Graphic Design - Visual Communication
Delivered at our campus in Peterborough, this is one of the few two-year advanced diploma programs of its kind offered in Ontario. In this intensive, compressed program, three years of study is completed over a two-year period. Graduates are ready to start their graphic design careers in just 24 months.
Program Information
Start Date
September 08, 2026
Domestic Availability
Accepting Applications
International Availability
Accepting Applications
CIP Code
50.0409
Program Code
GDV
Delivery
In Person, Placement
Credential
Ontario College Advanced Diploma
Academic School
Location
Program Contact
Domestic Tuition
per semester*
International Tuition
per semester*
*Domestic tuition amounts shown are from the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change.
*International tuition amounts shown are from the 2025-2026 academic year and are subject to change.
View Curriculum
Students in this accelerated program learn and work in a unique, contemporary design studio space; in this “classroom as design lab and studio,” they discover what it takes to become a professional designer, and how to thrive in this fast-paced industry.
Students gain the skills and understanding required to communicate ideas in digital and printed media through extensive and varied applied learning experiences. At the end of six continuous semesters, they are fully prepared to hit the ground running, ready to launch their design careers in any industry that requires creative problem solving through visual communication.
In this program you will:
- Learn in a laptop-based environment which provides maximum flexibility to work offsite as well as in class.
- Experience the design studio model that emphasizes collaboration, communication and experimentation – skills that are highly valued by employers.
- Develop and build your art, design and technical skills in modular small projects, working towards comprehensive collaborative projects to further test your abilities.
- Live the life of a designer, working independently and with your team, on an ambitious, large- scale project that requires branding, diverse multi-media graphic materials. This will include projects across a full range of media and platforms including print publications, advertising, web, mobile, social media, signage and environmental graphics.
- Gain additional, hands–on experience with an extensive work placement in a design studio, agency, or in–house design department.
- Understand how art fundamentals and principles inform successful design.
- Learn from our expert faculty as well as designers who are shaping today’s industry.
- Graduate with a substantial portfolio, and the ability to prepare and deliver effective presentations.
Fleming College’s Haliburton School of Art + Design is known for providing innovative art and design programming. Offered at our campus in Peterborough, this advanced diploma program is structured to simulate the setting and pace of a real-world design environment to prepare students to enter the workforce faster, fully-prepared to be successful.
There is a high demand for graphic designers and career opportunities in the industry are diverse.
Career Settings
Potential career settings include:
- advertising
- branding agencies
- graphic design studios
- package design studios
- retail advertising
- in-house design departments in large and medium sized enterprises
- not-for-profit and government agencies
- marketing firms
- self-employment
Areas of Specialty
Areas of specialty include:
- branding and corporate identity
- advertising
- digital
- interactive
- environmental
- exhibition
- packaging
- book design
| Fees | Semester 1 | Semester 2 | Semester 3 | Semester 4 | Semester 5 | Semester 6 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $1454.98 | $1454.98 | $1454.98 | $1454.98 | $1454.98 | $1454.98 |
| Academic Fees | $1215.85 | $990.85 | $990.85 | $1215.85 | $990.85 | $990.85 |
| Material Fees | $470.00 | |||||
| Field Trip Fees | $413.00 | |||||
| Total | $3140.83 | $2445.83 | $2445.83 | $3220.83 | $2445.83 | $2445.83 |
- Conceptualize and develop design solutions using principles of design to create visual communications that meet the needs of the project.
- Employ the design process to create design solutions that meet the project objectives and the needs of the client and/or user.
- Plan, create and use photography, illustration and typography in design layouts to meet the requirements of the creative brief.
- Design, develop and create a variety of media products using relevant, current and/or emerging technologies.
- Communicate ideas, design concepts and opinions clearly and persuasively to others.
- Use recognized industry practices throughout the design process and related business tasks.
- Plan, implement, and evaluate graphic design projects using project management skills to deliver quality work to clients according to schedule and within budget.
