To work as a graphic designer or illustrator in B.C., you may choose to be certified by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD). Eligibility is achieved through a combination of education and work experience. 

To work as a graphic designer or illustrator in B.C., you may choose to be certified by the Design Professionals of Canada (DesCan). Eligibility is achieved through a combination of education, work experience, and work examples. 

Graphic designers and illustrators

Painters, sculptors and other visual artists

This instructional program class comprises any general, undifferentiated program that focuses on the visual and performing arts and that prepares individuals in any of the visual artistic media or performing disciplines.

Visual and performing arts, general

This instructional program class comprises any general program that focuses on the introductory study and appreciation of the visual arts. These programs include courses in art, photography, and other visual communications media.

Art/art studies, general

Visual Arts Bachelor's Degrees

Visual Arts Diplomas

Graphic designers conceptualize and produce graphic art and visual materials to effectively communicate information for publications, advertising, films, packaging, posters, signs and interactive media such as Web sites and CDs. They are employed by advertising and graphic design firms, by establishments with advertising or communications departments and by multimedia production companies, or they may be self-employed. Graphic designers who are also supervisors, project managers or consultants are included in this unit group. Illustrators conceptualize and create illustrations to represent information through images. They are almost solely self-employed.

Painters, sculptors and other visual artists create original paintings, drawings, sculptures, engravings and other artistic works. They are usually self-employed. This unit group also includes art instructors and teachers, who are usually employed by art schools.

The Visual Arts Diploma provides a wide variety of disciplines including: graphic design, ceramics, sculpture, performance art, animation, analogue & digital photography, drawing, painting, printmaking, video and film, art history, visual culture, art theory, professional practice. Learn collaboratively and foster community through integration of studio and theoretical credit courses that will lead to a Diploma in Visual Arts with University transfer towards a Bachelor of Fine Arts. The instructors are professional artists who produce experiential learning environments supported by qualified technologists who create space to promote the success of diverse learners.

Visual Arts Diploma

The Visual Arts Diploma focuses on the drawing, material process, and space, form, and time. The program also builds a repertoire of techniques and experience. Later, you critically study modern and contemporary pieces ranging from Indigenous art to Renaissance classics. Upon graduation, you may work with art organizations, galleries, museums, and more, or pursue further studies in art. 

The Visual Arts Diploma allows you to take courses in drawing, art history, photography, ceramics, painting, and more. 

Educational Path

Visual Arts Diplomas

Programs

Careers