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Graphic Design for Marketing

Kwantlen Polytechnic University

Design and Visual Communication: blue ink subject illustration
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Conceptual study artwork, not a photograph of teaching facilities.

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Checked 2026-11-05

Symbolic subject artwork; no university facility depicted

Deadlines

March 2027

MonTueWedThuFriSatSun
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293031

Next deadline

  • Wilson School of Design application

    Fall 2027 entry · Wilson School of Design applicants

    Official deadline
Other deadline details
No central deadline, each B.C. institution sets its own application open and close datesEducationPlannerBC, deadlines are set per institutionRecurring annual · Every year
  • No central deadline, each B.C. institution sets its own application open and close dates
  • No central B.C. deadline
  • Each institution and sometimes each program sets its own dates
Full source wording

Verbatim: "Each institution sets their own application open and close dates. These dates also may vary based on the program you are applying to. You can use the search database to explore programs you are interested in applying to or visit the institution's website directly. Please refer to the institution's website or contact the Admissions/Registrar's Office directly for application deadlines and details." EducationPlannerBC is the single application service for B.C.'s 25 public post-secondary institutions but publishes no deadline dates of its own.

SourceChecked
July 1Fall final/open-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • Canadian/PR applicants
  • programme-specific earlier deadlines remain applicable
  • July 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • The domestic table permits some select limited-intake consideration after the final/open-intake date
SourceChecked
July 1Fall final/open-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • International applicants
  • programme-specific earlier deadlines remain applicable
  • July 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • The international table says no applications after this final date
SourceChecked
March 1Fall limited-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • Canadian/PR limited-intake applicants
  • March 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • Some limited intakes close early or have published extensions
SourceChecked
March 1Fall limited-intake applicationStanding annual Fall admission timeline · Every year
  • International limited-intake applicants
  • March 1
  • No entry year is stated
  • Programme intake type and availability must be checked in the calendar and application checklist
  • Some limited intakes close early or have published extensions
SourceChecked

Requirements

Admission requirements

High-school prerequisites
  • English 12 or equivalent (minimum C+)
  • Meet the applicable KPU general applicant-category and undergraduate English-proficiency requirements.
KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
Application steps

Entry terms · Fall

Wilson School of Design first-entry Bachelor of Design degrees, Richmond.

Wilson School of Design fall-only intake policy
  1. Step 1Check the admission requirements
    • Check the published entry route for your applicant category.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  2. Step 2Apply through EducationPlannerBC
    • Create your application and select this program.
    EducationPlannerBCEducationPlannerBC
  3. Step 3Official secondary-school transcript
    • KPU requires transcripts from every secondary and postsecondary institution attended.
    KPU official transcript requirementsKPU official transcript requirements
  4. Step 4$40 domestic application fee
    • The non-refundable fee applies to one application term.
    KPU application fees and depositsKPU application fees and deposits
  5. Step 5Design admission package or portfolio
    • The Wilson School of Design publishes a program-specific portfolio or entrance-package requirement for each bachelor program.
    Wilson School of Design admission requirementsWilson School of Design admission requirements
  6. Step 6Design interview
    • An interview is part of the published selection process for the Wilson School of Design bachelor programs.
    Wilson School of Design admission requirementsWilson School of Design admission requirements
  7. Step 7Apply to KPU through EducationPlannerBC in your applicable applicant category.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  8. Step 8Provide required academic and English-proficiency evidence to Admissions, using the instructions emailed after applying; English proof is not uploaded to SlideRoom.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  9. Step 9Prepare eight to twelve portfolio samples with at least three graphic-design examples, your applicant-narrated video and PDF resume.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  10. Step 10Use the emailed SlideRoom link to upload the complete original-work entrance package, provide data privacy consent and pay the supplemental portal fee.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  11. Step 11Use the myKPU Application Checklist & Status record to identify outstanding documents, programme-specific requirements and any assigned deadline. Limited-intake additional items are conditional, not universal.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  12. Step 12Arrange official academic records under the correct high-school or post-secondary procedure. Current BC high-school students release records through StudentTranscripts Service; other applicants use the published issuing-institution and out-of-country rules.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
  13. Step 13Current high-school branches publish March 1 interim and August 1 final-record timing, subject to earlier limited-intake requirements. If transfer credit is requested, provide the required prior records and any requested course outlines.
    • Complete this item using the university’s applicant instructions.
    KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: official programme model, admission requirements on page 2
Applicant pathways
Applicant category

