Visual Merchandising Arts
- Credential:
- Ontario College Diploma
- College Code:
- CONS
- School:
- Creative Industries
- Program Code:
- 1206
- Accelerated Delivery:
- No
- Campus:
- DO
- Academic Year:
- 2020 / 2021
About the Program
Imagine pursuing your passion in the highly creative industry of visual merchandising, the art and science behind retail design and development. You will combine the art of window displays, prop making, graphic design, event planning and photo styling with the science of floor planning, planogramming, branding and marketing, and entrepreneurship. It is the process of creating an inviting and interactive environment for the consumer utilizing a variety of on-trend mediums, materials, software and technology.This two-year diploma program focuses on project-based, hands-on learning for the creative problem solver! A field placement opportunity is provided in the second year of the program to gain industry experience in the field of visual display and merchandising as well as make some new partnerships with industry members.
Conestoga is the only college offering Visual Merchandising Arts graduates the opportunity to earn a second two-year diploma in Interior Decorating in just one year! Successful students become even more marketable, capable of designing for both commercial interiors and home interiors!
Program Information
Length: Two-year Ontario College Diploma programDelivery Sequence: Doon (Kitchener) - September/2020 - Fall | Winter | Fall | Winter
Location: Doon (Kitchener)
Start: September
First-Year Capacity: 70
Admission Requirements
- Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD), or equivalent, or 19 years of age or older with mature student status (See Mature Student definition for details.)
- Grade 12 compulsory English, C or U, or equivalent, OR Conestoga College Preparatory Communications (COMM1270)
- For more information on preparatory programs, visit Academic Upgrading
Admission Procedures
- An academic strength is calculated by averaging the submitted marks of required subjects. If more than one mark is received for a required subject, the highest mark will be used in the calculation.
- Ten (10) additional marks are added to each Advanced level, OAC, U, U/C, and post-secondary course used in the calculation of academic strength.
- A sound English background is important for success in this program and is considered during the admission selection process. Minimum cutoffs apply.
Program Requirements
- Students will be required to purchase supplies. A list will be provided by faculty at the start of the semester.
- Students are encouraged to bring their own laptops, either PC or Mac.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition fee details for the 2019-2020 year are listed below. Fees for the next academic year are unavailable at this time. Books and supplies are additional.
Estimated fees based upon the previous academic year (2019 / 2020) for Visual Merchandising Arts - Program # 1206
| Description | Fall 2019 | Winter 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1348.00 | $1348.00 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Capital Development Fee | $74.83 | $74.83 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $7.00 | $7.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Advocacy Fee | $12.50 | $12.50 |
| CSI Event Fee | $40.00 | $40.00 |
| CSI Student Clubs | $3.50 | $3.50 |
| Locker Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Alumni Services | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Student Spaces | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Graduation fee | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Academic Support Fee | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| CSI Academic Support Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Health and Wellness Fee | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| CSI Health and Wellness Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| CSI Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Session Total | $2122.33 | $1799.33 |
| Year Total | $3921.66 |
| Description | Fall 2019 | Winter 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| Full-time Program Tuition | $1348.00 | $1348.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Administration Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Capital Development Fee | $74.83 | $74.83 |
| CSI Association Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Documentation Fee | $40.00 | $0.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $7.00 | $7.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Advocacy Fee | $12.50 | $12.50 |
| CSI Event Fee | $40.00 | $40.00 |
| CSI Student Clubs | $3.50 | $3.50 |
| Locker Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Alumni Services | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Student Spaces | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Graduation fee | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Academic Support Fee | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| CSI Academic Support Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Health and Wellness Fee | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| CSI Health and Wellness Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| CSI Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Session Total | $2162.33 | $1799.33 |
| Year Total | $3961.66 |
International Fees
Estimated International fees based upon the previous academic year (2019 / 2020) for
Visual Merchandising Arts - Program # 1206
