Interactive Design and Technology

Program Overview

Are you interested in design and website development, interactive media, digital marketing, computer graphics? Do you have a creative mind, good problem-solving skills, enjoy working with computer software and hardware?

With technology literally reinventing the way we do things (think mobile, 3D printing, social media), now is a great time to turn your interest into a career. Saskatchewan Polytechnic offers a two-year Interactive Design and Technology (IDT) diploma program.

The Interactive Design and Technology program is offered full-time at Saskatchewan Polytechnic Regina Campus and Saskatchewan Polytechnic Saskatoon Campus, with some courses available online through distance learning.

In the first year, you'll get an overall foundation in:

professional practices
design principles and processes
web page design and development
raster and vector graphic creation and editing
writing for social and interactive media
photography, audio and video

In the second year, you'll build your skills in:

management principles, analytics and usability studies
self-promotion and digital marketing
interactive authoring
customizing Content Management Systems (CMS)

You choose one of the following specialties:

Design

You will learn the skills needed to create interesting and effective graphic solutions for websites and interactive media.

contemporary graphic design styles
user interface design
advanced raster and vector graphic skills

Technology

You will develop competence in building and implementing dynamically driven custom websites such as electronic catalogues and e-commerce solutions.

database design, database management systems (DBMS) and Structured Query Language (SQL)
server-side scripting, methods, functions
client-side scripting and asynchronous web applications

At Saskatchewan Polytechnic, You Learn By Doing

You'll spend the majority of class time learning how to use the tools of the trade and applying your creative, problem-solving skills to assignments. You'll build practical skills in several self-directed projects and by participating in either a work experience or client-directed project.

Build Your Portfolio Online

You'll gain practical experience through online portfolio development. When you graduate, you should have your own domain, a professional presence and an online portfolio, showcasing your best work.

Career and Salary Information

Your Career

Interactive media is being integrated in every sector: government and industry, big business and small e-commerce, education, health, sports and entertainment - you name it. Graduates are working in advertising agencies, production companies, website design firms and more.

Advanced training opens more doors. In the second year, you will specialize in either Design, which can lead to a career as a graphic artist, graphic interface designer, new media developer or web developer, or in Technology, can lead to jobs in web and e-commerce as designers, developers and programmers. Interactive media production careers include content developer, interactivity specialist and web developer.

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

Potential Careers

Sample Job Title	NOC Classification¹	Earning Potential²
Media Developer	Computer Programmers and Interactive Media Developers (2174)	$47,900 - $110,000
Web Designer	Web Designers and Developers (2175)	$35,100 - $97,200
Graphic Designer	Graphic Designers and Illustrators (5241)	$31,200 - $72,600

Length and Start Date

Start Date(s):

September (every second year, beginning in 2017)

Length: 69 weeks
Year 1 - 37 weeks; Year 2 - 32 weeks

Locations

Regina
Saskatoon

Admissions

Admission Requirements

Grade 12
English Language Requirement

Note:

To be successful in the program, you will require basic computer literacy

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©

75 Reading
75 Sentence
4 WritePlacer

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.

$7,000

International Students

View tuition rates for international students.

Courses

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Semester 1

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COMP 102

Computer Foundations

You will develop the foundation required for working in a networked, computerized media production environment. You will become familiar with common computer specifications and environments. You will use productivity software to produce work-related documents. You will manage files efficiently.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

DSGN 101

Elements and Principles of Design 1

You will study basic design theory in the context of visual communications. You will learn about design tools and materials, and design processes including critiques and drawing. Using the formal elements of design, you will develop practical design skills.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): DSGN 101CE, GAP 340, GRPH 125, GRPH 260
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

DSGN 103

Web Site Design Principles

You will learn how to integrate the knowledge and skills from other courses to design, develop, and test effective web sites. You will also learn to analyze and critique existing web sites for usability and effectiveness. Your web analysis will include testing for usability and accessibility.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 120(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): DSGN 103CE
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

GRPH 102

Raster Graphics

Your studies will include an introduction to the basic concepts of raster graphics. You will study a variety of techniques used for graphic editing. You will develop the skills required to use raster graphic applications, perform image editing, and execute raster graphic compositing.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 102(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

GRPH 103

Vector Graphics

Your studies will provide an introduction to basic concepts of vector graphics. You will study a variety of techniques for formatting, editing and manipulating graphics.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 102(concurrent)
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

