Program Overview

Are you artistic, innovative and idea-driven? Do you have an eye for detail and good manual dexterity? Are you comfortable with digital technology? If so, Saskatchewan Polytechnic’s Graphic Communications diploma program at Regina campus will challenge you both creatively and technically.

Hands-on labs and courses that focus on the philosophy of design, using industry-standard software and equipment, will give you the confidence to be successful in the fast-paced and diverse graphic communications industry.

You will build a solid foundation in:

  • aesthetic awareness
  • client communication
  • design and typography
  • digital output and colour management
  • digital page layout
  • graphic and illustration creation
  • package design
  • photography and image editing
  • problem solving
  • project management
  • screen printing and signage
  • self promotion and social media marketing
  • visual identity and brand development
  • website design and using content management systems (CMS)

The program’s delivery methods and commitment to training excellence have prepared students to compete and win dozens of provincial, national, and international awards over the years.

Assignments may require a considerable amount of time outside of regular class hours.

You Learn by Doing

You’ll develop an aesthetic awareness that will become the foundation of your professional competence. You’ll learn about leading software applications by using them in your classes and labs. You’ll create a variety of projects that are designed specifically to build skills that industry employers value.

Ready to Work

By graduation, you’ll have experience managing and producing projects from concept through to delivery, developed a professional portfolio and completed a four-week work experience in the graphic communications industry.

Diploma to Degree

Leverage your diploma into the Bachelor of Applied Management degree at Saskatchewan Polytechnic with only two years of additional study. Remote classes and part-time options are available.   

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

The graphic communications industry consists of creative teams and individuals using their attention for detail, problem-solving and technical skills to develop visually appealing marketing solutions for their clients. Graduates often work as part of a team, and must be able to handle the pressures of the competitive world of advertising, graphic design and marketing.

Graduates are found working in a variety of industry sectors such as advertising agencies, start-up companies, corporate communications and marketing departments, magazine and book publishers, signage and display companies, commercial and quick-print shops.

Look for employment in project management, branding, graphic design, packaging design, digital illustration, image editing, signage, digital press operation, and screen-printing.

For more information, contact the Student Employment Services at a campus nearest you.

Potential Careers

Sample Job TitleNOC Classification1Earning Potential2
Web DesignerWeb Designers and Developers (2175)$24,600 - $76,400
PhotographerPhotographers (5221)$29,200 - $76,800
Graphic DesignerGraphic Designers and Illustrators (5241)$31,200 - $81,000

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s): September
Length: 68 weeks: 

Year 1 - 32 weeks; Year 2 - 36 weeks

Locations

  • Regina

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not possess the academic qualifications for a program may be admitted if evidence of probable success can be established through an alternative admission assessment. Applicants are automatically considered for alternative admission. However, some specific admission requirements may still need to be met.



ACCUPLACER©

Refer to the ACCUPLACER© cut scores for this program below, and review additional details concerning Alternative Admission using Accuplacer.

  • 250 Arithmetic
  • 250 Reading
  • 245 Writing

Post-secondary

Some programs allow applicants to meet the admission grade level requirement using 15 approved post-secondary credits. Review additional information.

If the program applied to has specific course requirements, they may be met through alternative post-secondary courses. Review already approved courses that may be used for admission purposes for your programs.

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 approximate cost for books and supplies. Visit the Tuition and Fees web page for a complete breakdown of tuition and fees for this program.

 