| Description | Fall 2019 | Winter 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6250.00 | $6250.00 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Capital Development Fee | $74.83 | $74.83 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Documentation Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $7.00 | $7.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $500.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Advocacy Fee | $12.50 | $12.50 |
| CSI Event Fee | $40.00 | $40.00 |
| CSI Student Clubs | $3.50 | $3.50 |
| Locker Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Alumni Services | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Student Spaces | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Graduation fee | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Academic Support Fee | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| CSI Academic Support Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Health and Wellness Fee | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| CSI Health and Wellness Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| CSI Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Session Total | $7899.33 | $7076.33 |
| Year Total | $14975.66 |
| Description | Fall 2019 | Winter 2020 |
|---|---|---|
| International Program Tuition | $6250.00 | $6250.00 |
| Student Priority Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Recreation/Athletics Fee | $70.50 | $70.50 |
| Graduation/Alumni Services Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Administration Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| Technology Enhancement Fee | $135.00 | $135.00 |
| Capital Development Fee | $74.83 | $74.83 |
| CSI Association Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI - Advocacy Fee | $0.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Health Plan Fee | $295.00 | $0.00 |
| Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) Documentation Fee | $40.00 | $0.00 |
| ISR | $375.00 | $375.00 |
| ONE Card Fee | $7.00 | $7.00 |
| CSI Legal Protection | $28.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI International Health Fee | $500.00 | $0.00 |
| CSI Advocacy Fee | $12.50 | $12.50 |
| CSI Event Fee | $40.00 | $40.00 |
| CSI Student Clubs | $3.50 | $3.50 |
| Locker Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Alumni Services | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Student Spaces | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Graduation fee | $15.00 | $15.00 |
| Academic Support Fee | $18.00 | $18.00 |
| CSI Academic Support Fee | $5.00 | $5.00 |
| Health and Wellness Fee | $20.00 | $20.00 |
| CSI Health and Wellness Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| CSI Career Services Fee | $10.00 | $10.00 |
| Session Total | $7939.33 | $7076.33 |
| Year Total | $15015.66 |
Financial Assistance
The Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) is a needs-based program designed to help Ontario students cover the cost of post-secondary education. Funded by the federal and provincial governments, OSAP is intended to promote equality of opportunity for post-secondary studies through direct financial assistance for educational costs and living expenses. These interest-free loans are intended to supplement your financial resources and those of your family. The majority of students apply for loan assistance via the OSAP website. Students can also print the application booklet through the OSAP website.For more information, please visit Financial Services/Awards.
Graduate Opportunities
- A Visual Merchandising Arts diploma will open doors to many career options including: photo-stylist, retail visual merchandiser, set or prop designer, special events coordinator, professional organizer, wedding decorator, home stager, window display artist, trade-show booth designer.
- Conestoga is the only college offering Visual Merchandising Arts graduates the opportunity to earn a second two-year diploma in Interior Decorating in just one year.
On average, 100% of graduates from the last three years (2015 to 2017) found employment within six months of graduation.
For more details on related occupations, job market information and career opportunities, see the Government of Canada website: https://www.jobbank.gc.ca/home
Pathways & Credit Transfer
Conestoga pathways enable students to build on their academic achievements in order to earn a degree or additional credential. Pathways are formed through agreements between Conestoga programs or partner institutions. View the transfer agreement opportunities for this program.Often applicants have earned credits from another college or university that may allow a student to be granted advanced standing or exemption. Learn more about credit transfer opportunities at Conestoga.
Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR)
Conestoga recognizes prior learning of skills, knowledge or competencies that have been acquired through employment, formal and informal education, non-formal learning or other life experiences. Prior learning must be measurable at the required academic level and meet Conestoga standards of achievement for current courses. Challenge exams and portfolio development are the primary methods of assessment. Other methods of assessment may be available depending upon the nature of the course objectives. Successful completion of the assessment results in an official course credit that will be recorded on the student's Conestoga transcript. PLAR cannot be used by registered Conestoga students for the clearance of academic deficiencies, to improve grades or to obtain admission into a program.Learn more about PLAR.
