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Overview
Are you passionate about blending creativity and design with technology to craft compelling digital experiences? The Interactive Design program with a Web Design and Development major is your gateway to a career as a web designer.
Our program empowers you with the knowledge, skills and tools necessary to thrive, whether you're focused on creative design or solving business challenges with technology.
In this program, you'll:
- master the core principles of design, gaining an understanding of design aesthetics, layout, typography and colour theory, laying the foundation for your creative endeavours
- develop programming and web development fundamentals, including design languages like HTML, CSS and JavaScript,
- explore principles of responsive design to ensure websites function on different devices
- dive into the world of digital design tools and techniques and learn how to use industry-standard software and best practices to transform your creative ideas into polished products that not only meet business needs but also solve complex challenges
- learn problem-solving approaches that emphasize innovation and user-centric solutions
- delve into data-driven design strategies and learn how to create designs that are not just visually appealing but also informed by data, ensuring your work has a meaningful impact
- collaborate with your peers to develop project plans, tackle complex design challenges, and enhance your teamwork and communication skills to prepare you for the collaborative nature of the industry
- focus on human-centric interactions, interactivity and user experience design and explore the art of crafting web experiences that engage and delight users
- gain hands-on experience in client interaction and presentation skills, learn how to effectively communicate your design concepts, gather feedback and iterate on your work to meet client expectations.
Throughout your journey, you'll build a comprehensive portfolio of your work. This portfolio will showcase your applied design concepts, highlight your ability to meet specific client requirements and illustrate your growth as a web designer.
When you graduate, you'll be proficient in front-end and back-end web development and be skilled at engaging with intuitive interfaces. Your expertise will open doors to diverse career opportunities, including web designer, front-end developer, web developer and more.
Push the boundaries of your creativity and tackle real-world challenges head-on. Our Web Design and Development major is your gateway to a fulfilling and innovative career in the interactive design field.
A day in the life
Interactive Design student Chris shares how he tackles school and work-integrated learning as an intern at Calgary creative agency Arcade.
Web designers and developers are innovative, methodical and directive.
You need:
- logical/critical thinking and problem-solving skills
- the ability to focus on details for long periods
- the ability to organize information effectively
- attention to detail
- patience and persistence
- speaking and writing skills
- interpersonal skills
- numeracy skills
- the ability to work well on a team
- the ability to explain complex ideas in plain language
- the ability to convert abstract or high-level concepts into meaningful results
- confidence in your work.
You should enjoy organizing information, performing tasks with extreme precision and collaborating with others. You should also be committed to life-long learning.
You'll have the option to participate in a work term after your first year. This isn't a requirement.
You'll also participate in a capstone project in your second year, where you'll investigate issues across many different subject areas or domains of knowledge, connect them with community issues or problems, and create a solution.
Upon successful completion of this program, you'll be awarded a SAIT Interactive Design diploma with a major in Web Design and Development.
Careers and opportunities
Our graduates may work in the following occupations. Some careers require additional experience and education.
Associated National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes: 21233, 21234, 52120, 21232.
Career planning support
Unsure which career path is for you? Here are some recommended career planning resources to help you decide your future.
You can also head to Alberta alis for lots of information about careers in Alberta, including quizzes and labour market information to help you narrow down a path.
Finally, you can take our online career finder quiz, which can help narrow your options based on your current skills and interests.
Courses
The Interactive Design - Web Design and Development diploma requires 60 credits (19 courses) to complete.
The program spans two years, with two semesters each year.
You must take all of the following courses to complete this program.
