Communication Design Diploma
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Diploma |
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International applicants welcome - PGWP eligible | CIP code 11.0801 |
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Applications open. |
Overview
You'll learn:
- Communication and graphic design principles
- HTML, CSS, JavaScript, WordPress, and industry-approved web technologies
- Professional workflows and applications to manage real-time projects
Customize your credential with courses in front-end web development or media production. After earning your diploma, pursue careers in communication design, graphic design, web development, concept art, interactive design, and UX design.
Requirements and courses
Supplies
You’ll have access to iMac and Mac mini workstations with all the software you need, plus a scanner and printer. While an ergonomic mouse or drawing tablet is optional, it may be useful to have a laptop for work on and off-campus.
Here are the minimum specs recommended:
Careers
Our graduates find work in advertising agencies, communication design firms, and software companies in roles like graphic designers and illustrators and front end web developers and UI/UX designers.
Costs
Check the table below for estimated costs for the full program.
Curious about funding?
Financial support is available. Learn more about financial aid and awards.
How to apply
"I live in a pretty small town, but the benefit of this kind of work is you can do it from anywhere. I’ll see what opportunities I have. I do love that I can turn this into a degree and that was another factor that influenced my decision coming to NIC."
Margot Wyllie - NIC Communication Design alum
“When I was in the program at NIC, I realized there was this whole world to explore and it was pretty great. I didn’t even notice before I took the program how much design influences our world. And now that I know what bad design is, I can’t un-see it and I want to help."
Marlee Pestell - Communication Design diploma alum
Frequently asked questions
No prior experience is required. The program is beginner-friendly, but having basic computer skills will be helpful.
Yes, there are many options in the design and development programs, including certificates and diplomas, differing mainly in length and focus. Certificates typically take about a year, while diplomas last two years or more. Certificates cover foundational topics like web development, mobile apps, and graphic design, while diplomas build on these foundations and allow for specialization in areas like web development or design. To choose the best fit for your goals, consider speaking with a member of the Future Students team.
Yes, the program includes optional co-op placements to help you gain real-world experience and build connections in the industry.
It's better to apply for the diploma straight away to avoid two separate applications, but if you completed the certificate program and then want to upgrade to the diploma you can apply and discuss more with an educational advisor for course planning. International students please reach out to our international team to get the most up-to-date requirements.
NIC offers flexible learning options, including online and hybrid courses, to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Pre-requisites and admissions requirements are still required for online courses. Reach out to a member of the Future Students team for more information.
Yes – students enrolled in general University Studies can take courses in this program, but seats are prioritized for full-time Digital Design and Development students. Earned credits will count toward the program if you decide to join, but prerequisites and co-requisites still apply.
No, you will need to complete a Bachelor's degree before taking the NIC post grad programs. After completing this program, you can transfer to another institution to finish a Bachelor's degree. The BC Transfer Guide has detailed information on tradfer credits. A member of our educational team can help plan your education path with you too.
