School of Media & Design

Our Program

This dynamic and challenging three-year Ontario College Advanced Diploma program is designed for individuals who are interested in applying their creativity to communicating ideas and concepts in both print and electronic media. Students develop the expertise required to become graphic designers through strong, practical and theoretical training in typography, the basic fundamentals of creativity, design, image, form, and colour both in the classroom and online. The program includes extensive hands-on training in current software tools, which allow students to present their design solutions in a variety of formats.

Graphic designers are problem-solvers who research and manage visual design projects. They establish a project's goals and objectives, analyze needs/problems, develop visual solutions, and prepare conceptual presentations for client approval, which ranges from simple sketches to full colour layouts.

Designers develop concepts in consultation with clients and work with photographers, illustrators, programmers, developers and other creative professionals to produce print and interactive work. Graphic designers focus on print media including brochures, logos, corporate identity materials, promotional posters, signage, packaging, publication design as well as web design, motion graphics and design for interactive media.

Students begin by studying the design fundamentals for print and interactive media. In the third year, students focus their efforts on larger projects in a classroom agency-like setting as well as participate in a six-week field placement. Graduates produce a comprehensive design portfolio profiling their skills and abilities, and have the opportunity to display their best work at an annual Grad Show exhibition for graphic design professionals and the public.

This mobile learning program will engage students in a collaborative, mlearning environment which will help them become skilled, confident users of the technology they can expect to use in the workplace. Students are required to supply and use a Macintosh laptop computer that meets minimum hardware and software specifications as outlined at http://mlearning.algonquincollege.com .



Computers and supplies can be purchased directly from Algonquin's New Technology Store at educational rates.

SUCCESS FACTORS

This program is well-suited for students who:

• Enjoy working with type and images to communicate their ideas.
• Like to use software tools to create images and documents.
• Are detail-oriented, organized and committed to achieving excellence in their final products. Final products.
• Think visually and creatively and are conceptual thinkers.

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Your Career

Graduates of this program may pursue careers through a variety of entry-level positions in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, web publications, multimedia production houses, magazines, newspapers, printing houses, retail stores, television/entertainment industries, and government agencies or educational institutions. Graduates may also work as free-lancers providing print and/or digital design solutions to clients' communication problems.
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Courses

Programs at Algonquin College are delivered using a variety of instruction modes. Courses may be offered in the classroom or lab, entirely online, or in a hybrid mode which combines classroom sessions with online learning activities. Upon registration, each full-time student is provided an Algonquin email account which is used to communicate important information about program or course events.