High-school, transfer, mature or Indigenous applicants as explicitly defined

  • High School : A graduate of a BC secondary school or an equivalent school system. ( Note: Proof of June graduation must be received in order to be eligible for Fall admission. High school students graduating in August are considered for Spring admission. High school students graduating in January are considered for Summer admission. )
  • Transfer: An applicant who has successfully completed 9 or more credits above the preparatory level from a recognized post-secondary institution.
  • Mature: An applicant who will be 19 years of age or older on the first day of the term of admission.
  • Indigenous: An Indigenous applicant who wishes to be considered for admission by the Indigenous Admissions Committee on an individual basis.
  • For further details on all of KPU's applicant categories, refer to the university Calendar.
KPU current general applicant categories and named open/limited admission directory
English evidence

All undergraduate applicants; exact programme criteria can be higher

  • Meet KPU undergraduate English proficiency using an accepted high-school, university/KPU course or testing route. The current official FAQ names English Studies 12 C+ or three undergraduate English credits C− as qualifying course routes; other accepted routes require calendar review.
KPU current undergraduate admission FAQ
Graphic Design: portfolio

Applicants to this named design degree; entrance package submitted through SlideRoom

  • Eight to twelve samples of original work, including at least three examples of graphic design and other two-dimensional work or process sketches.
  • Do not include character animation, 3D modelling or anime.
  • Identify any incorporated graphic elements created by others and your contribution to collaborative work.
  • Accepted portfolio formats are PDF, images, video or web links.
KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: exact current entrance package
Graphic Design: video and resume

Applicants to this named design degree; entrance package submitted through SlideRoom

  • A video featuring and narrated by you, maximum five minutes and 500MB.
  • Introduce yourself, explain two favourite portfolio pieces and the skills they show, and explain your interest in the programme and career aspirations.
  • A PDF resume covering work or volunteer history, education, technical knowledge and skills; include dates, responsibilities and organization names.
KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: exact current entrance package
Graphic Design: optional records and interview

Applicants to this named design degree; entrance package submitted through SlideRoom

  • Unofficial secondary or postsecondary transcript copies in the entrance package are optional. Send official transcripts directly to Admissions if requested.
  • An in-person or remote interview may be requested. Information sessions are recommended, not required.
KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: exact current entrance package
Original applicant work

All design entrance-package submissions

  • Written and creative submissions must be your original work. Explicitly identify group projects and credit each contributor.
  • Plagiarism and generative AI content are prohibited by the programme’s entrance-package policy.
KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: exact current entrance package
Individually assessed transfer and experience credit

Applicants with previous postsecondary coursework or relevant industry experience

  • Transfer credit is individually assessed; consult the Office of the Registrar with your previous coursework.
  • Relevant industry experience may be assessed for Prior Learning Assessment credit. This is not a guaranteed amount of transfer credit or an alternative to the entrance package.
KPU Graphic Design for Marketing: current degree programme details
High-school applicant category and graduation timing

BC secondary-school graduates or an equivalent school system

  • Qualify through secondary graduation or an equivalent school system, then satisfy the chosen programme/faculty requirements. For Fall entry the page requires proof of June graduation. August graduates are considered for Spring; January graduates for Summer. No new admission year or ISO deadline is inferred.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Transfer applicant category

