Bachelor of Design - Visual Communication Design - Graphic Design and Advertising

Alberta University of the Arts

What you will study

Entering the fast lane of creative communication, students discover where bold ideas meet razor-sharp design. At AUArts, the Graphic Design & Advertising program is where creative strategy and cultural influence converge. The program challenges students to think critically and visually, turning research and ideas into compelling messages and memorable experiences across print, digital, and emerging media. Program Overview The Graphic Design & Advertising stream emphasizes visual impact—brand storytelling, campaign creation, digital content, and design for the real world. Students craft everything from eye-popping posters and packaging to digital ads and interactive experiences, all while mastering typography, branding, and creative direction. They learn to engage audiences, research and develop creative strategies while crafting influential design and advertising campaigns. Courses foster conceptual inventiveness and bold experimentation, equipping students with practical skills and creative confidence to stand out—whether they aim to launch a campaign, build a brand, or transform public perception. Program Highlights • Concept to Campaign: Students build a complete toolkit—from foundational design skills to advanced creative direction. • Interdisciplinary & Collaborative: They tackle real-world challenges through studio projects, team critiques, and hands-on learning. • Media Fluent: They work across print, web, mobile, motion, packaging, branding, environmental and experiential design, and more. • Strategic Thinking: They learn how to research, position, and communicate for maximum audience impact. • Portfolio & Professionalism: Graduates leave with a standout portfolio, real-world project experience, and the professional skills to thrive in today’s design industry.

Learning Outcomes Graduates of the Graphic Design & Advertising stream will: • Shape and communicate compelling messages using typography, imagery, and design concepts. • Research and develop unique creative strategies tailored to diverse audiences and platforms. • Design for print, digital, motion, environmental, and experiential media. • Apply critical and ethical frameworks to visual communication and advertising. • Collaborate across disciplines and work effectively in studio, agency, or entrepreneurial settings. • Develop a distinctive, industry-ready portfolio and personal brand that sets them apart.

New! The Bachelor of Design program now offers emerging concentrations in Comic Studies and Game Design, available as additional areas of focus alongside the primary stream.

About this course

Institution
Alberta University of the Arts
Where
Calgary, Canada
Level
Bachelor
Length
48 months
Tuition
CA$21,083.00
Application fee
CA$150.00

Published as Alberta University of the Arts publishes it, through ApplyBoard, and not checked by Go Study — ask us and a consultant will confirm any of it with the school.

Intakes

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