Program Courses
| Course Code | Course Title and Description |
|---|---|
| Level 1 | |
| ARTS1185 | Colour Theory
Description: This course explores the effects of colour; both from a holistic schemata and a human environment perspective. Students will identify the physical, chemical and psychological aspects of colour via a blending of theory and practical applications with specific relationships to their field of studies. |
| ARTS1435 | Concept to Completion
Description: This course will provide students with the theories associated with idea development and to establish solid design strategies from concept to completion. Students will have the opportunity to develop and hone their presentation skills, selling their ideas through a variety of practical scenarios including space planning, visual display, staging and re-staging. This course will contribute to the development of portfolio elements in other courses throughout the program design. |
| COMM1085 | College Reading & Writing Skills
Description: This course focuses on the reading, writing and critical thinking skills needed for academic and workplace success. Students will analyse, summarize, and discuss a variety of readings and apply the steps of planning, writing, and revising in response to written prompts. This course prepares students for post-secondary writing tasks, research, and documentation. |
| COMP1125 | Computer Applications Media and Design
Description: This practical and creative computer lab course will develop the student's computer skills to an intermediate level. This course will introduce students to industry specific software, which will be explored as a tool for creative communication and expression. Upon course completion, students will be able to navigate through the programs with confidence, creating project-based assignments in a variety of different applications and outputs. |
| CON0101 | Conestoga 101
Description: This self-directed course focuses on introducing new students to the supports, services, and opportunities available at Conestoga College. By the end of this course, students will understand the academic expectations of the Conestoga learning environment, as well as the supports available to ensure their academic success. Students will also be able to identify on-campus services that support their health and wellness, and explore ways to get actively involved in the Conestoga community through co-curricular learning opportunities. |
| DSGN1030 | Design and Fabrication I
Description: This is the first course in a series that will provide students with a combination of theoretical and practical skills associated with the design and fabrication of specialized environments. Students will generate designs to address briefs associated with specific client applications and formulate strategies that identify fabrication options. |
| DSGN1075 | Introduction to Design
Description: This course will provide students with experience in both two dimensional and three dimensional design. Space planning a variety of home or retail venues according to client specifications will be undertaken. Three dimensional design will blend both theoretical and practical applications. |
| PHOT1145 | Digital Imaging
Description: Students will develop the skills and knowledge related to digital imagery, both in still image caption (photography), as well as, image manipulation (computer altered). Students will first explore the practical groundwork of image capture; focus, composition, and exposure, while creating professional images. With an understanding of both the technical and creative requirements of image capture, students will then learn the basic skills of image manipulation, working in various innovative software programs to meet specific design requirements. |
| Level 2 | |
| ARTS1200 | Scale Modeling
Description: Students will explore the technical skills associated with the design and fabrication of scale models and drawings. With a focus on detail and accuracy, the course will teach the basics of drafting; lettering, line weights and symbols in creating interior floor plans, elevations and orthographic drawings. The fundamentals of scale modeling will also be introduced; students will create three-dimensional models, using a variety of mediums to explore technical skills and to understand scale, proportion and volume of spaces. Understanding and interpreting physical measurements into a variety of different scales, both in two-dimensional form (drawing) and three-dimensional form (models) will be essential to the course. |
| ARTS1210 | Illustrative Techniques I
Description: This practical hands-on course will engage students in techniques associated with the field of illustration and will contribute to other courses within the program design. Students will work on projects that will develop skills in drawing, rendering, drafting and perspectives with opportunities to move concepts to illustrations, on to actual commissioning in related courses. |
| DSGN1100 | Design and Fabrication II
Description: Students will build on skills acquired in Level One - Design and Fabrication - I and the Level Two - Scale Modeling courses, moving concepts from paper to wood, metal, plastic and other mediums that are utilized in retail and commercial environments. Projects will be detailed in design briefs that culminate in the fabrication of a ‘point of purchase' display and window displays. This course is an extension of the Design and Fabrication I course and will delve deeper into visual display and design. |
| HIST1010 | History of Design and Decorating
Description: History of Design and Decorating is a course that chronologically traces the evolution of design and interiors in western civilizations. The journey from the first traces of man in cave dwellings, through the important Egyptian and Greek periods, to our modern 21st century innovations is studied. |
| MKT1350 | Event Planning
Description: This course allows students the opportunity to learn how to plan, project manage and execute an event for a specific client and/or target market. Students will create the concept or theme for an event thoroughly investigating every aspect and component of successful event planning. Students will develop the branding, marketing strategy, logistics and schedules adhering to a client's goals, budgets and timelines and manage the production of a successful event. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 3 | |
| ARTS2000 | Illustrative Techniques II