Applicants with recognized prior postsecondary credits

  • The public category requires at least9 successfully completed credits above preparatory level from a recognized postsecondary institution. Category recognition is followed by the programme’s actual entry requirements; it does not guarantee credit transfer or waive a later-entry programme’s higher credit requirement.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Mature applicant category

Applicants aged19 or older on the first day of the admission term

  • Age establishes the mature applicant category. Applicants must still satisfy the stated programme/faculty and appropriate English-proficiency requirements. No general age-based prerequisite waiver is published here.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Indigenous individual admission category

Indigenous applicants requesting individual committee consideration

  • An Indigenous applicant may request consideration by the Indigenous Admissions Committee on an individual basis. The category does not itself promise admission to a limited intake or satisfy a programme’s special requirements.
kpu categories · official applicant policy
Open versus limited intake after applicant-category review

All KPU applicants; exact programme intake classification remains controlling

  • Qualifying for an applicant category is only the first step. Open-intake study follows the relevant faculty admission requirements; limited-intake programmes follow their own programme requirements and capacity limits.
  • Undergraduate applicants must satisfy the undergraduate English-proficiency requirement through an accepted school course, undergraduate/KPU course or test. Those unable to satisfy undergraduate requirements may be eligible for the separate Pathway to Undergraduate Studies; no automatic progression or approved equivalence is inferred.
kpu categories · official applicant policy

Degree requirements

Credits and degree requirements
  • The published full degree requires 120 credits.
  • 2026–27 calendar minimum credits required for the complete credential: 120. Major-only course tables do not replace linked degree-framework requirements.
ReferencesKPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1KPU current Graphic Design for Marketing programme detailsKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU exact published course content from the held native catalogueKPU 2026–27 exact degree/major requirementsKPU Wilson School of Design: actual Richmond campus study facilities

Program facts

Entering averageNot published

The university does not publish a comparable percentage minimum or entering-average range for this program.

KPU current exact design entrance requirements
Work experiencePracticum placements

The programme provides practicum placements and mentorship with working design professionals.

University work-study information

Final-year mentorship placement, shown as GDMA 4230 Mentorship for Professional Practice. Pay is not established by this source.

KPU current Graphic Design for Marketing programme details
University work-study informationCheck work experience options

Courses

Published eight-semester programme model, revised 10/07/2025. Course credits are not printed in this planner. Elective slots are retained in the term notes.

Year 1: Fall (Term 1)5 listed
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 1: Spring (Term 2)5 listed
  • GDMA 1200Typographic Design 23 credits

    Students apply the fundamentals of typography and typographic theory (including typeface anatomy, classification, measurement systems, etc.) while creating typographic layouts for print and digital communication.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1215Concept Development3 credits

    Students will synthesize their knowledge of typography, image development and software skills into a cohesive approach to concept development for graphic design challenges.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1220Graphic Design Software Applications 23 credits

    Students design and produce layouts using industry-standard software.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1240Graphic Design and Society 23 credits

    Students examine diverse forms of graphic communication design and other related types of design that emerged globally from the 1920s onward.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 1199Introduction to Marketing3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of marketing and explore the relationships between companies, their customers and their competition.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Fall (Term 3)4 listed

One elective slot.

KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Spring (Term 4)4 listed

One elective slot.

KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Fall (Term 5)5 listed
  • GDMA 3100Information Design3 credits

    Students will research, analyze, organize, and integrate informational hierarchies into design systems that respond to specific audience needs while incorporating contextual, spatial, narrative and navigational requirements.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3110UI/UX Design 13 credits

    Students will learn the concepts and methods required to design interactive communications such as websites and mobile apps.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3122Interactive Technologies: Design and Development3 credits

    Students are introduced to the methods and technologies used for interactive design and development.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3130Marketing Communications Design 13 credits

    Students analyze and interpret a client's marketing objectives and formulate concepts, messages and images for integrated marketing communications plans across multiple media channels.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3140Interactive Technologies and Society3 credits

    Students critically analyze the social and cultural impact of interactive technologies.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Spring (Term 6)5 listed
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Fall (Term 7)4 listed

One elective slot.

