Design Foundations

Program overview

Explore the array of design fields to define your creative career path. This one-year Design Foundations Ontario College Certificate allows you to develop fundamental design skills and to explore a range of design-related disciplines in order to discover where your strengths and interests lie. Throughout the program, you will develop foundational knowledge and skills used in various design elements, including principles of design and layout, typography, drawing and sketching, perspective, colour theory, and digital graphic software. You will also have the opportunity to create a portfolio that showcases your best design and artwork, which can be used to apply for future programs of study.

Program structure

The Design Foundations program is structured to provide a comprehensive introduction to the world of design over a period of one year. The program includes:

• Exploration of various design-related disciplines
• Development of a diverse portfolio
• Annual showcase to exhibit your work
• Opportunities to interact with industry professionals
• Research and speaker series to help determine your design interests

This program is designed to help you identify your strengths and interests in design, leading to potential pathways into more advanced programs such as Graphic Design and Interior Decorating. The hands-on approach ensures that you gain practical experience while building a solid foundation in design principles.

Featured Experiences

The Design Foundations program offers several unique experiences that enhance your learning journey:

• Annual portfolio showcase to present your work to industry professionals and peers
• Research opportunities to explore various design fields
• Speaker series featuring professionals from different design disciplines
• Hands-on projects that allow you to apply design principles in real-world scenarios
• Collaboration with fellow students to foster a creative community

These experiences are designed to provide you with valuable insights into the design industry and help you build connections that may benefit your future career.

Career Options

Graduating from the Design Foundations program opens up a variety of career opportunities in Canada. Here are some potential job roles you can pursue:

• Graphic Designer: Create visual content for print and digital media, including advertisements, brochures, and websites.
• Interior Decorator: Assist clients in selecting furnishings, colors, and layouts to enhance the aesthetic appeal of their spaces.
• Web Designer: Design and develop user-friendly websites that are visually appealing and functional.
• Multimedia Artist: Create animations, video games, and other interactive media using various software tools.
• Structural Designer: Work on the design and planning of structures, ensuring they are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

These roles leverage the foundational skills acquired during the program, allowing you to enter the creative workforce with confidence and a strong portfolio.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.