Description: Students will build off the skills and knowledge acquired in the Level Two Illustrative Techniques I course and integrate computer and software technologies into the illustrative process. Students will work on projects that demonstrate their ability to integrate acquired skills and knowledge into concrete examples of concept to creation methodologies. Students will work on projects from several areas of study in the Visual Merchandising Arts program. |
| DSGN2180 | Visual Merchandising I
Description: This is the cornerstone course of the program that allows students the opportunity to develop and demonstrate the skills and knowledge associated with design and staging across all areas of merchandising. The main focus will be directed towards modern retail/storefront operations and point of purchase (POP) displays, with students also exposed to special events, trade shows, home fashions, as well as wedding planning. Students will work on projects that span a range of practical applications, incorporating the use of models/mannequins to address traditional, formal, outerwear, casual and fashion trends in retail and event environments. |
| DSGN2190 | Styling and Staging
Description: This course assists students in developing their own distinct approaches in the designing, styling and staging applications. Students will start with a grounding of traditional methodologies associated with development of retail and commercial applications of storefront and window treatments and then explore and develop unique approaches that address specific design briefs that expand to include trade show and event applications. |
| MKT2175 | Principles of Retail
Description: This applied course focuses on strategies and decision making for retail environments, including bricks and mortar and on-line stores. Store location, layout and merchandise mix are examined. Students will integrate practical retail mathematics and financial skill to all major retail topics. Some areas of study include pricing, retail budgeting, forecasting and technology. Human elements including customer service strategies, employee management, demographics and the psychology of shopping will be explored. This course contributes to the student portfolio with the creation of a detailed, integrated retail project that combines skills and knowledge acquired from related courses in the program. |
| OHS1320 | Safety in the Workplace
Description: This course focuses on developing awareness and skills for the student to safely manage and conduct him or herself within a variety of employment settings. Through the units of the course, participants will have the opportunity to enhance their understanding and knowledge of general Health and Safety guidelines, including WHMIS, Fire Safety and Workplace Violence. The unit on Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act will instruct the student on the requirements for Accessible Customer Service and Integrated Accessibility Standard Regulations. General information on Safe Driving, Privacy of Information and Hand Washing will be addressed as well. The course also provides participants with critical information regarding their insurance coverage (WSIB or other) while employed. As well as guidelines to follow in the event of an injury. Participants will receive a printable Record of Completion upon successful conclusion of this course, in order to demonstrate awareness of safe working practices to their employers. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
| Level 4 | |
| DSGN2200 | Visual Merchandising II
Description: Building off the Level Three – Visual Merchandising I course, students will conceive and commission comprehensive strategies associated within a selected area of visual merchandising, and build a portfolio that demonstrates their skills and knowledge related to their area of specialization. |
| DSGN2250 | Design and Branding
Description: Students will examine the principles of design when and branding and marketing products within the field of visual merchandising and display. This is a practical, hands-on course that encourages creative thinking and problem solving. Students will create positive solutions to difficult design problems, using industry standard software. Students will refine their graphic design abilities and associated computer skills by designing and producing effective promotional and branding materials for retail, commercial and special event applications. Students will use this computer lab time to work on projects from several courses within the Visual Merchandising Arts program. |
| ENTR2050 | Entrepreneurship
Description: In this course, students will research and identify the qualities necessary to become an entrepreneur starting a new small business. Research and examination of the strategies and elements necessary to create a start-up business using competitive analysis and feasibility studies will be undertaken. The elements developed include systems for cash flow management, crafting a business profile, identifying target markets and preparing marketing and operational plans. A business plan will be developed in accordance to financial institution expectations. |
| FPLT2000 | Field Placement (Visual Merchandising)
Description: This course prepares students and facilitates a placement experience with a company/agency which has been approved by the program. Students will review employability skills in class and then practise these skills as they take an active role in securing a placement. Students will refine self-marketing techniques to establish cohesive branding of themselves at a professional level. Engaging in the work environment of a professionally relevant company/agency will allow students to apply their education and skills contributing to their mutual benefit. Appropriate workplace behaviour and etiquette is expected as students use this opportunity to expand their network of industry contacts and effectively market their personal brand. Through this experience, students can cultivate confidence, escalate awareness of industry practices, add to their resume & portfolio, and contribute to their own career success. |
| MKT2180 | Marketing-Promotion and Research
Description: This is an introductory course in Market Research and Promotion. The role of research in the marketing process and the various types of approaches are examined with the student preparing research reports. Both primary and secondary marketing research is covered with an integrated final project/event which contributes to student experience and portfolios. |
|
Electives: General Education
Student must complete a minimum of 42 Hours | |
Program Outcomes
- Present and coordinate merchandise so that related goods are shown in a unique, desirable and saleable manner.
