10 Best Graphic Design Schools in Canada (Career, FAQs) | 2023

Graphic design classes can be taken on Udemy or Coursera, but there are also excellent graphic design schools in Canada. To express an idea, graphic designers employ visual components.

Their job is to design everything from the logo to the packaging of the goods. Some of Canada’s best institutions have long been known for their high-quality offerings in education and technology.

As a result, in these Graphic Design Schools in Canada, students learn the principles of design theory while honing their talents by utilizing the most up-to-date design software and digital tools available.

This article will explain the best graphics design schools in Canada, the study duration, salary, and the benefits of studying graphic design.

Is Graphics Design worth it in Canada?

Graphic designers have a wide variety of tasks to choose from, as every business has design requirements.

As a result, Graphic Designers can see the impact of their work in the real world, which can make it a very rewarding career path.

Experienced Graphic Designers with some real-world experience are in high demand in Canada’s business community. There are a variety of ways to get this knowledge and experience.

Creative thinkers and those who enjoy art and communication will find graphics design to be a rewarding career choice in this field.

Product Designer, Graphic Designer, UX Designer, Illustrator, and Motion Designer were the most sought-after positions in the Dribble Global Design Survey, which polled more than 17,000 design professionals.

Thus, a slower-than-average growth rate for all occupations is predicted for graphic designers between 2020 and 2030 at 3%.

Although employment growth for graphic designers is expected to be modest, there will be an average of 23,900 new job openings annually during this decade.

A typical graphic design salary in the United States is $43,507 annually. As a graphic designer, earning six figures means doubling that and more.

What is a graphics Design Degree?

Graphic design is all about using art and other visual aids to connect, convey, or sell something in a visually appealing way.

Advertising campaigns, company logos, websites, and other visual content are common projects for graphic designers.

There’s much more to design than scribbling in a notebook or playing about in Photoshop, regardless of what degree you’re pursuing.

In addition to being a creative endeavor itself, it’s important to know how to develop ideas for certain purposes after you’ve come up with them.

You can’t learn everything you need to know about graphic design in school, but you can practice it, and your degree program should be the place you do so.

Read more: 5 Worst Universities in Canada (Ranking, courses, Faculty)

How long does it take to become a graphics designer in Canada?

In contrast to a four-year university degree, a graphic design school or boot camp often lasts only a few weeks or months. Well. it all depends on the school, some graphics design schools last up to 3 years (6 semesters).

With the right training and experience, anyone can start their own design business and work from home, provided they have a strong portfolio to show for it.

Networking and talking with other designers can considerably boost an aspiring Graphic Designer’s chances of finding a first job.

More so, if you want to be a graphic designer, you don’t need a college degree. Your creative and design skills should be displayed in a portfolio so potential employers can make an educated hiring decision.

Designers in this field frequently need to hold an undergraduate degree in graphic design or a closely related fine arts field.

Technical training in graphic design can be obtained by those having a bachelor’s degree in another field who wish to work in the field.

How can I become a graphic designer in Canada?

You must have either an undergraduate degree or a post-secondary qualification in graphic design to land your ideal career.

Post-secondary education or training in multimedia design may be necessary for this position.

Graphic designers and illustrators need to have a strong sense of creativity and artistic flair, which they may display via their work.

Moreover, graphic designers are in high demand, especially in provinces like Alberta, where businesses like marketing, manufacturing, advertising, and publishing continuously search for qualified and talented designers.

Read more: Top 10 Occupational Therapy Schools in Florida (Benefits, Duration) | 2022

How much does a graphic designer make in Canada?

A graphic designer in Canada can expect to earn $45,000 per year or $23.08 per hour. Professionals can expect to earn up to $59,577 annually, while entry-level employees start at $36,667.

Benefits of studying graphic design in Canada:

1. A better chance for a career:

For today’s youth, graphic design offers the best job options. It’s a rapidly expanding field. Compared to other fields, this is a great chance for those who are just starting out.

2. Boost Your Income:

You can make a lot more money than you imagine in this industry. As a result of the abundance of graphic design projects, no one is able to escape their employment.

According to Pixpa, the typical graphic designer income is between $51,000 and $71,000 per year, or $25 to $34 per hour, for excellent designers with comprehensive portfolios and more than five years of experience.

It’s better for graphic designers to specialize in a certain market requirement because their annual salary is higher.

3. Creativity and growth:

It is the designer’s art and imagination that go into graphic design.

In order to market products or services, a graphic designer must transmit and explain an idea to the public. Every business relies on graphic designers for their work.

4. Become an Expert:

Graphic Designing is a career choice that requires specialized training and experience. In addition to working as a full-time employee, you can also work as a freelancer from the comfort of your home.

The need for graphic designers is growing now and will continue to grow in the future.

