Program Details

  • Program Code: G102
  • Credential:
    Ontario College Advanced Diploma
  • Duration:
    3 years (6 semesters)
  • Method of Study:
    Full-time
  • Starting Months: January, September
  • Domestic Tuition:
    $4,304.00 *
  • International Tuition:
    $18,850.00 **
  • Spring 2026 Delivery:
    Semester 2: On Campus

Program Availability

SemesterDomesticInternational
Fall 2025
Closed
Closed
Winter 2026
Closed
Closed
Spring 2026
Not Available
Not Available
  • Work-Integrated Learning:

    Field Placement available based on academic performance

  • PGWP Eligible: Yes
  • CIP Code: 50.0409
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Program Description

Leadership Claims

The Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) – Canada’s largest professional association of graphic designers has given George Brown Polytechnic’s School of Design top marks, naming it the number-one design school in the country based on students’ work in 2024.

Program Overview

Elevate your design prowess with our dynamic three-year Graphic Design advanced diploma program. This immersive journey allows you to master core design principles while choosing to specialize in either Communication or Advertising Design. With a wide array of engaging electives, you'll have the chance to explore illustration, motion graphics, interaction design, web design, editorial design and environmental design. This program is your gateway to a well-rounded and innovative education, designed to ignite your creativity and prepare you for a vibrant career in the design industry. Join us and transform your passion into professional excellence.

Full Description

Immerse yourself in the Graphic Design three-year advanced diploma program, where you'll work on real-life projects in cutting-edge labs and benefit from robust industry networking opportunities.

In the first three semesters, you'll build a solid foundation in essential design subjects, including design principles, typography, production, digital applications and beyond. By the fourth semester, you'll choose to specialize in either Communication Design, setting the stage for a career in Corporate Design or Advertising Design, gearing you up for a role in an advertising agency. Throughout this time, you'll enhance your skills through intensive studio projects.

In your final year, you'll undertake a thesis or major project, synthesizing all the knowledge and skills you've gained. Additionally, you'll participate in professional practice classes, ensuring that you're well-prepared for a smooth transition into the professional world. Join us and transform your passion for design into a thriving career backed by a comprehensive and innovative education.

George Brown Polytechnic's School of Design was rated #1 in Canada by the Association of Graphic Designers (RGD). Find out why.

Please note:

  • Membership in the Association of Registered Graphic Designers of Ontario is included in your tuition, giving you access to a network of Canada's top design professionals and a head start in becoming a Registered Graphic Designer.
  • Will the best student work be displayed? YES, in our annual graduate exhibition and publication distributed to industry and the general public.

Your Field Education Options

Students have the opportunity to gain valuable real-world experience through GRAF 3017 – Field Placement, an optional work-integrated learning (WIL) elective that offers a work placement with a real employer. Students who achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher by the end of Semester 4 are eligible to access a job board featuring placements from employers recruited by the Field Education Office.

Please note:
International students are not eligible to enroll in GRAF 3017 – Field Placement. As this is a non-mandatory WIL course, co-op work permits are not issued for participation in this elective. For inquiries regarding eligibility and work permits, please visit Permits and Visas – George Brown Polytechnic.

Learn more about Experiential Learning at the School of Design including how to apply, important dates, workflow, and PLAR eligibility.

General Computer Requirements

  • Base model MacBook pro is recommended
  • 16 gig of RAM
  • 1Tb of hard drive space is recommended

Career & Postgraduate Study Opportunities

Career Options

As a graduate, you'll have the skills and knowledge needed to work in a variety of graphic design or advertising industry positions, specializing in:

  • graphic design
  • corporate identity design
  • editorial
  • environmental graphics
  • exhibition design
  • packaging design
  • multimedia
  • motion graphics
  • interaction
  • retail identity
  • wayfinding
  • production design
  • web design
  • art direction
  • advertising copywriting
  • marketing coordination
  • print advertising
  • multimedia advertising

Educational Pathways

Graduates and students currently in year two or three of George Brown Polytechnic’s three-year Graphic Design (G102) advanced diploma may be eligible for advanced entry into the Honours Bachelor of Brand Design (G304) program. Following the winter Semester (January–April), students who have successfully completed the second year of the George Brown Polytechnic Graphic Design (G102) advanced diploma with a GPA of 3.2 (75 per cent) or higher, or have graduated from the program with a GPA of 3.2 (75 per cent) or higher, will be eligible to complete a summer bridge program — Honours Bachelor of Brand Design (bridge) (G305). Upon successful completion of the bridge, students will enter into Semester 5 of the degree program in the fall.

Alumni Impact

We are immensely proud of the contributions of our alumni in Toronto and around the globe.

From Michelin-starred restaurants to major construction, entertainment, community and financial organizations, our graduates are truly making an impact across a range of industries.

Latest alumni stories 

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Watch this video from one of our graduates.

Steven Tiao
Ontario College Advanced Diploma

Our graduates go on to do amazing things. Watch the video of the award-winning Steven Tiao above to get a feel for what he loves about his job as Art Director with Leo Burnett Toronto.

"What I loved most about the School of Design is its ability to combine traditional theory and real-world experiences in the learning environment. With the field placement program and studio lab classes, I was able to add relevant experience to my resume and make connections with the industry."

Chloe Milne
Ontario College Advanced Diploma

"My experience at the School of Design was extremely positive. I had to work very hard and got results I'm really proud of. I worked part-time at the college during the second year of my studies and I have found a full-time job already. The design professors were amazing as they gave me both the theory and the practical skills that are vital to success in this industry."

Kamilla Nikolaev
Ontario College Advanced Diploma

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