2021/22 Academic Year

Year 1 - $9,495
Year 2 - $6,528

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

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Semester 1

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
GRPH 114
Print Media
3
Show course details
Your studies will introduce you to the foundations of printing. You will explore a variety of printing and finishing methods. You will learn about digital image characteristics and their importance for high-quality output. You will operate a digital colour press, wide format printer, vinyl cutter and screen-printing press.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 147
Digital Page Layout 1
3
Show course details
You will use page layout software to acquire the basic knowledge required to build professional documents. You will focus on managing documents and pages, formatting text, working with images and graphics, and adjusting objects and colour. You will perform basic page layout to recreate documents such as business cards, postcards, newsletters, posters and more.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 148
Digital Page Layout 2
3
Show course details
Using popular layout and design software, you will continue to develop the skills required to create professionally designed documents. You will implement design thinking strategies when applying styles and creating parent pages and building tables. Through mock client work, you will create high-quality layouts beginning with the initial stages of the design process and ending with the physical production and delivery of your final creation. You will strategically create documents such as leaflets, forms, booklets and more.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 147(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 152
Digital Illustration 1
3
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You will be introduced to illustration software, tools and drawing techniques. You will acquire the knowledge and develop the practical skills required to produce vector graphics.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 153
Image Editing 1
3
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Throughout this course, you will acquire the practical skills required for the efficient use of image editing software by using Adobe Photoshop. You will learn how to manage layers, create selections and layer masks, work with vector tools, apply styles, filters and retouch images.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 154
Workflow Fundamentals
3
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Your studies will focus on optimization, and strategic organization of files and assets needed for multi-item campaigns in the graphic communications industry. You will learn to strategically organize digital files, by minimizing duplication of repetitive tasks and maximizing efficiencies at all stages of the workflow. You will learn about the composition of digital images, focusing specifically on resolution, and its importance for high-quality output. You will learn about and implement colour management strategies, as you gain an in-depth understanding of how to properly correct colour images, correct skin tones, sharpen properly scaled images, and optimize files for consistent and repeatable high quality output. Your studies will culminate with the preparation and optimization of multiitem campaigns, ensuring that images, graphics, and digital files have been prepared to specific output requirements and standards.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 153(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 154CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 155
Image Editing 2
3
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You will acquire the knowledge and skills to further advance your skills using Adobe Photoshop. You will learn how to apply creative filters and transformations. You will use blending modes and advanced masking techniques to create high quality composites.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 153(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 208
Digital Illustration 2
3
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Using popular illustration software, you will continue to develop the skills required to create vector artwork. You will identify strategies for creating logos, icons, infographics and more. You will learn industry-standard best practices for outputting vector files.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 152(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
MATH 165
Mathematics for Printers
2
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You will acquire the basic mathematics skills required for entry level occupations in the graphics/print industry. Your studies will include basic mathematics, problem solving, and measurement systems.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online

Semester 2

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
GRPH 115
Digital Page Layout 3
3
Show course details
Using popular layout and design software, you will further develop the skills and strategies required to create professionally designed documents. You will apply design thinking strategies to create static and interactive documents. You will use mock client work to identify design problems and strategies that provide effective design solutions for high-quality layouts. You will create documents such as newspaper articles, editorial spreads, menus, interactive forms and more.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 154
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 116
Premedia Preparation
3
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You will build on skills developed in previous courses to design a multi-item campaign. You will identify client problems and develop strategies to execute design solutions. You will learn the fundamentals of how to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 115(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 117
Content Creation
3
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In today's day and age, content is key. You will develop the skills needed to create engaging digital content that converts. You will explore software including Adobe Premiere and After Effects. You will utilize content planning techniques such as group brainstorms and storyboards to concept ideas. You will practice capturing various styles of content and preparing it for a specific client/product.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): PHOT 124(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 139
Marketing 1
3
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Your studies will focus on the field of marketing. You will discover the effect that marketing has on consumers. You will learn how to market ideas, skills as well as products and services.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 154
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 150
Design 1
3
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In this course, you will explore the elements of design and principles of organization. You will learn about grids and how they enhance layout and composition. You will gain an understanding of colour theory and the use of the colour wheel. You will develop an understanding of the application of typography in relation to effective graphic design.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 154
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 151
Self-Promotion
3
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You will create self-promotional material to showcase the projects you complete during your time within the Graphic Communications program. You will develop a personal brand, online portfolio and a professional social media presence. You will create a skills-specific resume to use when searching for future job opportunities.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 154
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 232
Design 2
3
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You will learn the creative process and design problem solving steps. You will develop composition and type-pairing strategies as well as explore various colour relationships. Using fundamental design knowledge and skills you acquire in this course; you will create a logo and complementary pieces for a specified client.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 150(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
INDG 100
Introduction to Indigenous Studies
1
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You will receive an introduction to the Indigenous cultural groups within Saskatchewan. You will learn about the colonization of Indigenous peoples by the Canadian state. Your studies will help you discuss current issues and explore possible solutions.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning
PHOT 124
Photography
3
Show course details
Your studies will focus on a foundational digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera image capture and the use of off-camera lighting. Camera operation will be examined through aperture, shutter speed, white balance and focusing techniques. You will learn about various lighting and composition techniques for capturing professional portraits, and stock photography images.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 154
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Semester 3

