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Skills, Education and Experience

Skills

  • strong creativity & artistic talent
  • strong computer skills
  • good organizational and communication skills
  • problem solving skills
  • excellent ability to work under demanding timelines and meet deadlines

Education and Experience

Graphic designers and illustrators generally require a university degree in visual arts, with a specialization or completion of a college diploma in graphic design, or equivalent. 

Other requirements may include:

  • Certification by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) or the Design Professionals of Canada (DesCan)
  • A well-developed portfolio so clients and employers can see your demonstrated skills

Qualifications

Certification is not mandatory to work as a graphic designer in British Columbia. However, certification through the Design Professionals of Canada or Association of Registered Graphic Designers may improve your employment prospects.

Certification with the Design Professionals of Canada (DesCan) requires 6 years of combined education and professional practice and a confidential portfolio review of your work by the National Certification Board. Certification with the Association of Registered Graphic Designers requires 7 years of education and/or relevant work experience, and an evaluation of your professional portfolio.

Source: WorkBC Career Profile for Graphic Designers & Illustrators 

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