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Applied Communication Arts

Start Date: September
Length: 1 Year
Credential: Certificate
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Explore and discover the possibilities of visual art in this foundation program.

Program Overview

Are you interested in a career in the visual arts, but not sure which discipline is right for you? This one-year program provides you with a taste of all the different possibilities including graphic design, new media, photography and an introduction to video and moving image. It is a pathway to further study at NSCC in some of those disciplines. This foundation year allows you to explore and experiment so you can make an informed choice before committing to any one direction.

Choose NSCC

The Applied Communications Arts program at NSCC encourages the exploration of different media to help students achieve unique solutions that promote creativity and innovation. We give our students practical experience. You develop an understanding of how to take direction, how to take initiative and how to be responsible for deadlines, presentations and other project parameters. There is plenty of time to experiment, but we also give you an appreciation of how each discipline functions in a commercial environment. Our instructors are always there for support and guidance and our small class size assures you of one-on-one attention.

Employment Opportunities

This program is designed as a foundation year for further study in some of the applied arts. It is a prerequisite for entrance into our Graphic Design program. It also provides excellent pathways for all other Applied Arts programs.

Admission Requirements


  • High School Graduation Diploma or equivalent.

  • Portfolio submission.
    • You can drop off your entrance portfolio at any NSCC campus and it will be delivered to the admissions office on your behalf.


  • Detailed instructions regarding entrance and portfolio requirements – PDFEntrance Requirements PDF (90KB).


Other Info


  • There are some equipment and supplies fees required to produce assignments in this program - view estimated fees.

  • During the third semester, you can participate in one of several electives depending on your campus and your future course of study. The electives may include:
    • Portfolio Development

    • Self-Directed Study

    • Work Term



Courses May Include

Course descriptions
Code Course
ACAT 1000   Computer Fundamentals
ACAT 1003   Design I
ACAT 1005   Illustration I
ACAT 1006   Photography I
ACAT 2008   Media Studies
ACAT 2010   Illustration II
ACAT 2011   Design II
ACAT 2012   Photography II
ACAT 2014   Intro to Moving Image
ACAT 2500   Portfolio & Professional Development
COMM 1227   Communications I
COMM 1228   Communications II
SAFE 1000   Introduction to WHMIS (Workplace Hazardous Materials Information Systems)
SAFE 1001   Introduction to NS OH&S Act

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