Conestoga was ranked among Canada's best design schools by the Association of Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) based on the highest student awards in the competition hosted annually by the national professional association.
Conestoga ranked fifth out of 10 colleges and universities for tallying one winner and nine honourable mentions from 58 students who submitted 141 entries. More than 1,165 entries from 450 students representing 40 schools across Canada were received in 2024.
Last year, Conestoga was also recognized by RGD as one of the country's top design schools.
Bachelor of Design student Alexa Flikkema won the first-year student award for her calendar and postcards featuring illustrations of bugs in a blue monochromatic colour scheme.
"I chose Conestoga College because of its focus on practical experience and business networking. The third-year co-op offered hands-on experience, while studio space fostered creativity and collaboration essential for student growth. Small class sizes enabled closer contact with dedicated professors," Flikkema said.
She appreciates the supportive atmosphere that allows students to flourish, along with the practical experience such as a first-year class project working with an actual client to create a mural.
"Conestoga perfectly combines practical experience with academic support, preparing me for a design career. The instructors genuinely care by giving thoughtful feedback, mentorship and unique experiences."
Pejman Salehi, executive dean of the School of Creative Industries, said it is a great privilege for Conestoga to be ranked for the second year in a row as one of Canada's Top 10 design schools.
"We are continually amazed by the talent our students from the School of Creative Industries display. This recognition is a true reflection of their hard work and commitment to their craft, as well as the exceptional education provided by our dedicated and enthusiastic program team."
Conestoga's School of Creative Industries offers dynamic programs spanning all aspects of media, communication and design.
The three-year Graphic Design advanced diploma program is recognized as one of the top design programs in the province. It employs a project-based learning approach that addresses design, digital content creation, communication, inter-personal, technical and enhanced employability skills.
The Bachelor of Design program is a four-year degree in visual design with a complement of courses in entrepreneurship, marketing and management. It is unique in Ontario, offering students an interprofessional perspective that blends visual design, entrepreneurship, and liberal studies courses with co-op opportunities, enhanced studio space, and access to advanced technology.
For more information
299 Doon Valley Drive
Kitchener Ontario
Canada N2G 4M4
www.conestogac.on.ca/
