Conestoga news

July 9, 2013 2:02 PM

New degree program blends graphic design with business skills training

Conestoga’s new bachelor’s degree program in Design, described by Lionel Gadoury, president of the Association of Registered Graphic Designers, as “visionary” and “ahead of the curve”, will be available to students beginning in Fall 2014, pending funding approval from Ontario’s Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. The interprofessional program will help students develop entrepreneurial and business skills as they build their design and communications expertise and prepare for success in a competitive marketplace.

The four-year Bachelor of Design program is the first of its kind in Ontario. It includes theory- and project-based courses in such areas as typography, visual design, colour theory, design studio, drawing and illustration, photography and interactive design. Students will also develop expertise in such areas as entrepreneurship, branding, marketing, management, writing and presentation skills and group dynamics.

Two co-op work terms included within the program will provide students with opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge as they gain real-world, professional experience in their field of study.

“The Bachelor of Design is a tremendous addition to our growing suite of career-focused degree programs, and will position graduates as future leaders in media and design, whether they choose to contribute their creative and business skills to existing agencies, or start their own business ventures,” said Conestoga President John Tibbits.

Recent graduates of three-year advanced diploma programs in Graphic Design may be eligible for advanced standing in the Bachelor of Design program after completion of a bridging module.

This newest program brings Conestoga’s bachelor’s degree program offerings to 11, including Ontario’s only college-based, accredited engineering degree. Degree studies are also available in the areas of business administration, applied technology, health information science, nursing, community and criminal justice, public relations and interior design.

All degree programs include co-op opportunities and provide students with a balance of applied and theoretical studies designed to prepare graduates to meet the challenges of the 21st century workplace.

For more information about Conestoga’s degree programs, visit www.conestogac.on.ca

For media inquiries, contact Brenda Cassidy, 519-748-5220 ext 3336, bcassidy@conestogac.on.ca