Want to learn more about the IDEA School of Design at CapU? Attend a free event and explore our studios online and in-person. See all events at /events
✅ Join an online info session — Monthly, RSVP Required
Connect with faculty to ask questions, meet mentors, and discover your path in both programs.
✅ National Portfolio Day Nov 8 2025
Showcase your artistic evolution! Meet faculty from IDEA School of Design and other design schools for a portfolio review.
✅ Explore CapU — Nov 29 2025
Tour the campus and explore both programs. Keynote, interactive events, student-led tours & portfolio reviews.
✅ Special Events — Student Showcase
Poster Show | March 2026
Grad Show | April 2026
Meet the current students and explore their work.
See all events at /events
@capuevents@capilanou@capilanoucie@capufuture
Capilano University’s IDEA School of Design Named Canada’s #1 Design School.
Capilano University’s IDEA School of Design has been named Canada’s top design school by the Registered Graphic Designers (RGD) 2024 Student Awards, the nation’s largest professional design competition.
This ranking, judged by a panel of over 100 design professionals, considers only schools whose students submitted entries. Out of 33 students submitting 79 entries, IDEA earned an impressive 6 Winner awards and 9 Honourable Mentions, highlighting the program's success in translating creative exploration into industry-ready excellence.
For graduate Vylan Tran, this achievement reflects the program’s unique structure and supportive approach:
“Students in IDEA’s Bachelor program can explore various classes in many different areas, from branding to illustration to UX/UI. When I first applied, my portfolio mainly included paintings and other traditional media and I was unsure about what to pursue since all I knew was fine arts. Choosing a program that gave me the freedom to explore and learn various skills before deciding to concentrate on one area was a key factor in my decision. The mentorship and practicum components of the IDEA program were very valuable to me. After each experience and throughout my entire time in IDEA, I became more and more confident of my abilities as a designer with the help of my instructors, classmates and other design mentors.”
Design your future at CapU! Applications are now open for Fall 2026 entry into CapU IDEA School of Design. Whether you’re into branding, illustration, or interaction design, our programs prepare you to think creatively, work collaboratively, and lead in a tech-driven world.
✨ Apply early — advanced admission closes Nov 30, 2025
👀 General admission closes Feb 1 2026
We recommend you apply for early admission as space is limited in each cohort. Visit /apply to find more portfolio and application tips.
One School | Capilano University, IDEA School of Design
Two Programs | Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication & Interaction Design Diploma
Three Credentials | 2, 3 and 4 year programs
📍Capilano University
🔗 Apply now at www.capilanou.ca/idea
@capilanou@capufuture
Missed it? See the full showcase at ideagradshow.com
Thank you to everyone who joined us at the IDEA Grad Show 2026 — our students truly shone beyond theory and into practice.
CapU Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication and Interaction Design Diploma graduates of 2026.
🗓️ April 20, 2026
📍 Vancouver Playhouse
🌐
To everyone who helped guide us from theory into practice — thank you. Your mentorship and support shaped our journey. we extend heartfelt thanks to the mentors, practicum hosts, advisory committee, guest speakers, and field trip hosts who made this journey possible. Your time, insights, and support help launch creative careers.
CapU Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication and Interaction Design Diploma graduates of 2026.
🗓️ April 20, 2026
📍 Vancouver Playhouse
🌐
Theory becomes reality tonight. The futurists have arrived. See you there.
CapU Bachelor of Design in Visual Communication and Interaction Design Diploma graduates of 2026.
🗓️ April 20, 2026
📍 Vancouver Playhouse
🌐
Andy Chau (aka AUWCHIE) refuses to confine his design within genres. He loves to play with real textures and mix different types of media. If you’re wondering what AUWCHIE means, it’s a mix of his last name and how it feels to stub your toe. Just like that immediate response, Andy whips up bold ideas and refreshing designs to get instant emotional reactions.
Andy Chau (aka AUWCHIE) refuses to confine his design within genres. He loves to play with real textures and mix different types of media. If you’re wondering what AUWCHIE means, it’s a mix of his last name and how it feels to stub your toe. Just like that immediate response, Andy whips up bold ideas and refreshing designs to get instant emotional reactions.
Say hi to Rachel Lu. An interdisciplinary designer who is fuelled by her Wordle wins, Duolingo streaks, and love for learning. Her daily brain puzzles keep her motivated, sharp, and curious because strong concepts come from strong thinking.
Say hi to Rachel Lu. An interdisciplinary designer who is fuelled by her Wordle wins, Duolingo streaks, and love for learning. Her daily brain puzzles keep her motivated, sharp, and curious because strong concepts come from strong thinking.
Alexis is a user experience designer with a background in filmmaking. She revels in the spirit of community and humanity and seeks to invoke emotions through effective communication and experimentation. On her days off, she can be found playing story-focused video games or seeking out the best sambal belacan.
Alexis is a user experience designer with a background in filmmaking. She revels in the spirit of community and humanity and seeks to invoke emotions through effective communication and experimentation. On her days off, she can be found playing story-focused video games or seeking out the best sambal belacan.
