Graphic Design Diploma Program*NEW*
Become a pro at visual communication for print, digital and new media platforms.
*NEW*
Program Updates Coming October 2026
For earlier intakes, please visit this page.
This program is delivered fully online through remote, synchronous (live) instruction. Attendance at the Toronto campus is not required.
Program Description
Learn Graphic Design From Real Designers
Learn the critical thinking skills needed of graphic designers today, enabling you to create and implement digital solutions for print, digital, and new media channels. Work on real-world projects. Network with industry professionals inside and outside the classroom. Work alongside creative peers and working designers. Graduate with a diverse portfolio of work that showcases your creative and technical skills.
Career Outcomes for Graphic Design Graduates
Graphic Designer
Art Director
Communications Designer
Web Designer
UX/UI Designer
Design Director
Motion Graphics Designer
Editorial Designer
Content Creator
Social Media Designer
Storyboard Artist
Concept Designer
Presentation Designer
Animator
Interface Designer
Multimedia Producer
Surface Designer
Product Designer
Program Director & Instructor Bios
Student Success
Companies that hire our grads
Graphic Design Courses
Graphic Design Courses by Term
Term 1
History of Art & Design
GD106
This course is the study of design and the arts throughout history and their impact on cultural development. Through lectures, discussions and self-guided research, students learn to identify the lasting impact that the visual arts have had around the globe.
Visual Communications 1
GD107
This course examines the relationship between visual form, content, and communication: exploring different techniques for finding and developing ideas and applying them to develop creative problem-solving and design-thinking skills. This course examines various areas of cognitive communications and user-based design principles, focusing on storytelling for effective audience engagement.
Marketing & Communications
GD108
This course is a fundamentals course that provides a detailed introduction to marketing. Students will learn the basics of the marketing mix, audience, positioning, strategy development and management.
Graphics & Imagery 1
GD109
This course introduces students to communication through imagery and graphics. Students will explore the creation of imagery to relay meaning and message. Through lectures, critique and hands-on development, students will understand and employ the building blocks of imagery and design through the creation of graphics, photography and illustration.
Layout Design 1
GD110
This course introduces students to the design of the printed page. Utilizing design fundamentals, students will create projects from design concept to completion. Through lectures, demonstrations, in-class exercises, and assignments, students become familiar with the cornerstone of all graphic design disciplines – the composition of layout.
Design Technologies 1
GD111
This course is a focused exploration of industry design technology. Through demonstrations and in-class exercises, students become familiar with the unique capabilities of design-oriented hardware and software.
Term 2
Art Direction 1
GD208
This course introduces the role of art direction within publishing and marketing. This course explores the relationship between visual communication and information systems, inviting students to develop strategies for effective audience connection.
Pre-requisite: GD107
Motion Graphics 1
GD209
This course introduces students to the world of video editing and animation. Students learn the creative principles and technical skills required to bring design elements to life.
Pre-requisite: GD110
Visual Communications 2
GD210
This course builds on the knowledge from earlier courses, exploring design concepts and expression through typography and presentation design. Students strengthen their critical thinking and communication skills.
Pre-requisite: GD107
Graphics & Imagery 2
GD211
This course builds on the fundamentals introduced in previous classes to explore advanced concepts and techniques that can be applied to pattern, composition, and collage across analogue and digital media. Students are tasked with applying storytelling techniques and critical thinking to create innovative imagery.
Pre-requisite: GD109
Layout Design 2
GD212
This course is an in-depth study of content organization, advanced typography, and composition. Students expand on lessons from earlier courses to create layouts across a variety of multi-page print and new media platforms. Through demonstrations, lectures, critiques and exercises, students combine advanced skills, best practices, and creativity to realize complex layout solutions.
Pre-requisite: GD110
Design Technologies 2
GD213
This course is an advanced exploration of relevant and emerging design technology. Through demonstrations and in-class exercises, students become experts with the unique capabilities of design hardware, software, tools and platforms.
Pre-requisite: GD111
Identity Design 1
GD214
This course introduces students to the field of brand design, from developing a foundation to the execution of a full logo system. Through lectures and assignments, students understand the role of brand identity and experience the creation of that visual voice through logo design.
Pre-requisite: GD109
Term 3
Identity Design 2
GD307
This course continues brand design across various communication platforms and technologies. Through the design of deliverables and materials for a variety of platforms and experiences, students gain a deeper knowledge of how brand identity design helps build brands through customer engagement.
Pre-requisite: GD214
Art Direction 2
GD308
This course is an advanced examination of visual narrative tools. Students will learn how to create, plan and execute artistic direction to tell immersive and compelling visual stories within the creative industries.
