Bachelor Of Design - Graphic Design at VIU - Vancouver Island University - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

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Program Overview

The Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design at Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a comprehensive four-year program designed for aspiring graphic designers. This hands-on program emphasizes creativity and practical skills, preparing students for a professional career in both digital and print design. Taught by experienced faculty who are active professionals in the field, students will engage in a variety of projects that enhance their portfolios and industry readiness. The program focuses on developing visual communication skills, critical thinking, and an understanding of the business aspects of design, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the demands of the evolving graphic design landscape.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program is structured as follows:

Program Length: 4 Years
Total Credits Required: 120 credits
Program Location: Nanaimo
Electives: Students must complete 18 credits of electives, which can be chosen from a variety of academic and employment-oriented courses.
Internship: The program includes an industry-related summer internship to provide real-world experience.

This program is designed to build foundational skills in the first year, with increasing complexity in subsequent years. Students will engage in studio classes, critiques, project work, and portfolio development throughout their studies. A rigorous work ethic and time-management skills are essential, as students will manage multiple projects and deadlines, mirroring the professional environment.

Featured Experiences

Hands-on Learning: The program emphasizes practical experience through studio classes and project work.
Industry-Standard Tools: Students are required to use industry-standard laptop computers and software.
Portfolio Development: A strong focus on building a professional portfolio throughout the program.
Graduation Show: Students showcase their work in a graduation exhibition, providing exposure to industry professionals.
Collaborative Projects: Opportunities to work in teams, simulating real-world design environments.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Graphic Designer: Create visual concepts to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, or captivate consumers.
Web Designer: Design and create websites, focusing on aesthetics and user experience.
Art Director: Oversee visual aspects of advertising or media campaigns, guiding the creative team.
Brand Strategist: Develop and implement branding strategies to enhance a company's image and market presence.
UI/UX Designer: Focus on user interface and user experience design, ensuring products are user-friendly and visually appealing.

These roles leverage the skills developed during the program, including creative problem-solving, design thinking, and effective communication, making graduates highly competitive in the job market.

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

Visit VIU - Vancouver Island University official website

Last updated on 2025-03-31

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply as an international student for the Bachelor of Design - Graphic Design program at Vancouver Island University (VIU), you need to meet the following Academic Requirements:

Graduation from high school or equivalent.
Proof of meeting English language requirements.
For applicants who attended high school in English-speaking countries:
- International students who are BC high school graduates must have a minimum grade of “C” in English 12 for direct entry into an academic program.
- International students who have completed high school in English, in a country where English is considered the official language, must have a minimum grade equivalent to a grade of “C” in English 12 in British Columbia.
For applicants who attended high school in a country where English is not the official language:
- Must submit a recognized English Language Proficiency test (valid within the past 2 years).
- Conditional acceptance may be granted for students who meet the academic requirements but not the English language requirement, pending completion of VIU’s English Language Centre program.

Additionally, please note that:

Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Academic programs may have additional program Academic Requirements and course prerequisites. Please check your specific program requirements.

For any clarification and support, feel free to contact LOA Portal's advisors. We are here to help you navigate through the application process!

Language Requirements

To meet the English language requirements for academic programs at Vancouver Island University, students must have completed one of the following tests (valid test results must be no older than 2 years):

Test	Minimum score
TOEFL Paper Based Test	550 (no section below 56)
TOEFL IBT	88 (no section below 20)
IELTS (Academic)	6.5 (no band below 6.0)
CAEL	60
C2 Proficiency, formerly known as Cambridge English: Proficiency (CPE)	176 overall
C1 Advanced, formerly known as Cambridge English: Advanced (CAE)	176 overall
English Studies 12 (BC)	Min. C
Pearson (PTE) Academic	60 (no section below 60)
Duolingo English Test	125 (no band less than 115)
International Baccalaureate English A1/A2	Higher Level (HL)/ Standard Level (SL) grade 3 or higher
VIU English Language Centre	Successful completion of University Preparation Level 5 (UP5)
Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition or English Literature and Composition	Grade 2 or higher
Recognized university where English is the language of instruction.	Completion of six credits of post-secondary English composition and literature with a minimum grade of C
General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE)	English at the O-level with a minimum grade of C or 4
CAEL online	60
Pearson (PTE) Online	60 (no section below 60)
TOEFL iBT Home Edition	88 (no section below 20)
ILAC Pathway Program	Successful Completion of Pathway 3.3

Please note: Although VIU will accept online English proficiency tests as noted above for admission, IRCC may require you to provide proof of English language proficiency using a traditional in-person test when applying for your Study Permit.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!