Level: 01		Hours
DSN1530	Creative Thinking: Problem-Solving I Graphic designers are continually called upon to access their creativity in order to fulfill client demands. In the design process, it is extremely important to sketch out ideas on paper first and not to settle for the first and most obvious idea that comes to mind - to explore all possible solutions. In this course, various techniques are studied that help cultivate imagination as well as focus it (while concurrently studying the nature of one's own personal creativity compared to others around you). Creativity, like any skill, can be developed through training and confidence, therefore, the creative process is approached in the same manner as a person training to become a better athlete - by simply practicing. Conceptual roughs, sketches and thumbnails are heavily emphasized in this course.	45.0
DSN1559	Visual Dynamics This is an introductory course based on the fundamentals of visual dynamics and composition. Through the understanding of line and ratio analysis, light, contrast and values, focal point analysis, view selection, cropping, polar opposites and balance, students will design exciting comprehensives and dynamic visuals through roughs and final illustrations. In this first semester, emphasis will be placed on the ability to realistically see, and render, in order to train the eye effectively. A professional attitude towards deadlines is emphasized.	45.0
DSN1560	Typography I This course introduces typography as an essential element of graphic design. Studies include typographic history, terminology and classification systems; essential design principles; matching type to meaning and working with type and image effectively; creative type-only information layouts; using grid structures effectively and creative methods of typographic communication. Students look at contemporary trends and issues of functional versus expressive typography. Lectures, discussion/critiques and various projects lead to interesting typographic solutions.	45.0
DSN1561	Graphic Design I This introductory fundamental course offers an overview of the field: design fundamentals, techniques and terminology, current materials, equipment and technology. Students learn the basic principles and fundamentals of graphic design. A strong focus on positive/negative space - figure/ground to enable a strong foundation in symbol/logo design. The importance of concepts, and thumbnail sketches is stressed and evaluated to ensure a successful final product. A professional attitude towards strict deadlines, the ability to successfully critique ones own designs, as well as others and the importance of craftsmanship, execution and presentation are emphasized.	45.0
DSN1562	Computer Graphics I This course introduces students to the graphic design computer environment. They work progressively from basics and theory, such as hardware and software and peripheral identification of the Macintosh environment through to practical application of the computer to the work of the graphic designer. The focus is on producing professional design, while learning common industry terminology. Students learn the fundamentals of page and document construction, computer illustration and paint techniques. They are familiarized with scanning and creating Adobe Portable Document format (PDF) files.	45.0
DSN1582	Digital Photography and Imaging I This course provides theoretical information and workshops relevant to Digital Photography, in both the capturing of images and the manipulation of them. Students learn the concepts, principles, techniques and workflow to create interesting and effective photographic images. Theory includes metering techniques and optics; a basic understanding of lighting quality and direction; digital asset management and workflow. Students also study photographic composition; depth of field and perspective control; function of lenses, apertures, shutters, and other accessories. Students gain knowledge in file structuring, cataloging, post production process from Lightroom through Photoshop, to a final output of a print, web or digital device. At the completion of the course students are able to complete a photographic project from conception thought shooting, and the post production workflow; culminating with a display of the student work. This course is delivered in the classroom and online.	45.0
ENL1813M	Communications I Communication remains an essential skill sought by employers, regardless of discipline or field of study. Using a practical, vocation-oriented approach, students focus on meeting the requirements of effective communication. Through a combination of lectures, exercises, and independent learning, students practise writing, speaking, reading, listening, locating and documenting information, and using technology to communicate professionally. Students develop and strengthen communication skills that contribute to success in both educational and workplace environments.	45.0

Level: 02		Hours
DSN1565	Graphic Design II This course expands the students' working knowledge of design essentials and principles. Students continue to explore design skills, incorporating elements from other courses such as illustration, typography and computer skills into their design projects. Students create more effective visual communication with the focus on specific skills for layout such as visualization and working with a design grid. Working with actual clients on projects in this semester brings an added dimension to the course. A professional attitude, the importance of meeting deadlines and creative content continues to be emphasized. Prerequisites: DSN1560 and DSN1561 and DSN1562	45.0
DSN1566	Typography II In this course, students continue to learn the concepts of proper typesetting and typography rules, building on what was covered in Typography I. This course focuses more on meaningful type applications, communicating a message appropriately and therefore moves from simple to more complex layouts. Projects address fundamental typographic issues such as grid layouts, composition, expression, hierarchy, legibility and readability. Typography is to be seen, as well as read: concentration is on how typographic form and visual arrangement create and support content. Students are taught attention to typographic detail, adherence to proper typography and typesetting rules and how type can be set to enhance the message. Students practice giving and receiving feedback on each other's work and participating in critiques Prerequisites: DSN1560 and DSN1561 and DSN1562	45.0
DSN1567	Computer Graphics II Building on computer skills learned in Computer Graphics I, students learn to use the advanced and powerful features of Adobe InDesign. Upon successful completion of this course, students demonstrate knowledge of page layout, illustration, and photo manipulation. All design projects are planned and produced with commercial printing in mind. Students understand the importance of proofreading, file management and job planning. Prerequisites: DSN1560 and DSN1561 and DSN1562	45.0
DSN1568	Design for Interactive I Explore how humans interact with their environment while developing an understanding of basic human-computer interaction principles. Combine conceptual thinking while learning technical knowledge around researching and creating functional, usable designs for a myriad of physical and digital applications. Begin an exploration into understanding interactive technologies, theories and design concepts in real-world scenarios. Prerequisites: DSN1560 and DSN1561 and DSN1562	45.0
DSN1577	Illustration With the basics under control, emphasis this semester is placed on concept drawings-a unique illustrative solution to a design direction, problem or theme. Original photographs, online research, traditional hand skills and new illustrative techniques ensure a fresh approach and creative solutions. Design stages are monitored through sketch and concept approval with emphasis placed on visual communication, harmony and flow, creativity, problem solving and research. A professional attitude towards deadlines is emphasized Prerequisites: DSN1559	45.0
DSN1581	Colour for Communication The course explores the theory and history of colour and the practice of colour as it relates to the field of Graphic Design. Students learn how to use colour as a powerful communicator, designing harmonious colour palettes that transmit a desired message, mood or response and learn to clearly communicate consistent messages that help build a recognizable brand.	45.0
DSN1599	Digital Photography and Imaging II This course continues to build on what was covered in the first semester, concentrating on more complex digital photography techniques, digital manipulation and photography for interactive applications. This course is delivered in the classroom and online. Prerequisites: DSN1582	45.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED1400	General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ADV2001 or ARC9001 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GEN1001 or GEN1701 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI1702 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED6022 or ENL7643 or GED1896 or GED5009	45.0

