Eighteenth International Conference on Design Principles & Practices

Abstract

A limited access admission strategy in a Graphic Design program permits the selection and admission of those students who are assessed on the basis of the talent and skill exhibited in their portfolio. One of the advantages of a limited access program is the opportunity to select students who have the greatest potential to thrive during their design program and to succeed in the competitive creative discipline of graphic design. To succeed in such a format, curriculum needs to continuously be revised to respond to the industry demands. Yet, there is little evidence to support the idea that evolving curriculum results in greater employability or that those who perform the best in the selection process finish as the best at the end of their educational journey. Similarly, there is scant evidence to suggest that those who perform the best in terms of design are the most sought after by employers. This study uses data collected in the program application process and in the capstone review process to answer such questions. It compares the evaluations of students’ portfolios when applying to a limited access program and evaluations prior to graduation. It analyses how and if the changes in the curriculum have made an impact on their design skills. Furthermore, it investigates the connection between their pre- and post-results with their job placement.