Design

Design at Concordia University is a comprehensive and innovative program that prepares students to excel in the diverse and dynamic field of design. Our curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating art, technology, and human-centered principles to foster creativity, critical thinking, and practical skills. Students have the opportunity to explore various areas including graphic design, interaction design, product design, and visual communication, allowing them to develop versatile competencies applicable across numerous industries. The program is designed to encourage experimentation and exploration, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, dedicated studios, and digital resources.

Throughout their studies, students engage in hands-on projects, collaborative work, and real-world problem-solving, preparing them for successful careers in design practice or further academic pursuits. The faculty comprises experienced professionals and scholars who mentor students and inspire innovative thinking. The curriculum also incorporates contemporary issues such as sustainability, user experience, and digital culture, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet current and future challenges in the design industry. Additionally, students have opportunities to participate in internships, workshops, and exhibitions, fostering professional development and industry connections. Concordia’s Design program aims to cultivate thoughtful, skilled, and socially responsible designers who can shape impactful visual and functional solutions in a rapidly evolving world.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design at Concordia University offers a comprehensive and dynamic curriculum that prepares students for diverse careers in the field of design. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in the fundamental principles of visual communication, including typography, color theory, layout, and digital tools. Students engage in rigorous studio work, partnering with industry professionals and participating in real-world projects to develop a versatile portfolio. The curriculum encourages experimentation and innovation, fostering students' ability to think critically and solve complex visual problems across various media, such as print, digital, environmental, and experimental design.

Throughout the program, learners explore core areas including graphic design, web design, user experience (UX) design, and interaction design, gaining skills in designing for diverse audiences and platforms. The curriculum also integrates theoretical courses that address the history, contextual trends, and social implications of design, ensuring students develop a well-rounded perspective. Collaboration and interdisciplinary projects are central to the program, allowing students to work alongside peers from other disciplines and participate in exhibitions, internships, and workshops that enhance their practical experience and industry connections.

By the end of their studies, graduates are equipped with a professional-level portfolio, excellent technical skills, and a deep understanding of design ethics and sustainability. The program aims to cultivate creatives who are adaptable, innovative, and prepared to contribute meaningfully to the evolving design landscape. Graduates find opportunities in various sectors including advertising, branding, digital media, user experience, and strategic design, ready to lead and inspire within the global creative community.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design at Concordia University requires students to complete a comprehensive curriculum that combines foundational knowledge with advanced practical skills. The program starts with core courses in visual literacy, drawing, and design fundamentals, ensuring students develop a strong analytical eye and technical competence. Students are required to engage in coursework covering graphic design, digital media, and interaction design to prepare for diverse professional settings. Throughout the degree, students participate in studio-based projects that foster creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency. In addition to studio work, the program emphasizes theoretical understanding and historical context of design practices, encouraging students to examine the evolution of visual communication and contemporary trends. Collaborative projects are a key component, allowing students to work in teams simulating real-world design environments. The program also offers electives in areas such as user experience (UX) design, branding, and motion graphics, enabling students to tailor their education according to their interests and career aspirations. To graduate, students must complete a senior design project or portfolio presentation, demonstrating their ability to synthesize learned skills into a cohesive body of work. The curriculum includes internships and industry partnerships, providing valuable practical experience and networking opportunities. Overall, the program aims to produce versatile designers capable of addressing complex communication challenges across multiple media and platforms.

The financing options for the Design program at Concordia University are designed to accommodate a diverse student body, including domestic and international students. Students are encouraged to explore a variety of funding sources to support their studies, including government-sponsored financial aid, scholarships, bursaries, and external funding opportunities. Concordia University offers several scholarships specifically tailored for students enrolled in design-related programs, which can significantly reduce the financial burden. These include entrance scholarships awarded based on academic achievement, departmental awards recognizing excellence in design, and merit-based scholarships for students demonstrating outstanding potential. In addition to scholarships, students may also access bursaries that are awarded based on financial need, available through the university’s financial aid office.

International students are eligible to apply for some of these scholarships and bursaries, although eligibility criteria vary. The university also recommends students consider government student loans and grants available to Canadian residents, which can be applied toward tuition and living expenses. For students from outside Canada, private loans and external funding agencies may provide additional financial support. Concordia University provides comprehensive financial aid counseling services to assist students in navigating their options and applications successfully. Furthermore, part-time employment opportunities are available on campus, allowing students to earn income while studying, which can help offset living costs. These work-study programs are specially designed to accommodate students’ academic schedules.

Students are advised to begin exploring financing options early, ideally before commencement of their studies, to ensure comprehensive planning and timely application for grants and scholarships. The university’s website provides detailed information and resources regarding the application process for various funding sources, deadlines, and eligibility criteria. Budgeting and financial planning support are also available through student services. Overall, the university strives to make the Design program accessible by providing multiple avenues for financial assistance, thereby supporting students in achieving their academic and professional goals without undue financial hardship.

The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Design at Concordia University offers students a comprehensive education in various aspects of design, including graphic design, digital media, and visual communication. The program is designed to develop students' creative, technical, and critical skills necessary for successful careers in the dynamic field of design. Students engage in a combination of theoretical coursework and practical projects, allowing them to explore different design disciplines and develop a personal aesthetic. The curriculum emphasizes innovation, problem-solving, and effective communication through visual media. Throughout their studies, students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including computer labs equipped with design software, studios, and workshops. They also have opportunities for internships and collaborations with industry partners, providing valuable real-world experience. The program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from art, technology, and social sciences to prepare students for diverse career paths in areas such as branding, advertising, web design, UI/UX, and multimedia production. Graduates of the Design program at Concordia are well-equipped to enter the creative industry or pursue graduate studies. The university's vibrant cultural environment and proximity to Montreal’s thriving arts scene further enrich students’ educational experience, fostering networking and professional development. The program's faculty members are experienced practitioners and scholars dedicated to mentoring students and advancing innovative design research. Overall, the Bachelor of Fine Arts in Design at Concordia University aims to cultivate imaginative, skilled, and socially responsible designers capable of making meaningful contributions to the visual world.