Creativity with Purpose
At Pacific Design Academy, you won’t spend years in lecture halls. From day one, you’ll build a portfolio through hands-on projects in graphic design, fashion, film, interior, web, and UX/UI. Learn from instructors who work in the industry—and who push your creative boundaries.
A Supportive Community
Our cohort-based education model builds lasting connections—with your peers, with your instructors, and with your future industry network. PDA students describe their experience as welcoming, collaborative, and empowering. That sense of belonging drives success.
Higher retention and graduation rates
Inclusive learning for neurodivergent students
Mentorship and personal support
Real studio environment in downtown Victoria
Career-Ready, Fast
Our accelerated diploma programs (12–24 months) are built for results. With practical, job-ready skills and a polished portfolio, PDA grads step directly into design careers—often while others are still finishing degrees.
Portfolio-based evaluation in every program
Instructors with active careers in their design fields
Real-world assignments
Learn industry-standard software
Your Portfolio is your Professional Passport
At PDA, your instructors are practicing designers who know the truth: it’s the portfolio—not the degree—that lands the job.
AIGA & Google Design Census 2019
72% of hiring managers prioritize portfolios over degrees.
Assistant Director, Netflix Production (Reddit AMA)
No one in film asks where you studied. They ask, ‘What have you worked on?
Hiring Manager at Gensler
When we recruit junior designers, we spend 90% of the time reviewing portfolios. A degree might show discipline, but your portfolio shows vision.
Hiring Producer, BBC Studios
In production, your portfolio is your resumé.
InVision Product Design Hiring Report
A strong portfolio outweighs a design degree every time.
Hiring Manager, Vogue Talent Contest
Your portfolio is your fashion voice. We look for originality, taste level, and risk—all through visuals.
Principal Designer at Yabu Pushelberg
We hire based on creativity and clarity in the portfolio, not academic background
Designer at Alexander McQueen
We care more about your sketches and garment construction than what school you went to.
Interior Design Magazine, Hiring Trends
In interior design, your visual storytelling is your currency. Portfolios tell that story—degrees just support it.
Senior Designer, Pentagram
In graphic design, your portfolio is your degree. That’s what clients and agencies care about.
Production Manager, A24 Films
We look at what you’ve done, not what you studied. That’s the industry standard now.
InVision Design Hiring Report
A solid portfolio with thoughtful case studies will beat a fancy degree every time.
Request Info
Want to know more about our programs, tuition, start dates, or flexible admissions options? Fill out the form and we’ll send you a personalized info pack—no pressure, just the facts.
