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Program Explorer

Graphic Design

This program has an application deadline of February 28

Portfolio Requirement: The Graphic Design program requires applicants to submit a portfolio as part of the application process. See portfolio requirements ›

Turn your creativity into a career, designing visually stunning solutions in a dynamic industry.

Combine your passion for art and aesthetics with state-of-the-art technology to shape how we see the world.

Start a fast-paced career and create vital visual designs that empower success across industries and organizations, from non-profits and local businesses to governments and international enterprises.

The Graphic Design program at RRC Polytech provides up-to-date training in the technology, techniques and theories of graphic design, which plays a vital role in the process of communicating ideas, information, interactions, products and services, in the global economy.

This program balances art, design, and academic courses to develop the technical skills and knowledge essential to professional competence, and encourages creativity, imagination and a sense of aesthetic discrimination. You will gain practical real-world experience through two work placements in the graphic design industry.

  • Program Type
    Full-time
  • Credential
    Diploma
  • Program Delivery
    In-person
  • In-person Location
    Exchange District Campus
  • Intake
    Fall
  • Program Length
    2 years
  • Total Tuition / Fees for Courses
    $12,600 – $14,000
  • How to Enrol
    Application required
  • Application Type
    Competitive admission
  • Application Deadline
    February 28
  • International Program
    Open to students from around the globe

Experience a Polytechnic Education

Full-time Delivery: Something New Every Term

In this program, you’ll develop the professional, creative and technical skills needed to excel in the exciting and competitive graphic design industry.

TERM 1

Study design fundamentals, drawing, computer graphics, marketing procedures and strategies while exploring art and design history.

TERM 2

Develop your design process and learn to solve communication design problems using various industry-standard mediums.

TERM 3

Build on your skills with advanced courses in communication design, illustration, multimedia and production technologies. Network and gain real-world, practical experience through a work placement opportunity with an industry partner.

TERM 4

Explore more challenging and comprehensive assignments as you prepare for a career, finishing the term with a second work placement.

Employment Potential

Prepare yourself for career success

Potential Grad CAREERS

  • Graphic designer
  • Production specialist
  • Illustrator
  • Art director
  • Freelancer
  • Front end designer
  • UI/UX (user interface/experience) designer
  • Brand manager
  • App designer
  • Creative consultant
  • Content creator
  • Print technician

AFFILIATIONS AND ACCREDITATIONS

What to Expect in This Program

Get Prepared for the Future of Work

Excel with practical learning and experienced instructors, all focused on your success. With an employer-driven education, you won’t just be ready for a career – you’ll be prepared to stay in front of what’s ahead.

Student sitting at her desk in the design studio and sketching something on paper
Explore state-of-the-art facilities, personalized workspaces and everything you need to enhance your talents and achieve your career goals.
Instructor talking to students in a classroom
Take advantage of our small, focused classes to confidently compare ideas, incorporate feedback and learn one-on-one with knowledgeable instructors.
Design student taking photo of another student's artwork
Join a passionate, creative community of students, instructors and alumni as you innovate, collaborate and tackle real industry challenges.
People mingling at a large art show
Showcase your work, build your professional network and meet industry leaders and employers at student-focused industry events.
Exterior photo of the Exchange District Campus
Study at our Exchange District Campus, surrounded by some of Winnipeg’s most influential creative, entertainment and business organizations.

Graduate Success

RRC Polytech’s Graphic Design graduates are high-calibre industry leaders, ready to make a difference in Winnipeg and around the world. Our program’s reputation for excellence, combined with the confidence and experience we give students, means you’ll have everything you need to start your career right after graduation.

As part of this program, students build and publish their portfolios — and when they graduate, they’re ready to showcase their work to potential employers. See student portfolios ›

The statistics below represent the opinions and employment statuses of this program’s recent grads. They were retrieved from the 2019-2020 RRC Polytech Graduate Satisfaction and Employment Report.

