours: Encourage creative thinking and exploration of new design possibilities. This course focuses on idea generation, evaluation, and selection, reinforcing skills in typography, layout, and print design.
• Introduction to Pre-Press (GPT-080) — 118 hours: Learn the essential process of preparing files for output to digital presses and other devices. This course focuses on producing print-ready files and ensuring consistent colour from pre-press to print using specialized software tools.
• Lithographic Printing (GPT-090) — 84 hours: Learn to operate a sheet-fed offset printing press, focusing on troubleshooting and solving problems during the press run.
• Flexographic Printing (GPT-100) — 84 hours: Understand the flexographic printing process from design to finished product. Learn about press basics, pre-press techniques, and polymer platemaking, followed by setup and operation of a four-colour flexographic press.
• Graphic and Print Technician Work Practicum (GPT-110) — 160 hours: Apply technical and employability skills in a supervised work placement. Gain hands-on experience in print or graphic design through real-world projects.
• Work Integrated Projects (GPT-120) — 160 hours: For students who do not meet the practicum requirements, this course offers supervised, community-based projects. Develop skills and knowledge while working in real-world environments, producing projects that meet client expectations.