Interactive design core
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
|
This course is designed to develop technical writing and presentation skills to ensure workplace readiness. Students will learn how to evaluate communication situations, analyze documents, assess research sources and develop organizational skills to apply in their work. They will learn about and practice designing, formatting and writing a range of professional documents. Students will also develop confidence (through practice) in the development and delivery of effective and engaging presentations. Equivalents:
|
3 |
|
This course builds on your knowledge of web communications, beginning with an examination of scenarios in which client needs require custom-coded websites. Demonstrating version control best practices, you'll practice implementing API consuming functionality and building responsive webpages. You'll also use workflows to incorporate media, design commonly used website features to industry standards, and select hosting platforms based on functionality requirements. The course will also examine current accessibility standards and their influence on website feature design. |
3 |
|
This course provides an overview of web communications, explaining how common websites work on the internet before exploring the relationship between web design and web development. You will examine best practices for development and design, including the importance of version control in workflow for development and client communication. You will explore content management systems, identifying use cases for no code and custom code before applying functionality and features to a CMS. You will apply international accessibility standards for websites to project work and summarize requirements for security and privacy. You will use HTML, CSS and Java in separate computer labs. |
3 |
|
Intermediate Visual Design builds upon foundations acquired in earlier coursework with a focus on developing strong creative direction skills to produce effective branding and design solutions. This course explores photomanipulation, branding identity and stakeholder communication through collaborative projects and presentations. Students will examine how to problem solve using a balance of aesthetic, practical and inclusive visual design solutions for digital and print media. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
The success or failure of software apps and programs often rely on well designed user interfaces (UI) and user experience (UX). In this course, you'll explore the key principles of UX design and the core characteristics of a successful UX designer. You'll examine the role of UX and UI in creating customer value, and you'll outline the UX design process in product development. You will also get hands-on practice applying industry best practices for research and problem definition, as well as designing effective user interfaces. The course concludes with an examination of implementation and usability testing. |
3 |
|
This course introduces students to design foundations, the evolution of design and the software tools used for effective visual design. Students will practice the soft skills and organizational skills required to be effective designers in the industry. Through a combination of discussions, tutorials, projects and hands-on exercises, students will develop the knowledge needed to create visually appealing and effective designs. |
3 |
|
The first of two studio courses, this course prepares you for real-world industry challenges within a professional design firm setting. You'll explore the creative design process by exploring composition, abstraction and design projects, and you'll improve your work by learning how to analyze feedback, measure design effectiveness and apply iterative design principles. You'll also explore communication techniques and how to clearly present your insights to clients and stakeholders. The course concludes with an examination of how to synthesize data and evaluate design solutions, crafting iterative plans to help ensure user-centered excellence. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
This course is the second of two studio courses that will prepare you to create solutions to real-world industry problems within a design firm context. In this course, you'll explore more complex problems and create and present designs and prototypes for clients, iterating based on their feedback. These detailed projects will also help you to develop your professional portfolio and support your transition into industry. Pre-requisites:
|
6 |
|
This course prepares you for a future in interactive design. You'll create a portfolio, hone your networking skills and plot your career path. In the process, you'll gain an understanding of emerging challenges and trends, connect with industry professionals, and reflect on where your strengths, skills and interests intersect with industry opportunities. |
3 |
|
This course will introduce you to the fundamental principles and practices of digital media. Throughout this course, you will learn how to use industry-standard software and hardware to produce high-quality audio and video recordings. This will include learning how to operate a camera, set up lighting, and create graphics for motion and storytelling. You will also learn how to apply video editing best practices to manage pre- and post-production workflows, integrate motion graphics into video projects and prepare video for deployment. |
3 |
|
This course explores the fundamental concepts of video audio production, motion graphics and project management. A variety of activities allow you to create visually engaging motion graphics, high-quality audio video content and manage multimedia projects from start to finish. You will gain an understanding of the technical requirements for different media platforms while developing the ability to plan and execute successful multimedia projects. This course provides hands-on experience with industry-standard equipment and software, preparing you for careers in the media industry. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
The purpose of this course is to introduce you to fundamental skills in critical thinking. You will develop skills in identifying fallacies, evaluating formal arguments, and diagnosing the appropriate form of argumentation in a variety of areas, including science and morality. Your skills in argumentation will be honed both in evaluating others' arguments and in making your own. Equivalents:
|
3 |
|
Product managers play a strategic and dynamic role in evolving products over their life cycle. In this course, you'll explore the fundamentals of product management, examine the concept of the problem space and establish a product strategy and roadmap to make the most of market opportunities. You'll investigate how to select the best approach to execute software development projects and how to apply a go-to-market strategy for digital products. This course also examines the concept of MVP for startups and how to promote product growth with data-driven decisions. |
3 |
|