  • GDMA 4100Branding 23 credits

    Students will focus on creating a brand by formulating brand positioning and designing a brand visual identity.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4120Capstone Project3 credits

    Students will demonstrate their ability to synthesize and apply the skills and knowledge learned throughout the Graphic Design for Marketing program to a major design project identifying a proposed client.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4130Small Business Essentials3 credits

    Students will learn fundamental business procedures relevant to working as employees, employers, or freelancers in the graphic design profession, including the design of targeted self-promotional materials for industry engagement.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 4177Contemporary Issues in Marketing3 credits

    Students will analyze and gain insight into significant contemporary marketing issues such as globalization and cross-cultural marketing, online marketing and e-commerce, modern corporate culture, outsourcing and marketing and business ethics.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Spring (Term 8)5 listed
  • GDMA 4200Advertising Design3 credits

    Students will work collaboratively to create advertising campaigns to be implemented across communication channels including print, digital and social media, sales promotions, events, and direct marketing.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4221Strategic Portfolio Development3 credits

    Students demonstrate proficiency in marketing communications design through rigorous refinement of previous project work that reflects their preferred areas of professional practice.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4222Special Topics in Interactive Tech
  • GDMA 4230Mentorship for Professional Practice3 credits

    Students will research and analyze procedures, practices, and issues relevant to gaining employment and working in the graphic design profession.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4240Contemporary Issues in Graphic Design3 credits

    Students will develop a critical awareness of social, cultural, philosophical, environmental, technological, and professional issues that impact contemporary graphic design practice.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 1: Fall (Term 1)5 listed
  • GDMA 1100Typographic Design 1
  • GDMA 1110Image Development3 credits

    Students apply design processes to develop concepts and images for basic marketing communications.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 1121Graphic Design Software Applications 13 credits

    Students will focus on developing technical skills using industry-standard software.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 1140Graphic Design and Society 1
  • ENGL 1100Introduction to University Writing3 credits

    In this introductory university writing course, students will develop their abilities in critical reading and thinking, analysis, and clear written expression.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 1: Spring (Term 2)5 listed
  • GDMA 1200Typographic Design 23 credits

    Students apply the fundamentals of typography and typographic theory (including typeface anatomy, classification, measurement systems, etc.) while creating typographic layouts for print and digital communication.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 1215Concept Development3 credits

    Students will synthesize their knowledge of typography, image development and software skills into a cohesive approach to concept development for graphic design challenges.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 1220Graphic Design Software Applications 23 credits

    Students design and produce layouts using industry-standard software.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 1240Graphic Design and Society 23 credits

    Students examine diverse forms of graphic communication design and other related types of design that emerged globally from the 1920s onward.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • MRKT 1199Introduction to Marketing3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of marketing and explore the relationships between companies, their customers and their competition.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Fall (Term 3)4 listed

One elective slot.

  • GDMA 2100Editorial Design 13 credits

    Students design and produce editorial layouts to attract and engage a target audience and to organize and enrich the content of print and digital publications.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 2110Introduction to Advertising Design3 credits

    Students will explore client and end-user needs and analyze market research data.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 2120Print Technologies3 credits

    Students prepare electronic files and write specifications for mechanical, photomechanical and electronic prepress, print production and print finishing processes.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 2140Communication Design and Popular Culture3 credits

    Students research and analyze contemporary visual communication and popular culture through the lens of design, marketing and cultural studies.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 2: Spring (Term 4)4 listed

One elective slot.

