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Overview
This is your chance to explore the foundations of visual design and discover career opportunities within the graphic arts industry. In this course, you'll learn the history and practices of printing and publishing, explore key industry applications, and develop your own approach to typography and page design. Capture an understanding of colour, elements of design, typography, and layout design as you explore the design process from idea conception to project completion. Experience hands-on print production systems, beginning with idea analysis through filing output using industry-standard pre-press techniques.
This course covers topics in visual design, including colour theory, design elements and principles, typography, typesetting, page design and more. Gain the knowledge, skills, and abilities you need to know to bring your print projects to life and create professional publications.
Upon completion of this course, you will be able to:
- define the role of visual design, including history, career opportunities, industry standards and design theory
- describe industry practices and how to prepare for a career in graphic design and communications
- identify key graphic arts industry practices
- prepare for client work and professional job interviews
- use the creative design process to prepare creative briefs and to research, brainstorm, sketch, create and present to clients
- use principles and elements of design to create visually-appealing designs
- use colour theory to create colour schemes, harmony, and contrasts
- use typography tools to create professionally-designed documents
- create and modify page layouts to enhance the effectiveness of your designs
- publish professional print documents using print pre-press techniques
- design a complex and compelling design project that highlights your conceptual, creative, and technical skills and communicates your design process.
Upcoming dates
Select an available section and add it to your cart. When you're ready, proceed to check out to sign into your student account and complete your registration.
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Registration for this course closes seven days prior to the start date.
After you've completed this course
Upon successful completion of this non-credit course, you’ll receive an electronic copy of your official transcript. You’ll also be able to self-print a proof of completion document from your Continuing Education student account.
Micro-credential
Aligned to current industry standards, SAIT’s micro-credentials develop practical, real-world skills and include competency-based testing. Earning a SAIT micro-credential demonstrates to employers you have the required competencies — both skills and knowledge — to get the job done.
Students who successfully complete this course with a final grade of A- (80%) or higher will earn a micro-credential and receive a shareable digital badge.
Costs
Textbook and reading list
To be successful in this course we recommend purchasing the following reading material. Visit SAIT’s Bookstore's website for purchasing options.
- Graphic Design: The New Basics: Second Edition, Revised and Expanded, By Ellen Lupton and Jennifer Cole Phillips, 2015, Princeton Architectural Press, ISBN-10: 9781616893323
Technology
To be successful in this course, you’ll need:
- Access to your own computer or laptop with standard hardware/software requirements.
- Internet access
A functional webcam, microphone and dual-monitors are recommended to allow for a more collaborative learning experience.
Financial support
Financial opportunities are available to help pay for your course fees. Learn more about how to reduce your education or training costs with available awards, bursaries, loans and grants including the Canada Alberta Job Grant.
Applicable certificates
This course applies to the following certificate programs:
- Certification type
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Certificate of Achievement
Train your team
Interested in group training opportunities for this course? Tell us about your organization's needs, and one of our training consultants will contact you within one business day.
Oki, Âba wathtech, Danit'ada, Tawnshi, Hello.
SAIT is located on the traditional territories of the Niitsitapi (Blackfoot) and the people of Treaty 7 which includes the Siksika, the Piikani, the Kainai, the Tsuut’ina and the Îyârhe Nakoda of Bearspaw, Chiniki and Goodstoney.
We are situated in an area the Blackfoot tribes traditionally called Moh’kinsstis, where the Bow River meets the Elbow River. We now call it the city of Calgary, which is also home to the Métis Nation of Alberta.