Best Online Graphic Design Programs:

It’s no secret that going to school online is less expensive than attending it on-campus. Thanks to this program, you’ll be able to save money, notably on travel and on-campus student fees.

Designers specializing in graphic design are often talented artists who are also well-versed in computer programming languages and other cutting-edge software programs.

Here are some of the top online graphics programs:

  • 3D modeling
  • Web design
  • Publication Design
  • Logos and Symbols
  • motion graphics
  • Interactive design

1. 3D Modeling:

In addition to video games and movies, 3D models are utilized in architecture, drawing, engineering, and advertising. Character animation and special effects need 3D modeling, which creates a digital entity that can be animated.

2. Publication Design:

Design for printed goods such as newsletters, booklets, brochures, and so on is called publication design. Print and digital publications, as well as other elements of your organization, can benefit from using high-quality design.

For publication design, graphic design may be a powerful tool for conveying vital messages visually and increasing the impact of your message on your target audience.

3. Logos and Symbols:

In the design field, a symbol is a collection of graphic components that can symbolize a brand’s identity, communicate its story, and influence how customers perceive it.

4. Interactive design:

Interactive design is a user-oriented branch of research that focuses on the meaningful connection between humans and technology by means of cyclical and collaborative processes.

Successful interactive designs are easy to understand with clear goals, a clear purpose, and an intuitive screen interface.

5. Web design:

Web design is the process of creating and displaying websites on the internet. It is more often than not used to refer to the user experience components of website creation rather than to software development.

6. Motion Graphics:

Motion graphics are animation or digital film segments that provide the illusion of movement or rotation. They are frequently used in conjunction with audio in multimedia projects.

Adobe After Effects is the most critical software to master as a Motion Graphic designer. While other tools allow you to build motion design projects, nothing is as versatile or necessary for a current Motion Graphics workflow.

Read more: Top 4 Film schools in Hawaii

Top 10 graphic design career opportunities:

  • Creative director
  • Motion Graphics Artist
  • Marketing specialist
  • User experience designer
  • Multimedia artist or animator
  • Fashion designer
  • User interface designer
  • Production artist
  • Product developer
  • Graphic designer

10 Best Graphic Design Schools in Canada:

1. George Brown College:

There is no better place to learn about the art of design than George Brown College in Toronto.

For those interested in the future incorporated design, you can major in Communication Design, which will provide you a solid foundation, while also giving you the option to specialize in advertising design to obtain experience working for an advertising firm.

It’s also possible to specialize in a particular area of graphic design or a variety of related ones through the use of electives in areas like graphic design or motion graphics. There is a $4,145.00 domestic tuition cost for the three-year program.

George Brown College is one of the best graphic design schools in Canada.

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2. Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (Edmonton):

The one-year Graphic Communications certificate program at NAIT will prepare you for entry into the creative and quickly changing digital, print, and publishing industries.

You’ll oversee projects from conception to completion, including graphic design, digital file generation, customer proofing, and final output.

Additionally, you can anticipate gaining practical, hands-on experience with industry-standard software and equipment, as well as the opportunity to work on various projects similar to those encountered in the industry.

Before all of this, you’ll gain a good grasp of the theoretical concepts and methodologies that underpin the numerous press, binding, and large-format operations that follow digital file production.

As one of Canada’s best graphics design schools, their technological expertise distinguishes the Graphic Communications program at NAIT from those offered at other technical colleges.

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3. OCAD University:

The Graphic Design degree at OCAD University teaches you the necessary skills and encourages you to view graphic design as an art form that can be used to overcome barriers and generate work for the social good.

You’ll discover how graphic design affects society and sparks conversation. You’ll benefit from hands-on training and theory classes examining design as an expressive medium.

Theory studies in areas like brand strategy will educate you on how to investigate the creative process and create designs that aid in promoting ideas and products.

OCAD University is one of the best graphic design schools in Canada.

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4. University of the Fraser Valley:

At the University of the Fraser Valley, graphic designers are critical thinkers, collaborators, and change agents.

They add value to organizations, foster empathy for societal issues, and demystify the difficult through intelligent visual communication.

Their graphic and digital design (GDD) curricula are purpose-driven and emphasize adaptability and responsiveness in an ever-changing world.

As a design student, you will be involved in real-world projects, interact with industry professionals, and contribute to the communities in which you live.

Faculty who are passionate about what they do teach you about the limitless opportunities available in the creative sector and beyond.

The University of the Fraser Valley is one of Canada’s best graphic design schools.

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5. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology:

Their programs adapt to changing industry needs – this distinguishes SAIT as a global leader in applied education.

The Graphic Design Certificate is being revised to ensure that it remains current with evolving industry standards. Completed versions of the redesigned courses will be made accessible.

Print media may be seen almost everywhere, from periodicals and billboards to packaging and snowboards.