In this capstone course, you will investigate issues across many different subject areas or domains of knowledge, may connect with community issues or problems, and create a solution. Your project should demonstrate the technical and professional skills learned in the program and beyond. You are expected to apply your creativity and problem-solving abilities to a real-world context. Pre-requisites:Manual Prerequisite One of the following sets of pre-requisites, as applicable to your program of study: Information Technology Services
Software Development
Information Systems Security
Film and Video Production
New Media Production & Design
Interactive Design
|
3 |
Web design and development core
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
|
All applications rely on a strong foundation of data on both sides of the application development architecture. In this course, you will learn how to assess application requirements to build data models for efficient storage and evaluation, using various structures and languages. By the end of this course, you will be able to request and interface with data stored remotely to develop applications on various devices. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
In this course, you'll examine and apply the fundamental principles of programming languages and statically typed languages, and then use them to solve real-world problems. You'll also implement responsive and modular web designs using user interface frameworks, and you'll build and customize dynamic and interactive user interfaces. The course concludes with an exploration of emerging trends in programming languages. Emphasis is on the latest trends and industry standards and on applying your knowledge in a professional capacity. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
This course focuses on the design patterns and principles used to build robust web applications. You'll begin by examining navigation systems in single-page apps and incorporating security, user identity management and content management systems. You'll also explore modular component design principles and how applying efficient state management can improve user experience. The course concludes with an examination of how emerging technologies can be applied to workflows. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
In this course, you'll explore key principles and practices for developing secure web applications with a security-first mindset. You'll examine web development with a focus on safeguarding against threats, analyzing and assessing security risks in web applications. You'll get hands-on experience with secure authentication and authorization processes to minimize common vulnerabilities and use industry-standard tools to identify and address potential security weaknesses. You'll conclude the course by exploring the ethical and legal considerations involved in web security, understanding the responsibilities and frameworks that guide the field. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
The first of two studio courses, this course prepares you for real-world industry challenges within a professional design firm setting. You'll explore the creative design process by exploring composition, abstraction and design projects, and you'll improve your work by learning how to analyze feedback, measure design effectiveness and apply iterative design principles. You'll also explore communication techniques and how to clearly present your insights to clients and stakeholders. The course concludes with an examination of how to synthesize data and evaluate design solutions, crafting iterative plans to help ensure user-centered excellence. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
This course is the second of two studio courses that will prepare you to create solutions to real-world industry problems within a design firm context. In this course, you'll explore more complex problems and create and present designs and prototypes for clients, iterating based on their feedback. These detailed projects will also help you to develop your professional portfolio and support your transition into industry. Pre-requisites:
|
6 |
|
This course prepares you for a future in interactive design. You'll create a portfolio, hone your networking skills and plot your career path. In the process, you'll gain an understanding of emerging challenges and trends, connect with industry professionals, and reflect on where your strengths, skills and interests intersect with industry opportunities. |
3 |
|
This course builds on your existing user experience (UX) design skills and introduces intermediate UX topics, including analyzing design frameworks and integrating applied discovery techniques. You'll develop mini creative briefs, design effective information architecture, and create customer journey and user story maps, while examining the design systems used to create consistent, accessible and comprehensive user experiences. Pre-requisites:
|
3 |
|
In this capstone course, you will investigate issues across many different subject areas or domains of knowledge, may connect with community issues or problems, and create a solution. Your project should demonstrate the technical and professional skills learned in the program and beyond. You are expected to apply your creativity and problem-solving abilities to a real-world context. Pre-requisites:Manual Prerequisite One of the following sets of pre-requisites, as applicable to your program of study: Information Technology Services
Software Development
Information Systems Security
Film and Video Production
New Media Production & Design
Interactive Design
|
3 |
| Course | Credits |
|---|---|
|
This cooperative work term course provides the opportunity to apply your classroom learning in a practical workplace setting, as well as gain valuable industry experience. This course is optional. Pre-requisites:Manual Prerequisite One of the following sets of pre-requisites, as applicable to your program of study: Information Technology Services
Software Development
Information Systems Security
New Media Production & Design
Film and Video Production
Journalism
Interactive Design
Integrated Artificial Intelligence
|
0 |
Progression
You must attain a PGPA and/or a CGPA of 2.0 or better each semester and pass the prerequisite courses to progress through the program.
To qualify for graduation, you must pass all courses, attain a CGPA of 2.0 or better and complete course requirements within the prescribed timelines.
Admission requirements
Applicants educated in Canada
Applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and completion of the following courses or equivalents:
- at least 50% in Math 30-1 or at least 60% in Math 30-2, and
- at least 55% in English Language Arts 30-1 or at least 60% in English Language Arts 30-2.
SAIT accepts high school course equivalents for admission for applicants educated outside of Alberta.
All applicants who were educated outside of Canada must demonstrate English language proficiency and provide proof they meet the program admission requirements outlined above with an international document assessment. Find accepted educational documents and assessment options.
