Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design at Vancouver Island University

Programme overview

If you are good at problem-solving and have a drive to create, you will excel in VIU's Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design. Graphic designers are visual and conceptual communication experts who solve problems using a human-centered approach. It's a rewarding way to make a living with your creativity.

Faculty: Art, Design and Performing Arts | Study mode: full-time | Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada

What you will study

Courses include Design Process, Visual Principles, Illustrator, InDesign, Illustration I, Typography I, Photography I, University Writing and Research.

Career pathways

Design has the potential to improve the usability of many aspects of the world around us. Graphic designers can find rewarding work in almost any industry. Roles include web designer; graphic designer; publishing; user experience designer; user interface designer; art director; creative director; information designer.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Students must fulfill all the Institutional B.A. degree requirements as outlined in the Calendar, including Degree English Requirements, the requirements listed below, and the courses listed in the matrix.; To meet the requirements for the Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design, all students must complete 120 credits over 4 years as specified in the matrix. Electives for the degree can be chosen from a wide range of course options. Students must check the University Calendar, the timetable, seat availability and the necessary prerequisites for all selected electives. Students are encouraged to select courses that complement their graphic design studies.; Admission Requirements; General admission requirements apply.; Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design students must submit a portfolio and additional documents that meets program-specific application requirements. Please consult details as...

International applicants: CAD 24,962 a year. Tuition (30 credits x $832.09 per credits); Fees for Year 1*. Tuition only; excludes student, activity, health plan and other mandatory fees. Source

Most programmes start in September; January intake is offered for some bachelor's degrees and other programmes; many programmes offer alternative start dates throughout the year.

The deadline to apply for most undergraduate programs that begin in September is March 31; deadlines for other start dates vary by program.

Extended deadline of August 16, 2026 for Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration and Bachelor of Science; Business Management Certificate, Event Management Certificate, Education Assistant and Community Support Certificate, Bachelor of Arts in Child and Youth Care, Health Care Assistant Certificate and Practical Nursing Diploma list ongoing deadlines.

Applications for most academic programs open October 1 in the year before the program start date (applications for programs beginning September 2027 open October 1, 2026); deadlines vary by program.

Application fee: domestic undergraduate $46.98, domestic graduate $121.86, international all programs $156.06 (non-refundable); no application fee for Adult Basic Education.

Apply through the official page: https://www.viu.ca/apply

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