Certification
Certified RGDs have a demonstrated understanding of business best practices, accessible design principles, research methods and ethics and the application of strategic design principles to marketing and communications challenges.
Eligibility
Seven years of relevant work experience and education (may include one to four year post-secondary diploma or degree in graphic design or related field).
Four Certification Pathways
- Visual Designers - Designers working in disciplines that are visually focused, such as communication, motion, environmental etc.
- Experience Designers - Designers working in disciplines that are experientially focused, such as UX, product, service etc.
- Design Managers - Anyone managing the design process in any design discipline.
- Design Educators - Anyone teaching in any design discipline.
These pathways recognize the diverse expertise within our field, allowing you to showcase your specific skills and expertise during the certification process.
All Certified RGDs 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.
Learn more about discipline pathways within the “Getting Certified” pages below.
Getting Certified
100 times a day I see the red RGD rectangle with white type on my certificate hanging in my office; 100 times a day I feel a sense of pride. The RGD designation reminds me that I am part of something bigger; I’m a seasoned professional with a responsibility to be an advocate for this industry.Terence McGuire RGD, Intertek Catalyst
