University Certificate - Design Communication Arts

The Design Communication Arts (DCA) certificate program is designed to help students grow creatively while providing them with the skills to succeed professionally.

The curriculum gives a solid foundation in the fundamentals of graphic design, with elective courses in user experience, photography, and visual arts to choose from. At the end of the program, students participate in a mandatory portfolio review before being awarded their certificate.

Students will not only learn the tools of graphic design, but how to think strategically and develop the visual literacy needed to thrive in a professional setting. If they pay attention and challenge themselves, they will leave the program with confidence in their creative and practical skills, and with a portfolio that reflects their unique lens on the world.

This program is perfect for:

• Those who want to pursue a career in visual communications and graphic design • Creative individuals who want to cultivate their talent as visual artists, while learning how to think like a designer • Self-taught designers who want to build upon their skills while earning a professional certificate • Individuals who want to learn to collaborate with clients, printers, designers, writers, programmers, and anyone else involved in the design process

What students can learn:

• An understanding of fundamental design principles, tools and techniques for graphic designers, and how to put their ideas into action • How to utilize critical thinking, research, and their unique perspective to conceptualize and execute visual communications • How to position themselves for the competitive job market, including how to build a strong portfolio that shows off their creative abilities • Skills needed to be successful in a professional atmosphere, including strong conceptual and problem-solving skills and how to effectively collaborate with clients and other creative professionals