MULT 120

Web Authoring 1-Basic HTML/CSS

You will learn the basics of web site authoring and publishing. You will create a web site using basic Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). You will use various software to create and manage a website. You will publish a website to your own domain 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-Intermediate HTML/CSS-CMS

You will use intermediate HTML and CSS to design and create websites with a variety of layouts. You will incorporate interactivity along with audio and video into HTML pages. You will learn to install, configure, use, and manage Content Management Systems (CMS). You will develop the skills to apply themes and use modules.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 120
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 124CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

PROF 100

Professional Practices 1

You will study the principles of professional practices incorporating aspects of personal management, ethics, teamwork and time management. You will explore the development of an online professional presence and develop professional communication skills.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Semester 2

Code

Name/Description

Credits

CRWT 100

Writing for Social and Interactive Media

You will develop a theoretical understanding of the content used for Social and Interactive Media. You will gain practical experience in the basics of writing and editing online content and how to create a digital story.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Equivalent Course(s): CRWT 100CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

DGTL 101

Introduction to Audio

You will learn production techniques and processes for audio production. Your studies will include recording, editing, mixing, and final output. You will create material that can be integrated into a project or digital portfolio.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

GRPH 100

Elements and Principles of Design 2

Your studies will focus on the graphic elements of type, format and image. You will analyze how graphic elements are used alone and in combination. You will apply these skills to create effective communication solutions.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DSGN 101
Equivalent Course(s): GAP 340, GRPH 100CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

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

MULT 114

Web Authoring 3-Javascript

You will learn the basics of programming in JavaScript and apply those skills to enhance Web pages. Your studies will include the examination and use of the programming model, programming concepts, events and event handlers, and variable methods. You will also study and use the Document Object Model (DOM) and recognize browser and platform compatibility issues related to the use of JavaScript.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 124
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 114CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MULT 122

Introduction to Animation

You will learn the theory and fundamentals of traditional animation. Your studies will place a focus on learning the basic principles of animation. Your studies will place a focus on learning the basic principles of animation. You will develop the skills and knowledge to create an animated short.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 122CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MULT 128

Web Authoring 4-Responsive Web Development

You will continue to expand your web authoring skills as you learn to build responsive, mobile-first sites. You will acquire skills in client side development using frameworks and libraries.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 114(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 128CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PHOT 100

Still Imaging

Your studies will focus on digital production techniques and processes for creating graphics and still images. Your studies will include content on capture, creation, manipulation, composition and digital delivery. You will create material which can be integrated into a project or digital portfolio.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DSGN 104(concurrent) or DSGN 101
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

Semester 3

Code

Name/Description

Credits

DGTL 105

Introduction to Video

You will learn production techniques and processes for basic video production. Your studies will include content on shot-list creation, camera operation and compositional techniques, editing, and output options. You will create material to be integrated into a project or digital portfolio.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DGTL 101
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

MULT 125

Interactive Authoring 1

You will learn how to use the basic components of interactive authoring software. Using a timeline, drawing tools, animation and imported graphics, you will develop the skills and knowledge to create and present an interactive project.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 120, MULT 124
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 125CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Prior Learning

Semester 4

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

DGTL 201

Media Codecs and Formats

You will develop the skills needed to produce quality compressed audio and video files. You will study compression fundamentals, the factors affecting compression and appropriate compression format selection. You will demonstrate your skills through practical projects.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): DGTL 201CE
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

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

MKTG 203

Introduction to Digital Marketing

Your studies will include developing a digital marketing strategy. You will use analytics to plan and monitor the effectiveness of online marketing.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MULT 123

3D Modeling

You will learn the basics of 3D modeling. Your studies will include 3D surfacing, mapping, and lighting techniques. You will develop the skills to produce an animated 3D animated scene. You will create an object for 3Dprinting.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MULT 204

Interactive Authoring 2

You will create an interactive application using basic toolsets, custom media and scripting. The final project will be an interactive website, game, or interactive educational learning module.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 125, MULT 114
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 204CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MULT 205

Customizing Content Management Systems

You will learn about Content Management Systems (CMS) for managing large, interactive web sites. You will select an appropriate CMS and modify the content and interface to build custom projects.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DSGN 103, MULT 128
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 205CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