Pre-requisite: GD208
Motion Graphics 2
GD309
This course is an advanced course in manipulating imagery, graphics, typography and video to push storytelling and engagement. Students experiment with increasingly sophisticated tools and techniques in the creation of artistic motion graphics for creative industry and marketing projects.
Pre-requisite: GD209
Design Composition
GD310
This course is a masterclass in visual experimentation and innovation. Students employ artistic direction to create visual standards and complex image compositions for current and emerging outlets.
Pre-requisite: GD212
Studio Practices 1
GD311
This course introduces key areas of design practice: workflow, project management and creative leadership. Through various learning tools, students will explore the designer’s value within a professional framework and understand how professional practices affect design execution and outcome.
Interactive Design 1
GD312
This course takes students through the study of shaping digital processes for people’s use. By beginning with a study of how humans interact with each other and their environment, students explore the practice of designing inclusive, interactive experiences, environments and products.
Website Design 1
GD313
This course introduces students to online design, focusing on applying existing design knowledge to new media. This exploration begins with a critical analysis of communication across new media delivery systems. Students are introduced to HTML and CSS languages to bring creative and responsive designs to life.
Term 4
Studio Practices 2
GD411
This course builds on the management and leadership from earlier courses as students prepare for a design career. Students explore running a freelance business, projects, and productions.
Pre-requisite: GD311
Interactive Design 2
GD412
This course extends UI + UX design knowledge to focus on interface systems. Students participate in an advanced exploration of interactive practices through the design of various interface systems.
Pre-requisite: GD312
Website Design 2
GD413
This course extends the lessons of design practices for online communications into advanced topics for innovative online experiences. This continuing exploration delves into the unique handling of content and information through the intersection of interface, experience and project goals. Students are tasked with designing complex and experience-based websites.
Pre-requisite: GD313
Content Creation
GD414
This course explores the strategy, production and design execution in the creation of content for marketing, editorial platforms and creative industries. Students employ previous lessons in marketing, visual communications, and design to plan and produce engaging content as creative professionals.
Pre-requisite: GD209
Portfolio
GD415
This course identifies strategies for effective, memorable self-promotion and guides students to the completion of a design multi-platform portfolio system. The studio format of this class allows students one-on-one mentorship and guidance to build a unique portfolio geared to specific career goals, as well as receiving lessons on resume preparation, techniques on applying for jobs and the interview process.
Pre-requisite: GD310
Capstone
GD416
This course is a studio-based class offering students a unique opportunity for real-world experience and multi-discipline learning. Through a mixture of discussion, specialized instruction and one-on-one design mentorship, students receive valuable experience as they work through a major topical project.
Pre-requisite: GD307, GD309, GD310, GD312, GD313
Admissions
How To Apply
1
Complete Toronto Film School’s online application form.
2
Pay the application fee of $150.
3
Provide original academic transcripts (or notarized translations) showing completion of an Ontario Secondary School Diploma or equivalent.
4
Submit a digital PDF portfolio of at least two visual communication pieces neatly displayed. Keep it to one piece per category; suggestions are for guidance only:
- Sample of your sketches or drawings
- Sample(s) of any graphic design work you have already done
- Design a book cover – submit a rough draft or composite sketch of your design for a book cover (feel free to use any book)
- Design a website – submit a rough draft or composite sketch of your design for a website
- Write a critique (300-500 words) about any existing editorial design (newspaper or magazine layout), outlining how the layout communicates through the use of space, colour, fonts and shape. We’re interested in your awareness level for noticing design and visual communication.
- Sample of Social Media posts you have created
- Check-list
Make sure your PDF portfolio has your name on each page and includes a 1-2 sentence explanation of all design samples.
Please note: portfolios will not be returned.
5
Please submit a short essay (300–500 words) explaining why you are interested in a career in the graphic design industry, including aspects of the graphic design industry that interest you and your career goals. We’ll be looking for your passion for graphic design and any related hobbies, part-time jobs, and/or coursework.
Please note: essays will not be returned.
6
Additional requirement for international applicants: Provide proof of English-language proficiency.
7
Additional requirement for international applicants: Provide a copy of your passport.
Please note: The admission requirements above apply to students planning to enrol in October 2026 or later.
If you intend to start before October 2026, please visit this page.
For a full breakdown of each step, see the Requirements page.
Graphic Design Program Cost
TUITION RATES
TUITION TYPE
COST PER TERM
TUITION MAXIMUM (4 TERMS)
Domestic
$6,300
$25,200
International
$9,607 - $10,287
$41,151
SOFTWARE FEE
COST TYPE
FEE AMOUNT
Payable to TFS
$240
Payable to Software Provider
-
TOTAL SOFTWARE FEE
$240
Please note: Tuition fees are subject to change.
