Launch Your Design Career:
The GWD Program
Graphic and Web Design
Master both Graphic Design fundamentals and responsive Web code. A 3-Year DEC built for high employability in the digital economy.
Our Graphic & Web Design (GWD) program offers students the opportunity to develop skills in website interface design and integration, graphic design and publication production – skills needed by today’s businesses. In their final semester, students apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired by entering the workplace for a three-week fieldwork placement.
Although there are no prerequisites, the ideal candidate for the program is interested in creating digital art and designing with the latest Adobe software while bringing ideas to life online using CSS and HTML.
Candidates are also interested in understanding more about graphic design, photography, branding, social media marketing, video editing, and animation.
Master the full spectrum of modern design. As a Graphic Design student, you’ll learn to create comprehensive branding and identity packages (logos, brochures, business cards, and print materials) while also mastering the technical and aesthetic demands of complex web interface design—from expressive and artistic styles to clean corporate layouts. Additionally, you’ll develop proficiency in digital photography and video editing, creating web animations, and even acquire the essential business knowledge needed to launch your own design studio.
The Comprehensive Skill Set
We don’t just teach software; we teach the foundational principles that drive modern design. Our curriculum ensures you graduate as a versatile creative professional proficient in both print and interactive digital environments.
Key Areas of Expertise
- Graphic Design & Branding: Master the visual identity process, from 2D composition and typography to developing complete branding identity packages (logos, stationery, packaging).
- Web & Digital Integration: Learn to build responsive, modern online experiences, covering Responsive Web Design, HTML/CSS coding, Website Interface Design, and platform mastery using Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress.
- Digital Marketing: Gain essential skills in making digital content perform with Search Engine Optimization (SEO), Social Media Optimization (SMO), and Web Animation.
- Design Fundamentals: Develop a comprehensive understanding of core concepts like Colour Theory, Visual Communication, and professional Print and Web Production Processes.
The Environment: Labs & Tech
State-of-the-art Mac and PC labs with dedicated workstations, featuring the latest industry-standard software.
- Hardware
The most important tool is your ability to run the Adobe Creative Cloud suite effectively. We recommend a MacBook Pro (16Gb RAM minimum) for its stability and dual-platform testing capabilities (Mac OS and Windows). - Support
Access to on-campus support services and resources to ensure academic success.
Recommended Computer Specs
The essential consideration for a computer in Graphic & Web Design is its ability to run the Adobe Creative Cloud suite fast.
While both Mac and PC are acceptable, a laptop is generally preferred for portability. The recommended specifications are:
- RAM: 16GB or more.
- Screen: 15″ or larger.
- Hard Drive: 500GB minimum (storage can be supplemented with external drives).
- Video Card: Fairly powerful (but not necessarily high-end gaming).
The department specifically recommends the Macbook Pro because it offers premium quality, includes the user-friendly Time Machine backup utility, allows for running Windows and Linux (crucial for browser testing), and aligns with the majority of the design labs (2 out of 3).
Ultimately, students should buy the best computer they can afford and avoid low-cost, low-spec models, as they will quickly become obsolete.
Career Paths & Program Outcomes
Career Paths
- Web Designer / Front-End Developer
- UI/UX Designer
- Graphic Designer
- Digital Content Specialist
- Interactive Media Designer
- Branding Specialist
Further Education
Our graduates successfully transfer to university programs in Design, Arts, Marketing, Communications, and 3D Animation.
Portfolio Showcase
Link directly to your annual student showcase/vernissage or trade fair—proof that your program yields professional-quality work.
Graduates
Graduates of the John Abbott Graphic and Web Design program are immediately employable across a variety of creative and technical roles, from design agencies to corporate in-house departments.
Professional Internship
Every graduating student steps directly into the industry by completing a three-week, hands-on work placement in their final semester. This essential professional experience bridges the gap between the classroom and the workplace, allowing you to apply your skills and start building your network before you even graduate.
Host a Design Intern
Hiring an intern from our Graphic and Web Design program is more than just getting temporary support—it’s an investment in your company’s talent pipeline and a chance to preview future employees.
Admissions & Next Steps
Key Requirements
- Must meet the general admission requirements for John Abbott College.
- A strong interest in both art/design and technology is highly recommended.
- Admission is highly competitive and based on academic record.
- No Portfolio Required to Apply. We focus on building your skills from the ground up, providing a welcoming path for all creative candidates.
How to apply
- Review Requirements: Confirm you meet the prerequisites on the College website.
- Submit Application: Apply through the SRAM (Service régional d’admission du Montréal métropolitain) portal before the deadline.
- Await Decision: Applications are reviewed after the March 1st deadline.
John Abbott College – Graphic and Web Design Program
21275 Lakeshore Road, Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, H9X 3L9
Security – Inquiries
T : 514.457.6610 x 6912 security@johnabbott.qc.ca
Security – Emergency
T : 514.457.6610 x 6911 security@johnabbott.qc.ca
Human Resources
T : 514.457.6610 x 5000 hrs@johnabbott.qc.ca
Admissions
T : 514.457.6610 x 5358 Fax : 514.457.6812 admissions@johnabbott.qc.ca