Program Overview
The MDC cluster is designed to provide students with the flexibility to adapt to various situations relating to design, communication and esthetics. This cluster includes courses relating to art and culture, such as the performing arts, film and video, broadcasting, journalism, writing, creative design and fashion.
Courses
Architecture & 3D Modeling
5 Credits Available in 10, 20, 30
Create the cities of tomorrow - the houses we live in, the offices we work in, and the objects around us. Invent and innovate! In this course, students will design a home in 3D and take a virtual walk through to see the finished product, create a 3D object on the computer and see it come to life on our 3D printer, and even animate some of their projects. Like professionals worldwide, we will be using Autodesk® software, to explore qualities in designing, visualizing, and animating highly original structures and objects. Students will have the opportunity to download full versions of all Autodesk software for personal use at home. No previous design or computer experience is required.
Graphic Design & Photography
5-6 Credits Available in 10, 20, 30
Graphic Design and Photography Level 10: Students will experience both worlds of Graphic Design and Photography through an exploration of concepts and equipment. They will be exposed to technical instruction in industry software including Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, and Lightroom and projects will take advantage of creative maker spaces and equipment in the program, such as our photo studio with industry studio lighting and green screen and dark room.
Once completed, students will choose either the Graphic Design pathway or the Photography pathway to specialize in at the 20 and 30 levels.
Graphic Design Level 20 and 30: Students dive deeper into the worlds of Photoshop, Illustrator, and InDesign. They will be exposed to a wider range of concepts including logo design and branding, digital illustration, photo manipulation, and working for a client. Additionally, they will examine potential career options in the fields of design.
Photography 20 and 30: Students will explore concepts in composition, communication, photojournalism, black and white and colour photography, shooting in a studio setting, shooting film and working in a darkroom, and working for a client like Yearbook. Additionally they will expand on their knowledge of working with the camera manually and with a variety of different lenses.
Visit our Program Website for more information and examples of student work.
Fashion Studies
5 Credits Available 10, 20, 30
Level 10 description: No prior experience is needed! Students are taught the basics and then progress from there with projects of their choice. Students also learn how to use sergers. Fashion 10 consists of 5 modules: 1. Sewing Fundamentals - making a cat pin cushion and pencil case. 2. Creating Accessories - creating 2 home or personal accessories of your choice. 3. Construction Fundamentals - making PJs. 4. Redesign, Recycle, and Restore - creating upcycled and recycled fashion pieces. 5. Textile Arts 1 - knitting, crocheting, embroidery, cross stitching, bleaching, tie dying, etc. 6. Fashion Illustration - extra module for students that like to draw. Fashion class is fun and provides the opportunity to have a brain break from the day!
Level 20 description: Create, design, and decorate projects that are meaningful. The 5 course modules and projects are chosen by the student. New approaches allow students to be inquisitive, creative and expressive. Projects are intriguing and a great learning experience. Examples of some of the modules and projects to choose from are: cultural wear, active wear (leggings), costume creations, tops, skirts, dresses, home decor, accessories, outdoor wear, etc. We enjoy sharing our creative experiences together in class!
Level 30 description: At the 30 level, students again get to design and create projects of their choice. The 5 modules are similar to the 20 level but build on previous skills. Students will learn new techniques and become more confident in their skills. Some students have sewn jackets, suites, and even their grad dresses. There is also an option to participate in an Alberta trades skills competition that takes place in Edmonton in May where students design and create a garment over 2 days. It’s enjoyable and satisfying to use advanced sewing skills to create projects!