Level: 03		Hours
DSN1533	Graphic Design III This course concentrates on concepts and design for print using all software and design knowledge to date. Students develop creative solutions to design problems involving real-world design projects. Students design a corporate identity package including a chief graphic identifier (symbol, logo, or wordmark), three of the most appropriate identity manifestations, such as stationery package, sign, vehicle graphics, packaging, home page, kit folder, print collateral or presentations and a corporate identity standards manual. This course evolves through a four stage process similar to that used in most professional firms: research, creative development, execution and presentation. Prerequisites: DSN1565 and DSN1566 and DSN1567	45.0
DSN1534	Typography III Students continue to explore ways to use type as the principal vehicle for visual communication. As typography consists of equal parts art and craft, students are expected to exploit the expressive potential of type (art) while demonstrating an understanding of typographic conventions (craft). Typographic excellence exists at the point where aesthetics and functionality meet. Students learn how to handle longer, more hierarchically complex passages of text and are expected to compose and structure pages using both type and images to make a series of items work together as a system. In addition, students continue to expand their knowledge of typefaces and type designers. Prerequisites: DSN1565 and DSN1566 and DSN1567	45.0
DSN1535	Computer Graphics III Students gain in-depth knowledge and experience using Adobe Photoshop. Basic topics covered include scanning photographs, colour correction, advanced photo reconstruction, how to mix, choose and apply colours, working with type, creating special effects, file formats and compatibility. Advanced Photoshop techniques expand the students' knowledge in the areas of high-end image treatment and output techniques. Topics include masking, colour correction, advanced retouching, layer operation effects, plug-ins and filters. Students develop the thought process and confidence required to effectively and efficiently provide final artwork. Prerequisites: DSN1565 and DSN1566 and DSN1567	45.0
DSN1538	History of Design This course takes the student on a journey through the history of graphic design. The course looks at the development of visual communication from prehistory to modern times. Through online instruction, students gain a knowledge of the history and the foundation of the profession that they have decided to pursue. A professional attitude, the importance of meeting deadlines, participation in online discussions and creative content continue are emphasized.	45.0
DSN1543	Design for Interactive II This course allows for furthering knowledge of user-experience and user-interface design fundamentals. Focus on interaction concepts, explore navigation, typography and graphical techniques by creating a functional website. Support design skills by learning HTML and CSS mark-up languages with the use of Adobe Dreamweaver and hand coded methodology. Prerequisites: DSN1565 and DSN1566 and DSN1567 and DSN1568	45.0
DSN1575	Innovative Strategies Innovation is about viewing things from a different perspective; trying a unique approach even if it may seem that it's not going to work. Students are given a wide variety of design challenges and develop fresh and unique ideas utilizing creative strategies. New technologies and trends are examined. By reaching beyond the predictable, and breaking the rules, new and unexpected results emerge. Prerequisites: DSN1530	45.0
DSN1576	Production Process I This course prepares students for producing projects from concept to press. Students learn the terminology, processes, tools, techniques and production options that a designer encounters in modern publishing. Students work on production projects that bridge the gap between classroom theory and the real-world experience. Proofing methods are discussed.	45.0

