【导读】许多人认为视觉传达就是“平面设计”、“图形设计”,这样的认识具有局限性。虽然视觉传达设计最早起源于“平面设计”或者“印刷美术设计”,但随着现代科技水平的逐步发展,数字技术已经渗透到视觉传达设计的各个领域。那么,对于加拿大的留学生来说,哪些大学开设视觉传达的相关专业呢?它的录取要求和课程设置是怎样的?就业前景、薪资待遇和发展前途的解答呢?下面,就跟着小编一起来了解一下视觉传达这个专业吧!

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Introduction to the Canadian Visual Communication major

Visual communication refers to the design in which designers use 2D visual symbols -- text, illustrations and signs to convey various kinds of information to the audience. Its main function is to play a role in distribution and promotion. The visual communication design major is often referred to as graphic design. It involves using many mediums, such as: print advertisements in newspapers and magazines, billboards on the sides roads, lightbox signage, etc. All of these belong to the field of visual communication design. In design, specialization options usually include: advertising, printed magazines and books, poster design, product packaging, and corporate branding. Program curriculums will include design, media, communication, advertising, etc. There are also computer-related courses relevant to this field, such as Photoshop, web design, etc. The future employment direction is also very broad. Advertising, film and television, and new media industries will all be good employment opportunities.

What knowledge and skills do students learn in the Canadian visual communication major?

The basic courses in this major are: research and theory courses, visual communication production courses, social media courses, contemporary design issues, package design, publication design, etc. This major will introduce media design and production, social relations, blogs and online media, public relations, popular culture, advertising and marketing activities. At the same time, visual communication is more inclined to interactive design, which focuses on interactive experience and interactive feeling, with emphasis on functionality. However, it also touches on a combination of graphic design, use of colour, and aesthetics. Its media courses include photography, television, film, 3D modeling, new media, etc. From a professional perspective, it mainly includes logo design, advertising design, package design, interior and exterior design, corporate branding, etc. Since designs are conveyed to consumers through visual images, it serves as a bridge between the businesses, commodities, and consumers.

Employment prospects for visual communication graduates in Canada

Employment Directions of the Visual Communication Major:

  1. Can work in graphic design, interior design, drafting, exhibit design, etc. in design departments such as advertising companies, design studios, printing companies, home improvement companies, corporate planning and branding companies, etc.
  2. Can be engaged in art directing, photography, publication design, book design, product packaging design, web design, web production, flash, etc.
  3. Can be engaged in design, design management, art education, etc. in related colleges or educational institutions

The employment prospects of visual communication graduates are very broad. With the rapid development of new media, good designs are needed to attract people's attention. Therefore, while combining the content of the courses and the students' own creative ability, students should also keep up-to-date with current trends so that they can fully demonstrate their strengths.

Job description of a Canadian visual communication professional

1. Graphic designer:
Design layout of print media according to needs
Complete the creative design of graphic promotional materials
Implement VI design development and introduction of company development projects
Complete the overall arrangement of exhibitions and activities, lighting and staging, and atmosphere design
Process photos and images

2. Advertising creative director:
Lead a team to transform abstract concepts into various creative products with visual impact
Develop advertising creative standards and review advertising creatives
Supervise creative process, so that the composition of art and text is in line with brand strategy and creative standards
Maintain client relations

Salary of Canadian visual communication graduates

So, what are the decisive factors in determining the income of Canadian visual communication graduates and how much money do they make each year?

For art majors, a large part of their future salary depends on the graduate's skills and their portfolio, as well as the scale of the employer. The highly developed economy of North America has brought a wide range of opportunities for designers, and it is tremendously dynamic field. Generally speaking, the average starting salary of a graphic designer is $46,000. After several years of work experience, the average annual salary will reach $65,861.

List of majors related to visual communication in Ontario, Canada (1-to-4-year programs)

Name of ProgramSchoolType of CredentialOpen to International StudentsStart Date
Visual Culture and CommunicationUniversity of TorontoBachelor DegreeOpenSeptember
Visual CultureUniversity of TorontoBachelor DegreeOpenSeptember
Visual Arts and Communication, Media and FilmUniversity of WindsorBachelor DegreeOpenSeptember
Visual ArtsUniversity of WindsorBachelor DegreeOpenJanuary, May, September
Communication, Media and FilmUniversity of WindsorBachelor DegreeOpenSeptember
Environmental Visual CommunicationFleming CollegeCertificateOpenJanuary

Summary: UtoCanada's views on the visual communication major

In the era of interactive media, along with the rapid development of the new media industry, the visual communication major is bound to become more popular. European and North American countries will also see an increase in the demand for talents such as visual designers. Canadian art and design majors have always been in a leading position in the world, and the admission requirements will be strict. When applying, students should be optimistic about the satisfying the requirements of each school and confirm whether they need to submit a portfolio, or other materials. Combine your own background with your choice of future employment direction when choosing a major. If you are confused about the choice of college/university or major, we will give you professional planning and guidance here at UtoCanada.