Course Descriptions

This course introduces students to the tools, roles and responsibilities of a digital image creator. Students gain technical knowledge of image-making software for raster, vector and AI-generated digital media. Visual design fundamentals are also explored through composition, balance, and juxtaposition. This course examines the fair use of media and copyright from both a producer’s and an end user's perspectives.

In this course, students will learn the basics of user experience (UX) and UX research and put these to use exploring a variety of projects. Using insight tools such as personas and wireframes, students will learn a collaborative approach to working in this dynamic field.

This course introduces students to the software used to design digital interfaces and experiences. Students will learn the principles of visual design through composition, colour theory and digital typography. Students practice appropriate and effective techniques for group critique.

This course provides students with a thorough understanding of digital typography. Students will study the principles of accessible typography for digital mediums. The evolution of type from the mid-1400s to the present day is discussed, as students examine how the technology of each era influences letterforms. Instruction in design-related software supports the course.

Design thinking is a key component of effective and impactful design. This course examines design thinking and includes concepts of inclusive, respectful and responsible design. Students will apply further user experience research to define human-centred design goals and puts collaboration and creative skills into practice. Students will also review the broader implications of design, including cultural frameworks, Indigenous knowledge and the natural environment.

This course builds on concepts developed in IXD 102. The course will apply the user experience strategy lifecycle. Students will explore human-factor considerations in user experience as well as creating new information architectures through research and testing. Students will also learn how e-commerce principles are applied in user experience. Students will examine stakeholder and project management best practices that will help students prepare for professional practice.

This course focuses on developing advanced skills in the software used to design and prototype digital interfaces and experiences. Students will study critical patterns used in interface design combined with digital accessibility best practices. This course examines design solutions that promote environmental, cultural, social, and economic responsibility.

This course introduces students to the fundamental building blocks of web development. Students will create accessible, standards-compliant websites using HTML, CSS, and content management systems. They will explore visual-spatial reasoning through the use of Flexbox, CSS Grid, and employ symbolic and numerical tools such as CSS variables and media queries to develop responsive and scalable experiences. The course also examines the history of the internet and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence to critically analyze how technological advances influence development workflows and tools.

This course introduces students to critical thinking and strategic decision-making in AI-mediated environments for creative professionals. Students will examine how contemporary AI systems function conceptually and their limitations. Through applied exercises, students will learn to evaluate AI-generated outputs using critical thinking frameworks, probability, and decision-making concepts. Students will explore bias, ethics and risk assessment in AI-augmented work. The course format will encourage students to co-construct knowledge with peers and AI technologies through active engagement, dialogue, and reflection, preparing them for professional creative practice.

This course introduces students to the strategic and creative process of branding. Students will examine key components and principles of design systems for digital products. Students will also explore methods of co-creation, as they complete a work-integrated learning experience.

In this course, students explore how artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping interaction design and everyday digital experiences. Students will develop AI-augmented design skills by utilizing AI-powered design tools. Equally, students will examine current and future AI experiences to design solutions that consider uncertainty and error, and critically assess issues of power, bias, consent, and surveillance. This course examines systems such as conversational agents, recommendation engines and generative AI tools through a human-centred lens. Using low-code tools and vibe coding platforms, students prototype AI-mediated interactions. Guest speakers situate this work within contemporary professional practice in interaction design.

This course introduces students to motion design for screen-based interaction elements and digital storytelling. Students will examine the user experience principles of motion design as well as the social impact of digital storytelling. Students gain technical knowledge in image-making software and coding for dynamic media.

Students are introduced to time-management techniques, project management styles and contract principles for designers. Ethics in design will be covered to give students an opportunity to define an ethical design practice that is inclusive, responsible and embraces diversity. Students will develop business communication skills, self-promotion techniques and complete a mentorship project to gain exposure to professional practice. This course provides students a pathway after graduation and supports career success.

Students will demonstrate an iterative design process through the completion of a self-directed capstone project. Students will apply human-centred design thinking, as a method of problem solving to construct a sustainable design solution that embodies global consciousness, human responsibility, and/or our commitment to the rights of Indigenous peoples and furthering reconciliation. Students are mentored by peers, faculty and interaction design professionals.

In this course, students will develop a digital portfolio, résumé and skills to secure industry employment. This work-integrated learning course provides an opportunity for students to apply classroom theory to employment practices. Students will gain interaction design work related experience through one or a combination of experiences including practicum placement, professional development (PD), or completion of special projects. Students are responsible for securing their own practicum placement, prior to the first week of the course, with the support, consultation, and approval of the assigned faculty supervisor/Instructor.