Level: 04		Hours
DSN1519	Production Process II This is a practical and theoretical course created to ensure that students become aware of printing and technical issues in the areas of: electronic colour, file management, trapping theory and practice, preparation of multi-page documents for press, addressing paper and printing issues, printing specifications and other variables. Students also learn how to save a file in a PDF format to ensure accurate output of files created for use in printing and online Prerequisites: DSN1576	45.0
DSN1537	Business of Graphic Design It is important that the graduating student gain an appreciation for the realities of business. With particular emphasis on the business of design, but applicable to business in general, the day to day realities of the business world are discussed. This includes issues ranging from ethics to hourly rates, hiring and employment concerns and the protection of intellectual property. The course involves preparation of proposals, tracking of work in progress and includes visits by appropriate support professionals. Working in groups, students form their own company and prepare and present a business plan.	30.0
DSN1539	Graphic Design IV Students continue to use all software programs and skills learned in other courses to date and apply visual problem-solving techniques to real-world design projects. The course helps to further develop knowledge in the areas of printing and paper. Students showcase their creative and innovative talents in creating larger, more detailed projects with unique concepts using a variety of design styles. Packaging, promotion and publication design are all explored in this class. Prerequisites: DSN1533 and DSN1534 and DSN1535	45.0
DSN1540	Typography IV In this course, students are exposed to modern day typographers and designers who are forging the way in type design. This course focuses on the anatomy, design specifics, and the drawing and spacing of letterforms. Students develop original typeface designs and glyphs with the goal of enhancing their sensitivity to the shapes and uses of letters within print and electronic media. Projects include experimental type, hand made type, designing letterforms in response to particular design challenges, the creation of expressive and decorative letterforms, culminating in a final published typeface ready for use. Prerequisites: DSN1533 and DSN1534 and DSN1535	45.0
DSN1541	Computer Graphics IV Students learn to use the advanced and powerful features of Adobe Illustrator. Tools, colour application, layers and type manipulation are reviewed. Advanced topics include: working with patterns, using graphic styles, masking, advanced use of gradients, special techniques using the transformation tools, output techniques, creating customized graphs, exporting your illustration to other software applications and file formats. Prerequisites: DSN1533 and DSN1534 and DSN1535	45.0
DSN1544	Design for Interactive III Students examine how web-based content and media is delivered to various platforms, such as personal computers, tablets and mobile devices. Discover the limitations, and explore the best practices of layout and interaction for emerging technology. Learn how Flash, HTML5, CSS3 and Javascript use animation techniques to enhance user-interface design. Prerequisites: DSN1533 and DSN1534 and DSN1535 and DSN1543	45.0
DSN1558	Motion Graphics I The use of type and motion is explored to create a unique and creative visual message. Students learn to create "emotion with motion" and explore timing, pacing and dynamic storytelling. Projects can range from experimental type animation, advertising to film title design using Adobe After Effects. Prerequisites: DSN1543	45.0

Choose one from equivalencies:		Hours
GED1400	General Education Elective Students choose one course, from a group of general education electives, which meets one of the following five theme requirements: Arts in Society, Civic Life, Social and Cultural Understanding, Personal Understanding, and Science and Technology. Equivalencies: ADV2001 or ARC9001 or ENV0002 or FAM1218 or FIN2300 or GED5200 or GED5300 or GEN1001 or GEN1701 or GEN1957 or GEN2000 or GEN2003 or GEN2007 or GEN2009 or HIS0001 or HIS2000 or HOS2228 or LIB1982 or MGT7330 or MVM8800 or PSI1702 or RAD2001 or SOC2003 or GED5002 or GED5004 or GED5005 or GED5006 or GED6022 or ENL7643 or GED1896 or GED5009	45.0