  • GDMA 2200Editorial Design 23 credits

    Students research social, cultural, and historical factors and apply fundamentals associated with the design, production and distribution of print and online publications.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 2210Web Design3 credits

    Students focus on design, content, and communications strategies for website design.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 2222Video and Animation3 credits

    Students will use current industry-standard software to create short animations and videos that integrate image, text, sound, motion, and time.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 2230Introduction to Marketing Communications3 credits

    Students will develop marketing plans and formulate concepts and images that communicate messages to specific target audiences.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Fall (Term 5)5 listed
  • GDMA 3100Information Design3 credits

    Students will research, analyze, organize, and integrate informational hierarchies into design systems that respond to specific audience needs while incorporating contextual, spatial, narrative and navigational requirements.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3110UI/UX Design 13 credits

    Students will learn the concepts and methods required to design interactive communications such as websites and mobile apps.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3122Interactive Technologies: Design and Development3 credits

    Students are introduced to the methods and technologies used for interactive design and development.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3130Marketing Communications Design 13 credits

    Students analyze and interpret a client's marketing objectives and formulate concepts, messages and images for integrated marketing communications plans across multiple media channels.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3140Interactive Technologies and Society3 credits

    Students critically analyze the social and cultural impact of interactive technologies.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 3: Spring (Term 6)5 listed
  • GDMA 3200Branding 13 credits

    Students explore the idea of branding from the perspective of developing, monitoring and managing brand from an in-house perspective.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3210Packaging Design3 credits

    Students learn principles and strategies to design packaging that meets client and consumer needs.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3220UI/UX Design 23 credits

    Students will research, strategize, conceive, develop content, design and produce a screen-based project for a specific audience.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3225Typographic Design 33 credits

    Students will further develop their typographic skills using advanced techniques and work flows across print and digital projects.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 3230Marketing Communications Design 23 credits

    Students analyze and interpret corporate strategies in business-to-business marketing plans.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Fall (Term 7)4 listed

One elective slot.

  • GDMA 4100Branding 23 credits

    Students will focus on creating a brand by formulating brand positioning and designing a brand visual identity.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 4120Capstone Project3 credits

    Students will demonstrate their ability to synthesize and apply the skills and knowledge learned throughout the Graphic Design for Marketing program to a major design project identifying a proposed client.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 4130Small Business Essentials3 credits

    Students will learn fundamental business procedures relevant to working as employees, employers, or freelancers in the graphic design profession, including the design of targeted self-promotional materials for industry engagement.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • MRKT 4177Contemporary Issues in Marketing3 credits

    Students will analyze and gain insight into significant contemporary marketing issues such as globalization and cross-cultural marketing, online marketing and e-commerce, modern corporate culture, outsourcing and marketing and business ethics.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
Year 4: Spring (Term 8)5 listed
  • GDMA 4200Advertising Design3 credits

    Students will work collaboratively to create advertising campaigns to be implemented across communication channels including print, digital and social media, sales promotions, events, and direct marketing.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 4221Strategic Portfolio Development3 credits

    Students demonstrate proficiency in marketing communications design through rigorous refinement of previous project work that reflects their preferred areas of professional practice.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 4222Special Topics in Interactive Tech
  • GDMA 4230Mentorship for Professional Practice3 credits

    Students will research and analyze procedures, practices, and issues relevant to gaining employment and working in the graphic design profession.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
  • GDMA 4240Contemporary Issues in Graphic Design3 credits

    Students will develop a critical awareness of social, cultural, philosophical, environmental, technological, and professional issues that impact contemporary graphic design practice.

    KPU2026–27 exact course content
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1
2026–27: Curricular Requirements43 listed

Published requirement group, with course alternatives retained. This is not a fixed academic-term timetable or an assertion that every option is required. Alternative row: GDMA 1140 or DESN 1220 | Graphic Design and Society I or Design History: 19 th Century Onward | 3. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. Elective 2 | 3. | Credits | 15. Elective 2 | 3. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. Alternative row: MRKT 4177 or ENTR 3010 or ENTR 3160 or JRNL 3260 or COMM 3100 or COMM 3230 | Contemporary Issues in Marketing or Entrepreneurial Visioning or Technology for Entrepreneurs or The Future of News or Media and Diversity or Sports, Media and Audience | 3. Elective 2 | 3. | Credits | 15. | Credits | 15. | Total Credits | 120

