Digital Graphic Design

Program Overview

Note:
This program is being replaced with our new Interactive Design and Technology program, but it is still available to graduates of the New Media Communications certificate program. It will be suspended effective July 1, 2020.

Digital Graphic Design is an advanced certificate program. It provides the digital graphic design skills needed to create interesting and effective graphic solutions for websites, banner ads, CD-ROMs and interactive media (such as Flash).

Building on the skills you developed in the New Media Communications certificate program (at the campus in Prince Albert or Regina), you will learn advanced skills in raster and vector graphics. You will study major artistic periods throughout history - learning their defining characteristics and creating a wide variety of works modelled after their style. You will also create a final portfolio that contains a selection of your best work.

Availability

Part-time studies - the courses will be offered regularly throughout the academic year
Full-time studies - it will be possible to complete all the courses in an academic year

Individuals who plan to take at least one more of the advanced certificates in this area (shown below), in addition to Digital Graphic Design, may wish to consider applying directly to the New Media Communications diploma program.

Dynamic Web Development
Interactive Media Production

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Graduates are prepared for employment in graphics, Internet and advertising related occupations.

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September (full-time)

Length: 30 weeks

Locations

Online

Some online programs include on-site labs, clinicals, practicums or work experiences. Online programs may be offered course-by-course or full-time, or both, and deliveries may change over time.

Admissions

Admission Requirements

New Media Communications certificate - (Prince Albert Campus or Regina Campus)
English Language Requirement

Special Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through a special admission assessment. Interested individuals should still apply. Applicants are automatically considered for special admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met. Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Special Admission.

ACCUPLACER©

See New Media Certificate

Admission Method

First Qualified/First Admitted

The First Qualified/First Admitted (FQFA) process is used for the majority of Saskatchewan Polytechnic programs. When we determine that you meet the program's admission requirements, you will be offered admission based on the date you fully qualify for the program. The earlier you provide the appropriate documents and information that qualify you for admission to the next intake, the earlier you might begin your studies. Your application, once qualified, is always considered for the next intake.

Applicants to programs with multiple intakes in an academic year remain in the application pool until the last intake for that academic year has begun. Programs using the FQFA process receive applications year round and maintain an application pool for each academic year. Qualified applicants who are not offered a seat must reapply for the next academic year.

Sponsored programs or programs targeted to specific groups do not accept applications year round or maintain an application pool.

See Admission Processes for more information about this method of admission.

Tuition and Fees

Estimates are based on current rates and are subject to change. Amounts for a program may vary by campus. Totals shown here include all mandatory fees as well as books and supplies. For a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program, click here to access the Saskatchewan Polytechnic campus Tuition and Fee Schedules.

$5,000

Courses

Expand All +

Code

Name/Description

Credits

ART 200

Art History

You will study the major artistic movements and periods that have shaped society. Your studies will include the major artistic periods and styles. Defining characteristics will be emphasized. You will create work in a variety of styles.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): ART 200CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DSGN 203

Typography

You will study typopgraphic terminology and learn to identify fonts and the families to which they belong. You develop an appreciation for the important role of typography in design. You will learn how to use type as a design element and create unique letters.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 100
Equivalent Course(s): DSGN 203CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DSGN 204

Design Processes and Critical Studies

You will develop exceptional graphic solutions based on solid analysis and design. You will investigate essential design processes and techniques. You will develop critical thinking and analytical skills. You will demonstrate your skills by creating appropriate solutions to design challenges
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DSGN 101(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): DSGN 204CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

DSGN 205

Contemporary Graphic Design

You will develop an appreciation for innovation in the fields of media and art which are inspired by technological and societal change. You will learn to adapt to new methods and the ongoing redefinition of artistic trends. You will study major contemporary trends in new media design. You will research trendsetters and their work. You will create works in a variety of contemporary styles.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): DSGN 205CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

EMPS 201

Portfolio Design and Presentation

An effective portfolio containing a comprehensive selection of your best work is essential. You will discuss the types of portfolios and learn what is necessary to include in a portfolio. You will be expected to produce a strong portfolio. You will have the opportunity to receive feedback on your work through peer and instructor critiques.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MKTG 202
Equivalent Course(s): EMPS 201CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GRPH 200

Advanced Raster Skills

Using raster graphic software, you will learn advanced raster graphic skills. Your studies will include colour correction, batch processes, automation and photo retouching. You will learn how to produce more consistent work in less time. You will research and employ new techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 102
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 200CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GRPH 201

Advanced Vector Skills

You will learn a variety of advanced techniques that will help you create quality vector graphics. You will research and share new vector graphic techniques.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 103
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 201CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GRPH 202

Electronic Publishing

Using popular layout software, you will learn to create professionally-formatted documents for print and web. You will learn to optimize your production workflow and create interactive documents.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): (DSGN 204 or DSGN 101), GRPH 102, GRPH 103
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 202CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GRPH 203

Introduction to Colour Management

You will study colour management processes that produce consistent and accurate output. You will learn how to manage colour on a computer system.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 203CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MKTG 202

Self-Promotion and Marketing

Your studies will focus on the professional standards of personal marketing. You will discuss the components of a business plan, and conduct an informal market analysis, which will support the development of a marketing strategy. You will create elements of your promotional plan.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): MKTG 203(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): MKTG 202CE, MKTG 222
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Note: Courses are delivered online. A combination of Internet-based resources, videos, class discussions, text-based chat sessions, and peer critiques may be used. Your instructor will provide guidance, help, and timely feedback.

PLAR & Transfer Credit

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

Saskatchewan Polytechnic recognizes that adults learn in many different ways and through many different means. This includes acquiring knowledge and skills through life and work experience or non-formal training.

More about PLAR

Transfer Credit

Many Sask Polytech students benefit from transferring course credit. You may be eligible to transfer credit from or to another college or university. Learn more about Transfer Credit.

Student Awards

Thanks to the generosity of donors and alumni, Saskatchewan Polytechnic gives away more than $2 million in student awards during the academic year.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers student awards for every certificate and diploma program at every campus. You don't have to be a brainiac to receive a student award. Not all student awards are based on marks - some are based on financial need or things like community or volunteer involvement.

More about scholarships

Additional Information

Related Programs

Application Form

Part-Time Delivery

To graduate and receive a credential for this program, part-time students must apply to the program and be admitted before taking any program courses.

View the program page for a complete list of courses and additional information.

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