If you have your heart set on becoming a graphic designer, the first step is completing your education. However, you have an important task before that: you need to find a graphic design program in Ontario or a university specializing in graphic design. But which one will truly help you launch your career? And which one is more affordable? These, along with other factors, will help you pick a school/program that’ll provide you with the education you need and in a setting that works for you.
Understanding Graphic Design Programs in Ontario
When you’re planning for the future and have a desire to become a graphic designer, you could opt for a graphic design program in Ontario. These emphasize the skills relevant to your career. You’ll pick up a great deal of practical industry-specific skills. The programs often utilize hands-on learning, so you develop the skills necessary for your career. You’ll remember the techniques better when you’ve had an opportunity to do it on your own.
During a program, you’ll work with programs such as Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop, and InDesign. When you’re given assignments, they closely align with real-world projects that you may receive whenever you’re working in the field. For instance, you may work on branding packages or social media graphics.
To get a diploma, you’ll need to complete two to three years of studying graphic design. During your time in one of these programs, much of the focus will be on creating your portfolio. The reason why it’s not primarily book learning and creating basic projects is that to enter the field,
you usually need a solid portfolio with a variety of pieces that demonstrate the various skills you have. It’s what employers look at rather than seeing that you have the necessary credentials. Many do care that you completed the necessary education. But it’s not like completing your medical assisting program, where the employer is looking at your previous experience along with your educational background.
Understanding Graphic Design University Degrees
If you opt for a graphic design university degree, you’ll be in school for four years. You can earn a Bachelor of Design, a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA), or a Bachelor of Arts (BA). Unlike graphic design programs, coursework in a university program will not only focus on how to create designs, but it also centers on why you should make certain design decisions. In these programs, you’ll learn about semiotics, user experience research, cultural studies, critical thinking, and typography theory.
In universities, students are learning technical skills. However, the training they receive isn’t as intense as a career-focused program. They do grasp design principles deeply, though, and will learn to apply them across a range of tools and channels.
In a program, a student is focused solely on learning about graphic design without being given options outside of those classes besides the basics. In a university, a pupil has the option to explore other subjects that could enhance their education.
Part of Your Choice Should Include Your Goals
A graphic design program in Ontario and a university program have different angles and benefit different types of students. As you’re deciding, you’ll want to consider what you aspire to do outside of schooling.
For instance, college programs are ideal if you’re looking to become a graphic designer or take on a marketing role. You may also want to take this route if you’re interested in a product artist or a web/UX support position.
In a college program, you learn practical skills and have a portfolio at the end of it. Therefore, you’re often able to start working in the field soon after you complete your education.
Your options are more plentiful and varied with a university degree. You’re often more suited for senior or managerial roles. Some options of what you can do with the degree include becoming a graphic designer, UX/UI designer, brand strategist, or design researcher. Because your education often covers a broad range of material, you’re often a more preferred candidate for certain jobs.
Other Factors to Consider
You’ll want to keep in mind your finances whenever you’re choosing which type of graphic design program to attend. Though the average cost of school is relatively affordable in Canada,
you’ll still have expenses. If that’s one of your primary concerns, you may want to consider a college program as opposed to a university one. Just keep in mind that you may limit your earning potential a bit with a college degree.
As you decide, know that you’ll have to attend school for longer in a university program. If you’re looking to start your career sooner, a college degree program is the way to go.
Are you looking for a future in graphic design? Do you already have some basic skills and are just looking to hone in on your skills? Either a college or a university program can help you achieve your goals. But whether you want to attend a graphic design program in Ontario or a college degree program will depend on your goals, how long you want to stay in school, and how much money you can dedicate to your education