Level: 05		Hours
DSN1545	Graphic Design V Students build on concepts they have learned throughout the program, gaining an understanding of design consistency, promotion and presentation in addition to creating several bold portfolio pieces. Emphasis is placed on matching design to subject matter and using appropriate formats while exploring different grid structures and using layout software as both a production tool and a creative tool. Examples of final, large projects in this class may include multiple-page publication design, exhibit design, environmental design and wayfinding, as well as proper presentation techniques. Prerequisites: DSN1519 and DSN1537 and DSN1539 and DSN1540 and DSN1541 and DSN1544 and DSN1558 (1)	45.0
DSN1570	Branding and Communication I In this course, students explore brand attributes, positioning and selling a brand, mission and vision statements, voice and branding vehicles (print and digital). Students explore and discuss case studies, campaign development and adapting an idea across multiple platforms to different audiences. They learn to track responses and present their ideas professionally. Prerequisites: DSN1519 and DSN1537 and DSN1539 and DSN1540 and DSN1541 and DSN1544 and DSN1558	45.0
DSN1598	Usability In this course, students plan a website while understanding budgeting, resource management and writing briefs, creating advanced sitemaps and information architecture, wireframing a large, complex site, creating interaction models, designing prototypes with clickable html wireframes and learn how to do Usability testing for their sites. Students also focus on file organization, file naming conventions, asset creation and advanced UX. Prerequisites: DSN1539 and DSN1540 and DSN1541 and DSN1544 and DSN1558	45.0
DSN1663	Type for Interactive Design Building on traditional principles of typography, this course explores the use of type for interactive purposes. Looking at how people interact with typography everyday, students gain an understanding of how type is used as a component of interface design. Work with titles and kinetic type is covered in this course. Prerequisites: DSN1539 and DSN1540 and DSN1541 and DSN1544 and DSN1558	45.0
DSN1666	Experience Design Topics covered include design principles and exposure to emerging technologies used in advertising and marketing applications. Students explore design for physical space and interactive installations and for a variety of emerging technologies, such as portable devices, touch screens and alternative inputs. The theory of design of an effective user experience is the focus of the course content. Prerequisites: DSN1539 and DSN1540 and DSN1541 and DSN1544 and DSN1558	45.0
DSN1668	Design for Interactive IV Culminating experience learned in previous Design for Interactive classes, this course applies your interactive design skills to the real world. Conceptualize and deliver interactive projects by creating a strategy, designing visual composites, and developing a product using Flash, HTML5, CSS3 and Javascript. Further knowledge of animation techniques and explore the use of rich-media such as audio, photography and typography, by conceptualizing and implementing a creative interactive experience. Prerequisites: DSN1544 and DSN1558	45.0
DSN1669	Motion Graphics II Students further their knowledge by learning advanced techniques such as green screen removal and motion tracking. The specifics of rendering video to be delivered to a wide variety of target platforms such as Internet, DVD, broadcast/film and hand-held devices are also covered. Prerequisites: DSN1544 and DSN1558	45.0

Level: 06		Hours
DSN1571	Branding and Communication II In this course, students demonstrate their advanced understanding of Brand Strategy technique and theory. Students follow a recognized process of brand development including: completing an RFP, competitive analysis, industry research, presenting to stakeholders, visual brand development and planning a brand launch. This course combines advanced theories in communication, advertising, marketing, and media with a focus on strategic thinking and refined creative technique. Prerequisites: DSN1545 and DSN1570 and DSN1597 and DSN1598	27.0
DSN1579	Field Work During field work, students work as interns in graphic design studios, advertising agencies, interactive studios or any other organization requiring graphic design assistance. During this time, students practise many of the skills and techniques acquired and gain valuable experience in a variety of areas. Prerequisites: DSN1545 and DSN1570 and DSN1589 and DSN1593 and DSN1596 and DSN1597 and DSN1598	180.0
DSN1580	Project Management This course introduces the student to the basic concepts of project management in the context of the field of graphic/new media design. It explores the basic project lifecycle and explores the issues and problems that can and occur in the real-world. Through a combination of lectures, textbook readings, online activities, and in-class exercises, students gain knowledge and awareness of project management as applied to the field of graphic and new media design. Prerequisites: DSN1537 and DSN1545 and DSN1570 and DSN1589 and DSN1596 and DSN1597 and DSN1598	18.0
DSN1657	Agency This class is designed to simulate a studio working environment. Students work for clients representing non-profit organizations. This prepares students for graduation by providing them hands-on experience in real workplace situations including client liaison, design presentations and pitches, collaborations, timesheet and docket keeping, deadline and time-management. Students have weekly production meetings, reporting on their work in progress. There may also be workshops and guest presenters. This class is delivered online and in the classroom. Prerequisites: DSN1545 and DSN1570 and DSN1589 and DSN1593 and DSN1596 and DSN1597 and DSN1598	54.0
DSN1670	Design for Interactive V Focusing on the creative integration of text, imagery, sound, physical form, and space, students design intelligent and rich interactive experiences. Students are exposed to emerging developments in human-centred design. Using the concept, development skills learned and refined in the course Design for Interactive Media II, students create projects demonstrating effective human-computer communication, visualization, and intuitive navigation. Prerequisites: DSN1570 and DSN1589 and DSN1593 and DSN1596 and DSN1597 and DSN1598	27.0
ENL1950A	Communications II for Graphic Design The focus of this course is persuasion: persuading in writing and persuading in person. To sell your ideas in writing, you learn how to organize and develop persuasive email correspondence, memos, letters and reports. To sell your ideas to others, you must also be able to present them confidently and persuasively. In this course, you have opportunities to present your portfolio, to present your skills and experience in a job interview and to present information in a videotaped presentation. Prerequisites: ENL1813M or ENL1813A	36.0