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
GRPH 158
Print Media 2
3
Show course details
Your studies will focus on screen-printing onto textiles. You will learn to coat screens with emulsion, output film positives, expose and wash out screens, print onto garments and clean screens. You will create single colour images for assembly.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 146
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 210
Premedia 1
3
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. You will create a multi-item campaign for cross-media production.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 239(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 210CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 230
Packaging Design
3
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. You will create multi-item campaigns for packaging products.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 239(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 233
Design 3
3
Show course details
Your study of typography will expand to the experimental and expressive use of type. You will also define design project goals, develop a design rationale, create complementary design pieces targeted to multiple audiences and present your design project to your classmates.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 232
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 234
Marketing 3
3
Show course details
You will be introduced to the brand development process. You will learn the role that research and analysis plays in branding and how to develop core brand values and understand your audience. Your studies will also help you develop the visual vocabulary to communicate the message and develop a strong visual identity package.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 232
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 239
Premedia Preparation
3
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. Your studies will cover how to combine the individual concepts you have acquired from previous courses, into a cohesive workflow.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 187
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
MULT 120
Web Authoring 1
4
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You will learn the basics of web authoring and publishing. You will create webpages using basic Hypertext Markup Language and Cascading Stylesheets. You will use industry-standard software to create and manage webpages. You will publish webpages to your own web hosting service.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): GRPH 260, MULT 120CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning
MULT 124
Web Authoring 2
3
Show course details
You will use intermediate Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) to design and create websites with a variety of layouts. You will begin implementing strategies for building websites and you will learn how to build interactive, media rich, and responsive websites. You will create and publish a website. You will explore website builders and Content Management Systems (CMS).
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 120(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 124CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

Semester 4

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
GRPH 209
Print Media 3
3
Show course details
Your studies will focus on vinyl application and screen-printing onto a variety of textiles. You will create, output and assemble multi-colour vector illustrations using the vinyl cutter and the screen printing process.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 158
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 211
Premedia 2
3
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready, files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. You will create a multi-item campaign for cross-media production.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 239
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 212
Premedia 3
3
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. You will create a multi-item campaign for cross-media production.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 239
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 213
Editorial Design
4
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. You will learn the fundamentals of creating long documents. You will learn strategies for creating and developing long documents. You will create, output, and prepare a job package for long documents.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 231
Project Management
3
Show course details
Your studies will equip you with the knowledge to prepare industry standard, digital and print-ready files for distribution within the graphic communications industry. You will create a large multi-item campaign, meet deadlines, and solve problems while dealing with the pressures of managing multiple projects daily.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
GRPH 243
Marketing 4
3
Show course details
You will learn about digital marketing in today’s fast changing environment. Social strategy, exciting content, mobile photography, graphic design and more. You will learn how to develop and define your social media platforms with a marketing communications plan.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 239
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
PHOT 225
Photography 2
3
Show course details
Your studies will focus on advanced Digital Single-Lens Reflex (DSLR) camera image capture, and the use of off-camera lighting. You will learn about various lighting and composition techniques for capturing professional portraits, and stock photography images. You will develop workflow procedures for sorting, preparing, and exporting, of your images. You will prepare industry standard images for inclusion within digital and print-ready files.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 155
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online
TCOM 102
Workplace Communication
3
Show course details
You will examine the employability skills required in the workplace. You will discuss the communication process, and practice effective interpersonal communication techniques and conflict resolution. You will use workplace writing and job search skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): COM 160, COMM 191, JOBS 190, JOBS 288, JOBS 290, TCOM 102CE, TCOM 120, TCOM 140, TMGT 180
Potential Learning Method(s): Learn Linc, Lecture/Theory, Online, Prior Learning

Semester 5

Code
Name/Description
Credits
 
WORK 300
Work Experience
0
Show course details
You will participate in a four-week work experience which will prepare you for employment in the graphic communications industry. You will work within the graphic communications industry.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 160.0
Prerequisites(s): GRPH 231
Potential Learning Method(s): Work Experience - Group, Work Experience -Individual

Get Credit for What You Know

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

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

See links below to get more information about PLAR and detailed PLAR candidate guides for the Arts and Sciences courses in this program. To discuss PLAR for other courses in this program, contact us at 1-866-467-4278 and ask for the Program Head of this program.


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

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