Graphic design degree
Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication
Part of the route toGraphic Designer·Degree
A four-year bachelor degree teaching visual communication, brand design, typography, digital media, and professional portfolio development.
How long
4 Years
Cost
Not published
Schools
5 in BC
🏫Where you can take this: 5 schools
THE ROUTE
How this program works, step by step
Grade 11 to the job. Open any step to see what is inside.
The route (8 steps)
1Grade 11 Preparation
2Grade 12 Graduation
3Admissions & Prerequisites
4Application Process
5Program Curriculum
6Where to Take It
7Licensing & Certification
8Career Destination
For the best view, open the map full screen.
STEP BY STEP
Step by step
The same route as the map, as a list.
1
Step 1 of 8
Grade 11
⏱ 1 School Year- General BC secondary school curriculum and coursework at the Grade 11 level.
2
Step 2 of 8
Grade 12
⏱ 1 School Year- High school graduation with English 12 / English Studies 12 with minimum 67%
- English Studies 12. Requirement varies by school (Capilano University, Emily Carr University of Art + Design, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, and 2 others). Strictest requirement: C.
3
Step 3 of 8
What you need to get in
- Competitive creative entrance portfolio of 12 to 15 original visual works
- Personal written statement of intent detailing design interests and influences
- Shortlisted portfolio review and applicant interview
- Public university offering; no official regulator list exists in BC not yet verified
- Portfolio submission of 10 to 15 creative pieces (illustration, typography, design, life drawing)
4
Step 4 of 8
How to apply
- Submit application through EducationPlannerBC to Capilano University (IDEA School of Design) or Emily Carr
- Upload digital creative portfolio and artist statement to the admissions portal before early spring deadline
- Provide official high school and post-secondary transcripts
- Attend formal portfolio interview if invited by the admissions committee
- Tuition: Not published
5
Step 5 of 8
Graphic design degree
⏱ 4 Years- 4 years of studio-based coursework combining traditional art foundations and digital design technology
- Visual branding, typography systems, vector illustration, and publication layout
- User interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design, web prototyping, and motion design
- Industry-mentored practicum, client design briefs, and graduation portfolio exhibition
6
Step 6 of 8
Where to take it
⏱ 5 schools in BC- Capilano University — 4 years (Not published)
- Emily Carr University of Art + Design — 4 years (Not published)
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University — 4 years (Not published)
- University of the Fraser Valley — 4 years (Not published)
- Vancouver Island University — 4 years (Not published)
7
Step 7 of 8
Exams and registration after
- No mandatory provincial exam; graphic designers secure employment based on professional design portfolio quality
8
Step 8 of 8
Leads to: Graphic Designer
- Explore Graphic Designer wages, job outlook, and career pathways
SCHOOLS
Where you can take this(5 schools)
Compare tuitions, campus locations, and delivery formats across approved institutions in British Columbia.
🌲
Duration4 years
TuitionNot published
DeliveryIn-Person
“Premier 4-year degree in North Vancouver teaching brand identity, UX/UI, editorial design, illustration, and an industry practicum.”
🎨
Duration4 years
TuitionNot published
DeliveryIn-Person
“Flagship art and design university degree exploring experimental typography, visual narratives, digital interfaces, and spatial communications.”
🌱
Duration4 years
TuitionNot published
DeliveryIn-Person
“Wilson School of Design degree blending commercial design, marketing strategy, consumer insights, and professional portfolio development.”
🏛️
Duration4 years
TuitionNot published
DeliveryHybrid
“Fraser Valley university degree focusing on brand strategy, visual storytelling, dynamic media, and collaborative community design projects.”
🐾
Duration4 years
TuitionNot published
DeliveryIn-Person
“Vancouver Island University 4-year degree covering print design, interactive web platforms, typography, and professional agency internships.”