- Complete all work in a professional and ethical manner, and in accordance with all applicable legislation and regulations.
- Keep current with visual media design trends, technologies and industry practices using strategies that enhance work performance and guide professional development.
Students applying to Graphic Design - Visual Communication must meet the following requirements:
- OSSD including Gr 12 C English
- MacBook Pro, 13 inch (minimum)
- Adobe Creative Suites, Creative Cloud Student and Teacher Edition
- External HD, 1TB (minimum)
- USB Flash Drive, 32GB (minimum)
- iPhone 5c or Smart Phone 32GB
Transfer Agreements
You may be able to use credits obtained at Fleming College to continue your postsecondary education in pursuit of a degree. The articulation and credit transfer agreements with our partner institutions are summarized here.
Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication Design (3YR)
Requirement
- Minimum 65% cumulative program average.
- The program is offered face-to-face (Gold Coast campus or South Bank campus).
Transfer Credit
- 160 credit points out of a 240-credit point degree.
- Refer to the articulation agreement for further details.
To apply please see the Griffith University's admissions website.
For more information
Visit the Griffith University website for further articulation and program information.
See the official articulation agreement.
Bachelor of Creative Advertising
Requirement
- Minimum 65% cumulative program average.
- Possess ENG4U (Grade 12 University English) or equivalent with a course grade of 65%.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Colleges website.
For more information
Visit the Humber Polytechnic website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Design in User Experience
Requirement
- Minimum 65% cumulative program average.
- Possess ENG4U (Grade 12 University English) or equivalent with a course grade of 70%.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Colleges website.
For more information
Visit the Humber Polytechnic website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Arts & Science in Media, Film, & Communications
Requirement
- Minimum 70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- 8.5 out of a 20-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Lakehead University website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Arts in Communication and Digital Media Studies
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies and Digital Technology
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- 60 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to Ontario Tech's website for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Bachelor of Commerce
Requirement
- Minimum mid-70% cumulative program average.
- Completion of the Ontario Tech Commerce Bridge.
Transfer Credit
- 45 out of a 120-credit degree.
- Refer to ONTransfer.ca for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Ontario Tech University website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
Bachelor of Arts in Professional Communication
Requirement
- Minimum B cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- Entry into 3rd-year studies of a 4-year program.
- Refer to the articulation agreement for further details.
To apply please see the Royal Roads University's admissions website.
For more information
Visit the Royal Roads University website for further articulation and program information.
See the official articulation agreement.
Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies
Requirement
- Minimum 65% cumulative program average.
Transfer Credit
- Entry into 5th semester standing in an 8-semester program.
- Refer to Seneca College's website for further details.
To apply please see the Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC) website.
For more information
Visit the Seneca Polytechnic website for further articulation and program information.
Visit the ONTransfer.ca website for agreement information.
See the official articulation agreement.
In The News: Graphic Design - Visual Communication
Peterborough, ON (October 4, 2024) – Six Fleming College alumni have been selected as nominees for the distinguished Premier’s Awards this year.
Founded in 1992, the Premier’s Awards are administered by Colleges Ontario, the advocacy voice for Ontario’s 24 colleges.
This annual celebration recognizes the important social and economic contributions college graduates make on a provincial and global scale. Colleges can nominate alumni in seven categories: Skilled Trades, Business, Community Services, Creative Arts and Design, Health Sciences, Recent Graduate, and Science, Technology and Engineering.
The Fleming College nominees for 2024 are:
Skilled Trades
Dylan Stadtke: Mechanical Techniques Plumbing (2016), HVAC Technician (2018)
The co-owner of Pristine Plumbing Peterborough, Dylan’s business is thriving, reflecting his dedication to high professional standards and community involvement. In addition to two Fleming diplomas, Dylan completed the Construction Leadership Program at Fleming in 2022, demonstrating his commitment to leadership and excellence in his field. Beyond his professional achievements, Dylan is deeply committed to men’s mental health and is a strong proponent of promoting women in trades. His dedication to these important issues underscores his role as a leader and innovator in his industry.