SAIT may also accept courses completed at certain international post-secondary institutions.
Academic Upgrading
Missing an admission requirement for this program? Upgrade your prior education to help you receive admission into one of SAIT's career programs.
English language proficiency
All applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency prior to admission, including students educated in Canada.
Transfer agreements
At SAIT, we have created transfer agreements with partner institutions to allow you to earn course credits toward your SAIT program based on your previously completed credentials.
Transfer Alberta search tool
Use the Transfer Alberta search tool to see all transfer agreements between Alberta post-secondary institutions (including those with the University of Calgary, Mount Royal University and Bow Valley College.)
Search transfer agreements in Alberta
There are no formal transfer agreements currently in place for this program.
Transfer options for graduates
When you have completed this program, you may continue your education at a partner post-secondary institution. These transfer agreements include partnerships within and/or outside of Canada.
Available intakes
Spring 2025
Start dates:
- Domestic students: Open
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Application deadline: April 30, 2025
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- International students: Closed
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Application deadline: March 28, 2025
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Fall 2025
Start dates:
- Domestic students: Open
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Application deadline: June 30, 2025
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- International students: Open
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-
Application deadline: May 30, 2025
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Winter 2026
Start dates:
- Domestic students: Open
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Application deadline: Oct. 24, 2025
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- International students: Open
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Application deadline: Sept. 26, 2025
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Spring 2026
Start dates:
- Domestic students: Open
-
-
Application deadline: April 30, 2026
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- International students: Open
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-
Application deadline: March 27, 2026
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Costs
2025/26 tuition and fees
The following costs are effective as of July 1, 2025.
The estimated total cost of tuition and fees is based on the suggested schedule of study. Following a modified schedule will impact the fees you pay per semester and may alter final costs.
Domestic students
The program total is based on the estimated amount you will pay if you enter this program during the 2025/26 academic year. The program total amount listed on your letter of admission may appear higher. This amount is your maximum tuition guarantee for the program. SAIT will not exceed this maximum, regardless of changes in tuition and fees between academic years.
Books and supplies are approximately $2,000 per full-time year.
Find your booklist on the SAIT Bookstore's website. The booklist will be available closer to the program start date. Can't find your program or course? The bookstore didn't receive a textbook list. Contact your program directly to determine if they're still refining course details or if you're in luck; no textbook purchase is required this term.
This is a bring-your-own-device program with a custom computer hardware and software requirement.
You require a laptop with an integrated webcam, a smartphone with the ability to record audio and video and headphones with an integrated microphone.
All laptops must meet the following minimum specifications:
- MacBook Air with M2 chip
- 8-Core CPU, 10-core GPU
- 8GB Unified Memory
- 512GB SSD Storage
The recommended laptop is the 14"Apple MacBook Pro with M2 Pro chip.
Should you wish to use a PC laptop, it must meet minimum power user hardware and software requirements. Some UX designers use software that is only for Mac.
Required software
- Adobe CC Student Subscription
- Figma (free for education)
- FileZilla Client
- Chrome
- Visual Studio Code
- MS Office (included in your program)
Financial aid
Paying for your education may feel overwhelming, but we have resources and programs that can help, including information about payment options, student loans, grants and scholarships.
Application process
When applying in the application portal, select Interactive Design. You will be able to select Web Design and Development as your major during the application process.
Ready to apply?
Follow our step-by-step guide to submitting a successful application.
Communication during admission
Email is the primary source of communication during the selection process. Ensure your personal email account is managed appropriately to receive our emails, files and communications. We recommend you add the sadt.advising@sait.ca domain to your safe senders' list or you risk missing critical email messages.
Begin your application
Apply now using the online application portal.
Ensure you have a valid Visa or Mastercard to pay the non-refundable application fee of $120 for domestic applicants or $175 for international applicants.
Information sessions
Prepare for a strong start in your chosen program or get the details you need to decide your future path.
Our expert staff and faculty are ready to answer your questions and provide information about the following:
- What sets SAIT apart
- An introduction to the program and area of study
- Admission requirements
- Future career paths
- Information on the earning potential and graduate employment rates.
Contact us
School for Advanced Digital Technology Advising
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Phone - 403.284.8543
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Email - sadt.advising@sait.ca
International Student Advising
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Phone - 403.284.8852
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Email - international@sait.ca
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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.