The RGD's Educational Partner Program connects design students to the RGD and industry
Through the RGD's Educational Partner Program program, schools arrange for Student RGD Membership (at a reduced rate) for their students and gain access to a variety of promotional, networking and professional development opportunities that strengthen both their programs and their students' career readiness.
“I’m incredibly excited that OCADU Graphic Design has joined the RGD Educational Partner Program for 2026/2027! Our students will now have access to all the information, resources and mentorship that the RGD provides. The more support students have in their transition from academic to professional life, the greater their chances of building a successful and satisfying career.”
Ali Qadeer, Graphic Design Chair at OCAD
For Schools, the partnership opens doors
Education Partners receive recognition on the RGD website and gain a platform to amplify their grad show to the RGD's audience of 42,000+ social media followers and 22,000+ e-newsletter subscribers. Schools can also post jobs for free on the RGD Job Board, list up to five events or announcements per year through RGD channels and tap into RGD's network to source speakers, panellists, advisory committee members and judges.
“The RGD Education Partner Program is a meaningful bridge between our students and the broader design community. Our students participate in DesignThinkers, the Student RGD Committee, RGD webinars, career mentorship and earn RGD Student Award recognition, supporting their development well before they graduate. For any program serious about preparing students for professional practice, this partnership is a straightforward yes.”
Josh Peressotti
Faculty benefit too—with discounts of up to 25% off the Design Educators Conference and 15% off DesignThinkers (Toronto and Vancouver), plus discounted or complimentary RGD Memberships depending on program enrollment size.
"The Graphic + Digital Design program at UFV helps students become community-grounded thinkers and designers. Our partnership with the RGD has helped our students see themselves as part of the broader Canadian design community and recognize the scope of opportunities that continue to emerge for designers. Beyond access to online workshops and seminars, attending DesignThinkers Vancouver together has become a fun and meaningful shared experience for students and faculty alike, creating opportunities to build professional networks and spark ongoing conversations about design and their futures.
As well, students who enter the Student Awards benefit not only from recognition of their work but also from a supportive community that celebrates their achievements and encourages them to continue developing as emerging designers. These experiences help students build confidence and resilience as they transition into professional practice." — Jennifer Deon, Associate Professor + Department Head, Graphic and Digital Design at the University of the Fraser Valley
For students, it means real professional access
Every Student RGD Member receives resources and connections that will help them prepare for their creative careers. These benefit include:
- Free entry into the RGD Student Awards and Trailblazer Awards, which distribute $15,000+ to winners annually and provide judges' feedback to all entrants
- 60% off DesignThinkers — Canada's premier design conference—and opportunities to volunteer on-site
- Free access to live webinars and an archive of 750+ recorded webinars and DesignThinkers sessions
- Mentorship and networking through the RGD Mentorship Program, Student Committee, Discord community and Career Weeks (held 3–4 times per year)
- Listing in the RGD online Directory and access to members-only job postings
- A bi-weekly Student Member e-newsletter with curated opportunities and advice