Health Sciences
Francine Sam: Practical Nursing (2024)
Francine Sam began her nursing career while living in Australia where she was enrolled in university for nursing. She ended up moving to a rural village in northern Uganda where she did humanitarian work for seven years alongside her young family, caring for vulnerable children and their communities. It was through her experiences there that compelled her to further her education at Fleming College. Francine recently graduated as a Practical Nurse and was the Valedictorian of the School of Health and Community Services and is now working as a Registered Practical Nurse in the Emergency Department at her local hospital.
Community Services
Heather George: Museum Management and Curatorship (2008)
Heather George is an influential leader in the Canadian museum sector. As Executive Director of the Woodland Cultural Centre, she advocates for Indigenous perspectives and creates opportunities for Indigenous artists and curators. As the Past President of the Canadian Museum Association and current Vice President for the Indigenous Heritage Circle, Heather advances the Truth and Reconciliation Commission's Call to Action #67, urging museums to engage in reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. In 2021, she led a national review of museum policies in relation to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). This review involved Indigenous communities and museum professionals, culminating in recommendations to change sector standards and develop federal repatriation laws.
Science, Technology and Engineering
Matthew Wilson: Conservation Biology (2024)
In 2022, Matthew Wilson made a significant decision to leave his career in the shipping industry and return to school. He was driven by a desire to pursue a more meaningful path, he chose to focus on addressing the pressing environmental and natural world challenges facing our planet today. Matt has always had a deep passion for animals and nature. Over the years, he has worn many hats, including biologist, arboricultural field technician, and research assistant. Recently, Matt enrolled in the Conservation Biology Program at Fleming College, where he graduated as Valedictorian of the School of Environmental and Natural Resources. Driven by a strong desire to make a positive impact on our climate, Matt is committed to preserving our natural legacy for future generations.
Recent Graduate
Jacques Graveline: Business Administration-Marketing (2022)
Jacques Graveline was a Student Ambassador for Fleming Indigenous Student Services and Fleming Student Administrative Council. He graduated from Fleming College with an Advanced Diploma in Marketing in 2022 and has been extremely involved in the College since. Elected as Board Chair at Fleming SAC in 2023, he passionately advocates for students to ensure an exceptional college experience. Jacques is a leader in the Peterborough community, supporting the United Way homeless initiative and Dragon Boat Races for Breast Cancer, while creating and implementing marketing strategies as the Marketing Assistant at Bridges Peterborough. Jacques is currently the Governance and Advocacy Coordinator with the Fleming Student Administrative Council.
Creative Arts and Design
Aaron Robitaille: Graphic Design-Visual Communication Advanced Diploma (2020)
A 2020 graduate of Fleming College’s Graphic Design (GDV) program and recipient of the Muriel Cooper Award for Design Excellence, Aaron launched "Aaron Robitaille Design" and developed notable branding for Haven Brewing Company. Her expertise spans large-scope murals, websites, and mentoring local artists, with work featured across Ontario. She is currently an instructor at Fleming College and acts as Vice Chair and member on Artspace’s Board of Directors, Peterborough’s only artist-run centre. The GDV program’s comprehensive training and community partnerships were pivotal in her success, fostering a blend of art and design that continues to drive her career and contributions to the local arts community.
The Premier’s Award nominees will be recognized at a gala event in Toronto on November 25, where the winners will be announced.
To nominate a deserving Fleming graduate for a 2025 Premier’s Award, please contact the Advancement and Alumni Relations Office at 705-749-5530 ext. 1197 or email alumni@flemingcollege.ca.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Asher Lurie
Director, Communications
asher.lurie@flemingcollege.ca
About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni.
Web: flemingcollege.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/flemingcollege
Twitter: @FlemingCollege on X
Instagram: @flemingcollege on Instagram
TikTok: @flemingcollege on TikTok
Peterborough, ON (January 18, 2024) - The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton has launched an anti-stigma awareness campaign created by students in Fleming’s Graphic Design-Visual Communication (GDV) program.