People looking through art at a large art show

100% – RECOMMEND PROGRAM TO OTHERS

Our program maintains a strong partnership with employers, helping us adapt courses to fit industry needs and expectations. Work placement opportunities are just one way you can get ahead – building crucial industry connections and practical experience before graduating.

95% – CONSIDER INSTRUCTORS KNOWLEDGEABLE

Our instructors are highly skilled, passionate and committed to providing an exceptional learning experience. Combined with industry-standard software, up-to-date training, and various student supports, an RRC Polytech education gives you everything you need to start and grow your career.

Design student creating art consisting of hand drawn typography
Student sitting in an art class working on a laptop

89% – SATISFIED WITH RRC POLYTECH EDUCATION

With an education in graphic design from RRC Polytech, you get the practical skills, work experience and industry connections you need to start a successful career and keep growing as an adaptable, innovative professional and lifelong learner.

Photo of Jordan Stranger

“The instructor’s job is to unlock your potential, and they showed me as much as they could within two years.”

Jordan Stranger – Digital and Visual Artist
Totem Doodem

“RRC Polytech has been my go-to learning centre for the last 20 years. They have made lifelong learning for me a reality.”

Melanie Jichuk – Graphic Design Specialist
Government of Manitoba

“Outside of the personal connections and memories I made while in the program, the RRC Polytech Graphic Design program’s technical and practical approach turned my creativity into a career that I love.”

Chris Samms – Senior Art Director
Brandish

Who Should Enrol?

Turn your talents into academic success

As a Graphic Design student, you have a passion for art and a talent for creative problem solving. You collaborate effectively, seek out new challenges and can adapt to competitive environments. Your hand dexterity, eyesight and ability to clearly express ideas are essential. Persistence and a willingness to learn and grow are vital for a successful career as a graphic designer.

Students that excel in this program often share these interests, skills and personality traits.

PERSONALITY TRAITS

  • Challenge-driven
  • Creative
  • Critical thinker
  • Detail-oriented
  • Visionary

SKILLS

  • Adaptability
  • Commitment
  • Enthusiasm
  • Positive attitude
  • Time management

INTERESTS

  • Design
  • Typography
  • Illustration
  • UI/UX
  • Creativity
  • Fashion
  • Architecture
  • Pop culture
  • Activism
  • Technology

All the Information You Need

MAKE AN INFORMED DECISION

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ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.

Exterior of RRC Polytech building

LOCATION, DATES AND FEES

Start planning with peace of mind and get the information you need on one easy-to-find page. Review start dates, locations, book and equipment costs and program fees.

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SCHOLARSHIPS

Celebrate and motivate your learning. Whether you’ve sprinted through the first term or just received your acceptance letter, find a variety of bursaries, scholarships and awards.

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OTHER INFORMATION

Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.

Exterior of RRC Polytech building

DATES AND FEES

Start preparing with peace of mind. View information about courses and sections, including locations, delivery methods and costs. It only takes minutes to register and further your future.

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LIST OF COURSES

Plan out your preferred learning journey. Review a summary of this program’s courses to discover what you’ll learn and how an RRC Polytech education will help your career.

Woman sitting in computer lab

ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Ensure signup goes smoothly and understand program requirements before registering. Review required documents and procedures to make sure you’re prepared to enter this program.

Person browsing the RRC Polytech website

OTHER INFORMATION

Explore our Catalogue for more detailed information, including a program outline, course descriptions and everything you’ll need to plan and prepare for your future success.

Begin Your Journey

Get Started with RRC Polytech

Start Your Application

Your future is within reach, and we’re here to help you achieve it. Experience industry-focused opportunities available at RRC Polytech and develop the knowledge and skills to grow, lead and excel in your future career.

Funding Your Education

Support yourself while pursuing your RRC Polytech education. You may be eligible for loans, grants and scholarships to help tackle your financial needs.

Future Student Events

Explore our upcoming information sessions and events to learn more about our programs and to get your questions answered.

RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

Learn more ›