  • ENGL 1100Introduction to University Writing3 credits

    In this introductory university writing course, students will develop their abilities in critical reading and thinking, analysis, and clear written expression.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1100Typographic Design I3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of type and text while designing basic print and digital communications that require typographic design solutions.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • GDMA 1110Image Development3 credits

    Students apply design processes to develop concepts and images for basic marketing communications.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1121Graphic Design Software Applications 13 credits

    Students will focus on developing technical skills using industry-standard software.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1140Graphic Design and Society I3 credits

    Students will explore the social, cultural, and historical contexts of graphic design from the Renaissance to the end of World War I.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • DESN 1220Design History: 19th Century Onward3 credits

    Students will examine developments in graphic design, interior design, product design, fashion design, architecture, and fine arts from the Industrial Revolution to the present day, primarily in the context of the Western world.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • GDMA 1200Typographic Design 23 credits

    Students apply the fundamentals of typography and typographic theory (including typeface anatomy, classification, measurement systems, etc.) while creating typographic layouts for print and digital communication.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1215Concept Development3 credits

    Students will synthesize their knowledge of typography, image development and software skills into a cohesive approach to concept development for graphic design challenges.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1220Graphic Design Software Applications 23 credits

    Students design and produce layouts using industry-standard software.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1240Graphic Design and Society 23 credits

    Students examine diverse forms of graphic communication design and other related types of design that emerged globally from the 1920s onward.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 1199Introduction to Marketing3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of marketing and explore the relationships between companies, their customers and their competition.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2100Editorial Design 13 credits

    Students design and produce editorial layouts to attract and engage a target audience and to organize and enrich the content of print and digital publications.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2110Introduction to Advertising Design3 credits

    Students will explore client and end-user needs and analyze market research data.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2120Print Technologies3 credits

    Students prepare electronic files and write specifications for mechanical, photomechanical and electronic prepress, print production and print finishing processes.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2140Communication Design and Popular Culture3 credits

    Students research and analyze contemporary visual communication and popular culture through the lens of design, marketing and cultural studies.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2200Editorial Design 23 credits

    Students research social, cultural, and historical factors and apply fundamentals associated with the design, production and distribution of print and online publications.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2210Web Design3 credits

    Students focus on design, content, and communications strategies for website design.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2222Video and Animation3 credits

    Students will use current industry-standard software to create short animations and videos that integrate image, text, sound, motion, and time.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 2230Introduction to Marketing Communications3 credits

    Students will develop marketing plans and formulate concepts and images that communicate messages to specific target audiences.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3100Information Design3 credits

    Students will research, analyze, organize, and integrate informational hierarchies into design systems that respond to specific audience needs while incorporating contextual, spatial, narrative and navigational requirements.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3110UI/UX Design 13 credits

    Students will learn the concepts and methods required to design interactive communications such as websites and mobile apps.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3122Interactive Technologies: Design and Development3 credits

    Students are introduced to the methods and technologies used for interactive design and development.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3130Marketing Communications Design 13 credits

    Students analyze and interpret a client's marketing objectives and formulate concepts, messages and images for integrated marketing communications plans across multiple media channels.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3140Interactive Technologies and Society3 credits

    Students critically analyze the social and cultural impact of interactive technologies.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3200Branding 13 credits

    Students explore the idea of branding from the perspective of developing, monitoring and managing brand from an in-house perspective.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3210Packaging Design3 credits

    Students learn principles and strategies to design packaging that meets client and consumer needs.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3220UI/UX Design 23 credits

    Students will research, strategize, conceive, develop content, design and produce a screen-based project for a specific audience.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3225Typographic Design 33 credits

    Students will further develop their typographic skills using advanced techniques and work flows across print and digital projects.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3230Marketing Communications Design 23 credits

    Students analyze and interpret corporate strategies in business-to-business marketing plans.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4100Branding 23 credits

