Application Process

Email your completed forms to Heidi Veri at certification@rgd.ca.

Download the application

Eligibility

Seven years of relevant work experience and education (one to four year post-secondary diploma or degree in graphic design or related field).

All certified RGD’s share the same designation. However, we offer guidelines and application forms tailored to specific disciplines to accommodate and reflect the differences in practice. This approach ensures that while maintaining a unified professional standard, we recognize and support the diverse areas of specialization within the field of design. Choose the pathway that feels most relevant to your work.

Case Studies

In your Certification application, you submit three case studies for projects that you will present during your Portfolio Presentation.

All projects must have been completed as a professional (not as a student) and cannot include work created for academic credit.
All projects should demonstrate your highest level of professional work.
All projects must align with the RGD Code of Ethics. In particular, no projects can have been created as spec work.

General considerations for selecting projects

Designers (both visual and experiential) should demonstrate an ability to develop and implement solutions to complex problems encountered in all phases of the design process.
Managers should demonstrate an ability to develop and implement effective design management strategies.
Educators should focus on teaching and research, demonstrating an ability to develop and implement effective teaching strategies.

Case study preparation

Candidates are asked to outline the following information for each project:

Context
Design Process
Solution
Supporting Materials: URL or PDF upload (final pieces are preferred)

Application Review

After your application is received, it is reviewed by Members of our Eligibility Review Committee. You will be informed if you are eligible to move to the next stage of Certification within 10 business days.

Fee

Eligible applicants are required to pay an admin fee of $150 CAD plus applicable taxes; FREE for Associate RGDs and Affiliate Members.

Next Steps

We then work with you to schedule sessions for your Online Test and Portfolio Presentation. The entire process can take as little as two weeks from application to RGD Membership, but you can take up to six months after applying to go through the process.