You’ll learn website layout and design, graphic manipulation, and how to work as a contractor or consultant by working with cutting-edge tools. You’ll receive top-notch instruction from industry professionals.

Students must complete eight courses — seven required and one elective — to complete the program.

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6. British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT): 

The BCIT Graphic Design associate certificate program is one of the quickest ways to establish a firm foundation of knowledge and prepare for a long, satisfying career. Moreover, it is one of the best graphic design schools in Canada.

Available as a 6-month intensive training program or part-time to fit your schedule, this program provides hands-on experience with creative software, strategic design, and digital composition to help you develop the necessary employment skills companies need.

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7. Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) University:

Design at Nova Scotia College of Art and Design (NSCAD) University is a dynamic terrain that is always changing—especially in today’s digital world.

Designers now need to be proficient in various mediums, including print, goods, digital, social media, and experiential.

With an interdisciplinary design degree, you will study how a concept may take on multiple manifestations and develop into a professional problem solver in any design area.

By capitalizing on your talents, you’ll collaborate with your peers and graduate with the intellectual confidence necessary to work in and/or manage a team.

As one of the best graphics design schools in Canada, numerous graduates pursue careers as designers, art directors, creative directors, web developers, or entrepreneurs, others apply the precious abilities acquired during the program to recreate themselves in a new field fully.

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8. Nova Scotia Community College:

At Nova Scotia Community College, graphic design tackles communication challenges visually.

Graphic designers meet various communication demands, including logos, posters, package design, websites, billboards, brochures, letterheads, commercials, interpretive exhibitions, and periodicals.

Successful visual communication design requires creating compelling original thoughts and choosing the most appropriate media and style for the target audience.

In this program, Nova Scotia Community College instructors will teach you the fundamental skills necessary to be a successful graphic designer.

They will cover topics such as design process and management, design history, typography, digital imaging, editorial design, branding, and professional graphic design practice.

Additionally, you gain experience in entrepreneurship while working in a studio atmosphere.

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9. Toronto Film School:

Toronto Film school is one of the best graphic design schools in Canada.

The design program will train you to think critically and to create visual solutions for print, digital platforms, and motion graphics.

You’ll study from a faculty of industry professionals who have created communications, marketing, and branding solutions for brands such as Hudson’s Bay, Canada Post, the Toronto Transit Commission, and Indigo Books & Music.

You’ll hear from various guest speakers and external creative professionals about their insights on the design process.

You will graduate with a diverse portfolio and the creative and technical abilities necessary to establish a career.

A creative diploma from Toronto Film School is required for admission to Yorkville University’s Bachelor of Creative Arts (BCA) program.

The BCA is intended to complement your study by imparting the necessary business and leadership skills for a successful career in the creative arts.

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10. SAIT Polytechnic:

The Graphic Communications and Print Technology programs are designed to prepare you for fascinating careers in these sectors.

You develop industry-specific skills in electronic file management, print management and production, print administration, estimating, and coordination of printing services, all of which contribute to your success in the business.

Graduates may find employment prospects in commercial printing and publishing, private and industrial printing plants, paper and ink distributors, screen printing companies, printing equipment distributors, advertising agencies, digital printing facilities, and other graphic arts firms.

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11. New Brunswick Community College: 

Graphic Design and Public Relations Design professionals are creative thinkers who create unique content. They place a premium on original visual design and are masters of business communications and marketing.

You’ll learn to develop, create, and present images and text-based design solutions that captivate your intended audience.

Businesses hire experienced and talented designers who understand how to stand out and attract attention in a world where billions of photos are uploaded daily. NBCC is a networked educational environment.

All programs have a minimal system requirement, which includes internet access and a laptop.

Your machine should meet the technical requirements of your program to ensure that the software required for your application runs effectively.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on The Best Graphic Design Schools in Canada

What is graphic design?

Graphic design is “the art and practice of designing and conveying ideas and experiences with visual and textual material,” according to the Oxford English Dictionary.

What does a graphic designer do?

Graphic designers use digital and analog tools to conceptualize and produce visual content to inform, entertain, and inspire the target audience. Advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports are only a few of the products for which they create the overall layout and production design.

Does graphic design require math?

Conclusion:

Regardless of the graphic design colleges in Canada, while some graphic designers begin their careers with a college degree, it is not a prerequisite for admittance into the creative sector.

To ensure prospective employers make an informed hiring choice about your skills, you must have a working body demonstrating your creative and design ability.

Awesome one; I hope this article answers your question.

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Paschal Uchechukwu
Paschal Uchechukwu

Paschal Uchechukwu Christain is a professional and passionate SEO writer on Education, including homeschool, college tips, high school, and travel tips.

He has been writing articles for over 5 years. He is the Chief Content Officer at School & Travel.

Paschal Uchechukwu Christain holds a degree in Computer Science from a reputable institution. Also, he is passionate about helping people get access to online money-making opportunities.

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