Course Overview
Prepress is the process where visually correct digital files are made technically correct to meet offset and digital production and post-production requirements. Prepress requires knowledge about how colour is managed and reproduced accurately, how ink and/or varnishes are transferred to paper, imaging processes and technologies, and how a print project is finished. This course will teach you how to plan and prepare digital files correctly, so that multiple copies can be produced and post-production requirements such as paper, scoring, folding, specialty techniques such as foil stamping and die-cutting, and binding, are accommodated. We will examine production workflows and a designer's relationship with the printer and meeting the printer's requirements including proofing options and procedures.
Domestic fees
$651.26
International fees are typically 3.25 times the domestic tuition. Exact cost will be calculated upon completion of registration.
Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
- Select the most appropriate method based on the print project requirements.
- Create press-ready PDF files that meet the technical requirements of different print processes.
- Communicate specifications, processes, and intent using standard prepress vocabulary.
- Prepare files that accommodate different binding methods: Wiro-O, Saddle Stitched, Perfect Bound, etc.
- Describe the different colour modes, and their limitations to a client.
- Set up a colour management system on a work station.
- Maximize accuracy and colour gamut when converting RGB images to CMYK.
- Prepare files that accommodate special finishes: metallic and spot inks, varnishes, etc.
- Create digital die lines.
- Create digital codes (UPC, QRC)
- Identify different substrate and ink requirements and limitations: white plates, maximum ink coverage, rich black, etc.
- Create printer marks within a file that indicate folds, foldouts, pockets, trim, bleeds, etc.
- Select the appropriate proofing method for the various stages in a print project.
- Describe what to look for and how to evaluate at a press check.
Effective as of Spring/Summer 2025
Related Programs
Prepress (GDES 2087) is offered as a part of the following programs:
- Indicates programs accepting international students.
- Indicates programs eligible for students to apply for Post-graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
School of Business + Media
- Graphic Design
Certificate Full-time/Part-time
Course Offerings
Spring/Summer 2026
Below is one offering of GDES 2087 for the Spring/Summer 2026 term.
CRN 69268
Dates
Apr 07 - Jun 23 Loading
- CRN 69268
- $651.26 Domestic fees
Class meeting times
| Dates | Days | Times | Locations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 07 - Jun 23 | Tue | 18:00 - 21:00 | Downtown DTC Rm. 840 |
Duration
12 weeks
Instructor
Dirk Erkau
Course outline
Course outline TBD — see Learning Outcomes in the interim.
Important information
- You will require access to the Adobe Creative Cloud to complete this course. In order to access the Adobe Creative Cloud on your personal devices for off-campus use, a subscription will be required. Information explaining how to obtain a discounted Adobe subscription is available on the BCIT Software Access webpage: kb.bcit.ca/student/adobe-creative-cloud-subscription-flexible-learning-student-3130/ If you are taking Graphic design programs, here is the suggested order to take them. www.bcit.ca/files/business/pdf/flexible-learning-graphic-design-certificate-recommended-order-of-courses.pdf
Confirmation
Required
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Status
If you have any questions about this course, please contact us.
Programs and courses are subject to change without notice. Find out more about BCIT course cancellations.