Fees do not include books, expendable supplies, or additional resources. Any changes will be announced at least three months before the term they apply to.
This page outlines the updated curriculum and tuition details for students beginning in October 2026 and onward.
If you plan to enrol before October 2026, please visit this page.
For questions about tuition and payment methods, contact the Bursar’s Office at 1-866-467-0661.
For financial aid information, connect with an Admissions Advisor.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ
Are there any prerequisites for enrolling in the Graphic Design Diploma Program?
To be eligible for this program, you must follow the admission steps:
Portfolio Submission
Applicants must submit a digital PDF portfolio showcasing at least two visual communication pieces. Your portfolio can include sketches, graphic design samples, social posts, or draft concepts for a book cover or website, as well as an optional short design critique. Each page should include your name and a brief description of the work.
Essay Submission
You’ll also need to provide a short 300–500 word essay explaining your interest in the graphic design industry, what aspects excite you, and your related goals or experience.
Get in touch with us today, and our admissions advisors will ensure this process is quick and easy for you!
Why should I enrol in the Graphic Design Diploma Program at TFS?
Choosing our immersive graphic design program at Toronto Film School means you’re investing in a comprehensive, industry-relevant education.
Our curriculum merges key design principles with the use of cutting-edge tools and techniques. The result? You’ll be armed with the skills to craft compelling designs for a myriad of digital platforms.
Here’s what sets our graphic design program apart:
1. Our Professors are Practitioners
Learn from industry-active design professionals who bring real-world insights straight to the classroom.
2. Our Program is a Networking Hub
We understand that building professional relationships is crucial to your success in the creative world. That’s why this program is jam-packed with networking events and collaborative opportunities.
3. We Take a Future-Forward Approach
Benefit from a cutting-edge curriculum that marries classic design principles with the latest digital tools.
4. You’ll Participate in an Industry-Replicating Capstone Project
Our program concludes with a capstone project that mimics the dynamics of a real-life design studio. Similar to an internship, this hands-on experience preps you for tackling real-world design assignments post-graduation.
How long does this program take to complete?
The program is divided into four terms and takes 12 months to complete.
What does "Remote" delivery mean?
This program’s courses are delivered entirely online with live instruction.
Does Toronto Film School have official recognition?
Yes. Toronto Film School is a career college regulated by the Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security.
Upon completion of the program, you will graduate with a diploma.
What career opportunities are available for graduates of the Graphic Design Diploma Program?
This program prepares you for an exciting range of career opportunities post graduation.
For a detailed list of potential roles, see the “Career Outcomes” section towards the top of this page.
What software do you recommend I have for this program?
As a graphic design student, you’ll need a suite of industry-standard software tools. These often include Adobe Creative Cloud applications such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign for graphic design, Adobe XD for user interface and user experience design, and Adobe After Effects for motion graphics.
Don’t worry if you’re not familiar with these tools yet—we’re here to guide you!
Can I apply for the Graphic Design Diploma Program if I am an international student?
Absolutely! At Toronto Film School, we welcome students from all around the world. As an international student, you’ll need to meet a few additional admission requirements, such as providing proof of English-language proficiency.
For more information, please contact us at enrolment@torontofilmschool.ca with your questions.
Is there an online alternate to this program?
There is, you could opt for the fully online Graphic Design & Interactive Media Diploma Program at Toronto Film School at Yorkville University, NB. Learn part time, at your own pace—through asynchronous learning.
What are the criteria for passing this program?
You must complete 1152 hours.
You must have a 1.7 Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA) in the 4.3 scale or better. Any course with a grade W or F must be retaken in order to graduate.
How much does this program cost?
For the most up-to-date tuition fees, please visit our Tuition & Payment Options page.
There is a non-refundable application fee of $150.
Payment options are available, just reach out to us so we can work something out.
Check out our Bursaries and Financial Aid page.
Tuition fees do not include books, expendable supplies, certain equipment and resources. Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Is financial aid available for this program?
We recognize that financing your creative education can be challenging. For help, check out Toronto Film School’s bursaries and government financial aid options:
Canada Student Loans and Grants
Apply for loans or grants via your home province or territory. Loans generally have no interest during study and require payments only post-graduation. Grants, which are not repaid, are usually offered to students from low to middle-income families, those with disabilities or dependents, or part-time students.
Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP)
If you are an Ontario resident, you can apply to OSAP for a student loan. This financial assistance can also help you to cover basic living expenses, supplies, tuition, and books. Here’s a link to apply!
Student Assistance Programs for All Other Provinces
You can find a list of all student aid offices through the Government of Canada website.
Bursaries
Toronto Film School offers several bursary options. For a complete list, check out this link.
The Toronto Film School Blog
Explore the latest industry news, student profiles, alumni success stories, event reports, and content specific to your career interests.