Each year, fifth semester GDV students are tasked with creating a campaign for an organization from the non-profit sector. This task gives students some hands-on experience in building and executing a project with a real client.
In June the Alzheimer Society announced that it would be using the concepts and components created by one student group in a real-world campaign that would stretch across the Peterborough region.
“Be the Missing Piece” launched January 17, 2024, during Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. This campaign aims to reduce the stigma around dementia by drawing attention to the language we use without thinking, which can be rude, dismissive, and hurtful.
You can find more about the campaign here.
About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Sarah Deeth
Communications Officer
sarah.deeth@flemingcollege.ca
705-749-5530 ext. 1161
Web: flemingcollege.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/flemingcollege
Twitter: @FlemingCollege on Twitter
Instagram: @flemingcollege on Instagram
Peterborough, ON – (June 27, 2023) – Students with Fleming College’s Graphic Design – Visual Communication program have partnered with the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton on an anti-stigma campaign.
“Missing Piece,” created and designed by Fleming students, will be used throughout the Peterborough region to draw attention to the stigma and bias that can affect those with dementia.
Each year, fifth semester GDV students are tasked with assisting an organization with a design project. Organizations are often from the non-profit sector, and the project gives students a chance to experience working with a real-world client on a project from concept to completion.
After hearing from six student groups, the Alzheimer Society selected two groups as finalists for its campaign, with “Missing Piece” ultimately selected as the lead project.
The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton has decided to take their collaboration with Fleming students beyond the classroom and use the designs and concepts in a real-world campaign that will stretch across the Peterborough region.
“We were tremendously impressed with the quality of the work produced by the Fleming College students. Dementia in our region is rising exponentially, and unfortunately stigmatizing language is still commonly used around the disease,” said Jen Johnstone, Executive Director of the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton. “We are thrilled that our collaboration with Fleming will enable us to launch our anti-stigma campaign Be the Missing Piece in August of this year.”
“This is a fantastic example of the hands-on, experiential learning that takes place at Fleming College and comes to life in our community,” said Fleming President Maureen Adamson. “This project has led to a partnership that benefits not only our students, but the people that we love and support. We are honoured to be a part of this collaboration.”
One of the students from “Missing Piece,” Mark Dizon, has been hired by the Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton in an internship capacity to help oversee the campaign.
About Fleming College
Fleming College respectfully acknowledges that we are situated on Michi Saagiig Anishinaabeg lands and territory. Located in the heart of Central Ontario, Fleming College has campus locations in Peterborough, Lindsay, Cobourg and Haliburton. Named for famous Canadian inventor and engineer Sir Sandford Fleming, the college features more than 100 full-time programs in Arts and Heritage, Business, Environmental and Natural Resource Sciences, General Arts and Sciences, Health and Wellness, Justice and Community Development, Skilled Trades and Technology, and Continuing Education. Fleming College has more than 6,800 full-time and 10,000 part-time students, and 80,000 alumni.
About the Alzheimer Society of Peterboorugh, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton:
The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton provides service throughout all four counties including the communities of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Lindsay, Haliburton, Minden, Cobourg, Port Hope, Campbellford, Havelock and Millbrook. It is estimated that more than 7,500 people in our catchment area have Alzheimer's disease or some other form of dementia. This number is expected to grow to more than 15,500 by the year 2036. The Alzheimer Society of Peterborough, Kawartha Lakes, Northumberland and Haliburton provides supportive services at no charge to families and individuals affected by Alzheimer's disease and other dementias.
For media enquiries, please contact:
Sarah Deeth
Communications Officer
sarah.deeth@flemingcollege.ca
705-749-5530 ext. 1161
Web: flemingcollege.ca
Facebook: facebook.com/flemingcollege
Twitter: @FlemingCollege on Twitter
Instagram: @flemingcollege on Instagram