Design Foundations

Program description - May 2027

Launch your creative career with Conestoga's Design Foundations certificate.

If you're a high school graduate with a passion for art, design and visual storytelling, Conestoga's one-year Design Foundations certificate is the perfect starting point. This intensive, studio-based program helps you build a competitive portfolio while exploring the fundamentals of applied design and visual communications.

You'll develop skills 2D and 3D design, drawing, life drawing, illustration in traditional and digital formats, colour theory, presentation skills and digital production. With guidance from experienced faculty, you'll set goals, refine your creative process and complete hands-on projects across a variety of media. This foundation year prepares you for advanced study in areas such as graphic design, animation, interior design and other creative disciplines.

What you'll learn

• Fundamentals of 2D and 3D visual design
• Drawing, life drawing and illustration techniques
• Colour theory, idea development and presentation skills
• Portfolio development and digital production tools
• Design history and written communication for creatives

Career pathways

• Preparation for diploma programs in graphic design, animation, interior design and related fields
• Entry-level opportunities in creative industries
• A foundation for freelance or studio-based creative work