MULT 208

Emerging Interactive Technologies

As a new media developer, you will research and discuss emerging technologies.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Equivalent Course(s): MULT 208CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PROF 200

Professional Practices 2

You will develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes to be a successful interactive project leader and team member. You will learn to use project management software to manage the interactive development process and the project’s resources. You will learn to develop project milestones and collaborate with team members. Your studies will also include the development of a client proposal and a project communication package.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PROF 100
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Sem 5 (Design Specialty)

Code

Name/Description

Credits

DSGN 202

User Interface Design

You will learn the basics of interface (UI) design. You will also practice creative problem solving by designing interactive environments. You will study the principles of interactivity, complexity and usability. You will develop the skills needed for creative and effective interfaces.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DSGN 103
Equivalent Course(s): DSGN 202CE
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

DSGN 206

Methods of Graphic Design

You will learn the creative approaches, techniques, strategies and processes used to create meaningful images that communicate ideas. The course content is drawn from the American Institute of Graphic Artists (AIGA) competencies of graphic design - hierarchy, typography, aesthetics, and composition.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): DSGN 204, GRPH 100
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 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

PROJ 202

Interactive Media Project

You will create a significant final project. The project should be a showcase piece that demonstrates a wide range of your strongest skills. You will develop your project topic in consultation with, and with the approval of, your instructor.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): MULT 204, (DSGN 202(concurrent) or COMP 204(concurrent))
Equivalent Course(s): PROJ 202CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

Sem 5 (Technology Specialty)

Code

Name/Description

Credits

COMP 176

Introduction to Microsoft Access 1

Your studies will focus on the basic features of Microsoft Access. You will create simple tables, queries, forms and reports. You will also modify database elements such as fields and records.
Credit Units: 1
Course Hours: 15.0
Equivalent Course(s): CDBM 190, COAP 138, COAP 197, COAP 345, COMP 120, COMP 176CE, COMP 284
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online, Online - Individual, Print Distance Individual, Prior Learning

COMP 201

Introduction to Database Design

You will develop an appreciation for good database design. You will learn the theory required to design a database, which include the types of data, relationships within the data, table structures and the creation of business rules.
Credit Units: 2
Course Hours: 30.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 176(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): COMP 201CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COMP 202

Structured Query Language SQL

You will learn Structured Query Language (SQL). Your studies will include course content on retrieving and modifying data stored on database servers, and concepts related to relationships and proper table design principles.
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 201(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): CDBM 190, COMP 202CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COMP 204

Server Side Scripting 1

You will develop the skills needed to create server side scripting applications using Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP). Your studies will include scripting fundamentals, stateless session management and database connectivity.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 202(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): COMP 204CE, COSC 285
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COMP 205

Server Side Scripting 2

You will develop advanced skills in server side scripting using Hypertext Preprocessor (PHP). Your studies will include integrating server side scripting into Graphical User Interface (GUI) based HTML authoring environments, handling errors and using debugging techniques. You will also develop introductory skills in Object Oriented programming (OOP).
Credit Units: 3
Course Hours: 45.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 204(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): COMP 205CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

COMP 216

AJAX

You will learn the principles of AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML). You will create AJAX enabled web pages to simplify and enhance a variety of web experiences.
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): COMP 205(concurrent)
Equivalent Course(s): COMP 216CE
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

PROJ 202

Interactive Media Project

Electives (Must take 1 of 2)

Code

Name/Description

Credits

PROJ 101

Client Directed Project

You will develop a project according to an external client's specifications. You will learn and practice both technical soft skills as you create a project to a client’s specifications and satisfaction. *Note: Students must complete either WORK 106 - Work Experience or PROJ 101 - Client Directed Project
Credit Units: 4
Course Hours: 60.0
Prerequisites(s): PROJ 202(concurrent), (COMP 216(concurrent) or DSGN 205(concurrent))
Potential Learning Method(s): Lecture/Lab, Online

WORK 106

Work Experience

You will observe, practice, and work in an interactive media environment. You will be able to complement your education and practical skills training with experiential learning. *Note: Students must complete either WORK 106 - Work Experience or PROJ 101 - Client Directed Project.
Credit Units: 0
Course Hours: 120.0
Prerequisites(s): PROJ 202(concurrent), (COMP 216(concurrent) or DSGN 205(concurrent))
Potential Learning Method(s): Online, Work Experience - Group

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.

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