    Students will focus on creating a brand by formulating brand positioning and designing a brand visual identity.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4120Capstone Project3 credits

    Students will demonstrate their ability to synthesize and apply the skills and knowledge learned throughout the Graphic Design for Marketing program to a major design project identifying a proposed client.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4130Small Business Essentials3 credits

    Students will learn fundamental business procedures relevant to working as employees, employers, or freelancers in the graphic design profession, including the design of targeted self-promotional materials for industry engagement.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 4177Contemporary Issues in Marketing3 credits

    Students will analyze and gain insight into significant contemporary marketing issues such as globalization and cross-cultural marketing, online marketing and e-commerce, modern corporate culture, outsourcing and marketing and business ethics.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • ENTR 3010Entrepreneurial Visioning3 credits

    Entrepreneurial leadership is the process through which we change our industries, businesses, and communities.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • ENTR 3160Technology for Entrepreneurs3 credits

    Whether it be digital transformation or disruptive technologies, the deployment of technological innovations allows organizations to create sustainable value.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • JRNL 3260The Future of News3 credits

    Students will explore the economics of existing and emerging media.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • COMM 3100Media and Diversity3 credits

    Students will examine the media from the perspective of a diverse audience, with a specific focus on issues such as race, religion, ability, sexuality, gender and culture.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • COMM 3230Sports, Media and Audience3 credits

    Students will explore the relationship between sports, athletes, media, and audience.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • GDMA 4200Advertising Design3 credits

    Students will work collaboratively to create advertising campaigns to be implemented across communication channels including print, digital and social media, sales promotions, events, and direct marketing.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4221Strategic Portfolio Development3 credits

    Students demonstrate proficiency in marketing communications design through rigorous refinement of previous project work that reflects their preferred areas of professional practice.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4222Special Topics in Interactive Technologies3 credits

    Students will engage in the study of a particular issue or technological application in the discipline of interactive technologies.

    KPU 2026–27 native course content
  • GDMA 4230Mentorship for Professional Practice3 credits

    Students will research and analyze procedures, practices, and issues relevant to gaining employment and working in the graphic design profession.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4240Contemporary Issues in Graphic Design3 credits

    Students will develop a critical awareness of social, cultural, philosophical, environmental, technological, and professional issues that impact contemporary graphic design practice.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU 2026–27 exact degree/major requirements
Mapped terms

Eight-term Graphic Design for Marketing programme model revised October 7, 2025. The three elective slots and their programme restrictions remain in notes. Original held course objects and source dates are preserved; no new 2027 cohort plan or guaranteed registration is asserted. Choice-slot coverage is partial.

Year 1
Year 1: Fall (Term 1)
Year 1: Spring (Term 2)
  • GDMA 1200Typographic Design 23 credits

    Students apply the fundamentals of typography and typographic theory (including typeface anatomy, classification, measurement systems, etc.) while creating typographic layouts for print and digital communication.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1215Concept Development3 credits

    Students will synthesize their knowledge of typography, image development and software skills into a cohesive approach to concept development for graphic design challenges.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1220Graphic Design Software Applications 23 credits

    Students design and produce layouts using industry-standard software.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 1240Graphic Design and Society 23 credits

    Students examine diverse forms of graphic communication design and other related types of design that emerged globally from the 1920s onward.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 1199Introduction to Marketing3 credits

    Students will learn the fundamentals of marketing and explore the relationships between companies, their customers and their competition.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
Year 2
Year 2: Fall (Term 3)

One elective slot.

Year 2: Spring (Term 4)

One elective slot.