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Fees & Expenses

Approximate 1st Year Costs

Tuition/Fees: $ 5,761
Books/Supplies: $ 2,000
Incidental Fees: $ 150
Total: $ 7,911



Tuition Fees listed are in effect for the 2011-2012 academic year.

Tuition Fees: $2,380.32 per term in Levels 01 and 02, $2,292.16 per term in Levels 03 and 04, and $2,207.26 per term in Levels 05 and 06.

Information Technology Fee: $62 per term. *

Mobile Computing Fee: $150 per term. **

Incidental Fees: $75 per Level.

Student Activity/Sports Fee: $190.50 per term.

Student Centre Building Fee: $17.50 per term.

Health Service Fee: $10 per term.

Health Plan Fee: $114.50 paid once annually. ***

A $35 graduation fee is payable in the final term.

A $25 transcript fee is payable in the first term a student attends Algonquin College.

International Students pay all relevant Canadian fees plus an International Premium of $4,400 per term.

* Students paying the Information Technology fee are provided with a network account, an email address, and Internet access. For more information please visit our website at www.algonquincollege.com/its/services/it_fee.htm

** The Mobile Computing Fee covers the costs associated with providing various services to students registered in a mandatory laptop programs.
*** Students who have coverage with another plan can request a refund by supplying the Students' Association with documentation supporting the
request. This request will have to be made annually.

Books and supplies cost approximately $2,000 in the first year, $1,200 in the second year and $2,000 in the third year. Students may wish to purchase their own Macintosh laptop computer, printer and scanner at an approximate cost of $3,250. Computers and supplies can be purchased directly from the campus bookstore.

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Admission Requirements  2012/20132011/2012

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Application Information

Applications to full-time day programs must be submitted with official transcripts showing completion of the academic admission requirements through:

ontariocolleges.ca
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
N1G 5J3
1-888-892-2228

Students currently enrolled in an Ontario secondary school should contact their Guidance Office to apply. For all other applicants, applications are available online at ontariocolleges.ca. A $95 fee applies.

Applications for Fall Term, Winter Term and Spring Term admission received by February 1 will be given equal consideration. Applications received after February 1 will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis as long as places are available.

International applicants applying from out-of-country can obtain the
International Student Application Form at
https://xweb.algonquincollege.com/FormIE/index.aspx or by contacting the Registrar's Office.

For further information on the admissions process, contact:

Registrar's Office
Algonquin College
1385 Woodroffe Ave, Room C150
Ottawa, ON K2G 1V8
Telephone: 613-727-0002
Toll-free: 1-800-565-4723
TTY: 613-727-7766
Fax: 613-727-7632
Email: askalgonquin@algonquincollege.com

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Additional Information

For more information, please contact David Bromley, 613-727-4723 ext. 5267, bromled@algonquincollege.com or Andrea Emery, 613-727-4723 ext. 5485, emerya@algonquincollege.com.

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