- Use both written and oral English that emphasizes good organization, clarity, correct grammar which is appropriate for communication purposes in the business environment.
- Apply sound practices in financial decision making.
- Work with a wide variety of materials such as paper, cardboard, plastic, foamcore, wood, laminate, fabric, colour and lighting to solve two and three dimensional design problems.
- Apply layout, design principles and techniques, and colour theory to the development of promotional displays and advertising.
- Integrate photography effectively into advertising, promotional material and display design.
- Recognize influences of past, current, and emerging trends, issues and perspectives on merchandising.
- Explain the basic functions of retail store operations including store location and layout, shopping centre analysis, retail market segmentation and strategies, and the merchandising mix.
- Communicate promotional themes through effective displays.
- Integrate basic personnel functions such as interviewing techniques, basic supervisory skills, motivation, and written and non verbal communication.
- Develop basic promotion and advertising including various media for retail advertising.
- Design and build scale models and props suitable for use in displays and exhibitions.
- Use industry standard tools and techniques.
Program Advisory Committees
The College appoints Program Advisory Committee members for diploma, degree, certificate and apprenticeship programs. Committees are composed of employers, practitioners and recent program graduates. College representatives (students, faculty, and administrators) are resource persons. Each committee advises the Board on the development of new programs, the monitoring of existing programs and community acceptance of programs.For a list of the current members, please visit our Program Advisory Committees.
Program Handbook
Apply Now
Domestic students should apply online at www.ontariocolleges.ca or by phone at 1-888-892-2228.ONTARIOCOLLEGES.CA
60 Corporate Court
Guelph, Ontario
Canada N1G 5J3
Detailed steps on the application process may help you to apply.
International students should apply online using the Ontario Colleges.ca International applicant portal.. Please note that not all programs are open to international students; check the list of open programs on our International Student Programs web page before applying.
Disclaimer
The College reserves the right to alter information including requirements and fees and to cancel at any time a program, course, or program major or option; to change the location and/or term in which a program or course is offered; to change the program curriculum as necessary to meet current competencies in the job market or for budgetary reasons; or to withdraw an offer of admission both prior to and after its acceptance by an applicant or student because of insufficient applications or registrations, over-acceptance of offers of admission, budgetary constraints, or for other such reasons. In the event the College exercises such a right, the College’s sole liability will be the return of monies paid by the applicant or student to the College.
Students actively registered in cohort delivered programs who take longer than the designed program length of time to complete their studies are accountable for completing any new or additional courses that may result due to changes in the program of study. Unless otherwise stated, students registered in non-cohort delivered programs must complete the program of study within seven years of being admitted to the program.
| Start Date | Campus | Status** |
|---|---|---|
| SEP, 2019 | Doon | Closed |
| SEP, 2020 | Doon | Open |
Program status for international students
Success Stories
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Student designs will be installed in new Québec City IKEA storeThree students in Conestoga’s Visual Merchandising Arts program have won a competition that...
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Visual Merchandising Arts students host year-end showStudents in Conestoga’s Visual Merchandising Arts two-year diploma program hosted their...