Year 3
Year 3: Fall (Term 5)
  • GDMA 3100Information Design3 credits

    Students will research, analyze, organize, and integrate informational hierarchies into design systems that respond to specific audience needs while incorporating contextual, spatial, narrative and navigational requirements.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3110UI/UX Design 13 credits

    Students will learn the concepts and methods required to design interactive communications such as websites and mobile apps.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3122Interactive Technologies: Design and Development3 credits

    Students are introduced to the methods and technologies used for interactive design and development.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3130Marketing Communications Design 13 credits

    Students analyze and interpret a client's marketing objectives and formulate concepts, messages and images for integrated marketing communications plans across multiple media channels.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 3140Interactive Technologies and Society3 credits

    Students critically analyze the social and cultural impact of interactive technologies.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
Year 3: Spring (Term 6)
Year 4
Year 4: Fall (Term 7)

One elective slot.

  • GDMA 4100Branding 23 credits

    Students will focus on creating a brand by formulating brand positioning and designing a brand visual identity.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4120Capstone Project3 credits

    Students will demonstrate their ability to synthesize and apply the skills and knowledge learned throughout the Graphic Design for Marketing program to a major design project identifying a proposed client.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4130Small Business Essentials3 credits

    Students will learn fundamental business procedures relevant to working as employees, employers, or freelancers in the graphic design profession, including the design of targeted self-promotional materials for industry engagement.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • MRKT 4177Contemporary Issues in Marketing3 creditsChoose one

    Students will analyze and gain insight into significant contemporary marketing issues such as globalization and cross-cultural marketing, online marketing and e-commerce, modern corporate culture, outsourcing and marketing and business ethics.

    Choose one

    2026–27 calendar; curriculum effective 01-Sep-2025.

    • MRKT 4177 · Contemporary Issues in Marketing
    • ENTR 3010 · Entrepreneurial Visioning
    • ENTR 3160 · Technology for Entrepreneurs
    • JRNL 3260 · The Future of News
    • COMM 3100 · Media and Diversity
    • COMM 3230 · Sports, Media and Audience
    KPU 2026–27 published programme alternative menu
    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
Year 4: Spring (Term 8)
  • GDMA 4200Advertising Design3 credits

    Students will work collaboratively to create advertising campaigns to be implemented across communication channels including print, digital and social media, sales promotions, events, and direct marketing.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4221Strategic Portfolio Development3 credits

    Students demonstrate proficiency in marketing communications design through rigorous refinement of previous project work that reflects their preferred areas of professional practice.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4222Special Topics in Interactive Tech
  • GDMA 4230Mentorship for Professional Practice3 credits

    Students will research and analyze procedures, practices, and issues relevant to gaining employment and working in the graphic design profession.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
  • GDMA 4240Contemporary Issues in Graphic Design3 credits

    Students will develop a critical awareness of social, cultural, philosophical, environmental, technological, and professional issues that impact contemporary graphic design practice.

    KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
KPU current-linked Graphic Design for Marketing programme model, revised 10/07/2025, page 1KPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit headerKPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit headerKPU 2026–27 exact native course-credit header
Elective choices
  • 9 elective credits, including at least 3 credits outside GDMA, ENGL and MRKT.
Study locations
Published programme teaching location
The school’s Richmond campus page explicitly lists Graphic Design for Marketing in the same purpose-built design building as the other named design programmes. Shared facilities include teaching studios, labs, a testing centre, gallery, and study/design areas. Individual course rooms are not assigned on this page.KPU Wilson School of Design: actual Richmond campus study facilities

Careers

Career examples

  • Generalist graphic designer
  • In-house designer
  • Specialist designer

Career sectors

4
  • UX and UI design
  • Packaging
  • Advertising
  • Display design
Career sectorsPublished career informationKPU currently linked GDMA programme model, revised 10/07/2025, career examples on page 1
Scope and qualifications

University-published career examples and fields, including the currently linked October 2025 planner. Some roles require further study, certification or experience. These are not ranked outcomes.

Costs

Category 1 courses

Published tuition

September 1,2026 through August 31,2027 · Registered native credit categories · CAD

Canadian students example · Choose your category

Tuition$166.10 / credit

Course-category tuition; university and KSA fees are extra

Last updated

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