Staying on top of trends is essential in the visual communication industry, especially if you’re a student preparing to start graphic design training. Whether you’re building your portfolio or working on class projects, understanding the direction of current design aesthetics will set you apart and help you work confidently in real-world environments.
AOLCC Alberta’s graphic design program equips students with the creative and technical skills needed to thrive in this ever-changing field. If you’re aiming to become a graphic designer, these are the 2025 trends you’ll want to watch and why they matter.
1. Motion Design
The rise of short-form video and interactive media has elevated motion design from a niche skill to a mainstream must-have. Brands now expect designers to understand how visuals translate into motion, whether it’s animated logos, Instagram reels, or UI micro-interactions.
In 2025, more design curricula will integrate animation basics using tools like After Effects, Lottie, and Figma’s smart animate features. If your goal is to create immersive, engaging content for the web or social media, understanding motion design is quickly becoming non-negotiable.
2. AI-Enhanced Creativity
Artificial intelligence isn’t replacing designers, it’s becoming a tool for amplifying creativity. In 2025, more designers are using AI-generated elements as inspiration or starting points for custom projects. Tools like generative art programs and smart mockup generators are speeding up workflows and expanding creative possibilities.
Why it matters: Understanding how to integrate technology with your design process is vital. As you become a graphic designer, you’ll be expected to use software efficiently and stay ahead of new tools.
As you become a graphic designer, you’ll be expected to stay ahead of new tools
3. Inclusive and Ethical Design
Diversity, accessibility, and ethical messaging are at the forefront of modern visual design. Brands are placing more importance on visuals that are inclusive across cultures, identities, and abilities. This includes designing for accessibility, using more inclusive imagery, and being mindful of color choices and language.
Why it matters: Employers and clients are looking for designers who understand the broader impact of their work. This trend reinforces the importance of business presentations and marketing, and sales, both taught in AOLCC’s graphic designer and web designer programs.
4. Dynamic Typography
Typography is no longer just about readability, it’s now a statement. Kinetic type (moving or animated fonts), layered text, and 3D lettering are turning type into a central design feature. In 2025, expect to see more designs that use type to express emotion, energy, or brand personality.
Why it matters: Mastery of typography, both static and animated, is a valuable skill. AOLCC students build foundational typography knowledge and explore digital animation tools that support this growing trend.
The graphic design training program at AOLCC Alberta provides the skills needed to succeed
5. Brand Storytelling Through Design Systems
Consistency is king in modern branding. That’s why more companies are using structured design systems, complete with typography rules, component libraries, and usage guides, to ensure their brand feels cohesive across all touchpoints.
In 2025, graphic design students should be comfortable contributing to or creating scalable design systems. This means getting familiar with platforms like Figma, Adobe XD, and Notion to collaborate and communicate visual standards across teams.
Whether you’re working on a campaign, a website, or an app interface, the ability to maintain visual consistency while telling a compelling brand story is what sets professional designers apart.
Build Towards a Creative Future with Graphic Design Training at AOLCC
If you’re ready to reach that moment when your passion for design becomes a profession, the graphic design training program at AOLCC Alberta will help you build the skills needed to succeed. Our hands-on curriculum covers:
- Design and Composition
- InDesign Basics
- Fundamentals of Typography
- Internet Fundamentals
- Business Essentials
Are you ready to step into the world of professional design?
Your career awaits!
